WVRHA Award for Excellence in Rural Health (Individual)

This award recognizes an individual whose contributions have substantially improved rural health in West Virginia. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Leadership and innovation in advancing rural health.
• Measurable impact on community health outcomes.
• Sustained commitment to serving rural populations.

WVRHA Award for Excellence in Rural Health (Organization)

This award honors an organization or program that has made a meaningful difference in rural health. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Innovative strategies in addressing rural health challenges.
• Sustainable contributions that have positively influenced rural communities.
• Effective collaboration and partnerships.

WVRHA Outstanding Rural Health Provider Award

This award acknowledges a direct service provider who has shown exemplary leadership and dedication in rural health care delivery. Eligible nominees include physicians, physician associates, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, social workers, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and psychologists. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Clinical excellence in practice.
• Commitment to improving access and quality of care in rural settings.
• Dedication to patients and community well-being.

WVRHA Outstanding Rural Health Student Award

This award honors a student currently enrolled in a West Virginia college or university who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to rural health. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Engagement in clinical service, research, outreach, or volunteer efforts related to rural health.
• Initiative and leadership among peers.
• Dedication to a future career in rural health.

WVRHA Outstanding Resident Award

This award recognizes a medical resident affiliated with a West Virginia graduate medical education program who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to rural health. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Clinical excellence in rural health care delivery.
• Contributions through research, quality improvement, or community initiatives.
• Dedication to serving rural patients and communities.

Dr. Bob Foster Award for Excellence in Health Professions Education

This award, named in honor of Dr. Bob Foster, recognizes faculty members shaping the next generation of rural health leaders. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Significant contributions to education, mentorship, and student development.
• Commitment to rural health education across disciplines, including public health, medicine, nursing, social work, nutrition, psychology, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
• Dedication to preparing students for careers serving rural communities.

Debbie Curry Opportunity & Innovation Award

This award, named in honor of Debbie Curry, a longtime supporter and advocate for rural health equity in West Virginia. Nominee should demonstrate:

• Significant commitment to advocating for healthcare access to all West Virginians, regardless of where they live or barriers they face.
• Demonstrated leadership in developing innovative ideas and programs to engage rural populations.
• Commitment to breaking down disparities to provide ample opportunities for rural communities to thrive.

*Special consideration will be given to nominees working in health professions pipeline programs.