April 5, 2022

Avera Health has received an $11 million gift from a donor who asked to remain anonymous.

The donation will support building updates and capital improvements throughout the five-state system, including at:

• Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center campus in Sioux Falls.
• Avera St. Luke’s Hospital in Aberdeen.
• Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center, Marshall, Minnesota.
• Avera Queen of Peace Hospital, Mitchell.
• Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton.
• Avera St. Mary’s Hospital, Pierre.

“This gift will make life better for thousands of individuals we serve,” Bob Sutton, Avera president and CEO, said in a statement. “This community member wishes to remain anonymous, but we want to thank them just the same. These funds will go toward projects that are needed to keep our health system moving forward.”

Construction will start this year, Avera said.

“We are humbled by the difference this benefactor will make in the lives of those who entrust us with their care,” Avera chief philanthropy officer Dzenan Berberovic said. “From the earliest days of our health system, generous individuals have been part of making the Sisters’ healing ministry a reality. This tradition continues today.”

Each year, more than 17,000 individuals and organizations provide gifts to support the patients, residents and families served throughout Avera, the Catholic health care system said.

“Every gift matters at Avera because it is put to use immediately in helping to provide lifesaving care,” Sutton added. “On behalf of our nearly 20,000 employees, we express our sincere gratitude to this donor.”