Training Leaders to Improve Rural Health

By Scout Nelson

The University of Minnesota is set to host an engaging webinar titled An Overview of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Program on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 8:30 to 9 a.m. Central Time. This event is part of the Breakfast Info Bites monthly series presented by the University of Minnesota Extension.

The Rural Health Program aims to make a measurable difference in the health and well-being of people and communities across Minnesota and in rural areas nationwide. Through research, education, and collaboration, the program connects local experts with national initiatives to address critical health challenges.

Three core initiatives define the Rural Health Program:

• Rural Health Policy Postdoctoral Program: Designed for researchers addressing key knowledge gaps in rural health policy.
• Rural Collective: A network fostering learning and collaboration among University of Minnesota faculty and staff involved in rural-focused work.
• Project REACH (Rural Experts Advancing Community Health): A year-long program that equips rural community leaders with leadership and policy training to advocate for improved health outcomes.

Program Manager Katie Rydberg will lead the session, offer an overview of these initiatives and highlighting new opportunities for community and university engagement. “The University of Minnesota Rural Health Program aims to positively impact, in clear and measurable ways, the health and well-being of people and communities across Minnesota and in rural communities nationwide.”

The webinar is free to attend and will be held online via Zoom. Registration is required, and participants will receive a confirmation email with details.

The University of Minnesota Extension emphasizes equal participation for all and offers accommodation for persons with disabilities upon request. The webinar will be conducted in English, with interpreter services available by prior arrangement.

For more details or to register, contact Guillermo Narváez, Extension Educator in Leadership and Civic Engagement, at gnarvaez@umn.edu.

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