AHN Saint Vincent will mark its 150th anniversary in 2025 with a year-long series of events celebrating its rich history and commitment to the Erie community. From community-focused initiatives to internal celebrations and events honoring former nursing students and retirees, the anniversary will be a year of reflection and gratitude.

Hospital staff, nurses, doctors and leaders, along with area officials and representatives from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwest Pennsylvania, wore special 150^th anniversary t-shirts as they gathered in the hospital's lobby today to announce details of the observance and take a commemorative group photo; the employees formed a giant "150" for the photo.

In 1874, Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania received permission to build the hospital, and on Sept. 5, 1875, Saint Vincent Hospital opened. The Sisters provided nursing services, while physicians brought their own medications and instruments to the three-story, 12-bed hospital, which cost $7,000 to build. The hospital, on West 24th Street, was open to all people and was the Erie region's first medical facility.

"AHN Saint Vincent has been a vital part of the Erie community for generations, and we are so excited to celebrate 150 years of serving the region's patients," said Dr. Chris Clark, AHN Saint Vincent President. "This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on our past achievements and look forward to the future of healthcare in Erie. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion."

The celebration will include a diverse range of activities, engaging both the hospital's staff and the wider Erie community. Highlights of public events include:

• March 16, 2025: Saint Vincent will put a float in the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, honoring the 150^th Anniversary
• April 25, 2025: AHN Saint Vincent Gala at the Bayfront Convention Center - A formal celebration honoring the hospital's legacy.
• May 7, 2025: Joint Mass at the SSJ Sister House with AHN Saint Vincent and Gannon/Villa - A service of remembrance and thanksgiving.
• May 9-10, 2025: Saint Vincent School of Nursing Class Reunions - Celebrating the achievements of Saint Vincent's nursing alumni.
• July 12, 2025: Free Community Summer Carnival in the hospital's green space - Family fun for the whole community
• Aug. 15, 2025: Retiree Brunch at JPT center- A special event honoring our valued retirees
• Aug. 15-17, 2025: Celebrate Erie - Special activities at this community event to commemorate the anniversary
• Sept. 5, 2025: A public exhibit exploring the history of AHN Saint Vincent at the Hagen History Center
• Nov. 28 - Nov 30, 2025: Festival of Trees - A festive event benefiting AHN Saint Vincent, with special activities related to the anniversary
• Nov. 29, 2025: SVH Festival After Dark - An evening of celebration and entertainment, also recognizing the anniversary

Further details on specific events, including times and registration information, will be announced throughout the year on the AHN Saint Vincent website and social media channels.

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