Annually, the Washington Rural Health Association honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions in the field of rural health care. As a leadership organization, we take great pride in recognizing the efforts of professionals and colleagues in our rural health family across the state.
We invite our members to consider nominating an individual or organization that has made a significant positive impact on rural health in Washington State for next year's ceremony. Nominees do not have to be members of WRHA to be eligible for these awards. Nominations may be made by any member of WRHA. Please use the Nomination Form and attach a one page summary supporting each nomination.
All nominations for the 2011 awards must be received by March 2, 2011.
An individual or organization may be nominated in one of the following categories:
LEAH LAYNE MEMORIAL HEALTH LEADERSHIP AWARD - This award recognizes the late Leah Layne, a long-time campaigner and activist on behalf of rural health. This award is based on demonstrated leadership skills, someone who best exemplifies Leah's spirit, vision, foresight and dedication in the field of rural health.
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO RURAL HEALTH - This award is based on the overall contributions a nominee has made to benefit rural health. This award is for nominees who have, over the course of their careers, made significant impacts in rural health across the state.
THE DR. JOHN ANDERSON MEMORIAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING RURAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER - New in 2010, this award recognizes the late Dr. John Anderson, a dedicated physician and a leader in the development of a system to ensure that physicians and other health care have an opportunity to work in the rural communities of Washington State. This award is based on the demonstrated leadership skills and the dedication to provide quality healthcare services to rural communities.
FRIEND OF RURAL HEALTH - This award seeks nominees who have made a special effort to cause and effect change in rural health policy, legislation, etc. to specifically benefit rural health outcomes. This category honors individuals who are legislators, trustees, community wellness activists, etc.
FUTURE OF RURAL HEALTH – New in 2005, this award recognizes an outstanding youth 14-20 years of age from a rural community who has performed outstanding volunteer service for better health in his/her community or who is successfully pursuing health sciences educational opportunities.
Past WRHA Awards Recipients
Leah Layne Memorial Health Leadership Award
Outstanding Contribution to Rural Health Award
Outstanding Rural Health Practitioner Award
Friend of Rural Health Award
Special Recognition (President's Award)
Future of Rural Health Award
The Dr. John Anderson Memorial Award for Outstanding Rural Health Practicioner