The Guthrie Clinic celebrated the completion of renovations to the Patterson Education Building and Mark and Debbie Stensager Auditorium on its Sayre campus during an event held April 7, highlighting philanthropy, partnership, and a commitment to advancing rural healthcare education.
The occasion marked a significant step for Guthrie’s efforts to foster learning and research. “Tonight marks both a recognition of our efforts and a glimpse at Guthrie’s future — a future where learning is constant, research is closer to the bedside and innovation is built into our daily work,” said Dr. Edmund Sabanegh, Guthrie President and CEO.
The Patterson Education Building has historical significance for both Guthrie and the local community. Originally funded by Carl Patterson—a Towanda scientist whose work in X-ray technology advanced diagnostic medicine—the building was dedicated in 1969 through his widow Katherine Patterson’s gift. The space has long served as an educational hub for future caregivers.
Renovations were made possible by contributions from Mark and Debbie Stensager as well as support from the Emily Guthrie Trust. The updated auditorium now bears the Stensagers’ name in recognition of their ongoing support; Mark Stensager previously served as President and CEO of the Guthrie Healthcare System, while Debbie Stensager contributed through community leadership.
“For many new caregivers and learners, this building is one of their very first impressions of Guthrie,” Sabanegh said. “Every learner who studies here is preparing to care for someone’s parent, someone’s child, someone’s neighbor. When we strengthen the environments where our caregivers learn and grow, we strengthen the care our communities receive.” The project also included updates to Beck Library with new study areas designed for collaboration.
Several partners—including BNY Mellon, Highland Associates, Welliver, Automated Lifestyles, Sedgwick Business Interiors—and internal teams were recognized during remarks that featured Representative Tina Pickett alongside Board Chair Ken Levitzky. “As Guthrie continues to grow, our focus remains on ensuring excellence in healthcare is never limited by geography,” Sabanegh said.
The renovation supports Here. For Good.—the Campaign for Guthrie—an initiative aimed at enhancing education facilities across the region.
