Alabama Farmers Federation Inc.
08/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/27/2024 15:35
Farmers Federation Supports Next Generation of Rural Doctors
By Maggie Edwards
The Alabama Farmers Federation continues to support the next generation of rural physicians through Auburn University's (AU) Rural Medicine Program (RMP).
The AU RMP held its annual White Coat Ceremony Aug. 22 at Ag Heritage Park in Auburn. During the celebration, the Federation gave $500 book stipends to 10 students.
Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin presented the scholarships on behalf of the organization, whose goal is to be a voice for farmers and rural Alabamians.
"As students aspiring to serve in rural medicine, you are helping advance the Federation's mission by lending your talents and training to underserved areas of Alabama," Hardin said. "Yours is a higher calling - not merely to gain knowledge or achieve professional success but to bring healing and hope to our fellow citizens. I know this first-hand having grown up in a rural county."
As the state's largest farm organization, the Federation continues its abiding interest in the livelihoods of its 359,000 members, Hardin said. Healthcare is a critical part of the organization's work, he said. Citing RMP investments and the company's Alfa Health division.
RMP, now in its 19th year, consists of students who are committed to practicing primary care medicine in rural Alabama.
The 2024 recipients are:
- Hayden Northcutt, Baldwin County
- Blake Wright, Cherokee County
- Matthew Yesil, Covington County
- Lily Pounders, Franklin County
- Savannah Fleming, Houston County
- Rylan Mayberry, Lee County
- Emma Kate Bond, Marshall County
- Madelyn Friday, Talladega County
- Sterling Thomas, Talladega County
- Emily Pridemore, Walker County
"We applaud your commitment to this rigorous course of study and honorable profession," Hardin said. "May God continue to bless you with wisdom, endurance and compassion as you hone your skills to serve others."
The evening concluded with remarks from RMP alumni and staff.
AU College of Science and Mathematics (COSAM) Dean Dr. Edward Thomas Jr. said he is proud of the students for fulfilling the land-grant institution's mission.
"As a land-grant, AU strives to improve the lives of Alabama citizens," Thomas said. "COSAM is proud to prepare these future medical professionals who are committed to working in our state's rural areas where there's a critical shortage of primary care physicians."
Dr. Tim Littman, RMP preceptor and program alumnus, echoed Thomas. His words reminded the students of the significance of their chosen path.
"Rural medicine is more than a career. It's a calling," said Littman, a physician at a rural hospital in Dadeville. "You are stepping into roles that will profoundly impact lives, often when it's needed most."