Saint Agnes and Fresno Bishop celebrate hospital's 96th anniversary

Fresno, CA – Saint Agnes celebrated its 96th anniversary on Thursday, August 14, welcoming The Most Reverend Joseph V. Brennan, Bishop of the Fresno Diocese, as its honored guest.

The celebration began with a special Mass in the hospital’s Frank Diener Family Christ the Healer Chapel, led by Bishop Brennan. Following the service, the Bishop joined Saint Agnes leadership and colleagues for the presentation of the annual Sisters’ Legacy Award.

Established in 2024, the Sisters’ Legacy Award honors Saint Agnes’ founders, the Sisters of the Holy Cross, and the healing mission they formed in 1929 that still guides us today. The award is presented to one colleague annually who exemplifies the Sisters’ spirit and the hospital’s Mission and Core Values.

President and Market Leader, Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, and Board Chair, Ron Wathen, presented this year’s award to Rosemary McDonald, Manager of Patient Food and Nutrition Services. A colleague since 1996, McDonald is known for leading her team with dedication, selflessness and integrity. 

“It is truly an honor to celebrate the history of Saint Agnes, our Sisters, and the colleagues here today still carrying out their legacy in such a special way,” says Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, Saint Agnes President and Market Leader. “Rosemary is a tremendous example of our Saint Agnes spirit, embodying the same humility, reverence and compassion of our Sisters throughout the last nine decades. To have Bishop Brennan share in this celebration and provide comfort and wisdom to our colleagues and patients helps strengthen our connection to our history and healing ministry.”

"I have tremendous gratitude for the service and dedication that is exemplified by the Saint Agnes staff,” said The Most Reverend Joseph V. Brennan, Bishop of the Fresno Diocese. “It was a wonderful opportunity to witness that service first-hand and celebrate their work.”

Following the award presentation, Dr. Kaur and Bishop Brennan toured the Medical Center, greeting colleagues, patients and visitors.