MCH celebrates 70 years of serving Washington County
Published 2:40 pm Monday, October 5, 2026
Memorial Community Hospital & Health System marked 70 years of serving Washington County with a community celebration that brought together current employees, retirees, former board members, patients and families.
“Seventy years is a remarkable milestone for any organization,” MCH President and CEO Manny Banner said in an email. “The evening was special not just because of the food, music, or activities. It was seeing generations of people who have supported, worked at, volunteered with, or received care from MCH come together to celebrate what this hospital means to our community.”
Banner said the event was a chance to share the hospital’s history, showcase its services and show residents how MCH continues to evolve to meet local health care needs. “MCH is much more than a building,” she said. “For 70 years, it has been a community institution supported by generations of people who care deeply about local healthcare.”
The most popular activity was painting ceiling tiles. Banner said organizers weren’t sure it would draw interest, but participants of all ages took part and the hospital ran out of tiles.
“People were literally leaving their mark on the future of the hospital,” Banner said. “It became a powerful symbol of what the evening represented: a celebration not only of our history, but also of the community ownership and support that will help carry MCH into the future.”
Despite a rainy forecast that moved some activities indoors, Banner said turnout exceeded expectations. The event also featured food trucks and live music by the AJ Tucker Band.
Banner said one of her favorite parts of the evening was watching staff interact with community members. “Our staff provides exceptional care every day, but events like this give people an opportunity to see the passion, dedication, and pride that exist behind the scenes,” she said.
“We are grateful for the trust this community has placed in us over the past 70 years, and we look forward to continuing to serve Washington County for many years to come.”
