Hoke County resident Karen L. Smith honored with 2023 North Carolina Rural Leadership Award

By Staff Report, posted Aug 16, 2023 on BizFayetteville.com

Karen L. Smith - Photo courtesy of the office of Governor Roy Cooper

Dr. Karen L. Smith received the 2023 Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, presented by Governor Roy Cooper and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler at an Aug. 9 reception at the North Carolina Executive Mansion.

Dr. Karen L. Smith has been a physician in private practice in Hoke County for more than 30 years. Dr. Smith has worked tirelessly to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of rural communities including efforts to prevent diabetes, overcome COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy and expand telehealth. Her pioneering work to implement innovative healthcare programs and advocate for policies that address the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural areas have made a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals.

Dr. Smith has served in numerous leadership roles including as president of the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, the North Carolina Medical Society Board of Directors and as an elected board member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Smith has been recognized for her contributions with numerous awards including being named the 2016 North Carolina Family Physician of the Year and the 2017 American Academy Family Physician of the Year.

“Dr. Karen L. Smith's commitment to advancing rural health in North Carolina is truly commendable,” said Governor Cooper in a press release. “Her dedication to ensuring that all North Carolina residents have access to quality health care has made a significant impact on rural communities. We are proud to honor Dr. Smith along with agricultural leader L.T. Ward with the Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award for their exceptional contributions.”

The Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, established in 2019, celebrates outstanding leaders who have made a significant impact on North Carolina's rural communities. Named after its inaugural recipient, Larry Wooten, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify a deep commitment to rural endeavors, create lasting improvements in the lives of rural residents and inspire others through their character and accomplishments.

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