Screen grab via Valley Children's video

Valley Children’s Hospital has received a $3 million donation from the late Scott Wishon MacMichael, a lifelong resident and descendant of the pioneering Wishon family.

The donation will support the organization’s ongoing mission to provide specialized care for children in the Central Valley.

“This is an extraordinary gift from Scott Wishon MacMichael,” said Todd Suntrapak, president and CEO of Valley Children’s Healthcare. “Scott’s legacy will live on through the thousands of children who will benefit from the care and compassion made possible by his generosity.”

Valley Children’s will recognize the large commitment by naming the Scott MacMichael Professional Center on its Madera campus, in his honor. The building is home to administrative teams that support hospital operations — a reflection of MacMichael’s support of the many behind-the-scenes workers that are essential to the success of any business’ mission, according to a news release.

“Scott had a quiet but genuine way of caring about people, and never wanted recognition for doing good,” said his sister, Jenny Naef. “He simply believed in helping where it mattered most. Valley Children’s was special to him because it represents hope, compassion and the kind of selfless service he admired.”

MacMichael, who died in March 2025, at 67, was the son of Elanor Watson MacMichael, a granddaughter of A.G. Wishon, who was a key figure in the development of the San Joaquin Valley.

MacMichael worked in advertising and journalism and was celebrated for his storytelling and love for the Fresno community.

He was known for his wit, warmth and encyclopedic knowledge of sports and local history, and was a gifted storyteller

The family has a tradition of civic leadership and philanthropy, including involvement in the La Feliz Guild, whose support for the hospital dates back to 1949.