Alice Lloyd College Welcomes Appalachian Regional Healthcare for Physician Recruitment Discussions in Rural Appalachia

Alice Lloyd College recently welcomed leaders from Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) to campus for a discussion on physician recruitment in rural Appalachia. Leaders from both institutions, along with faculty members and students discussed strategies for bringing home physicians. The visit highlighted the shared commitment of both institutions to uplifting the region through service, opportunity, and investment in the next generation of leaders.

Alice Lloyd College and ARH share similar missions rooted in improving the quality of life for Appalachian families. For more than a century, Alice Lloyd College has prepared students to live and work in the communities that raised them, with over 80 percent of graduates returning to serve in the Appalachian region. Likewise, ARH has dedicated itself to providing quality healthcare close to home for families throughout Central Appalachia.

The College proved to be a natural partner for ARH’s recruitment efforts. Through its Gatton-Winston Scholars Program, Alice Lloyd College financially supports graduates who pursue advanced degrees in graduate or professional school. Many of these students study in health-related fields and, upon completing their training, are eager to return home and serve their communities.

“We were honored to host Appalachian Regional Healthcare on campus,” said Dr. Jim Stepp, President. “Our students are deeply connected to their roots, and programs like the Gatton-Winston Scholars ensure they can pursue medical and professional training. That makes Alice Lloyd College a natural place for ARH to find dedicated, community-minded physicians.”

Attending the luncheon from ARH were Roy Milwee, Chief Ambulatory Officer; Dr. Anthony Stumbo, Regional Chief Medical Officer; Dr. Bart Francis, ARH Residency Program Director; and Stephanie Damron, Vice President for Physician Recruitment. Notably, three of the four visitors are proud alumni of Alice Lloyd College.  

The discussion underscored the importance of collaboration between education and healthcare in addressing the challenges facing rural Appalachia. By working together, Alice Lloyd College and ARH aim to provide pathways for students to serve their region while meeting critical healthcare needs.