Hope Burch, MHS, is a passionate leader and advocate for rural healthcare with over 25 years of public health experience. A lifelong rural resident in Hayesville, NC, Hope understands the barriers to healthcare access and is committed to innovative solutions. With a Master of Health Science degree, she has led efforts in promoting healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and emergency response. Her leadership includes building partnerships, securing funding, and implementing programs to improve rural healthcare services. Hope has held leadership roles at the Kansas and NC Departments of Public Health, Mission Hospital Healthcare Foundation, and Buncombe County Department of Public Health. Dedicated to improving rural healthcare, Hope focuses on sustainable strategies that enhance delivery and drive economic growth in underserved communities.