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Press Releases

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    • Tuesday, Nov 07, 2023

    Celebrating More Than 150 Years of Nursing, First Nevada Hospital and Nursing School Award First Jerry Smith Student Tuition Support

    Donors, Orvis School of Nursing at University of Nevada, Reno and Renown Health create history by awarding tuition assistance to 29 nursing students and creating a future academic and career pipeline. The University of Nevada, Reno has officially begun its yearlong sesquicentennial celebration (October 2023 and through October 2024). Today, a celebration was held as donors, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing awarded 29 nursing students with tuition support as part of the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with the Renown Health Foundation. The Practice Partnership is named in honor of the late Jerry Smith of the Nell J. Redfield Foundation and supported by a generous lead gift from the Redfield Foundation and Stephanie Kruse, owner of KPS3 and chair of the Renown Health Foundation Board as they work to create a sustainable nursing workforce in northern Nevada for years to come. Kruse made a generous planned gift to the Renown Health Foundation and the Renown Nursing Excellence Endowment Fund. This was the lead gift for the endowment, after a significant cash gift to the Nursing Education Fund last summer. Kruse of Reno was recently awarded the prestigious 2023 Trustee of the Year Award from the Nevada Hospital Association for her exceptional leadership; professional excellence; outstanding achievements; innovative accomplishments and extraordinary compassion in caring for the community. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership recipients receive funding for tuition, books, and nursing fees, along with a guaranteed career in nursing with Renown Health following graduation and license obtainment. Eligible University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing students, Nevada residents and those committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation who are interested in applying for the tuition support can find the application in Canvas, University of Nevada’s learning management system. “Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, our state is in need of additional registered nurses simply to meet the increased population growth and demand,” noted Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “The daughter of a nurse and a former nurse herself, Stephanie understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare systems. Stephanie has made a significant and lasting contribution by helping to train and grow the next generation of nurses and we so appreciate her service, and her many contributions to Renown and our community.” "Since our University first welcomed students to classes in 1874, the institution has been a place where dreams can be realized for the good of all. We are incredibly grateful for the Gerald ‘Jerry’ Smith Nursing Academic-Practice Partnership,” Brian Sandoval, President, University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) said. “The tuition support not only impact the lives and dreams of the nursing students being honored today, but positively influences the overall health of our community by ensuring that excellent healthcare professionals stay right here in northern Nevada.” “Jerry Smith had a strong belief in community collaboration, and we are beyond proud that this partnership is named in his memory. He would be thrilled to see the impact these gifts are having on these nursing students today,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown Health Foundation. “Stepanie Kruse works tirelessly to improve access to better health and human services, and she is now encouraging others to join the fight by donating to the Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership fund at Renown to help fund additional tuition assistance and support nurse education for our state. Her goal is to be able to provide full support to each of the 192 students in the Orvis School of Nursing program each year.” According to a white paper published by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center (the Center) in December 2022, analysis by the Center revealed persistent, widespread health professional shortages in Nevada. Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, the Center estimated that Nevada currently needs over four thousand additional registered nurses simply to meet the national population-to-RN average. The partnership allows the Orvis School of Nursing to expand its graduating classes by 8 additional students a year. “At Renown, we take pride in placing an emphasis on education and career development. Partnering with the Orvis School of Nursing to create an academic pipeline is imperative for addressing the nursing shortage in Nevada,” said Melodie Osborn, Chief Nurse Executive at Renown Health. “Renown Health and the Orvis School of Nursing’s collaboration has been longstanding, and accomplishing this milestone reaffirms our partnership and our long legacy that both organizations have to nursing and education.” In addition to announcing the Practice Partnership, the Orvis School of Nursing has merged the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This merger has expanded the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from 72 students to 96 students admitted twice per year. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program now admits a total of 192 students in the program each year. “We are excited to be accepting our first class of Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership nursing students and to be increasing the number of nursing students who can enroll in the Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN program,” said Cameron G. Duncan, Interim Dean of the Orvis School of Nursing. “It’s integral for nursing students to get hands-on experience in an environment that places an emphasis on quality and excellence, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with Renown Health. We are so appreciative of Stephanie and the generous donors who will make education possible for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in nursing.” Founded in 1864, Washoe County Hospital (which later became Renown Health) was the first hospital to open after Nevada became a state and is now the state’s largest not-for-profit healthcare organization and #1 hospital in Nevada (US News & World Report). Founded in 1956, the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) is the oldest school of nursing in the state and committed to serving the healthcare needs of the people of Nevada through excellence in teaching, research, and service. In 2021, Renown Health affiliated with the University of Nevada Reno, School of Medicine creating the state’s first integrated health system. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 associates, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently hiring great physicians, nurses and associates for careers in service; apply at renown.org/careers and volunteers to assist patients and their families at renown.org/about/volunteers. About University of Nevada, Reno The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Nevada’s land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit unr.edu.

    Read More About Celebrating More Than 150 Years of Nursing, First Nevada Hospital and Nursing School Award First Jerry Smith Student Tuition Support

    • Wednesday, Nov 01, 2023

    $5 Million Donation to Renown Health Foundation Will Increase Access to Breast Cancer Care in Northern Nevada

    Gift from Jeanne and Raymond Conrad will support development of the Conrad Breast Center in the new Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. Renown Health Foundation announced a $5 million gift from local philanthropists Jeanne and Raymond Conrad on Monday, Oct 30. This gift will establish the Conrad Breast Center at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown. The center will be housed in the Specialty Care Center at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. The three-story, 121,000 square foot Specialty Care Center being built on the Renown South Meadows Medical Center campus will feature expanded laboratory and diagnostic services, a surgery center and expanded sterile processing department and more. The Conrad Breast Center is the latest addition to the services planned for the Specialty Care Center and will include imaging, infusion and surgery services along with a wellness center. “With a service area of over 100,000 square miles that serves approximately one million people, Renown sees individuals from all walks of life,” said Jeanne Conrad, philanthropist. “My husband Raymond and I share Renown’s vision for a healthy community and establishing advanced care options for even the most difficult-to-treat cancer cases. We all have been impacted by breast cancer in some way which is why we feel honored to create this legacy.” According to the National Cancer Institute, 12.9% of women born in the United States will develop breast cancer at some time during their lives (based on 2015–2017 data). Here in Nevada, the American Cancer Society estimates 2,620 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2023 and that 440 Nevadans will die from breast cancer this year. “Renown Health’s mission to provide best-in-class care in our northern Nevada community and beyond is only possible with generous donors like Jeanne and Raymond Conrad,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, Renown Health President & CEO. “This gift establishing the Conrad Breast Center within the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute will positively impact lives in our community for years to come. Cancer does not discriminate and Renown strives to create care environments that cater to all individuals. Our goal is to save lives and ensure better outcomes while keeping families together with convenient care options.” During the formal announcement of the Conrad Breast Center on Monday, Oct. 30, Renown patient and breast cancer survivor, Carolyn Dragics, spoke about her experience receiving care at Renown. Carolyn emphasized that staying close to home was a crucial part of her care journey. To continue expanding regional cancer care options and keep locals close to home, Renown Medical Group recently welcomed two distinguished breast surgical oncologists, Colleen O'Kelly Priddy, MD and Michelle K. Chu, MD to the team. As part of this expansion, Renown is assuming operations of Reno Surgical Advocates, a respected private practice in Reno. “Northern Nevada’s population continues to grow, and Renown is positioning itself to have the appropriate amount of cancer care providers available for everyone who may need it,” said Greg Walaitis, Renown Health Chief Development Officer. “As the region’s largest not-for-profit healthcare system, Renown works tirelessly to provide members of our community with advanced care. This establishing donation from the Conrad family will continue to build Renown’s vision for increasing cancer care options in our region.” “Every day I am inspired by not only the patients we care for who are fighting the good fight against cancer, but also by the donors like the Conrad family who have given us the opportunity to support our patients in their fight,” said Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, Renown Health’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute Director. The Conrad Breast Center is another step towards the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute’s ultimate goal for our community: establishing an NCI-designated Cancer Center in Reno. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

    Read More About $5 Million Donation to Renown Health Foundation Will Increase Access to Breast Cancer Care in Northern Nevada

    • Friday, Aug 11, 2023

    Sharing the Love: Renown Health & Hometown Health Fund Grants to Support 74 Local Non-Profit Community Organizations

    Renown and many partners are working to help improve the health and well-being of northern Nevadans. Renown Health’s mission is to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of people and communities. Yesterday, Reno’s only not-for-profit health system celebrated local organizations with grant funding for 2023 to improve the health and well-being of our community.    “Improving the health and wellness of an entire population of people is not easy. It is a huge task. Nevada continues to rank near the bottom of overall health rankings in the U.S. and suffers from high mortality rates for chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and chronic respiratory disease,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We must continue to work with partners in the field, who share our mission- to keep people healthy, to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, and to achieve the vision of a healthier Nevada.”  As a non-profit organization, Renown reinvests every dollar earned back to the community; in staffing, technology, treatments, training, and research to improve health and prevent illness. Yesterday, their senior leadership team took an hour to celebrate and support local not for profit partners for their efforts to improve the well-being of our community, with a boxed lunch, conversation, cake and therapy dogs from Renown’s volunteer program.  “Renown Health has long-standing commitment to the community spans more than 160 years,” said Suzanne Bharati Hendery, MA, APR, Chief Communications & Customer Experience Officer for Renown. “This commitment has grown and evolved through significant thought and care in considering our community’s most pressing health needs. One way this is done is through conducting a periodic, comprehensive Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The most current assessments were completed by an external health care consulting service working with Renown and include quantitative and qualitative data that serve to guide both our community benefit and strategic planning. Through the CHNA process, Renown Health has identified the greatest health needs among our communities, enabling Renown to ensure our resources are appropriately directed toward outreach, prevention, education, and wellness opportunities where the greatest impact can be realized.” Renown’s Community Benefit grant funding process for 2023 is now complete. This is the second year of Renown’s 3-year Community Health Needs Plan that seeks to improve the priorities of Healthy Behaviors; Immunizations and Infectious Diseases; Behavioral Health (Mental Health & Substance Abuse) and Youth & Adolescent Health.  The success of the health system’s partnerships in improving the health of Washoe County is measured in the health statistics and data that is reported at the local, state, and national level on the website, NevadaTomorrow.org.  Also attending the event were key members of the Renown Health team including; Christine Bosse, Chief Government Relations Officer; Paul Harris, Chief Legal Counsel; Dr. Paul Hauptman, Chief Academic Officer-Renown and Dean, UNR School of Medicine; Dr. Rahul Mediwala, CEO, Renown Medical Group; Chris Nicholas, CEO, Renown Regional Medical Center; Dr. Bill Plauth, Chief Medical Officer & Associate Dean Clinical Affairs at UNR Med; Chuck Podesta Chief Information Officer; Sandeep Randhawa, Chief People Officer; Bethany Sexton, CEO, Hometown Health; Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer; Sam Weller, CEO, Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital.  The 74 non-profit local organizations awarded Community Health grants or sponsorships by Renown Health for 2023 include: 1. A.V.A. Ballet Theatre 2. Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Northern Nevada Chapter 3. LEAD with Horses 4. National Alliance on Mental Illness Northern Nevada 5. National Alliance on Mental Illness NV 6. Nevada Area Council, Boy Scouts of America 7. Northern Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition 8. The Empowerment Center 9. United Cerebral Palsy of Nevada 10. Northern Nevada Dream Center 11. Nevada State Medical Association 12. Cancer Community Clubhouse 13. Sierra Kids Foundation 14. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada 15. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 16. Nevada Corporate Giving Council 17. American Foundation of Suicide Prevention 18. American Lung Association in Nevada 19. Ashlee’s Toy Closet, Inc 20. Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada 21. Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada 22. Eddy House 23. Mammoth Hospital 24. Nevada Public Health Association 25. The Life Change Center 26. The Moonridge Foundation 27. Truckee Meadows Community College Foundation 28. University of Nevada, Reno Foundation 29. Women and Children's Center of the Sierra 30. Center for Adaptive Riding 31. City of Sparks Parks and Recreation 32. Life Is Worth It 33. Sierra Nevada Donor Awareness 34. STEP2 35. Alzheimer's Association 36. Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada 37. Nevada Military Support Alliance 38. Note-Able Music Therapy Services 39. Safe Kids Washoe County 40. Special Olympics Nevada 41. Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada (TIP), Inc. 42. Reno Rodeo Foundation 43. Artown 44. Washoe County Medical Society 45. Girl Scouts of the Sierra Nevada 46. Tyler Robinson Foundation 47. Community Foundation of Northern Nevada 48. Truckee Meadows Tomorrow (TMT) 49. City of Reno 50. Community Health Alliance 51. Education Alliance of Washoe County 52. Forever 14 53. Make-A-Wish Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada 54. Nevada Donor Network 55. Nevada Medical Center, dba Hope Means Nevada 56. Pinocchio's Moms on the Run 57. Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Nevada, Inc. - Reno, NV 58. Safe Talk for Teens 59. Special Recreation Services, Inc. 60. Our Center 61. Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows 62. Food Bank of Northern Nevada 63. Nevada Women's Fund 64. Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation 65. Northern Nevada HOPES 66. Reno Cancer Foundation 67. Redirect Youth Outreach 68. Immunize Nevada 69. High Fives Non-Profit Foundation 70. Child Assault Prevention Project of Washoe County 71. Communities In Schools of Western Nevada 72. Quest Counseling & Consulting Inc. 73. University of Nevada, Reno Foundation 74. The Children's Cabinet About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. To join the Renown Health team, visit www.renown.org/careers.

    Read More About Sharing the Love: Renown Health & Hometown Health Fund Grants to Support 74 Local Non-Profit Community Organizations

    • Tuesday, Aug 01, 2023

    Takesha Cooper, M.D., Appointed Chair of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

    Takesha Cooper, MD, has joined the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Renown Health as Department Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Cooper comes to the area from the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine where she served for seven years as clinical associate and then full professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, and associate training director for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.   Dr. Cooper previously served as associate medical director for the Riverside University Health System and Riverside County Department of Mental Health providing clinical and operational oversight for four regional psychiatric county clinics, and as an adjunct instructor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine. As a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, she also established a successful solo private practice serving patients from diverse backgrounds.  At UC Riverside, Dr. Cooper held significant academic and leadership roles including vice chair of education, residency program director, chair of the Admissions Committee and equity advisor. Dr. Cooper will now build on the strong foundation established by Dr. Josh Fitzgerald, interim chair of the department, who will now serve as director of research for the department.  Dr. Cooper will be responsible with Steve Shell, vice president of the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown Health, for leading the Behavioral Health Program at the Institute where a team of nine psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and licensed professionals and counselors provide intensive outpatient treatment, partial hospitalization programs, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Esketamine, hospital-based assessment and medication-assisted treatment to serve those struggling with mental illness and addiction across northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northern California.  “We are delighted to have Dr. Cooper join the UNR Med/Renown team,” said Paul J. Hauptman, MD, dean of UNR Med and chief academic officer for Renown Health. “She brings a wealth of experience in multiple clinical settings, and we are confident that she will have a significant impact at a time of great need for mental health services, education, and research in northern Nevada. Dr. Cooper will do much to advance the mission of UNR Med which includes a commitment by the Department of Psychiatry to train the next generation of psychiatrists through a Psychiatry Residency and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training program. Education and training are provided in both urban and rural areas of northern Nevada.” Dr. Cooper earned her Doctor of Medicine Degree from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and completed her residency at San Mateo County and fellowship at Stanford University. Prior to medical school, she obtained a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from UC Riverside and her bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from UC Santa Barbara.  Dr. Cooper’s research explores the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on mental health outcomes in children and adults. She served as a clinical co-PI on a U54 funded grant aimed at reducing health disparities by engaging in community-based participatory research partnerships. “Dr. Cooper is an energetic, collaborative physician, researcher and mentor who cares deeply about improving the mental health and well-being of adults and children,” said Brian Erling, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Renown Health. “This is an exceptionally exciting time to advance health equity and to help improve mental health outcomes for people and communities across northern Nevada. We are excited that Dr. Cooper is joining our team. I know her talent, energy and leadership will further elevate our mission of outstanding care, exceptional training, innovative research, impactful advocacy and innovative community partnerships in mental health and addiction medicine.” Dr. Cooper is recognized for her passion for high-quality patient care and supports future practitioners through rigorous and culturally informed undergraduate and graduate medical education, research, and community collaboration. A 2022 graduate of the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) program offered through Drexel University, she also maintains active involvement in national and state committees and journal editorial boards. The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), Nevada’s first public medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Since 1969, UNR Med has trained more than 3,900 students, residents and fellows. UNR Med continues to improve the health and well-being of all Nevadans and their communities through excellence in student education, postgraduate training and clinical care, research with local, national and global impact and a culture of diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit med.unr.edu. Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. For more information, visit renown.org.

    Read More About Takesha Cooper, M.D., Appointed Chair of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

    • Wednesday, May 24, 2023

    Renown Health and Orvis School of Nursing Announce Academic Partnership Program & Academic Pipeline for Nursing Students

    The longstanding partnership between the University of Nevada, Reno and Renown Health reaches a new milestone with newly established scholarship program. Today, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing announced a milestone in the longstanding partnership and a new fund to provide nursing students with full-ride scholarships, and in turn, assist in creating a sustainable nursing workforce in northern Nevada for years to come. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic-Practice Partnership established with Renown Health Foundation will provide funding for up to 24 students a year.  Recipients receive funding for tuition, books and nursing fees, along with a guaranteed career in nursing with Renown Health following graduation and license obtainment. The Gerald “Jerry” Smith Academic Practice Partnership will additionally give recipients the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship at Renown. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be in good standing at the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing; Nevada residents; and committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation. The Practice Partnership has been established by the Gerald Smith family and initiated by Stephanie Kruse, Renown Health Foundation board chair. Kruse made a generous planned gift to Renown Health Foundation to the Renown Nursing Excellence Endowment Fund. This was the lead gift for the endowment, after a significant cash gift to the Nursing Education Fund last summer. The daughter of a nurse, and a retired nurse herself, she understands the importance of attracting and retaining nurses within our healthcare system, and so she decided to honor the memory of her mother and provide funding for others interested in nursing.  “We are incredibly grateful for the generous donors who have helped establish the Gerald ‘Jerry’ Smith Nursing Academic-Practice Partnership. These funds will not only impact the lives of the awarded nursing students, but positively influence the overall health of our community by ensuring that excellent healthcare professionals stay right here in northern Nevada. Jerry had a strong belief in community collaboration, and we are beyond proud to name this partnership in his honor,” said Greg Walaitis, Chief Development Officer for Renown Health Foundation.  According to a white paper published by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center (the Center) in December 2022, analysis by the Center revealed persistent, widespread health professional shortages in Nevada. Despite steady growth in the number of new nursing graduates from Nevada nursing programs and registered nurses moving to Nevada from other states, the Center estimated that Nevada currently needs over four thousand additional registered nurses simply to meet the national population-to-RN average. The partnership allows the Orvis School of Nursing to expand its graduating classes by 8 additional students a year.  “At Renown, we take pride in placing an emphasis on education and career development. Partnering with the Orvis School of Nursing to create an academic pipeline is imperative for addressing the nursing shortage in Nevada,” said Melodie Osborn, Chief Nurse Executive at Renown Health. “Renown Health and the Orvis School of Nursing’s collaboration has been longstanding, and accomplishing this milestone affirms our partnership.” In addition to announcing the Practice Partnership, the Orvis School of Nursing announced its merging of the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This merger will grow the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program from 72 students to 96 students admitted twice per year. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program will now admit a total of 192 students in the program each year. “We are so excited to increase the number of nursing students who can enroll in the Orvis School of Nursing’s BSN program,” said Cameron G. Duncan, Interim Dean of the Orvis School of Nursing. “It’s integral for nursing students to get hands-on experience in an environment that places an emphasis on quality and excellence, which is why we’re proud to collaborate with Renown. We are so appreciative of the generous donors who will make education possible for students who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in nursing.” Eligible University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing students, Nevada residents and those committed to working at Renown for at least three years post-graduation who are interested in applying for the scholarship can find the application in Canvas, University of Nevada’s learning management system.  About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 associates, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently hiring great physicians, nurses and associates for careers in service; apply at renown.org/careers and volunteers to assist patients and their families at renown.org/about/volunteers.  About University of Nevada, Reno The University of Nevada, Reno, is a public research university that is committed to the promise of a future powered by knowledge. Nevada’s land-grant university founded in 1874, the University serves 21,000 students. The University is a comprehensive, doctoral university, classified as an R1 institution with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Additionally, it has attained the prestigious “Carnegie Engaged” classification, reflecting its student and institutional impact on civic engagement and service, fostered by extensive community and statewide collaborations. More than $800 million in advanced labs, residence halls and facilities has been invested on campus since 2009. It is home to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and Wolf Pack Athletics, maintains a statewide outreach mission and presence through programs such as the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Small Business Development Center, Nevada Seismological Laboratory, and is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Through a commitment to world-improving research, student success and outreach benefiting the communities and businesses of Nevada, the University has impact across the state and around the world. For more information, visit unr.edu.

    Read More About Renown Health and Orvis School of Nursing Announce Academic Partnership Program & Academic Pipeline for Nursing Students

    • Friday, Mar 24, 2023

    Freenome Adds Renown Health As Partner for The Sanderson Study

    Freenome, a privately held biotech company announced today that Renown Health has joined as a partner for the Sanderson Study, Freenome’s study of its multiomics platform, in combination with real-world data to detect multiple cancers. The study encompasses both traditional and real-world data to generate evidence of clinical validation for certain high- and elevated-risk populations while also refining the platform’s cancer classification and risk prediction models. In addition, the Sanderson Study will build the necessary infrastructure to bridge the gap between clinical research and day-to-day clinical impact. Freenome uses a multiomics platform that combines tumor and non-tumor signals with machine learning to detect cancer in its earliest stages using a standard blood draw. “We are delighted to partner with Freenome to launch this far-reaching trial which has transformative potential,” said Lee Schwartzberg, MD, medical oncology section chief and the principal investigator for the Sanderson Study at Renown. “Studying the impact of merging real-world information from patients with multiomics technology holds the promise of a truly personalized approach to early detection of cancer.” Renown Health has multiple clinical trials currently available to patients in northern Nevada across a variety of specialties, including oncology, cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, and pulmonology. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the Silver State, claiming the lives of more than 5,400 Nevadans each year. This number has increased since the last five-year plan estimates of 4,400 deaths per year.1 Promoting research to improve cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment is a key goal outlined in the Nevada Cancer Plan, 2021-2025, a framework developed by the Nevada Cancer Coalition in partnership with the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. Access and participation in clinical trials is a key component of the plan, which, Renown says, makes participation in the Sanderson Study even more significant. “At the inception of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, we committed to not only provide the very best care possible to our community, but to also help improve outcomes through participation in research,” said Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, cancer center director of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute. “The research collaboration with Freenome has the potential to make a dream come true: Finding cancer early when it’s most treatable.” The Sanderson Study will enroll approximately 8,000 patients through Freenome’s clinical study partner network and numerous regional health systems across the United States. “Renown is committed to making a difference in the health and well-being of patients in communities across the state of Nevada, and that includes access to innovative research,” said Lance Baldo, MD, chief medical officer at Freenome. “The combination of real-world data and multiomics is poised to transform the landscape of early cancer detection.” Freenome’s clinical studies are named for employees’ loved ones who fought cancer. This study honors Tim Sanderson, the loving father of a Freenome engineer. For residents of Nevada interested in participating in the Sanderson Study, contact the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute clinical research coordinators at renown-crd@renown.org. Click here for more information on the Sanderson Study. About Freenome Freenome is a biotechnology company with a comprehensive multiomics platform for the early detection of cancer using a standard blood draw. The company combines its deep expertise in molecular biology with advanced computational biology and machine learning to detect disease-associated patterns among billions of circulating cell-free biomarkers. Freenome is headquartered in South San Francisco, California. About Renown Health’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute The William N. Pennington Cancer Research Institute provides comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer care for the northern Nevada community, helps educate the next generation of healthcare providers, and works to improve treatments and outcomes through active participation in research. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

    Read More About Freenome Adds Renown Health As Partner for The Sanderson Study

    • Friday, Feb 17, 2023

    Renown Children's Hospital Announces 2023 Children's Miracle Network Champion Child

    Renown Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) are excited to announce Shaylie Edwards as the 2023 Champion Child. A fighter from a young age, seven-year-old Shaylie has overcome many challenges in her short life. In 2019 when she was three, Shaylie was hit by a car while using a crosswalk with her father. She was admitted to the Wilbur D. May Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Renown Children’s Hospital and stayed there for three months. A video introducing Shaylie and her journey can be found here.  Shaylie’s mom, Erica Edwards reports that as a result of the accident, Shaylie has been treated by Renown Children’s Hospital physicians, nurses and team for a broken neck in two places, a broken jaw in two places, a fractured sacrum, a broken femur and three small brain bleeds. She has been in outpatient therapy for the last three years and continues making strides daily. “Shaylie’s perseverance, dedication and joy inspires all of us at Renown Children’s Hospital,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Chair of Pediatrics, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine,” (pictured right with Shaylie). “It has been an incredible joy to witness her progress and to care for Shaylie and her family. We are thrilled she has been chosen to share her story with the world.”  The New England Journal of Medicine cites preventable injuries as the number one leading cause of death among children. This includes motor vehicle accidents, firearm injuries, drowning, poisoning, burns and suffocation. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 155 children under the age of 10 die every year as a result of pedestrian injury, with 64% of those involving motor vehicles. Across the U.S., due to distracted driving, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every seven minutes. Most drivers feel they can safely take their eyes off the road for 0-2 seconds, but a car can travel the length of a football field in 5 seconds at 55 MPH. Shaylie’s family and the team at Renown Children’s Hospital urge drivers to be fully aware and eliminate distractions while driving.  “We were in the Wilbur D. May PICU for three months and the first five days were very iffy. We did not know if she would come out of her coma, but Shaylie is a fighter. The care team at Renown Children’s Hospital made me feel at home and like we were all going through this together,” said Shaylie’s mother, Erica Edwards. “Shaylie’s recovery was a collaboration between doctors, nurses, and our family. Together we were there to support Shaylie, who has proven to us repeatedly that she has a greater purpose in life.” “It was heartwarming to meet Shaylie and her family,” said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “Shaylie is truly a champion! She and her family have faced life's unanticipated events with strength and resilience. Despite the struggles, they have carried on with hope and determination. They find joy in life every day and inspire us all. We have much to learn from their example.” Through Renown Children’s Hospital, Shaylie and 100,000 area children now have access to more than 60 pediatricians, including those specializing in adolescent medicine; anesthesia; cardiology; craniofacial surgery; dentistry; ear, nose and throat conditions; emergency medicine; endocrinology; gastroenterology;  general pediatrics; hospitalist medicine; intensive care; neonatology; neurology; oncology; ophthalmology;  orthopedics; psychiatry; psychology; pulmonology; surgery; urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30% of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to donor support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Renown Children’s Hospital is proud to be the only CMNH hospital in northern Nevada, one of only 170 premier children’s hospitals in North America. Shaylie will serve as Renown Children’s Hospital’s CMNH Champion Child for the next year, shining as the face of the hospital in the community and sharing her inspiring story. Renown Health Foundation oversees the local CMNH programs and its fundraising. One hundred percent of all funds raised by CMNH partners stay local to support children and families in our community. Your generous support affords much-needed items to help our littlest patients cope with the potential stressors associated with hospitalization and illness. To donate, visit www.renown.org/donate. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is hiring people like you. Visit us at www.renown.org/careers.  About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment, and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $7 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at www.renown.org/CMNH.

    Read More About Renown Children's Hospital Announces 2023 Children's Miracle Network Champion Child

    • Monday, Jan 23, 2023

    Dr. Lee Schwartzberg Honored With 2023 Legends in Cancer Award

    Recognized as one of the world’s leading breast cancer experts as a 2023 Legends in Cancer Honoree Dr. Lee Schwartzberg, FACP, Section Chief of Medical Oncology at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown, was honored as the 2023 Legends in Cancer honoree at this year's Best of Breast conference for his contributions to the field of breast cancer. The conference took place on Jan. 21 and 22. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 36 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased age, hereditary factors, obesity, and alcohol use. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates across the country, and here in Washoe County have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment, detection, and care. Each year in the United States, about 264,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,400 in men. Here in Washoe County, more than 21 deaths per 100,000 females are due to breast cancer, a significant decrease since 2012 when 24 deaths per 100,000 females were reported. Dr. Schwartzberg was selected for this award based on his unique and vast contributions to advancing science and patient care, including his major research interests such as therapeutic approaches to breast cancer, targeted therapies, and supportive care. The selection committee evaluates each candidates’ body of work — including contributions to the field of breast cancer in clinical research, patient care, mentoring and community service — before deciding on an honoree. “Dr. Schwartzberg is deserving of this honor. As a national expert in the study and treatment of breast cancer, precision medicine and supportive care, Dr. Schwartzberg is transforming cancer care and improving the lives of all of us in northern Nevada. As the most preferred cancer program in the region, we are working with the support of donors like The William N. Pennington Foundation to recruit additional oncology specialists and cancer science researchers to become the first National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer care center in Nevada," said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “The incredible care that comes from the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute is possible because of nationally recognized oncologists like Dr. Schwartzberg.” “Dr. Schwartzberg completed fellowship training in medical oncology and hematology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, where he also served as Chief Medical Resident and was a founding member of the institutional ethics committee,” add Paul J. Hauptman, MD, dean of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and chief academic officer for Renown Health. “We are proud that he serves as a professor of clinical medicine at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. His research interests include supportive care, precision medicine and patient-reported outcomes in breast cancer and he has published over 300 peer-reviewed manuscripts, book chapters and monographs.” “It is an honor to work with Dr. Schwartzberg and his patients have the most incredible things to say about the care he provides.” said Dr. Max J Coppes, PhD, MBA, Director, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, Renown Health. “He understands that his patients are going through one of the most challenging times in their lives. Dr. Schwartzberg brings decades of experience to our community, is a great listener, and treats everyone with compassion and dignity. We are so proud to have him at Renown.” The Best of Breast Conference is an innovative medical education program that gathers the world's leading breast cancer experts to discuss cases with high-risk characteristics, adjuvant and metastatic treatment advances, interdisciplinary care and survivorship and recurrence — all while incorporating data from the major oncologic annual meetings. Dr. Schwartzberg has been selected to chair Total Health’s spring oncology education retreat in Lake Tahoe on April 15 and 16. The event’s comprehensive agenda will allow attendees to engage with the latest research and strategies in cancer care while networking with colleagues from across the country in a peaceful setting. Additional conference information is available here. For women, breast exams using mammography after 40 years old is recommended. For those age 75 and older, a mammogram is recommended every year. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Both 3-D digital mammography and whole breast ultrasounds are available at the Greenberg Breast Health Center at Renown and other locations across northern Nevada. The Affordable Care Act makes breast cancer screening and counseling free. All health plans must cover these benefits at no cost to you. Renown MyChart app users can self-schedule a mammogram appointment. To call to schedule, dial 775-982-8100. At the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health, patients receive innovative, personalized treatment to fight cancer while an experienced team provides the support and technology to maintain the highest quality of life. The Renown team’s clinical expertise and advanced treatment options blend evidence-based care with leading-edge research to improve cancer outcomes for every patient and family. For more information or a referral, visit renown.org/cancer. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. About Total Health Total Health is a medical information company of planning experts who produce tailored content, courses, and conferences for oncology healthcare providers, virtual and in-person. Total Health believes knowledge is power. Its mission is to give oncology healthcare providers an educational experience that equips them with the latest strategies to improve clinical practice and treatment outcomes.

    Read More About Dr. Lee Schwartzberg Honored With 2023 Legends in Cancer Award

    • Thursday, May 26, 2022

    Helmsley Charitable Trust Grants $3.1 Million to Renown Health

    Pictured left to right: Erin VanKirk, MSN, RN, Renown Health Director of Nursing Education; Mitch Krebs, Program Director at Helmsley Charitable Trust; Dr. Graf, Renown Health CEO; Greg Walaitis Renown Health Chief Development Officer. Renown Health will use the grant to build the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center to improve the health system’s training abilities The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has granted $3.1 million to Renown Health for construction of a new simulation and innovation center that will greatly expand the health system’s ability to train healthcare providers throughout northern Nevada. The new center will be named the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center. Expected to open in April 2023, the center will feature three simulated patient rooms, classroom space, computer labs and a conference center, allowing trainers to run current and future healthcare professionals through real-life acute, outpatient, telemedicine and specialty care scenarios. The new center will let Renown Health train substantially more nurses, physicians, community clinical partners, medical students and rural providers while improving medical and nursing expertise to support staff throughout northern Nevada. “The Helmsley Charitable Trust is excited to fund this new simulation center, which will provide healthcare professionals across rural Nevada with state-of-the-art training in a variety of situations they’ll encounter,” said Walter Panzirer, a trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “The project fits with our goal to level the playing field by giving rural residents access to top-notch healthcare, regardless of their ZIP code.” “Simulation education has become standard practice for many of our healthcare personnel,” said Erin Van Kirk MSN, RN, Director of Nursing Education. “This lab will provide expanded opportunities in a controlled setting where physicians, nurses, and students can gain valuable experience in providing the best care possible.” Renown Health has outgrown its current simulation lab, which opened in 2016 in Renown Regional Medical Center. The new, larger, state-of-the-art simulation and innovation center will increase Renown Health’s training capacity from 1,500 to 2,500 each year. The new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art simulation mannequins and other equipment that includes a telemetry monitor, IV and epidural equipment, a code cart, a defibrillator, a balloon pump, ventilators and a cooling machine. The center will also support Renown Health’s recently established partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, expanding training modules focused on rural health and virtual care through telemedicine. “The facility will help Renown Health respond to our region’s growing population by allowing us to support the training and competency necessary for our care providers to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, MBA, Chief Nursing Executive at Renown Health. “This generous grant for the new simulation and innovation center from the Helmsley Charitable Trust is truly an investment in the bright future we envision for Renown, our care teams and the community.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About the Helmsley Charitable Trust The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional efforts in the U.S. and around the world in health and select place-based initiatives. Since beginning active grantmaking in 2008, Helmsley has committed more than $3 billion for a wide range of charitable purposes. Helmsley’s Rural Healthcare Program funds innovative projects that use information technologies to connect rural patients to emergency medical care, bring the latest medical therapies to patients in remote areas, and provide state-of-the-art training for rural hospitals and EMS personnel. To date, this program has awarded more than $500 million to organizations and initiatives in the states of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana, and Nevada. For more information, visit helmsleytrust.org.

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    • Monday, Apr 25, 2022

    Wilbur May Foundation Donates Five Million Dollars to New Renown Children's Hospital Endowment Fund

    Endowment funds generate annual income, ensuring support for years to come. Pictured above: Dr. Max Coppes, Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Nell J Redfield Chair of Pediatrics, UNR Med; Dr. Kristina Deeter, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital; Becky Haase, RN, Director of Children’s Services at Renown Health; Emmalee Sutton, Renown Health's Children's Miracle Network Child Champion; Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis; Dixie May, Vice President at the Wilbur May Foundation; Dr. Thomas Graf, CEO of Renown and Larry Duncan, VP, Administrator, Renown Children’s Hospital. The Wilbur May Foundation recently announced a $5 million gift to Renown Health Foundation. This gift marks the first major donation to support the newly formed Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund.  Endowment funds are invested, and each year a portion of the fund’s income will be used as a steady stream of support for the Renown Children’s Hospital, while the rest of the return is re-invested to preserve and grow the original gift. As the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, Renown Children’s Hospital treats nearly 50,000 of our youngest community members every year, with a focus on keeping quality healthcare close to home. “Building a strong endowment is one of the most critical steps an organization, like Renown, can take to help see it through challenging times and periods of growth,” said Thomas Graf, MD, FAAFP, CEO of Renown. “An endowment is a permanent fund –— it is our key to continuously creating health. We will spend only the investment income we earn, this will allow us to have a dedicated stream of dollars to pay for the equipment and programs that we know our children need.” In honor of the Wilbur May Foundation’s extraordinary donation, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), currently under major renovation, will be named the Wilbur D. May NICU and PICU. These two major ICU units are moving from the Sierra Tower to the Tahoe Tower at Renown Regional Medical Center, home of Renown Children’s Hospital. “This endowment gives physicians and staff peace of mind knowing services and programs will continue to be readily available to families in our growing community,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital. “The generosity of the Wilbur May Foundation will impact care at Renown Children’s Hospital for generations.” The late Wilbur D. May was a northern Nevada rancher, businessman, world traveler and philanthropist. He had a deep and longstanding concern for the welfare and education of children. The Wilbur May Foundation – comprised of family relatives, including his daughter, Dixie May – continues to enhance Wilbur’s vision. The foundation has made numerous gifts to Renown Children’s Hospital over the years, including supporting the current PICU and children’s kidney dialysis program, among others.  “It’s an honor to work with community leaders and donors like Dixie May and the Wilbur May Foundation, and it’s our hope this announcement will inspire others in the community to Join the Good Fight and support children and families in our community,” said Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis.  To learn more about the Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund, or to contribute, visit renown.org/give or call Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545. ### About Renown Health  For more information, visit Renown Health is the region’s largest locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

    Read More About Wilbur May Foundation Donates Five Million Dollars to New Renown Children's Hospital Endowment Fund

    • Wednesday, Sep 08, 2021

    Local Artist Auction Benefits Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute

    The annual Art for Recovery event features artwork from 13 local artists inspired by the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute mission. Sales will benefit the Institute. Renown Health Foundation hosts Art for Recovery at the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute on Thursday, Sept. 23 from 4-7 p.m. The annual fundraising event is free, open to the public and benefits the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown, located at 85 Kirman Ave. in Reno, Nev. The family-friendly event features an art auction, live DJ, craft vendors, activities for kids and refreshments. Established in 2018, the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown focuses on expanding community access to prevention and intervention services for mental health disorders and alcohol and drug addiction, with the goal of decreasing stigma and encouraging more people to seek help. The annual Art for Recovery fundraiser features the artwork of 13 local artists who have created pieces inspired by the Institute's mission. Each work of art addresses themes of hope and resilience. “We look forward to continuing the tradition of celebrating local artists, supporting our healing programs and bringing awareness to addiction recovery during the annual Art for Recovery event. This event shows that not only are our providers here to help our patients get through life’s challenges, but our community is here to support, too,” said Steve Shell, vice president of the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute at Renown. Participating artists include Bryce Chisholm, Naomi Ferrall, Amy Lawrence, Jessamyn Parker, Emily Reid, Arthur Richmond, the Robison Family (Paula, Elsa, Rosemary and Nathan), Cooper Sandoval, Trisha Shepherd, Sam Sprague, Cat Stahl, Julie Steiner and Jim Tuxon. Read the inspiration behind every donated piece of art here. Local 12-year-old artist Cooper Sandoval is donating a work of art titled, ‘Time.’ Cooper shares that his inspiration comes from the hope of time. “No matter how bad of a day it is, I always know that things will get better with time,” said Cooper. Bidding for the highly anticipated art auction is now open and concludes Sept. 23 during the free outdoor event. Funds raised will support improved patient care services at the Institute. To view and bid on the art pieces, visit www.renown.org/artforrecovery.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

    Read More About Local Artist Auction Benefits Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute

    • Friday, Jul 09, 2021

    Renown Health Foundation Announces Partnership with Forever Young Foundation to Build a Sophie's Place Music Therapy Room

    At a press conference this week, Renown Health Foundation announced its partnership with San Francisco 49ers legend and NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young and the Forever Young Foundation to build a Sophie’s Place at Renown Children’s Hospital. The music therapy room, set to break ground later this year, is specially designed for children and their loved ones to enjoy music and other interactive activities during their hospital stay.   A longtime Children's Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals celebrity ambassador, Young has helped raise over $1 billion to support children’s hospitals around the nation like Renown’s Children’s Hospital. His passion for giving back to pediatric patients, coupled with one remarkable friendship, led to the evolution of Sophie's Place.   Established in 2013 by the Forever Young Foundation, Sophie’s Place was created in loving memory of singer, songwriter and dear friend of the Young family, Sophie Barton. Sophie often sang in hospitals, understanding music’s power to heal people of all ages.   Barb and Steve Young shared, "Research has proven that music therapy fires the synapses to help create new neuro-pathways to replace those that have been damaged. It increases oxygen-saturation levels, alleviates pain, eases anxiety and depression, assists in fine and gross motor-skill development, and so much more. We are honored to partner with Renown Children's Hospital as we share with you the building of our newest Sophie's Place space, a music-therapy room which will bring hope, healing, and harmony to the children being treated in this special CMNH Children's hospital."   “As a pediatric intensive care physician, I’ve seen firsthand how music therapy can positively impact the health and well-being of hospital patients,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, Renown Health President and CEO.” We are proud to partner with the Forever Young Foundation and honor Sophie’s life and commitment to music through the creation of Sophie’s Place to share the healing power of music with our patients and their families at Renown Children’s Hospital.”   Sophie’s Place will feature a stage and seating area for groups, private recording and practice rooms, an editing station and storage space for generously donated instruments. There will also be a healing arts playroom equipped with games, art supplies and TV. This unique, music oasis was thoughtfully designed to help patients create meaningful connections with others, serve as a positive distraction from the unknowns that may accompany a trip to the hospital, and most importantly, encourage expression, creativity and healing. Project renderings may be accessed here.     “Thanks to the support of Barb and Steve Young and the Forever Young Foundation, we are proud to add a music therapy room to our Healing Arts program,” said Renown’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis. “The first of its kind in our community, Sophie’s Place will provide our youngest patients a calm and beautiful space to take a break from the hospital environment, where they can relax, socialize and just enjoy being kids.”   “We are extremely fortunate to have the Forever Young Foundation as generous partners who share Renown’s commitment of investing for the future,” said Max Coppes, M.D., Ph. D., MBA, Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada School of Medicine and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children's Hospital. “Sophie’s Place will help countless young patients feel more comfortable along their healing journey, contributing to a brighter and more positive experience here at Renown.”   Sophie’s Place currently provides music therapy to children at Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Sutter Children’s Center in Sacramento, Calif., Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa, Ariz., and Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, Calif. Renown Children’s Hospital will be its next location to break ground.    For ongoing updates on Sophie’s Place at Renown Children’s Hospital and ways you can support this impactful music therapy room for current and future generations, please visit Renown Health Foundation’s website or call 775-982-5545.     About Renown Children’s Hospital Renown Children’s Hospital is the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, and offers a variety of programs and services designed specifically to care for the community's families. It has the region’s only Children’s ER and Pediatric ICU. Renown Children’s Hospital is the only hospital affiliated with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) in the region and local CMN Hospitals' programs and events directly benefit children in the Truckee Meadows. It is also the only hospital in the region affiliated with CHA (Children’s Hospital Association). For more information, visit renown.org/children.   About Forever Young Foundation Founded in 1993 by NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young, Forever Young Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization focused on passing on hope and resources for the development, strength, and education of children. The Foundation serves children facing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges by providing them with academic, athletic, and therapeutic opportunities currently unavailable to them. Forever Young Foundation primarily focuses our efforts in Northern California, Arizona, Utah, and Ghana, Africa.

    Read More About Renown Health Foundation Announces Partnership with Forever Young Foundation to Build a Sophie's Place Music Therapy Room

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