WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health members recognized for their contributions

The West Virginia University Institute for Community and Rural Health was recognized at the 32nd Annual West Virginia Rural Health Conference with several awards for individual contributions to rural health and education efforts.

The awards winners at the conference were:

• Individual Excellence in Rural Health – April Vestal, MPH, WVU ICRH director
• Excellence in Rural Health Professions in Education – Larry Rhodes, M.D., WVU ICRH executive director for rural programs
• Rural Health Student Award – Anna Schuster, WVU School of Medicine medical student

"I am deeply honored and humbled by this award.  I have had the opportunity to work side by side with a great team at WVU and communities throughout the state who are grateful for partnerships that will improve access and retain quality healthcare professionals," April Vestal, MPH, WVU ICRH director said.

The event was held from November 13-15 at The Resort at Glade Springs in Daniels, West Virginia.

The conference theme was, “Innovative Change Starts in the Mountains,” with emphasis on the best learning practices for rural health from colleagues in West Virginia and around the nation.

The West Virginia Rural Health Association (WVRHA) advocates for empowering all West Virginians to advance their quality of life, well-being and access to excellence in rural healthcare. Their mission is to unite people, communities, and organizations to strengthen rural health in West Virginia.

For more information about the WVU ICRH, visit: health.wvu.edu/icrh.