National Rural Health Day

Community Stars

In celebration of National Rural Health Day, the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) proudly unveils the 2025 Community Star! This annual Recognition Program honors remarkable individuals and organizations going above and beyond for rural health. They exemplify the true spirit of collaboration, turning challenges into opportunities, ensuring access to quality care, and fostering a sense of unity and support within our rural communities.

2025 Community Star

William A. Curry, MD
Professor of Medicine, Emeritus
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama

Organization website:

• UAB Scholars

Dr. William (Bill) Curry is a highly respected physician who has devoted his career to expanding access to quality healthcare in rural Alabama. Known for his compassion, he has earned the admiration of colleagues, patients, and community members alike. He has received multiple teaching awards and guided countless aspiring healthcare professionals. Dr. Curry's unwavering dedication, professional achievements, and compassionate service make him a true Community Star. 

Please describe your role within your organization and your work in rural health. 

For 23 years, I served as Associate Dean for Primary Care and Rural Health at the University of Alabama School of Medicine at Birmingham, also working as a clinician educator and population health leader. Prior to that, I practiced internal medicine in my home county of Pickens County, Alabama, serving on the medical staff and hospital board. I also served in leadership roles with the state medical association, focusing on rural initiatives.

How do you and/or your organization make a difference in rural health?

We established two medical school pipeline programs for rural students through our Tuscaloosa and Huntsville campuses -- among the most effective in the country for educating, training, and placing rural physicians. We also founded Alabama's first statewide AHEC program, which remains active and successful. While in Tuscaloosa, we established the institute for Rural Health Research, concentrating on rural disparities and population health. 

Describe when you or your organization implemented an innovative approach or program to address a challenge within your rural community. 

While practicing in Pickens County, our local hospital found itself without sufficient tax support to be financially solvent. Our medical staff organized a precinct-by-precinct network of citizens to support a sales tax referendum. In the state's sixth poorest county, the tax passed by a wide margin and closed the financial gap. From that campaign, citizens also made clear their desire for obstetrical care, which we restored. Once in double digits, the county's infant mortality rate fell to zero and remained there for years. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in rural health?

I began to run out money in medical school, so I took a U.S. Public Health Service scholarship to cover tuition and living expenses. After residency, I repaid the obligation by practicing in my hometown of Carrollton, Alabama, and realized I was called to the challenge and fulfillment of rural practice. That on-the-ground experience convinced me of the need for students and trainees to have similar opportunities. 

What does the "Power of Rural" mean to you?

The power of rural people and their communities flows from their values and commitments to one another. Because of scarce resources, distances, and cultural challenges, rural people must adapt, cooperate, and persevere. Despite inevitable challenges, that spirit endures, generation of generation. 

What role has your State Office of Rural Health played in supporting your organization?

Yes, throughout the decades! They have been a source of data, information, ideas, and counsel, and have educated us about grants, legislation, and advocacy. 

Please visit PowerofRural.org to see how you can celebrate Alabama's rural communities and take the Power of Rural pledge.