A Welcome from Mount Nittany Health Leadership
With heartfelt appreciation, we are proud to share this year’s Mount Nittany Health Foundation Impact Report with you. This report reflects the incredible generosity of our donors, the tireless dedication of our healthcare teams, and the powerful impact we are achieving together for the communities we serve.
None of this progress would be possible without you. To our donors — individuals, families, businesses and organizations — thank you for believing in our mission. Your support is the catalyst for positive change. And to our physicians, nurses, and staff: your compassion, dedication, and expertise are the heart of this organization.
As you explore the stories and milestones in this report, we hope you feel proud of what we have accomplished together. Thank you for partnering with us as we build a healthier tomorrow for our region.
Gratefully,
Adrienne Krasowitz, Executive Director, Mount Nittany Health Foundation
Kathleen Rhine, President & Chief Executive Officer, Mount Nittany Health
FY25 Highlights
- EARNED national recognition from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, The Joint Commission, Newsweek, U.S. News and World Report, and the American Heart Association
- EXPANDED clinical programs including interventional radiology, pediatric psychology, allergy, spine, and rheumatology
- INVESTED $65M in facilities as part of $500M in capital projects under way systemwide
- HIRED 480 team members across the health system in FY25
- REINVIGORATED our employee relations with expanded employee recognition programs and events to help build morale and community
Launches $20 Million Rising to New Heights Campaign to Transform Regional Healthcare
Mount Nittany Health Foundation is proud to announce the public launch of its largest philanthropic effort to date: a comprehensive campaign with a goal of raising $20 million by June 2028 to support the future of healthcare across the region.
This milestone campaign, designed to support major initiatives including the new patient tower opening in 2026, will strengthen Mount Nittany Health’s ability to deliver advanced, accessible care for generations to come.
Rising to New Heights Campaign2024-2025 Accomplishments
- Mount Nittany Medical Center is one of ‘World’s Best Hospitals’ Fifth Consecutive Year
- New Patient Tower at Mount Nittany Medical Center Opening 2026
- Mount Nittany Health Toftrees Opens in State College
- An Evening of Elegance: The 76th Edition Mount Nittany Health Foundation Charity Ball
- Mount Nittany Health Champions Newborn Sleep Safety
- A Circle of Care: End of Life Doula Services at Mount Nittany Health
The Benkovics’ Legacy: Transforming Mount Nittany Health and Building the Future of Local Care
“Pat and I wanted something that would last, something different, more creative,” Steve shared. “With this funding we wanted to nourish an intangible spirit that would advance the hospital’s ability to treat their patients,” he added. The Benkovic Fund for Community Investment is not just a generous gesture — it’s a strategic and transformative initiative. As the demand for high-quality local care grows, so too does the need for talented physicians who can meet that demand. The Fund makes Mount Nittany Health a competitive and attractive place to practice by providing crucial support for loan forgiveness, relocation assistance, and sign-on incentives.
Learn about the Benkovics'
Mount Nittany Health in the Community
- Paint the Park Pink: A Stadium United in Hope and Healing
- The YMCA’s Annual “Dink for Pink” Tournament
- Saint Joseph Catholic Academy’s PINK OUT Game: Basketball Meets Breast Cancer Awareness
Joan Hawbaker Brower’s Commitment to Mount Nittany Health
Joan’s gift will help create a calming space with ample seating, Wi-Fi access, and informational resources for families awaiting news from surgery — something she remembers firsthand. “I’ve sat with families, helped bring them back to rooms. That’s where you’re waiting for news from the surgeon. I wanted to help improve that space for the next generation.”
Learn about Joan Hawbaker Brower’s Commitment
Volunteer at Mount Nittany Health
At Mount Nittany Health, our volunteers are the heartbeat of compassionate care. Known as the “Blue Coat Brigade” for their distinctive blue coats, these dedicated individuals form the foundation of our mission to serve patients, families, and our community with excellence.
Learn about Volunteer Opportunities
Rosie’s Rounds: Spreading Joy at Mount Nittany Medical Center
Rosie the Pug is a beloved member of Mount Nittany Medical Center’s Pet Therapy Program, bringing joy, comfort, and a whole lot of heart in a small but mighty package. Born on June 4, 2020, Rosie’s journey to becoming a beloved therapy dog is nothing short of inspiring.
Originally rescued by China Rescue Dogs in North Carolina and adopted by Corinna Lyncha from Guardian Angels Pug Rescue in Latrobe, Pa., Rosie overcame incredible challenges early in life. Known once as “Trio,” she lost a paw due to harsh conditions but was given a new lease on life thanks to a custom prosthetic paw crafted by My Pet’s Braces in Cannonsburg, Pa.
Pet Therapy Program
Foundation Funding Highlights
The Mount Nittany Health Foundation invested in critical healthcare initiatives such as physician recruitment and the Patient Tower that will directly improve patient outcomes and strengthen our community’s health infrastructure.
FY 25 Funding Highlights Supported:
- Cancer Care Program
- Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) of Centre County
- Emergency Department
- Emergency Medical Services
- Palliative Medicine
- Radiation Oncology
Giving Opportunities at Mount Nittany Health Foundation
When you donate to the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, you’re doing more than giving money
— you’re giving hope. Your generosity helps fund vital initiatives across our health system, including technology, the recruitment of Board-certified physicians and staff, and essential programs and services. As a community-based organization, we are deeply committed to providing compassionate care to everyone who needs it.
Because giving is a deeply personal decision, the Foundation offers a variety of ways to make an impact. You can choose to direct your gift to a specific area that’s meaningful to you, or allow us to apply your support where it’s needed most. Whether you’re making a one-time gift or planning for a long-term contribution, every donation makes a difference.
Donate Now