Beth Richards Kalenak, a lifelong central Pennsylvania native, has made a significant impact on the Mount Nittany Health community with her contribution to the new Patient Tower through the Mount Nittany Health Foundation. Her gift will fund spaces that will enhance patient comfort and dignity, reflecting her deep support for palliative care—a cause close to her heart, shaped by her personal journey and experiences with her late husband, Dr. Alexander Kalenak.
Born at Bellefonte Community Hospital and raised in Milesburg, Beth’s roots in the region are deep and meaningful. As a realtor since 1986, she has built her career on relationships and service, guided by the principle of putting the people in her community first.
Beth’s passion for palliative care stems from her marriage to Dr. Kalenak, a respected orthopedic surgeon at Penn State Hershey Medical Center and Penn State Sports Medicine, and their shared experiences. Dr. Kalenak’s first wife passed away from cancer at just 40 years old, igniting his commitment to advancing palliative care by supporting nursing education. Tragically, Dr. Kalenak himself was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2004, and through his care journey, Beth witnessed the transformative impact of compassionate palliative care.
“When I joined the Mount Nittany Health Foundation Board several years ago, I saw firsthand how the health system is making a difference,” Beth said. “Supporting the Patient Tower feels like a natural way to honor Alex and to give back to a cause that fully resonates with me.”
The new Patient Tower at Mount Nittany Medical Center is designed to elevate the experience of patients, families, and employees alike. With features like private rooms and enhanced amenities, the Tower will provide a healing environment that promotes comfort and dignity for patients while offering staff an improved space to deliver exceptional care.
“A private room can make such a difference,” Beth said. “It gives patients respect and allows families to focus on what matters most. I’m proud to support this project because it aligns with values Alex and I both cherished.”
Adrienne Krasowitz, Executive Director of Mount Nittany Health Foundation, emphasized the significance of Beth’s gift. “Beth’s support is a testament to how one person’s vision can create lasting change,” she said. “Her generosity not only enhances patient care but also reinforces our mission to provide an environment where staff can thrive.”
Kathleen Rhine, President and CEO of Mount Nittany Health, also shared her appreciation. “Beth’s philanthropy reflects a remarkable commitment to our community’s health and well-being,” Kathleen said. “Her focus on palliative care is both inspiring and impactful. This contribution will leave a lasting legacy for patients, families, and caregivers.”
In addition to her support for Mount Nittany Health, Beth is an advocate for numerous other local organizations, including the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, Centre Furnace Mansion, Penn State’s College of Liberal Arts, the Arboretum at Penn State, and the Palmer Museum of Art.
“Philanthropy is one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting change,” said Beth. “It’s deeply fulfilling to know that my contribution to the Patient Tower will help shape a space where healing and care flourish. Making an impact in this way is a privilege that I hope inspires others to consider how they, too, can make a difference in our community.”
For Beth, being part of the Mount Nittany Health Foundation Board and contributing to the Patient Tower have both been deeply fulfilling. “I feel like I’m part of something bigger—something local and important that helps the community,” she said.
Through her philanthropy, Beth is helping transform the future of healthcare in central Pennsylvania. Her contribution to the Patient Tower reflects not only her generosity but her desire to ensure that every patient receives care with comfort and compassion while at the same time creating a better experience for those who provide it.