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As Prince William Medical Center embarks on its 60th year of caring for the members of the greater Prince William County area, we asked leaders, team members, and volunteers about the significance of the milestone, what it was like to work here “back when,” and some of our most-tenured advocates’ favorite reflections about the hospital.  

Erik Shannon
Chief Executive Officer, UVA Community Health 

As we prepare to celebrate the 60th anniversary of UVA Health Prince William Medical Center, I am struck by its profound impact on our community, made possible by the past and present contributions of our exceptional and dedicated staff. I wonder, did the nine ladies from the Women’s Club of Manassas, who in 1961 formed the health committee that would later become the Auxiliary Volunteers, envision such a remarkable future? Could they have imagined the comprehensive list of services we have developed over the years? 

• Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and neonatal services 
• Comprehensive women’s services and maternity care 
• Behavioral health specialists (inpatient and outpatient) 
• Outpatient surgery center on campus 
• Stroke and neurology specialists 
• State-of-the-art blood services, including transfusions 
• Heart and vascular care, new cardiac catheterization lab and rehab center 
• Diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology 
• Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy 
• Wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy 
• Chronic pain management specialists 
• Diabetes treatment and programs 
• Orthopedic/sports medicine specialist for emergent consults 
• Sleep lab 

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all who embody the highest standards of healthcare and contribute to our team's success. The fact that over 45 staff members have dedicated more than 25 years to Prince William is a testament to the enduring mission, vision, and values of UVA Community Health. 

As we commemorate this milestone, I am reminded of the countless memories and stories shared by some coworkers who have been with us for over 30 years. Their experiences highlight the unwavering support and resilience of our entire team, enabling us to consistently provide the best possible care to our community. 

Enjoy a few vignettes below of team members and their memories from the early years to now at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center. Happy anniversary, Prince William Medical Center! 

Ruth Simione
Auxiliary Volunteer, Past President, 26 years 

What began with nine women from the Women’s Club of Manassas health committee in 1961 led to the establishment of the current day hospital auxiliary. They laid the foundation for what would become the new Prince William Hospital. Their dedication and initiative led to the acquisition of the hospital’s governing board’s guidelines, and in late 1962, they convened the first official meeting, which was attended by over 40 women. These 44 charter members came to be known as The Pink Ladies. 

By 1963, the auxiliary had formalized its structure, establishing by-laws, procedures, electing officers, and defining roles. This groundwork culminated in the opening of the Prince William Hospital in June 1964, when it welcomed its first patient. Soon the auxiliary was granted membership to the Virginia Association of Hospital Auxiliaries (VAHA). 

The auxiliary extended its reach in 1965, it began welcoming young ladies aged 14 and 15 to volunteer as candy stripers for the hospital. The first young man joined in 1973, prompting a change from candy stripers to auxiliary volunteers. Although men were not included in the auxiliary until the mid-1980s, once they joined, the women continued to wear pink uniforms and the men wore red uniforms. In 2004 all the volunteers transitioned to green uniforms.

The auxiliary has since evolved into a robust group that has raised more than $6.8 million dollars, contributing to various initiatives such as the birthing center, the plaza at Haymarket, the launch of the mammogram coach and a second coach, a scholarship program for teen volunteers, Team COVID support, and much more. An intriguing facet of the auxiliary is the diversity within its volunteer base, with over 19 languages spoken among its members. They have volunteered for over 2.2 million hours of service. 

Reflecting on the auxiliary's rich history and its significant contributions, Ruthie remarks, “With such a rich history of success and support, how could I not want to be part of this tradition? Everyone working for the auxiliary is driven by a profound sense of love and kindness for the community.” Ruthie has held several auxiliary positions from chair, director, board secretary, vice president, president, state representative for the board, and president again. 

Vicki Davis
RN Case Manager, Community Health,
34 years    

Vicki Davis is a true Community Health employee. Vicki came to Prince William at the age of 15 as a candy striper for the hospital. After joining the team, she was awarded a scholarship to study in the LPN program during her senior year of high school. Once she became an LPN, she went on to become a registered nurse. After a short time with a plastic surgeon’s office, she returned to Prince William. 

Vicki has experienced a lot during all the transitions and changes over the years. One of her fondest memories came from the early Nurses Week celebrations. “I loved the comradery between all the staff, the entertaining dinners, the games, raffles, and all the different themes for the parties were so fun,” she said. “But the best part of the dinners were the skits. Each department would make up little skits that were so funny and entertaining. We were all a family." 

She feels one of the biggest milestones in the hospital was the addition of staff hospitalists. They provided more focused care, shortened stays in the hospital, and provided a faster transition back into everyday life for patients.  

Vicki worked at Prince William as a nurse for 27 years, marking the start of a remarkable career. She has since worked at Haymarket for seven years and, in May, she will join the UVA Health Culpeper team. This move will mark the completion of work experience at all three Community Health medical centers, carrying out her Community Health employment trifecta. 

Michael Perez, MD
Family Practitioner, 34 years 

Robert Latimer, Sr., MD, served as the first medical chief of staff for Prince William Hospital, collaborating closely with John Ringler, MD. Later, Dr. Latimer would work with Michael Perez, MD, who went on to marry John’s daughter. 

Tragically, in 1988, both Ringler and Latimer Sr. passed away, leaving a significant impact on the hospital. In 1990, his son, Robert Latimer Jr. assumed the role of chief of staff, and asked his colleague, Michael Perez, to join him at the hospital.  

Reflecting on his early days at the hospital, Michael recalls the warm welcome he received from the staff. A large party was held in his honor, allowing him to meet his new colleagues and celebrate his new position. Michael was struck by the genuine dedication of the staff to their patients' well-being, noting, "The staff here is genuinely invested in the best outcome for their patients. There are just so many great people working here." 

He also emphasized the hospital's unique identity as both a community hospital and a center for growth and innovation. Despite advancements in technology and the expansion of specialties, the hospital remains committed to its roots and is poised to embrace new opportunities as it continues to evolve. He shares, “I am encouraged to see where we go and how we grow. With new additions like the birthing center, we have become more than just a community hospital, while continuing to deliver superior care for our patients. It speaks to why UVA Health is a top hospital in Virginia.”  

Felecia Alexander
Case Management Specialist, 40 years  

Felecia's connection to this hospital runs deep, playing a pivotal role in shaping her personal and professional life. Over the last 40 years, she has forged countless friendships that have become an integral part of her life. "This hospital has been a part of me for the majority of my life and has played a major role in it. I have so many friends from the last 40 years, I can’t imagine not having worked here," she exclaims with heartfelt sincerity. 

Her journey here began with a gentle nudge from her mother-in-law, Helen, Alexander, an LPN who dedicated over 35 years to the hospital. Felecia's ties to the hospital grew stronger as three first cousins, an aunt, and eventually her husband, who worked part-time in security, joined the ranks. For Felecia, this was more than just a workplace; it was a family business. 

One of Felecia's most cherished memories underscores this sentiment of family. Despite the challenges life threw her way, including the loss of her son LeRoy, while in service of our country in Afghanistan on June 3, 2005, Felecia found solace and support within the hospital walls. When the Wall of Honor was erected, her son was the first picture to be honored. To this day, she finds comfort in seeing him there, a reminder of the enduring care and compassion of her coworkers. Felecia adds, "I have a fun fact, to emphasize the sense of family: I am an ordained minister. I have officiated the weddings of at least five members of the Prince William hospital staff." 

Felecia's dedication to her work goes beyond personal connections; she is also proud of her professional achievements. Invited to be part of the re-engineering team for case management, she played a key role in transforming the department, originally known as the Social Care Department, to better serve patients in need of rehabilitation, home care, and other case support services. Her commitment to enhancing patient care reflects her deep-rooted belief in the hospital's mission and values. 

Katherine Yohn, RN
Newborn ICU, 34 years 

Katherine is the fourth generation to live in her home. Everyone in her family was born at Prince William Hospital. She began working there at the age of 17 and found it to be a nurturing and encouraging environment from day one. Enjoying her role and the team made her encourage her friends and family to work in the health care field, to leave something better when they go. Like other members of the Prince William family, Katherine also is a great recruiter. Her daughter is a technician in the intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU). Her niece works in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), her daughter-in-law floats between units, and her nephew is a manager in engineering. You could say this is their family business!  

“The one constant in the hospital is change. From the beginning my senior nurses encouraged me to do my best, continue my education, and grow while taking pride in my community. I am a preceptor. As a teacher, my goal is to leave the legacy of great nurses behind me. I also mentor nursing students and do outreach in the community." 

She has witnessed a lot of change since joining Prince William Hospital. The hospital has pivoted from family-style care to a more sustainable care focused on equality and evidenced-based healthcare. Community hospitals will always hold a special place for the neighbors and people who care for them like family. 

Lora Pando-Pauley, RN
Labor and Delivery, 35 years 

"I moved from New Jersey to Manassas in 1966, back when it was just a sleepy little town with a dairy farm. It was only two years after I moved here when the property was donated to the hospital. I gave birth to all three of my boys in that hospital, and I vividly remember the nurse who took such great care of me. Her compassion inspired me, and I thought to myself, 'This is something I would really like to do.'” 

Lora was a good student and received a scholarship for tuition and childcare, and a grant for books. With these supports, she enrolled in the nursing program at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) while working as an intern in the nursery at Prince William Hospital. To repay my tuition, they asked her to commit to working as a nurse for one year. That was 35 years ago. 

The introduction of the birthing center and emergency department marked significant advancements for the hospital. What was once a small, quiet town has transformed into a bustling hub of healthcare excellence. While she misses the holiday parties and celebrations at the birthing center, she acknowledges that healthcare must always progress to stay competitive and offer the best in care. 

What began as a close-knit family of coworkers has evolved over the years with advancements in care, technology, and community engagement. "I am proud to have been a part of this transformative journey.” 

Sarah Herbert, RN
Interventional Radiology, 37 years 

Sarah participated in a critical care practicum during nursing school and was hired at Prince William. She recalls that during her very first week, staff addressed her by name, looked her in the eye, and truly acknowledged her as a Bonafide team member. "I was shocked when the chief nursing officer (CNO) noticed me and addressed me by name,” she said. The comradery and coworkers’ genuine interactions made her feel comfortable and it felt like a family-oriented environment. These interactions would be reflected in caring for patients and families alike. Her role was to advocate for the patient and to support the families. But they still had time for humor. Laughter is a great medicine; it is infectious. She still laughs when she thinks about some of the silly, harmless pranks they played on one another. “Retiring will be like leaving part of her family behind,” she shared. 

The hospital continues to evolve in areas such as palliative care; having individuals speak to the patients and their families has become invaluable. Implementation of early initiatives such as ventilator acquired pneumonia in the ICU, are examples of how we are always looking to improve our practice and aspire to evidence-based practice. 

Sarah states, “I am so glad to see the Clinical Ladder Program continue. It is a wonderful way to continue the legacy of excellence. It allows nurses to set goals, implement programs, present to peers and leadership, research, allowing for professional growth, and gives invaluable input. This takes the nurses to the next level.” 

Linda Green, RN
Surgical Services/PACU, 42 years 

Linda Green began as a nurse’s aide and moved up to LPN. During that time, she returned to school to become a registered nurse. She is not just known for her excellent nursing skills; she is known throughout the hospital for her famous carrot cakes. For luncheons, parties, and celebrations like Nurse’s Week, Linda would bring her fantastic cake for all to enjoy. It was often a raffle item for fun events. Her early memories are of patients and times she made a real connection with them and families. Especially when families would return and remember her and what great care she provided. 

She feels like she and the hospital are close in age, pillars in the community. Over the years there have been so many achievements in the hospital as it grew and evolved. From the cardiac catheterization lab, birthing center, and robotic assisted surgery, the team is always learning and preparing for the future needs of the community. Being at the hospital for over 40 years makes her recall that you become a nurse from the heart. “It is a calling to serve, to help people when they are at their most vulnerable,” she said. “It is not about the paycheck or the recognition. It is about being part of a team that cares for the community and aspires to deliver the best care possible.” 

Steve Danziger
Board Chair for UVA Health Community Hospitals, 15 years 

Steve joined the board a few months before Prince William Hospital's transition to Novant. Despite lacking prior medical experience, he became part of the Board with a focus on community engagement. Reflecting on the whirlwind of changes the small independent hospital has undergone in the last 15 years, Steve marvels, “in the beginning, 60 years ago, it was such a small community hospital that the Board of Directors had keys to open the doors. You must understand all the hospital has gone through in the past 10 to 15 years. And we all truly appreciate the future of where this facility is going.” 

The transformation has been astounding, with some outcomes surpassing expectations while also getting significant unexpected progress. For example, Steve's expectations for UVA Health's leadership were exceeded; he is particularly pleased with the stellar guidance provided by Dr. Craig Kent, chief executive officer of UVA Health. When Erik Shannon became the interim chief executive officer of UVA Community Health, Steve felt Erik brought the stability and steadfastness the Board was looking for. Both leaders completely invested in the community and strategic planning, setting the hospital's culture on a path to evolve and return to a strong community focus.  

Steve remarks, 'When UVA came on board, it was magic. We really turned a corner, and the doors are now wide open with more space, many more providers, the adoption of telemedicine activities, the integration of all UVA facilities on one MyChart system, and new technology and equipment. All of these advancements are just the beginning of what I know will be an amazing future.”

He adds, “With life starting to get back to normal, the Community Engagement team is back out and engaging in preventative health measures, offering grants to community nonprofit partners, and finding ways to really engage one of the most diverse populations in the country.” 

Steve's involvement with the board extends into the Prince William community, where he participates in events, fundraisers, outreach, and more. A particularly fond memory illustrating the community's care was during the COVID pandemic. Recognizing the fear that permeated the hospital and the community, Steve organized the board to conduct a "thank you walk." Board members stationed themselves at the facility's entrance and expressed gratitude to everyone entering or leaving the hospital. “It was a truly special moment." 

Happy 60th Anniversary 

As Prince William Medical Center honors the fundamentals of community support and engagement of its past, we will continue implementing all the opportunities that being part of UVA Health presents us. We are still the caring community hospital the area loves, with the benefit of a full and comprehensive medical platform.  

UVA Health Prince William Medical Center’s 60th anniversary is a time to celebrate, both from having healthcare close to home and benefitting from such an asset in the community. We hope everyone feels this is their hospital, their community, and their place for care. Happy 60th anniversary!