SYRACUSE — St. Joseph’s Health renamed and dedicated its training center, located at 500 N. Salina St., June 20 in honor of long-time Northside residents and active members of the community, Sarah and the late Richard Pietrafesa.
The Sarah and Richard Pietrafesa Training Center will be the primary training location for hospital staff, and will also house healthcare-related learning and professional development training programs that will be provided through St. Joseph’s partnership with Onondaga Community College.
Representatives from St. Joseph’s Health, Onondaga Community College, and the Pietrafesa Family were all in attendance and shared remarks about the significance of this training center.
“The Foundation is truly honored to be the recipient of such a generous and meaningful gift from the Pietrafesa Family, which ensures the continued opportunity for growth within this neighborhood,” said Vince Kuss, Vice President for Development at St. Joseph’s Health Foundation. “The Sarah and Richard Pietrafesa Training Center will be the primary training location for hospital staff, and will also house healthcare-related learning and professional development training programs that will be provided as a result of our very highly valued partnership with Onondaga Community College.”
“We are thrilled to be working with our partners to bring education and training to the people of Syracuse and Central New York. We look forward to assisting those who come to the Pietrafesa Training Center [to] obtain jobs in the medical field. Through our Workforce Development program we are committed to responding to the needs of both local employers and workers and aligning the needs of both as we work to advance the economic vitality and growth of the region,” said Onondaga Community College President Dr. Casey Crabill.
The Pietrafesa Family has been a part of Syracuse’s Northside community since the early 1900s. The late Richard (“Dick”) was dedicated to his family’s business, the Joseph J. Pietrafesa Co., a well-known clothing manufacturer then located on North Salina Street. When Dick Pietrafesa passed away in 2013, his wife and children sought to honor his life and achievements in a way that would benefit the community and recognize his contributions. Much to Sarah’s surprise, her children planned to honor her as well, with a donation to St. Joseph’s Health.
“Having been born and raised on the Northside of Syracuse, St. Joseph’s has always been a part of our lives,” said Sarah Pietrafesa. “Dick respected education and training. He was committed to his employees and their skill development, and trained thousands of people who lived in and around the Northside over the years. He would be thrilled to see the opportunities this building presents and the unique partnerships it will offer to the next generation.”
Programs led by Onondaga Community College’s Workforce Development team will include Medical Billing, Medical Secretary, Medical Assistant, and Phlebotomy training. (Submitted by St. Joseph’s Health)
