On June 20, Augusta Health and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association held a special dedication ceremony to honor Sen. Emmett Hanger’s retirement and express gratitude for his years of service to the community. The event was attended by a broad representation of individuals, including state and local government officials.
During the ceremony, a commemorative bench in Hanger’s honor was unveiled outside the entrance of Augusta Health. Hanger, a Staunton native, served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1983 to 1992 and later in the Virginia Senate from 1996 to 2024. His successful efforts in pushing through Medicaid expansion on May 30, 2018 provided healthcare coverage to more than 400,000 Virginians. For this achievement, Hanger received recognition with the Health Care Advocacy award from the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy and the Hero in Health Care Extraordinaire award from the Virginia Health Care Foundation alongside then-Governor Ralph Northam.
Augusta Health’s President and CEO, Mary N. Mannix, expressed gratitude for Senator Hanger’s dedication to expanding healthcare coverage for Virginians. Hanger’s commitment to listening, tireless efforts, and energy have made a significant impact on the community’s healthcare landscape. The hospital is governed by a board composed of community members who advocate for the needs of neighbors and businesses as well as represent medical staff members.
The ceremony showcased the respect and admiration for Senator Hanger’s service and his lasting impact on healthcare in Virginia. His legacy will live on through his contributions to improving access to healthcare for many Virginians.
The event concluded with a reception where attendees had an opportunity to share their memories with Senator Hanger while enjoying refreshments provided by Augusta Health.
