You are invited for a unique preconference experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Auburn University’s commitment to addressing health disparities in rural Alabama is taking a groundbreaking step with the Rural Health Initiative. We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey as we introduce you to the heart of this initiative—the Chambers County Community Health and Wellness Center.
Why Should You Join?
Our collaborative efforts with the City of LaFayette, Alabama, and the Chambers County Commission have resulted in the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of the community. We’re not just creating a center; we’re fostering a community-driven solution.
What to Expect: A Glimpse into the Future of Rural Healthcare
- Innovative Telehealth Solutions: Discover how our OnMed® telehealth station revolutionizes healthcare accessibility. Experience real-time virtual consultations with licensed clinicians, ensuring affordable, private, and efficient healthcare experiences for all.
- Hands-On Wellness Care: Witness the synergy between cutting-edge technology and hands-on care. University faculty and students from diverse health-related fields will be on hand to discuss the support they provide to patients.
- Community Engagement: Immerse yourself in a collaborative environment where university students and faculty join forces with community members. From diabetes management and asthma education to medication management and communication support, witness the impactful collaborations that enhance overall well-being.
Join us in transforming healthcare, one community at a time. Your participation in this exclusive preconference tour not only provides insight into the future of rural health but also allows you to be a part of the positive change we’re bringing to LaFayette, Alabama. We look forward to sharing this inspiring experience with you and working together to create healthier, thriving communities.
Tour Guides:
Hollie Cost, Assistant Vice President for University Outreach and Public Service, Auburn University
Hollie Cost is the project director for Auburn University’s Rural Health initiative, leading an interprofessional team supporting telehealth services in 14 counties. Hollie’s civic priorities include inclusivity, sustainability, health and wellness and educational equity. Prior to her current position, she was a professor of special education at the University of Montevallo from 2000-2020. During 2012-2020 she also served as the mayor of the City of Montevallo. Hollie is a graduate of Leadership Alabama, serves on the board of directors for National Issues Forum Institute, National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation and David Mathews Center for Civic Life and is a partner in Keys to the City Community Coaching firm. She has a Ph. D. and master’s degree in special education from Auburn University. She was recently recognized by This is Alabama as one of 25 Women who Shape the State.
Jim Doody, LaFayette Fire Chief
Fire Chief Jim Doody worked for 13 years as the fire chief at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan. He arrived in LaFayette in 2020, just as the county was about to be hit by one of the worst covid-19 outbreaks in Alabama. He is the fierce community champion for the Chambers County Community Health and Wellness Center, serving also as the OnMed onsite technician. Chief Doody serves his community tirelessly and is committed to “making history” through impact the lives of the thousands of residents of LaFayette and beyond.
Linda Gibson-Young, Professor and Outreach Coordinator, College of Nursing, Auburn University
Dr. Linda Gibson-Young has an exciting academic background in population health with a focus on pediatrics. Her work actively engages undergraduate and graduate students in outreach and research. Dr. Gibson-Young has a Ph.D. in nursing, an MBA, and is certified as a family nurse practitioner (ANCC). In 2021, she received the Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice in Nursing. In 2016, she became a Fellow in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP) and a Leadership for Academic Nursing Program (LANP) Fellow with the American Association of Colleges in Nursing (AACN). In 2015, she received the Outstanding Research Award from The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). Collaborative and interdisciplinary teams partner with Dr. Gibson-Young’s outreach and research across Alabama.
For more information about the Rural Health Initiative, please visit aub.ie/ruralhealth