News Release: September 4, 2007

Albuquerque, N.M. -- Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation announced today that Jack and Donna Rust have given the Foundation the single largest monetary gift in its history. This significant donation will help expand education opportunities for nurses in the Presbyterian system across the state to better serve patients.

"It has been such an honor to be associated with Presbyterian for so many years," said Mr. Rust. "We are so pleased to be able to do this for the nurses at Presbyterian who are truly the engine that make this machine run."

Mr. Rust served as a board member on the Presbyterian Healthcare Services board of directors for 30 years, beginning in 1965. He served as chairman of the board from 1981 to 1995 and remains chairman emeritus.

Presbyterian is planning to use this donation to create virtual nursing education programs within Presbyterian that will help address the nursing shortage by expanding the number of individuals and nurses who earn associates, bachelors and masters degrees in nursing.

It will also be used to create additional opportunities for college scholarships, support the development of clinical leaders, and support the growth of other disciplines such as radiology and physical therapy.

"The Rust donation demonstrates a breathtaking vote of confidence, which will enable Presbyterian to contribute to advancing the growth of new nurses in New Mexico, as well as help current nurses to gain knowledge to advance formal education that adds to clinical excellence and professional retention," said Kathleen Davis, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer for Presbyterian. "Jack and Donna Rust are especially interested in investing in New Mexicans who are willing to work hard and have a passion for the nursing profession; as stewards of this amazing gift our intention is to honor the many values and wishes of the Rusts."

Presbyterian serves to improve the health of individuals, families and communities. Presbyterian Healthcare Services was founded in New Mexico in 1908, and is the state's only private, not-for-profit healthcare system. Presbyterian offers seven hospitals, a statewide health plan, and a growing multi-specialty medical group. Presbyterian employs more than 9,500 people throughout New Mexico.