Dr. Bill Katip, president of Grace College & Seminary, and Kirk Ray, CEO of Lutheran Health Network KCH, shake hands while officials from both institutions look on during the announcement of their extended partnership at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center.

WINONA LAKE — Grace College & Seminary is pleased to announce that its partnership with Lutheran Health Network Kosciusko Community Hospital is expanding. Grace and KCH have collaborated on various health-related initiatives for many years, however, this new KCH partnership is a 10-year agreement that includes ongoing support to Grace for health education, wellness, academics, athletic programs and other projects. A formal announcement was made on Wednesday, March 15 during the opening night of the 2017 NCCAA national basketball championships tournament held at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center at Grace College.

Lutheran Health Network KCH strives to make a positive influence that extends beyond the walls of its facilities which is demonstrated every day through active participation in the wellness, growth and vibrancy of the community. Lutheran Health Network KCH officials believe the opportunity to partner with Grace College & Seminary is an exciting step in the ongoing pursuit of those goals.

“The purpose of this commitment is to improve the health and wellness of community members who we serve locally through Kosciusko Community Hospital, MedStat Urgent Care and Occupational Health, our affiliated medical staff and KCH Regional Rehabilitation Center,” said Kirk Ray, chief executive officer, Lutheran Health Network KCH. “This agreement demonstrates a commitment from both entities to have a unified, long-term vision for improving the health of Grace College & Seminary students, faculty and staff.”

For many years, KCH Regional Rehabilitation Center has served student athletes through athletic training. Training will continue to be offered and sports medicine services will be enhanced. KCH’s Optimal Performance Sports program will provide student athletes with tailored performance enhancement services as an extension of Grace College’s coaching staff. Sports performance services can include injury prevention training, bridging post-surgery gap with return to sport training, on-site training for coaches on proper technique and latest research, and strength and conditioning. Additionally, a student health nurse and health education will be provided to the college.

“One of the primary ways Grace College & Seminary effectively and efficiently serves its students, faculty and staff is through the support and partnership of organizations that provide our campus with their expertise,” said Grace College & Seminary President Dr. Bill Katip. “We’re thankful for the ongoing support of Lutheran Health Network KCH and are grateful for how they are extending and expanding their support to our students. We’ll be stronger for it.”