A gift that ensures best-in-class medical leadership for generations

February 28, 2022
The Foundation
4 min read

SHARE THIS

Beth Kalenak has unique insight into how philanthropy can enhance both patient care and a physician's experience. She witnessed this firsthand as the spouse of a physician, first sparking her interest in healthcare philanthropy.

When Beth received Mount Nittany Health Foundation's request to donate to the Dr. Wayne S. Sebastianelli Leadership Fund, she knew she wanted to make a gift. The Mount Nittany Medical Center Medical Staff established this fund in honor of Dr. Sebastianelli's retirement as Chief of Staff after 16 years of service. "I had a meeting with the Mount Nittany Health Foundation scheduled on the day I received the appeal, shares Beth, "so I knew it was a sign from Alex."

The Sebastianelli Leadership Fund will enable physicians and advanced practice clinicians to become better leaders, supporting clinical innovation and advancements in care. 

Beth recalls that during the late 1980s, Dr. Sebastianelli was an orthopedic fellow under her husband's tutelage. The two men had a special bond. "I knew donating to the Leadership Fund would make a meaningful difference not only in memory of Alex but also in honor of the man who took his place as a physician leader in our community," shares Beth.

Dr. Sebastianelli recalls Dr. Kalenak fondly as a teacher, a mentor, and a friend. "Beth's donation means a lot to me," says Dr. Sebastianelli. "The gift will allow physicians and advanced practitioners at Mount Nittany Health to develop their leadership skills to enhance patient care. This is a fitting tribute to Dr. Kalenak – he was an inspiring leader himself."

Mount Nittany Health Foundation strives to connect the generosity of donors with the mission of Mount Nittany Health - healthier people, stronger community. In Beth's case, we were able to match her gift to a program that directly impacts physicians with her desire to pay tribute to her late husband. 

"We cannot thank Beth enough for this inspiring gift in honor of Dr. Sebastianelli and in memory of her late husband and beloved orthopedic physician, Dr. Alexander Kalenak," shares Simon Corby, executive director, Mount Nittany Health Foundation

Every donor dollar is put to work right here in the communities where you live and work, underpinning best-in-class care for those served by Mount Nittany Health. To learn more about how gifts of all sizes can make a difference and advance healthcare in the lives of your friends and family, visit foundation.mountnittany.org.

Latest News

Mar 23, 2023

Mount Nittany Health Foundation Honors Doctors on National Doctors' Day

Learn More

As we celebrate the 90th anniversary of National Doctors’ Day, we honor our doctors for all they do for their patients and the community. Mount Nittany Health’s doctors provide comprehensive care to patients from diagnosis through to treatment and survivorship. At the heart of their work are the relationships with people who are dealing with the uncertainty of potentially life-changing health issues.

The Foundation

Feb 15, 2023

Mount Nittany Health Welcomes Adrienne Krasowitz as New Executive Director of the Mount Nittany Health Foundation

Learn More

Mount Nittany Health is pleased to announce that Adrienne Krasowitz has joined Mount Nittany Health as Executive Director of the Mount Nittany Health Foundation.

The Foundation

Mar 30, 2022

Tending to her fellow doctors – Dr. Candace Good

Learn More

On March 30, we celebrate Doctors' Day. The celebration this year is special because we are saluting the care, dedication, and nimbleness displayed by physicians two years into the COVID-19 pandemic to provide the healthcare our community needed.

The Foundation