On June 20, Augusta Health and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association held a special dedication ceremony and reception to honor the retirement of Sen. Emmett Hanger and show appreciation for his years of service to the community. The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a commemorative bench in Hanger’s honor, which will be placed outside the entrance of Augusta Health.
Senator Hanger, a native of Staunton, served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1983 to 1992 and later in the Virginia Senate from 1996 to 2024. One of his significant achievements was successfully advocating for Medicaid expansion on May 30, 2018, allowing over 400,000 Virginians to access healthcare coverage. For his efforts, Hanger received recognition and awards from various organizations, including the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy and the Virginia Health Care Foundation.
Mary N. Mannix, president and CEO of Augusta Health, expressed gratitude for Senator Hanger’s dedication to providing healthcare access to thousands of Virginians through Medicaid expansion. She praised his leadership, energy, commitment, and ability to make a difference in the healthcare landscape of the region. The collaboration with Hanger was described as an honor and privilege by Mannix.
Augusta Health, an independent community hospital, is governed by a board consisting of community members who advocate for the needs of their neighbors and businesses, as well as representing the medical staff and team members. The ceremony was attended by a diverse group, including state and local government officials, highlighting Senator Hanger’s role in building communities through collaboration. It was a testament to Hanger’s contributions and leadership in the region.