McMinnville, OR (May 17, 2024) – Willamette Valley Medical Center (WVMC) commemorated its 120th anniversary on May 16th, an event that brought together more than 500 community members, past and present staff and providers, and key figures to celebrate more than a century of healthcare excellence.

Michael Mulkey, CEO of WVMC, expressed his pride in the hospital’s rich history and bright future, "Today not only reflects on a storied past but also casts a vision towards a future of continued service and innovation in healthcare. We are proud to serve our community and grateful for the trust they have placed in us over these many years."

The 120-year anniversary not only marks a significant chronological milestone but also symbolizes the deep-rooted commitment of WVMC to its mission of making communities healthier. Throughout its history, WVMC has been at the forefront of quality and compassionate care. From its humble beginnings in 1904 to becoming the healthcare facility it is known for today, WVMC has adapted through decades of change, always focusing on patient-centered care while reinforcing and nurturing the significance of ‘moments that matter’ and the impact it plays on employees and patient care. Today, the hospital stands as a trusted healthcare partner to Yamhill and surrounding counties, regularly expanding its services to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the region.

In a letter read by WVMC board vice chair Gioia Goodwin on behalf of David Ulbricht, board chair, Ulbricht highlighted the impact of the hospital and the role it plays in the local community, "WVMC is cornerstone of local development, actively participating in public health initiatives, educational outreach, and economic growth. This integration enriches our understanding and effectiveness in serving the diverse needs of our community, and it strengthens the bonds that connect us to the very people we serve." A role, Ulbricht noted, that he, his fellow board members and the hospital take very seriously.

Representative Lucetta Elmer’s remarks centered around the launch WVMC’s Nurse Residency Program.  All new graduate nurses joining WVMC are automatically enrolled in the program as nurse residents, and over the first twelve months of employment are guided through three structured phases – clinical competence, culture transition, and leadership development. During each phase of the residency, the resident is assigned an experienced nurse preceptor or mentor who has completed the program’s preceptorship training. The program culminates in the completion of a Capstone project, which ties together the resident’s first year of work, individually and with their team, and demonstrates the personal impact they have made in the workplace.

“Given the growing national nursing shortage, it is critical that we identify new strategies to support and retain our new nurses. This program provides the right training and resources helping our new nurses develop into confident, competent and resilient caregivers and thrive in their nursing careers,” said Elmer.

Jen Alderfer, Western Division President for Lifepoint Health, also celebrated the milestone by emphasizing the broader impact of the hospital, “The century-spanning legacy of Willamette Valley Medical Center is a bright example of Lifepoint’s mission to make communities healthier and how that is only accomplished through the care and compassion provided in our local, hometown hospitals which is the lifeblood of Lifepoint Health. We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone and reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in McMinnville and beyond.”

In celebration of the 120-year anniversary, a flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of this landmark anniversary. A District Director Fritz Graham for Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) read and presented a letter on behalf of Rep. Salinas honoring the flag and the significance of the day’s event that it represents. Once removed from the Capitol, the flag will be displayed at the facility, symbolizing the enduring legacy and continuing commitment of WVMC to the health of its community.

In conjunction with this significant milestone, WVMC has launched the "120 Moments of Care" campaign, inviting the community to share their personal stories and experiences with the hospital. "We invite you to share your anecdotes, memorable moments, and reflections on what being part of Willamette Valley Medical Center has meant to you. Whether it's a tale of quality care, overcoming challenges, a fond memory with colleagues, or a proud moment of achievement, we want to hear it all," the campaign states. Participants are encouraged to submit their stories via the form available at www.willamettevalleymedical.com/120years, and include a photo if possible.