2026 National Rural Health Day 12pm-1pm Nov 19th
12PM Rural Health Awards
2026 Dr. Gary Ogden Rural Health Practitioner of the Year Award Winner
Ellen Hey, FNP
Ellen Hey, FNP, Chief Clinical Officer for Finger Lakes Community Health, is recognized for her exceptional clinical expertise and leadership in improving rural healthcare. She builds strong partnerships with county Public Health departments, healthcare organizations, and community partners to strengthen care across the Finger Lakes region.
Ellen has provided trusted clinical leadership during public health emergencies, including COVID-19 and the measles outbreak. Her collaborative approach and understanding of rural healthcare challenges help develop practical solutions that improve access to quality care and strengthen the communities she serves.
2026 Outstanding Rural Health Program of the Year Winner
The Otsego County Department of Health’s Community Gardening Program is recognized for its innovative approach to improving rural health and access to nutritious food. The program provides fresh, locally grown produce to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and homebound seniors, helping address barriers to healthy eating while promoting community involvement, physical activity, and education.
Through continued growth and community partnerships, the program has become a valuable resource for residents facing food insecurity. Its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the community demonstrates how a sustainable, community-driven initiative can improve health and well-being in rural New York.
Otsego County Dept. of Health Community Gardening Program
2026 Senator Patricia McGee Rural Health Award
Kevin Kerwin
Kevin Kerwin, President and CEO of the Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA), is recognized for his leadership and advocacy on behalf of more than 50 hospitals across 32 counties in Upstate New York. He works to protect access to quality healthcare in rural communities by advancing policies, securing funding, and addressing the unique challenges facing rural hospitals.
Under Kevin’s leadership, IHA has helped secure critical state investments and advance New York’s Rural Health Transformation Program. He also launched the Caring Gene® Healthcare Career Pathways program, which has enrolled over 2,500 participants and provides tuition assistance and career support to address healthcare workforce shortages. His commitment to rural healthcare strengthens access to care, workforce development, and economic vitality throughout Upstate New York.
1PM Webinar: Strengthening Rural Clinical Education: Challenges, Trends, and Solutions
Holly Andrilla, MS
Deputy Director, WWAMI, Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington
Join NYSARH for a special webinar exploring rural clinical training trends, workforce challenges, and strategies to expand healthcare education opportunities in rural communities.
Learn about challenges facing rural clinical education and practical solutions to strengthen the future rural healthcare
workforce.
Natalia Oster, PhD
Research Scientist, WWAMI, Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington