Rachel began her work with The Center in January 2025. Currently serving as Program Manager with the Technical Assistance and Services Center (TASC) and Small Rural Hospital Improvement (SHIP) Program team, she provides technical assistance to state Flex Program grantees. 

 

She earned her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from King University and her Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from East Tennessee State University. Since starting her career in public health in 2018, she has been dedicated to improving health outcomes and expanding access to quality care, particularly for those living in rural communities. Along with her strong background in public health and education, she has a passion for helping communities navigate their unique challenges.

 

Rachel was born and raised in a rural community. Her connection to rural was also heavily influenced by her previous role as a health educator where the discrepancies between urban and rural communities were highlighted often. Watching community members having to regularly delay basic health care opened her eyes to the multifaceted challenges rural residents face and motivated her to make a difference.

 

When she’s not supporting rural health initiatives, Rachel can be found spending time outdoors rock climbing, reading, baking, or enjoying a game night with her family. She currently resides in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her partner, children, and chocolate lab.