Mount Nittany Health Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Benkovic Fund for Community Investment, made possible by a generous $5 million gift from Stephen and Patricia Benkovic. This transformative gift is the first of its kind and the largest gift in the Mount Nittany Health Foundation’s history. The fund will help address the critical needs in physician recruitment to ensure quality healthcare remains accessible within the region.
“Based on our own healthcare experiences, Pat and I know how critical it is to have access to care locally,” Stephen Benkovic shared. “We are honored to play a role in ensuring our community can receive the world-class care they deserve.”
Recognizing the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, the Benkovic Fund for Community Investment will focus on initiatives that help attract top medical talent and will ensure Mount Nittany Health’s ability to provide exceptional care locally. The fund will support strategic recruitment efforts that are essential to meeting the needs of the community. The Benkovics are inviting the community to join them in supporting physician recruitment at Mount Nittany Health. “This is an opportunity for all of us to come together to make a difference. By supporting physician recruitment, you are contributing directly to better healthcare for everyone in our community,” added Benkovic.
“Steve and Pat’s commitment to local healthcare is inspiring and will leave a lasting impact on our community,” said Kathleen Rhine, President and CEO, Mount Nittany Health. “This gift allows Mount Nittany Health to recruit dedicated physicians and meet the growing needs of the community.”
The Benkovic Fund will address the evolving needs of Mount Nittany Health, enhancing both patient outcomes and operational efficiency. This fund will be making an impact at a time when Mount Nittany Health continues to make investments in the community including Mount Nittany Health Toftrees and the new Patient Tower, fortifying the community’s access to top-tier medical services.
“We are deeply grateful to the Benkovics for their generosity and leadership, which will directly enhance our community’s access to high-quality healthcare,” added Adrienne Krasowitz, Executive Director, Mount Nittany Health Foundation. “Their support, alongside a potential community match, reinforces our mission of ‘Healthier people, stronger community,’ helping us secure a legacy of excellent care for generations to come.”
The Mount Nittany Health Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life by advancing healthcare at Mount Nittany Health. Since 2003, the Foundation has raised funds, coordinated volunteers, hosted events, and provided support to the health system, benefiting patients, employees, and the broader community. To learn more about how you can support the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, please visit mountnittany.org/mount-nittany-health-foundation/giving-opportunities or call 814.234.6777. To support physician recruitment and participate in the community match, please visit: mountnittany.org/mount-nittany-health-foundation/donate.