Our Story
Our organization actually began decades ago. We were officially founded in 1993 as Conemaugh Health Foundation. We were the philanthropic arm of the hospitals of Conemaugh Health System. In September 2014, Conemaugh Health System was purchased by Duke LifePoint Healthcare. At that time, Conemaugh Health System became a for-profit organization. Months later, on March 1, 2015, the Conemaugh Health Foundation was reborn as 1889 Foundation, a completely independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Our Staff
Susan M. Mann
PresidentDebra Costlow
Director of Programs & DevelopmentWendy Reitnauer
Director of FinanceBarbara Hull
Administrative Assistant
Our Board of Directors
- Trevor Anderson
- Brad Hindman, CFP
- Michael Kerr, Secretary
- John Miko, D.Ed.
- Alexander Pozun, DO
- Lauren Presser, Esq.
- Frank Quitoni, Treasurer
- Sarah Redding, MD
- John Saracena, Chairman
- Susan Williams, MD
- Alanna Wilson, Vice Chair
Ex-Officio Member
- Susan M. Mann, President
Our name reflects a rich history, built on our foundation.
Our name instantly connects our foundation to two things that are central to our community’s rich history: the Great Johnstown Flood of 1889, and the hospital born from the world’s generosity after that great disaster. It is appropriate that the name 1889 Foundation reflects the history and the spirit of giving that created and maintained the Conemaugh Health System for more than a century.

Latest News
1889 Foundation Donates $10,000 to Support Local Disaster Recovery Fund
In a show of community solidarity and support, 1889 Foundation has donated $10,000 to the…
Upcoming Website and Grants Process Updates
We wanted to give you advance notice that changes are coming soon to our website…
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