HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - Deborah Curry, program director for rural outreach and development for the Robert C. Byrd Center for Rural Health at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, has been named West Virginia’s 2024 “Community Star” by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH). 

“I am deeply humbled and thankful for this recognition from my peers in rural health,” Curry said. “It has been a privilege to work for more than 20 years alongside a wonderful team at the School of Medicine. Improving access to quality health care for rural patients is more than a job—it has become my passion, and it has been an honor to serve with some of the most gifted and compassionate people all over the state during this journey.” 

On the third Thursday of November, NOSORH leads National Rural Health Day (NRHD), an annual celebration that shines a light on those who serve the vital health needs of the nearly 61 million people living in rural America. Since 2015, the Community Star Recognition Program has highlighted more than 300 people and organizations that strive to improve health care in rural communities. 

“Debbie’s enthusiasm for rural health is infectious,” said Jennifer Plymale, associate dean of admissions and special programs for the School of Medicine and director of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Rural Health. “She approaches every challenge with a positive attitude and a relentless drive to find solutions. The Community Star award is a testament to her deep understanding of the unique challenges rural communities face and her innovative approach to addressing them. What makes Debbie exceptional is her ability to combine legal acumen with a genuine passion for helping others. She doesn’t just see problems; she sees opportunities to make a difference. I truly believe I am a better person not just for having worked with her, but for being able to call her a friend.” 

Curry received a plaque earlier this month at the West Virginia Rural Health Conference.  

Date Posted: Thursday, November 21, 2024