Gratitude Report
"I feel indebted to everyone who helped make the Wynn Hospital a reality so I could get the immediate care I needed, right when I needed it!"
RAY WALKER
(Pictured
on cover with his son Logan)
Dear Friends,
Your support transforms lives and futures in the Mohawk Valley!
In 2024, we celebrated an extraordinary milestone: the successful completion of the $30 million This is for You! Campaign. This achievement was about more than reaching a financial goal – it reflected our community’s shared vision and belief in Wynn Hospital's transformative potential.
Since the Wynn opened, we’ve made substantial progress while navigating the complexities of launching a state-of-the-art facility. Together, we’ve remained committed to our mission of providing exceptional care, keeping our patients as the focus of all we do.
The Wynn is more than a building; it’s a beacon of innovation and hope. It equips us to train the next generation of caregivers, address critical workforce shortages and ensure that future generations have access to exceptional healthcare right here in the Mohawk Valley.
None of this would have been possible without your generosity. Your unwavering support is a testament to the power of community and our collective commitment to building a healthier, stronger future. Thank you for your belief in this mission and for ensuring that the Wynn Hospital will serve as a cornerstone of our region for generations to come.
With deep gratitude,
Darlene Stromstad, FACHE President and CEO
Wynn Hospital Opens
Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) started a new chapter for healthcare in our region with the opening of Wynn Hospital on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
Thanks to the great cooperation of a wide range of EMS services from across the region, 23 ambulances delivered 25 patients an hour. The first Emergency Department (ED) patient arrived at 6:35 a.m. The first transfer from the closing hospitals arrived at 7:20 a.m. By 4:15 p.m., 226 patients had been transferred, or admitted from the new ED.
Opening day was the culmination of many years of hard work, dedication and of course, philanthropy. The celebration started in September of 2023, as MVHS staff and their families participated in a Walk to the Future. Employees gathered at the campus with which they felt most affiliated (St. Elizabeth, St. Luke’s and Faxton) and walked as one group to the Wynn Hospital.
A few short weeks later on Sunday, October 15, 2023, community members were invited to take part in a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the long-awaited completion of our state’s newest
hospital. The ribbon cutting was attended by staff, nursing and medical staff representatives, board members and New York State elected officials. Crowds of people gathered to watch the event and take part in the festivities.
There was a live band, local mascots, stilt walkers and an aerial dance troupe called Bandaloop that performed on the side of the Wynn Hospital in a spectacular display that wowed audience members.
Speakers included MVHS Board Chair Greg Evans, MVHS President/CEO Darlene Stromstad, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr., and Wynn Hospital Benefactor Steve Wynn. Wynn remembered his parents and his childhood in Utica in his speech. He also spoke of the importance of local healthcare to the area and how the Wynn Hospital would care for our community.
“You’ve got to remember, just like me … all of you in this community have to take this place personally. Hopefully you’ll only come to visit someone here, but one day you or someone you love is going to need it. And it’s going to have to respond.
And each of us that live in this community and love living here are going to have to remember that we’re going to have to take personal responsibility in some way, even small, to keep this hospital and its promise what it is today.”
STEVE WYNN
A Mural With a Story to Tell
"The commitment to ensuring the well-being of a community for generations to come is a value shared by the Oneida Indian Nation and everyone at Wynn Hospital and Mohawk Valley Health System. It is one of the many reason we were so proud to donate $1 million in support of Wynn Hospital and its mission to transform healthcare in Central New York.”
RAY HALBRITTER
Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Turning Stone Enterprises CEO
An outdoor mural and a display inside the Wynn Hospital lobby are part of the Oneida Indian Nation’s $1 million donation in support of the hospital and highlight the central role of the Oneida people in New York State and United States history.
The outdoor mural, located along Columbia Street on the exterior wall of the Wynn Hospital Central Utility Building, spans 200 feet and stands 10 feet tall. The mural offers a visual representation of the Oneida Indian Nation’s history in Upstate New York from the Oneida Creation story to the Nation’s modern-day resurgence and the development of its enterprises.
The interior mural welcomes visitors to Wynn Hospital with a display that showcases important figures in Revolutionary War
history. Its artwork depicts General George Washington holding a two-row wampum, a symbol of the agreement between the Oneida Indian Nation and the United States to forever coexist like two vessels traveling a river, moving in parallel but distinct paths.
In addition to beautifying a frequently traveled thoroughfare near Wynn Hospital, these new public artworks will also support the ongoing revitalization of Downtown Utica and continue the Oneida Indian Nation’s commitment to celebrating the strong partnerships and unique shared history that define Upstate New York.
Wynn Hospital GALA
A black-tie gala was held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Turning Stone Resort Casino to celebrate the opening of the Wynn Hospital. Celebrated on Steve Wynn’s birthday, this exclusive gala was surely an evening not to be missed. In addition to very special entertainment, guests were also able to enjoy a wonderful dinner curated by the award-winning culinary team at Turning Stone Resort Casino.
This is for You! Campaign Finale
THIS IS FOR YOU! CAMPAIGN
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, during a special Philanthropy Event at the F.X. Matt Brewing Company in Utica, New York, it was announced that the MVHS Foundation’s "This is for You: The Campaign to Transform Healthcare," exceeded its $30 million fundraising goal by raising $30,381,112.
New records for generosity!
The Mohawk Valley’s generosity to the This is for You! Campaign is setting new records and creating the greatest expansion of philanthropy in MVHS’ history.
This announcement came less than four years after the Wynn Family Foundation made a transformational gift of $50 million to name the flagship hospital and just one year after its opening.
The multifaceted campaign helped to advance the building of the Wynn Hospital and supported MVHS’s commitment to strengthening its role as a regional medical teaching campus. Businesses, organizations, foundations, individuals and multiple generations of families came together to invest in the region’s healthcare, reflecting a deep-rooted, long-term dedication to improving healthcare now and securing the caregivers we need for the future.
that MVHS has on our patients and community. Here, every gift truly counts and propels us toward a healthier future for the Mohawk Valley.”
For the majority of donors, their campaign commitment is their largest commitment ever to MVHS. Greatest amount of philanthropic investment in a MVHS campaign ever.
This is for You! Campaign
have given more family and multi-generational gifts than to any other campaign.
“Donors’ confidence in our mission – often reflected in their largest gifts ever – speaks volumes,” said Richard Zweifel, chair of the MVHS Board of Directors. “They recognize, as we do, the impact
Donors continue to give more gifts than ever before. Our community is just getting started!
"This is for You: The Campaign to Transform Healthcare," was co-chaired by Linda E. Romano and Lawrence T. Gilroy III, who led through their own philanthropy and championed the efforts of a local steering committee.
“This achievement highlights our ability to attract major investments even in difficult times and demonstrates remarkable resilience and commitment,” Gilroy noted.
donors have made investments in this campaign than any previous campaign.
“These philanthropic investments reflect both a clear understanding of our challenges and an unwavering confidence in our potential. Our donors chose to look beyond obstacles, seeing MVHS and the Wynn Hospital as irreplaceable community assets deserving of transformational support and we are so grateful.”
“Surpassing the $30 million goal is more than a milestone – it’s a resounding vote of confidence in our vision and potential,” said Romano. “This success is our community’s success and is a testament to what can be accomplished when the community unites for a common cause. When you combine this incredible achievement with the gift from the Wynn Family Foundation – more than $80 million will have been donated to healthcare at MVHS in just a few years – that is incredible.”
LINDA ROMANO Campaign Co-Chair
DONOR SPOTLIGHT
The generosity and support of our community has always been a part of our story. Countless individuals, businesses, corporations and foundations have contributed to our mission through financial, volunteer and in-kind support. We rely on their generosity and are grateful for their help in sustaining and growing the high caliber programs and services patients need now and in the future.
"The Mohawk Valley isn’t just where we live –it’s where we’re raising our family, growing our business and building a future. Supporting the new Wynn Hospital was an easy choice because it’s about more than healthcare; it’s about ensuring that our community thrives for generations to come. We’re proud to be part of something that will benefit our kids, our neighbors and our region for years to come."
FRANK AND COLEEN MASTROVITO AND THE MASTROVITO HYUNDAI FAMILY, Donors
"Raising $30 million in a community like ours was no small feat – it was an extraordinary act of faith in the future of healthcare here at home. That campaign proved that when something truly matters, people will unite to make it happen. The hospital has come a long way, and we continue to grow, adapt and improve daily. That same spirit of generosity and commitment that built Wynn Hospital will be just as important as we shape its future."
DAVID MANZELMANN, Donor and MVHS Foundation Board Chair
"Healthcare should never be about where you’re able to go – it should be about the quality of care available right where you are. I gave to help build a hospital that our entire community can count on so that no one has to look elsewhere for the exceptional care they deserve."
ANITA VITULLO, Donor
MVHS IN THE Community
Mohawk Valley Health System is a significant part of the community where our patients and employees live and work. Whether support is received philanthropically through the Bank of America Wynn Hospital Classic, Wynn Hospital Gala, Women’s Giving Circle or by volunteering at a myriad of events – we are making a difference each and every day.
Everything’s Coming up
New Life, Miracles and Generosity at the Wynn Hospital
Hannah and Anthony Rose were eagerly awaiting the birth of their twins who were due in April of 2024. Their babies had a little surprise for their mom and dad though – a very early arrival.
In the evening hours of January 7, 2024, at just 26 weeks and with only one minute separating their births, the world welcomed Olivia and Isabella Rose. Both were 12 inches long and both were fighting for their lives.
“I can’t say enough about my OB and the neonatology team at the Wynn Hospital,” Hannah shares. “They were exceptional and so kind and caring. Everyone at the Wynn knew us, they knew what we were going through and what our girls were going through.”
Hannah shares that she doesn’t know what her family would have done without the Wynn Hospital.
“I am so glad the Wynn is here in our community,” Hannah notes. “It is beautiful and state-of-the-art – I can’t imagine delivering anywhere else. Plus, knowing we have a team that can care for births
that go as planned and those that have their own plan is amazing.”
She also acknowledges that the generosity of our community was of great comfort and support during the past several months.
“When you walk into the Wynn Hospital you can see that it’s more than just walls and ceilings and it’s because of the generous donors in our community. In fact, the names on the walls and the donor centers in the various concourses, along with all of the amazing donors to the Sammon Family Birthing Center, have inspired a similar generosity in my husband and I. We want to give back in a small way and help other families in our community with preemies.”
It’s these examples of generosity that she hopes will fuel a similar spirit in others too.
“We all have the power to make a difference and give back,” Hannah shares. “It can be big or it can be small, but in the end it all helps. I have two beautiful daughters who survived a very early start and it’s because of generous individuals and businesses who chose to support a state-of-the-art hospital here in Utica. We are, and forever will be, so very grateful.”
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals at MVHS
Our patients are at the heart of everything we do. The generosity of the Mohawk Valley and support of the events and campaigns of our Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ (CMN Hospitals) program helps make sure our community has the very best medical care possible close to home.
“This community has so many partners who are committed to creating positive change by supporting and partnering with organizations like MVHS. Our goal is to build a CMN Hospitals program that grows as healthy and strong as the women and children that rely on the services we provide."
DEBRA WAINWRIGHT
MVHS CMN Hospitals Program Director
KHAI'RAE
Utica, New York
2024 Champions
Khai’Rae was born prematurely at 31 weeks, five days, weighing two pounds, 13.6 ounces. She received immediate care including oxygen and thermo-therapy and spent three weeks in an incubator. After about five weeks in the NICU, she was discharged and reunited with her moms.
Carson was born healthy after a challenging 60-hour labor. He was closely monitored and initially treated for jaundice, however a sudden fever revealed a rare case of bacterial meningitis and sepsis. The MVHS team, in collaboration with pediatric specialists, helped clear the infection. At 22 days, he could finally go home.
Donations to our CMN Hospitals Program at MVHS helped purchase equipment that both Khai’Rae and Carson needed while being cared for in the NICU.
New Hartford, New York
2025 Champions
GABRIEL
Utica, New York
Gabriel (Gaby), a 6-year-old diagnosed with autism and sensory processing difficulties, has been receiving outpatient Occupational Therapy (OT) at MVHS since December 2023. His diagnosis requires high levels of sensory input for regulating stimuli, making high-energy ac tivities like running, jumping and spinning beneficial for him. Thanks to ongoing O and the support of the CMN Hospitals program at MVHS, Gaby continues to make improve ments in managing his condition and enhancing his daily living at home and in school.
What started as a fun summer day turned tragic for 4-year-old were on their way to the beach when the car she was riding in was involved in a terrible accident. Miracle sustained the majority of injuries from the crash. She was taken to the Level III Trauma Center at Wynn Hospital where she was treated for injuries to her head as well as a broken leg. Miracle was later admitted to the Pediatrics Unit where she slept comfortably in one of the new pediatric beds purchased with funds raised through the CMN Hospi tals program at MVHS.
MIRACLE
Utica, New York
CARSON
RAY WALKER AND SON LOGAN
Marlboro, New York
One goal: Get
Gratitude Beyond Healing: A Patient’s Second Chance at Life
Ray Walker, Executive Director/CEO of the Stokes Foundation in Marlboro, New York, an organization dedicated to residential education for students in need, spends most of his days transforming the lives of his students by building urban boarding schools.
So when he was lifting something heavy while visiting the Utica area and felt a twinge in his back and shortness of breath he figured it was due to a muscle pull. He thought it was nothing, but to put his mind at ease, he went to the Wynn Hospital ED.
There, the medical staff quickly came to realize that Ray’s sudden back pain was due to a series of small heart attacks. The team in the ED was then able to provide immediate, lifesaving care to Ray and his heart.
“If it wasn’t for the amazing team at Wynn, I might not be here at all. I feel indebted to everyone who helped make Wynn Hospital a reality so that I could get the immediate care I needed, right when I needed it.”
Ray received a second chance at life due to the exceptional care at the Wynn Hospital and access would not have been possible without generous supporters who helped make the hospital a reality.
Ray’s son also expressed his gratitude. “Thank you for getting my daddy back home,” said Logan.
Get Ray home.
Building on Success A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
The success of the This is for You! Campaign demonstrated what we can achieve together, but our work is far from over. Looking ahead, we see new opportunities to strengthen our healthcare system, address emerging needs and ensure that every patient receives the highest level of care.
The following pages show just a few of the ways you can help continue to make a lasting difference in the Mohawk Valley. Together, we can build on our shared success and transform the future.
Philanthropy Fuels Care When You Need It Most, Right Here at Home
Exceptional healthcare close to home means families can stay together, supported by those they love most. With your support, MVHS can continue to provide the care, compassion and innovation our community needs in life's most challenging moments.
"Providing exceptional comprehensive healthcare at the Wynn is our deepest commitment to the people of Utica and the Mohawk Valley. With great care close to home, families can stay together during times of illness, supported by those they love most."
DR. WILLIAM LECATES Chief Operating Officer for MVHS
"Fighting cancer is terrifying, but the team at the MVHS Cancer Center treated me like family. They didn’t just provide medical care – they encouraged and empowered me every step of the way."
BOBBY PAUL Cancer Survivor
Philanthropy Fuels the Future Maternal
and Child Services
At MVHS, we deliver more than 1,300 babies a year. Every birth is a story of hope. Philanthropy ensures that every mother and baby receive the highest quality care possible. From advanced equipment in our Level II NICU to training the next generation of OB-GYNs and Family Medicine physicians, donor support strengthens every aspect of Maternal and Child Health. Every gift leaves a lasting impact on the care we provide.
"Knowing that our community believes in us and invests in our success means everything. As caregivers, that support is humbling and inspiring – it reminds us that we’re not just treating patients; we’re caring for families. And our community stands with us in that mission."
RENEE MINASOV, FNP Director of Maternal Child Services
Philanthropy Helps Care for All Through our Network of Care
MVHS operates a network of 16 primary care locations and 16 specialty care locations across the Mohawk Valley. These medical offices play a vital role in delivering essential healthcare to our communities, but face increasing challenges in today’s healthcare environment. Philanthropic support is critical to ensure these sites remain sustainable and continue to thrive.
"The Town of Webb Medical Office is both a safeguard for our community and a bridge to advanced care when needed. By strengthening our presence here, we’re investing in the health, stability and future of Old Forge, ensuring that no matter the season, exceptional care remains within reach."
JULIE PERLANSKI, MD Town of Webb Medical Office
(16) Primary Care Offices
(16) Specialty Offices
(1) Campus Location
Boonville
Barneveld Rome
Whitesboro
Oneida
Utica Clinton
Waterville
Herkimer
Little Falls
Old Forge Town of Webb
Philanthropy Accelerates Our Growing Medical Education Program
Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in ensuring the growth and success of MVHS’s Medical Education program, which is vital to addressing physician shortages and delivering exceptional healthcare to our community.
"Our investment in a growing residency program demonstrates our commitment to meeting the long-term healthcare needs of the Mohawk Valley. By fostering a robust residency program, we’re not only building a pipeline of future physicians but also ensuring that they understand and are deeply connected to the unique needs of our community."
MAXIME BERUBE, MD, FAAEM MVHS Chief Academic Officer/DIO & Physician Director of Medical Education
"I am thankful every single day that I chose MVHS for my residency. It was the right decision for me both personally and professionally."
HOANG NHU HUA, MD Graduate of MVHS’s Family Medicine Residency
Faxton Campus
1676 Sunset Avenue
Utica, NY 13502