Join us in honoring the incredible Nurse Practitioners (NPs) who make a difference every day in our communities. November 9–15 is recognized as National and North Carolina Nurse Practitioner Week, a time to celebrate the dedication and expertise of these vital healthcare professionals.

With approximately 16,687 Nurse Practitioners reported in North Carolina (per the NC Board of Nursing), this growing workforce plays a critical role in expanding access to high-quality healthcare across our state—from the mountains to the coast and everywhere in between.

To all Nurse Practitioners: thank you for your extraordinary work and the compassionate care you provide. Your commitment strengthens the health and well-being of North Carolina communities.

👉 Explore Northwest AHEC’s Upcoming Nursing Programs - Click Here

Rural America: Community & Opportunity

Did you know that nearly 61 million Americans call #rural communities home? These areas combine a strong sense of community with fulfilling work opportunities! Join us in celebrating the #PowerOfRural on Nov 20 for #NationalRuralHealthDay. Learn more at powerofrural.org.

***Also, join us for this upcoming event***

NC AHEC 8th Annual Celebration of Rural Health Nursing - Webinar on November 14th

Silent Struggles, Strong Voices: Advocating for Patients and Families
Register Now!

November 14, 2025
8:00AM - 1:00PM
Live Webinar

The NC AHEC Nurse Council celebrates the unique role and essential service of nursing in rural healthcare with our NC AHEC 8th Annual Celebration of Rural Nursing in honor of National Rural Health Day.  Rural nurses are the often-unseen pillars of their communities—responding not only to medical needs, but also to deeply rooted social challenges. Silent Struggles, Strong Voices is designed to elevate and empower rural nursing professionals as they confront the silent epidemics affecting patients and families. This program is supported by all of NC AHEC and the Nurse Council.

Hosted by Appalachian State University in partnership with Northwest AHEC

October 12–14, 2025

The inaugural 2025 Growing Well "Moving Mountains and Community" Conference brought together a diverse and passionate group of professionals, caregivers, and advocates to advance care for children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). Held at the Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, the event was a vibrant celebration of collaboration, innovation, and community-driven care.

This year’s conference three-day conference welcomed 64 participants to the preconference workshop on October 12^th, and 141 attendees at the October 13-14th main sessions, reflecting strong engagement across healthcare, education, and family support sectors.

Preconference Workshop: Laying the Groundwork for Change

On October 12^th, the conference began with a dedicated preconference day focused on skill-building and foundational strategies. Participants engaged in interactive workshops and training sessions designed to enhance trauma-informed care, communication support, and early identification of developmental delays.

Main Conference: Interdisciplinary Innovation in Action

Held October 13^th–14^th, the main conference featured expert-led lectures, case-based discussions, simulations, and panel conversations. Topics included:

• Medical management of children with complex health conditions
• Communication support for children with autism and developmental challenges
• Evidence-based behavioral therapies
• Cross-system collaboration in child welfare and mental health
• Transition planning from school to adulthood

The conference emphasized equitable, coordinated, and family-centered approaches, with a strong focus on addressing social determinants of health such as food insecurity, housing instability, and access to education.

A Space Where All Belong

In keeping with its theme, “Moving Mountains and Community,” the conference created an inclusive space for professionals and families alike. Attendees included physicians, nurses, therapists, educators, public health professionals, and caregivers—each contributing unique perspectives and lived experiences.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Growing Well Conference marked a powerful beginning for what promises to be an ongoing movement toward better care and outcomes for CYSHCN. Northwest AHEC, Appalachian State University, and the Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness extend their gratitude to all who participated and helped make this event a success.

We look forward to continuing this journey together—moving mountains, building community, and growing well.

Missed the Conference in 2025?
You can still experience the energy and insights of the inaugural Growing Well “Moving Mountains and Community” Conference—now available online! From November 10, 2025 through February 10, 2026, access 14 recorded lectures from the main event.
👉 Click here to view all available lectures

As we celebrate the vital role of continuing education professionals, we want to hear from you — our partners, collaborators, and colleagues.

**In one word, how would you describe Northwest AHEC/OCME as a contributor to Healthcare Continuing Education?**

Drop your word in the comments 👇
Or fill out this form https://hubs.la/Q03J5bT60

The Office of Continuing Medical Education (OCME) and the Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC) of Wake Forest University School of Medicine is proud to recognize and celebrate Healthcare Continuing Education Professionals Day - a day dedicated to honoring the individuals who ensure that healthcare providers remain informed, skilled, and prepared to deliver exceptional care. 

These professionals are the backbone of lifelong learning in healthcare. They design, coordinate, and evaluate educational programs that directly impact patient outcomes and the quality of care across our communities. As we prepare to celebrate on January 23, 2026, we also reflect on the strength and impact of our partnerships. Our collaborations with healthcare institutions, academic centers, professional associations, and community organizations are foundational to our mission. Together, we create dynamic, evidence-based educational opportunities that empower healthcare professionals at every stage of their careers. 

Through these partnerships, we are not only advancing continuing education - we are shaping the future of healthcare. We extend our deepest gratitude to all continuing education professionals and our valued partners. Your dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence inspire us every day.

We would love your input!
Please provide a response to the question below no later than COB, Wednesday, December 10th. We plan to use the responses to create a word cloud and use on promotional item for recognition of this important day. 

Thank you for being part of this journey!

Date: November 14, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Livestream Webinar
Registration Fee: $35
Register here: Southern Regional AHEC Event Page

In honor of National Rural Health Day, the NC AHEC Nurse Council invites you to join the 8th Annual Statewide Celebration of Rural Nursing—a powerful virtual gathering designed to uplift, educate, and empower nurses serving in rural communities.

This year’s theme, “Silent Struggles, Strong Voices: Advocating for Patients and Families,” highlights the resilience and advocacy of rural nurses who navigate not only clinical challenges but also the social and systemic barriers their patients face every day.

💡 Why Attend?

Rural nurses are often the lifeline of their communities. This event offers a unique opportunity to:

• Earn 4.0 Nursing Contact Hours
• Engage with expert speakers on timely topics like addiction treatment, adolescent tobacco use, human trafficking, and mental health stigma
• Connect with peers across the state who share your passion for rural health
  
  

🗓️ Agenda Highlights

Bridging the Addiction Treatment Gap
Dr. Alex Elswick, University of Kentucky

Treatment of Adolescent Tobacco and E-Cigarette Use
Dr. Libby Carver, Duke Employee & Occupational Health

Don’t Be Social: Human Trafficking and Social Media
Judge Toni King, NC District Court

Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Stigma
Dr. Joanna Linn & Lyndsey Parham, MAHEC Center for Psychiatry

Whether you're a nurse, educator, or healthcare advocate, this event is a chance to celebrate the vital role of rural nursing and gain tools to better serve your community.

The 26th annual Share the Health Fair, sponsored by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the Northwest Area Health Education Center, will be held Saturday, Nov. 8th.

We’re excited to share a dynamic selection of upcoming educational opportunities from the Northwest Area Health Education Center (NWAHEC) and the Office of Continuing Medical Education (OCME) at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Whether you're seeking in-person training, live webinars, or self-paced online learning, there's something for every healthcare professional.

Activity Spotlight

• 43rd Annual Conference Gravidas at Risk – 11/5/25 & 11/6/25
• NC AHEC 8th Annual Statewide Celebration of Rural Nursing – 11/14/25
• 27th Annual Diabetes Management Conference – 11/14/25
• 20th Annual Neuroscience Conference – 11/14/25
• Emotional CPR (eCPR) Training Series – 11/19/25
• HPB GI Oncology Conference 2025 – 11/21/25
• Arts & Medicine - So, You Want to be a Conductor? - 12/8/25
• Arts & Medicine - Come Out of the Shower – 12/9/25
• Arts & Medicine - Check Your Pulse and Find Your Groove – 12/9/25
• Arts & Medicine - Follow the Follower: Adapting Your Communication – 12/12/25
• Arts & Medicine - Art & Empathy – 12/15/25
  
• 17th Annual NC "One Community in Recovery" Conference – 3/4/26-3/6/26
• Nurturing the Nurturers: A Retreat For Sustaining Healthcare Well-being – 3/20/25
• Check out our Course Catalog

Save The Dates

• Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Cardiovascular Symposium – 01/16/2026
• 20th Annual Breast Cancer Symposium 1/16/26 
• 40th Annual Northwest AHEC Respiratory Care Conference 2/25/26–2/26/26 
  
• 14th Annual Breastfeeding Forum 3/10/26 
• 2026 NC Annual STI Update 3/26/26
  
• 14th Annual UNC-Duke-Wake Forest Pediatric Anesthesiology Conference – 04/25/2026
• Charles L. Spurr Piedmont Oncology Symposium – 05/01/2026 – 05/02/2026
• Summer Interpreter Series - Wednesdays, 5/6-27, and 5/28/26

***Read our latest E-Newsletter Here***

Enduring Online Learning from Northwest AHEC: Earn CE credits on your schedule

Busy schedule? No problem! Northwest AHEC offers **enduring online learning** designed for your lifestyle. Whether it’s early morning coffee or winding down at night, our self-paced courses are available 24/7-no compromises on quality! Learn More

Upcoming Activities

We'd love to have you join us for our upcoming activities. Join us in person or via webinar, even some self-paced online-learning options too. Check out our Course Catalog

In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, staying current with the latest evidence-based practices isn’t just a professional advantage—it’s a necessity. That’s where the Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Resources (ECPR) program from Northwest Area Health Education Center (AHEC) steps in.

Designed to support clinicians, educators, and healthcare professionals across North Carolina and beyond, the ECPR program offers free, on-demand access to high-quality, evidence-based resources that enhance clinical decision-making and patient care.

What is ECPR?

The ECPR program is a curated collection of tools and services that help healthcare professionals:

• Find and apply evidence-based information quickly and efficiently
• Stay current with clinical guidelines and best practices
• Improve patient outcomes through informed decision-making
• Support continuing education and lifelong learning

Whether you're a physician, nurse, pharmacist, or allied health professional, ECPR provides the resources you need to integrate evidence into your daily practice. 

Access to the ECPR program is available to all healthcare professionals. To explore the resources and learn more, visit:

👉 go.northwestahec.wakehealth.edu/ecpr

View the 2024-2025 Annual Report

At Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC), our mission is clear: to improve health for all. This year’s Annual Report reflects that commitment, showcasing how we’ve responded to the evolving needs of our 17-county region and beyond. 

Adapting to Serve Our Communities

Every year brings new challenges—and new opportunities. In 2024–2025, our team and partners faced the ongoing health care workforce shortage head-on. Across disciplines and communities, we worked together to recruit, train, and retain the professionals who are essential to the health of our region.

We’re proud to highlight the resilience and dedication of health care professionals, students, educators, and community partners who stepped up with purpose and passion.

Spotlight on Impact

You may notice throughout the Annual Report that we chose to highlight a few counties from our 17-county region—Yadkin, Surry, and Stokes. These counties are featured not only in the stories we tell, but also in the artwork that brings the report to life. All the artwork throughout the report was created by local artists, with the cover art by Nick Bragg, titled Pilot Mountain Spring, capturing the spirit and beauty of our region.

In Ashe County, a group of newly trained physicians launched Seven Peaks Family Medicine in West Jefferson, filling a critical gap in rural health care. Northwest AHEC supported their journey from the start, helping them build a sustainable practice.

In Winston-Salem, the annual Share the Health Fair at the Downtown Health Plaza expanded its reach. With guidance from Northwest AHEC, medical students from Wake Forest University collaborated with physical and occupational therapy students from Winston-Salem State University to offer gait and balance assessments—bringing more comprehensive care to those in need.

Collaboration and Innovation

These stories are just a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives our work. By partnering with health care organizations and fellow AHEC colleagues across North Carolina, we’ve made our efforts more efficient and impactful—sharing resources, combining initiatives, and amplifying results.

Looking Ahead

We’re inspired by the initiative shown by the next generation of health care professionals. Their energy and commitment fuel our optimism for the future. But we know there’s more to do.

Together with community leaders, schools, universities, and organizations, Northwest AHEC remains dedicated to building a stronger, healthier region—for everyone.

Explore the full Annual Report to see how we’re making a difference across Northwest North Carolina: nwahec.org/annualreport2025

Michael P. Lischke, EdD, MPH
Richard Janeway, MD, Distinguished Director of Northwest AHEC

While you are exploring check out this statewide facts at a glance - North Carolina Area Health Education Centers Fiscal year 2025 (July 2024-June 2025)

Register Today to Join Us March 4th - 6th, 2026 in Greensboro, NC!

The NC "One Community in Recovery" Conference is a place where individuals working and involved in recovery as defined in its broadest terms can share their work and gain support from others involved in the recovery movement. The conference is primarily focused on promoting the growth of the North Carolina Recovery Movement, teaching participants how to get recovery programming up and running in their own communities, showcasing the most progressive recovery practices, and bringing individuals interested in the recovery movement together as students and partners.

Full agenda details have been posted - make sure to check it out!

Keynote Address: Robert Whitaker

Robert Whitaker is the author of five books, three of which tell of the history of psychiatry. In 2010, his Anatomy of an Epidemic: Magic Bullets, Psychiatric Drugs, and the Astonishing Rise of Mental Illness won the U.S. Investigative Reporters and Editors book award for best investigative journalism. Prior to writing books, he worked as a science reporter at the Albany Times Union newspaper in New York for a number of years. He is the founder of madinamerica.com, a website that features research news and blogs by an international group of writers interested in “rethinking psychiatry.”

Keynote Address: Revolutionizing Recovery: Turning Pain into Purpose - Devin Lyall

Devin Lyall is the Founding Executive Director of Wilkes Recovery Revolution, INC., dedicated to building a community where recovery is possible through hope, healing, and rebuilding lives. As someone with personal experience of substance use and mental health challenges, Devin brings invaluable lived perspective to her leadership. Wilkes Recovery Revolution leads eleven programs, including transitional housing, harm reduction, community outreach, workforce support, fresh food initiatives, thrift operations, crisis intervention, and post-overdose response. Devin has received multiple honors for her work, including the Great State Hero Award and the National Recovery Community Organization of the Year award. Her story and WRR’s impact have been featured in numerous media outlets, and she recently delivered a TEDx Talk. Devin is also a devoted dog lover who treasures time with her family.