Alice Lloyd College Student Selected to Serve on ARH Hospital Advisory Council

Alice Lloyd College junior, Belle Parker, has been selected to serve as a student representative on the Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) Local Advisory Council in Whitesburg, KY. Through this role, she will work alongside community leaders and healthcare professionals to identify needs, what’s working, and how to make the best use of resources. The council will also help identify ways to improve access to care, support health and wellness and reduce barriers that make it harder for patients to get the care they need.

Parker, a biology major, was identified during a recent visit with ARH leadership, including hospital CEO, Jamie Easterling. Her engagement and thoughtful questions related to rural healthcare set her apart.

ARH Local Advisory Councils are made up of trusted local leaders who provide direct feedback and insight to hospital leadership. Traditionally composed of volunteer business and community members, the addition of a student representative reflects a significant investment in the next generation of healthcare professionals. It also ensures that students preparing to enter the workforce have a voice in the conversations that will shape it.

“Belle represents the heart of our mission at Alice Lloyd College,” said Allison Holbrook Southard, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “As she walks the Purpose Road, she is preparing for a lifetime of service. We are excited for her, and grateful to ARH for providing opportunities for our students to learn beyond the classroom.”

Through her participation, Parker will gain firsthand insight into the challenges facing rural healthcare, including issues such as critical access, food insecurity, behavioral health, and addiction. Her involvement reflects the importance of preparing students to meet real needs in the communities they call home.

This opportunity highlights the continued partnership between Alice Lloyd College and Appalachian Regional Healthcare. Together, we honor Mrs. Lloyd’s mission of mountain people helping mountain people.

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