For Immediate Release: October 6, 2005

For More Information Contact:

Lori L. Henshey

Publications Coordinator

Managing Editor, Focus

West Virginia Hospital Association

304/353-9747

Fax: 304/344-9745

Lhenshey@wvha.org

WEST VIRGINIA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

CHARLESTON, WV – The West Virginia Hospital Association (WVHA), through the advice of its members, honors individuals who have made significant contributions in the area of hospital administration and healthcare. This year, the WVHA honored four admirable individuals, each of whom have contributed significantly to their organizations, communities and healthcare in general to the state of West Virginia. This year’s winners include:

• Walter (Walt) Garrett, CEO, Welch Community Hospital – Award of Merit. Walt has shown outstanding leadership throughout McDowell County by his lifelong devotion to promoting healthcare issues for his community.

• William (Bill) Stone, Board of Trustee, Boone Memorial Hospital, Madison – Award of Governance. Bill’s service to Boone Memorial Hospital spans a remarkable 33 years, serving as the Board’s President for 25 years. Bill’s tenure has earned him the respect of the employees and his fellow board members.

• John Wiesendanger, CEO, West Virginia Medical Institute – Distinguished Service Award. John has steered the West Virginia Medical Institute and its subsidiaries while working collectively with hospitals across the state in furthering quality initiatives and patient safety awareness.

• Patsy Hardy, CEO, FACHE, St. Joseph’s Hospital of Parkersburg – Excellence in Leadership Award. Patsy holds more than 26 years of progressive management and operations experience in healthcare delivery systems. She began her healthcare career as a nurse, earning an MSN at West Virginia University, and continued to keep her license current while continuing to show her enthusiasm, dedication and leadership to the patients, staff and physicians of St. Joseph’s.