2025 National "Community Star" for ?Advancing Rural Health Workforce in New York?

CANTON, NY (11/20/2025) (readMedia)-- Health WorkForce New York is pleased to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Richard Merchant, has been named the 2025 New York Community Star by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH). Selected alongside only 46 honorees across the country, Merchant is recognized for his leadership in strengthening New York's rural healthcare. His selection is announced in conjunction with National Rural Health Day, underscoring the impact of his work on communities most in need.

Merchant directs HWNY's three Area Health Education Centers, leading initiatives that connect students, employers, healthcare professionals, and community partners to career pathways, training opportunities, and practical workforce solutions. Trained in medical anthropology, Merchant has taught in higher education and graduate medical education for over 25 years. He is a former president of the New York State Association for Rural Health, known for his collaborative approach and deep commitment to eliminating barriers for individuals from rural and underserved backgrounds.

His work has helped hundreds of institutions and thousands of students and healthcare workers throughout northern and central New York, supporting recruitment, retention, and career development through innovative digital platforms and place-based programs.

Since 2015, the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health has honored over 400 Community Stars across all 50 states, shining a light on those dedicated to making a difference with an ongoing commitment to improving access to care and strengthening the health workforce in rural communities.

"I am honored be recognized by NOSORH and to spearhead the amazing efforts of the Health WorkForce New York team," said Merchant. "This award is validation of the work we have done to ensure that rural communities are not left behind when it comes to accessing quality care," he stated.

David W. Felton, Chair of Health WorkForce New York's Board of Directors, added, "This recognition of Richard affirms what we have long known; he and Health WorkForce New York are doing exceptional work. His approach to rural healthcare and workforce development has made significant impacts on our state and organization. Under Richard's leadership, Health WorkForce New York continues to build systems, strengthen communities, and raise the profile of what is possible when you invest in people."

The full profile, along with interactive map and other honorees, is featured at www.powerofrural.org/2025-community-stars.

For more information about Health WorkForce New York, visit www.hwny.org.

About Health WorkForce New York

Formed in 2014, Health WorkForce New York provides human-centered workforce development solutions to help organizations meet urgent workforce needs. By focusing on equity, inclusion, and local partnerships, Health WorkForce New York has supported hundreds of healthcare and community organizations in developing innovative strategies to attract, retain, and support healthcare workers where they are needed most.