Graves Honored with WRHA ‘Outstanding Contribution to Rural Health’ Award

Janessa Graves

SPOKANE, WA – Washington State University College of Nursing is pleased to announce that Janessa Graves, Associate Professor in the College of Nursing at Washington State University (WSU), has been selected as the recipient of the Washington Rural Health Association (WRHA) “Outstanding Contribution to Rural Health” award for her exceptional efforts in improving rural health care in Washington.

Receiving this award is truly an honor, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing research and service efforts in rural health and healthcare. With this recognition, I am encouraged to continue working towards closing gaps in access to quality care for rural and underserved communities.

Janessa Graves, PhD MPH

The award is given to individuals who have demonstrated creativity, unselfishness, compassion, and a cooperative attitude in making lasting contributions to rural health care throughout their career. The selection committee was impressed by Dr. Graves’ dedication to improving the health outcomes of rural communities in the state.

Shawna Beese and Anne Mason both nominated Graves for the award, highlighting her significant contributions and impact in rural health care. The committee unanimously voted to recognize Dr. Graves’ efforts and their team’s accomplishments at the WSU College of Nursing.

I was thrilled to be able to nominate Janessa for recognition of her dedication and contribution to rural health initiatives. I am always inspired by her energy, tenacity, and creative ways in which she looks for solutions. I think those qualities have contributed enormously to her success in translating her research into meaningful changes for rural communities in Washington.

ANNE MASON, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-BC
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs / Clinical Associate Professor
Washington State University College of Nursing

The WRHA Awards Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, March 28th at The Grand Hotel in downtown Spokane. The ceremony will begin at 11:15am in the main ballroom, and lunch and beverages will be provided at the honors table.

Washington State University College of Nursing congratulates Dr. Janessa Graves on this well-deserved recognition. Go Cougs!

Photos from the 2023 Northwest Rural Health Conference