A group of PSS alums came together recently for a night of reminiscing and to raise money for a worthy cause.
Although the company is a memory, the spirit of PSS is alive and well, judging by a recent industry gathering. A PSS Reunion and fundraiser for Pat Kelly’s Broad Street Children’s Foundation took place on Sept. 13, 2024. Former colleagues from PSS World Medical came together for a night of memories and celebration, and to give back to children in need of a loving home.
Several former PSS employees still keep in touch with each other, and the idea for the reunion came about through a shared desire to reconnect with the broader PSS family and honor the unique culture that was PSS. Pat Kelly’s Broad Street Children’s Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports children’s homes across the country, became the natural beneficiary for the event, adding a meaningful philanthropic aspect to what was already set to be a memorable night.
“Many PSSers maintained deep ties over the years, and this event offered the perfect platform to celebrate those bonds while making a difference,” said Mara Kelly Webb, Pat Kelly’s daughter, and head of Broad Street Children’s Foundation.
The reunion brought the med/surg community back together but also showcased the current careers and hobbies of many former PSSers. A great example of this was the entertainment for the evening, provided by the Chris Todd Band – led by Chris Todd, a former PSSer from the Birmingham branch and one of his band members who actually worked on many of the PSS National Sales Meetings over the years. The sponsorships, BBQ, t-shirts, and desserts were also supplied by businesses owned by former employees or those with strong ties to PSS, making the night a true reflection of the PSS community.
Throughout the evening, everyone enjoyed an incredible mix of great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere that, despite the September heat, kept everyone laughing and smiling. The wine pull was a huge hit, adding a bit of fun and excitement to the night, but the true magic was in the sense of camaraderie that filled the room, Webb said.
“It felt like a true family reunion, with everyone reconnecting, sharing memories, and having a fantastic time,” she said. “The highlight, though, was the generosity of our attendees. Their contributions allowed us to raise significant funds for the Broad Street Children’s Foundation, showing once again how much the PSS family cares about making a difference while having a memorable night together.”
Family forever
PSS was much more than just a company; it was a family, Webb said. “What made the culture special were the values and the work hard, play hard attitude that permeated every level of the organization.”
For example, the PSS Top Twenty was essential to each employee. At any time you could be asked to show your Top Twenty card. Beyond just words listed on a card, the values represented truly defined the quality and character of the PSS company. “It is what made PSS different,” Webb said. “It is not a coincidence that the final Top Twenty stated, ‘Recognize PSS as a family that cares.’”
PSS was undoubtedly a unique company that, in many ways, broke away from the traditional corporate model, Webb said. But it was the employees who truly made PSS so special.
“My father, Pat Kelly, understood this and focused on not only finding the best people but also giving them the freedom to either succeed or fail on their own terms: He said: ‘We tell our people to think and act as if they’re all chief executive officers. We put CEO on truck driver’s business cards …We literally want everyone to see himself or herself as top dog in the company.’ He genuinely believed that anyone could succeed if given the chance and strived to build a company that allowed for that opportunity.”
The relationships formed at PSS were based on more than just business; they were forged through shared industry, but also challenges, trust, lots of fun, and a common understanding of being part of something greater than oneself. These bonds have endured because the values and experiences that brought PSSers together didn’t fade when the company did, Webb said. Over the years, many have stayed connected, supporting each other through both personal and professional milestones.
“This reunion was a testament to these deep ties, reinforcing that once you’re part of the PSS family – whether as a former employee or even a manufacturer representative in the medical industry who worked closely with PSSers – you remain part of that family forever.”
With the excitement from this year’s reunion, the event organizers are exploring the possibility of hosting a 2025 event. “We’re hoping to expand and reach an even larger group of PSSers to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable evening,” said Webb. “If you’ve ever been a part of the PSS story, this is your chance to reconnect, relive old times, create new memories, and have lots of fun.”
Look for updates and ways to get involved by following the PSS Family pages on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn or by visiting www.broadstreetfoundation.org.