On June 20, Senator Emmett Hanger was honored at a special dedication ceremony and reception held by Augusta Health and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association. The ceremony recognized his years of service to the community and paid tribute to his retirement. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a commemorative bench in his 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. During his time in office, he achieved significant milestones, including successfully advocating for Medicaid expansion on May 30, 2018. This allowed over 400,000 Virginians to access healthcare coverage. For his efforts, Hanger received recognition and awards from various organizations such as 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 towards 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 him was described as an honor and privilege by Mannix.
Augusta Health is an independent community hospital that is governed by a board consisting of community members who advocate for their neighbors’ needs and businesses while representing medical staff team members. The ceremony was attended by a diverse group that highlighted Senator Hanger’s role in building communities through collaboration. It was a testament to his contributions and leadership in the region.
Overall, Senator Emmett Hanger’s legacy will continue to live on through this commemorative bench at Augusta Health as well as through all those whose lives he has touched during his years of public service in Virginia.
