Research & Policy Fellowship
The Research and Policy Fellowship program introduces graduate students and early professionals to rural health issues and engages them in advocacy activities.
Recent Program News
- Fellows presented posters at the 2025 Rural Health Symposium
- We are proud to welcome our 2025- 2026 Cohort
Rose Petitti
Abby Scott
Raven Manchester
Anna Mann
Inijesu Taiwo
Emily Cranmer
The Research and Policy (RaP) Fellowship
The Research and Policy (RaP) Fellowship program introduces graduate students and early career professionals to rural health issues and actively engages them in advocacy efforts. During the fellowship, participants receive education on the New York State legislative and budget process, as well as rural health equity.
Fellows develop an issue brief and policy recommendations focused on a health equity topic, working closely with a mentor throughout the process. They also participate in monthly cohort meetings with NYSARH leadership to support drafting, provide feedback, and refine their work, culminating in a poster presentation at the NYSARH Symposium in the fall.
In addition, fellows attend the Public Health Partnership Conference to expand their understanding of rural and public health issues and to build professional networks.
Meet the 2024-2025 The Research and Policy (RaP) Fellows
We are excited to welcome the new cohort of the Research and Policy Fellows! This year’s fellows bring diverse expertise and a shared commitment to advancing health policy for rural communities across New York State. We look forward to their contributions in shaping impactful solutions for rural health and well-being.
Sabrina Soto
Abby Duvall
Grace Gugerty
Samantha Ballas
9/2025
Sabrina Soto researched the impact of doulas on birth outcomes and maternal health. Through her work, Sabrina explored how doula support can improve experiences and health outcomes for mothers in rural communities.
9/2025
Abby Duvall explored how mobile medication units can expand opioid treatment in rural New York and identified administrative barriers that hinder their implementation. Her work highlights both the opportunities and challenges for improving rural access to care.
9/2025
Grace Gugerty examined how rural emergency departments and EMS respond to obstetric emergencies following the closure of hospital obstetric units, highlighting the evolving role of these services in supporting maternal care in rural communities.
9/2025