NCMS Board member Dr. Karen L. Smith received the 2023 Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, presented by Governor Roy Cooper and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler at the North Carolina Executive Mansion.
RALEIGH — Dr. Karen L. Smith and L.T. Ward have received the 2023 Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, presented by Governor Roy Cooper and Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler at a reception Wednesday at the North Carolina Executive Mansion.
Smith is a North Carolina Medical Society Board member and has been actively involved in membership, advisory roles, the Kanof Institute for Physician Leaders, and various committees. She has been a physician in private practice in Hoke County for more than 30 years. Smith has worked tirelessly to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of rural communities including efforts to prevent diabetes, overcome COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy, and expand telehealth. Her pioneering work to implement innovative healthcare programs and advocate for policies that address the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural areas have made a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals. Smith has served in numerous leadership roles including as president of the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, the North Carolina Medical Society Board of Directors, and as an elected board member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. She has been recognized for her contributions with numerous awards including being named the 2016 North Carolina Family Physician of the Year and the 2017 American Academy Family Physician of the Year.
“Dr. Karen L. Smith’s commitment to advancing rural health in North Carolina is truly commendable,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “Her dedication to ensuring that all North Carolina residents have access to quality health care has made a significant impact on rural communities. We are proud to honor Dr. Smith along with agricultural leader L.T. Ward with the Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award for their exceptional contributions.”
L.T. Ward’s remarkable work in Western North Carolina agriculture has been instrumental in empowering farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. As a passionate advocate for agriculture and rural development, Ward has played a pivotal role in driving economic growth and revitalizing rural communities through his innovative approach to farming.
The Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award, established in 2019, celebrates outstanding leaders who have made a significant impact on North Carolina’s rural communities. Named after its inaugural recipient, Larry Wooten, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify a deep commitment to rural endeavors, create lasting improvements in the lives of rural residents, and inspire others through their character and accomplishments.
About the Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award
The Larry Wooten Rural Leadership Award was established in 2019 to honor exceptional leaders who have made significant contributions to rural communities in North Carolina. The award recognizes individuals whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have positively impacted the lives of those living in rural areas. The selection committee includes representatives from Hometown Strong (Governor Cooper’s initiative for Rural North Carolina), the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and the N.C. Department of Agriculture. For more information, visit https://hometownstrong.nc.gov/larry-wooten-rural-leadership-award.
More about Dr. Smith
Karen Smith, MD, Named 2017 National Family Physician of the Year
NCMS Board Member Dr. Karen Smith Speaks Out on Healthcare Disparities
NCMS Members, VP Talk About AMA Collaboration on Diabetes Prevention
More photos of the event featuring Governor Roy Cooper, NCDHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley, Old North State Medical Society President Dr. Brian Shackleford, NCMS Chief Experience Officer Dr. Michelle Laws, and North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
Congratulations Karen!
I cannot think of anyone who deserves this more than you!
Your selfless and dedicated care for your patients has been recognized by the Governor for good reason. I’m proud to be associated with your breadth of knowledge and leadership.
Jugta Kahao
Karen a high accolade which is so very well deserved. Your county is so much the better for having you work and lead there over your esteemed career.
Well done from all of your friends at Curi.
I can’t think of anyone more deserving. Your selfless dedication to your craft and your community is an inspiration to us all. Well done!!
Congratulations Friend! So well deserved! You are amazing physician, advocate, colleague and mentor.