By Ariana Wilson | awilson@alextimes.com
Inova Alexandria Hospital and the Board of Lady Managers celebrated their 150th anniversary at the Westin Alexandria on Oct. 28.
The event featured breakfast, a fashion show with designs by Sara Campbell Old Town and a silent auction, in which attendees could bid on more than 20 themed gift baskets.
Proceeds from the event will support the purchase of a Brevera Breast Biopsy System for the hospital. This system allows radiologists and technologists to stay in the exam room with patients throughout the breast biopsy process and produces real time imaging and clarification that can speed up the procedure.
The fashion show featured models from Inova and BLM members who were styled by Campbell herself. Mary Ryan, president of the Board of Lady Managers, recognized past presidents from BLM history and members that were in attendance. The board has a storied history; in 1894 the BLM started the first nursing school in Northern Virginia, graduating nurses almost yearly through 1987. Not long after, in 1900, the BLM began the first outpatient care facility in the state. A representative from the Senate of Virginia presented the BLM a certificate of commendation as a token of thanks for “meeting the need for 150 years.”
Dr. Rina Bansal, president of Inova Alexandria Hospital commented on the BLM’s contributions to the hospital, such as the spiritual care fellowship program, which aids future clergy leaders in their ministries.
“[The BLM] ensures that team members, both spiritual and clinical, can provide the highest caliber care to patients,” Bansal said.
The board supports ongoing technology needs like a neurosurgical microscope, a simulation training lab and conversion to negative pressure rooms in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inova’s new hospital, which is set to open in 2028, will have a comprehensive cancer center and level 2 trauma center.
“The Alexandria community is an ongoing circle of support that has sustained the community, the hospital and the board throughout the years,” Ryan said.
