Call for Applications — Open November 20 – December 15, 2025

The Iowa Rural Health Association (IRHA) proudly announces the 2026 Iowa Rural Health Leadership Fellowship, a statewide initiative designed to cultivate and connect current and emerging leaders dedicated to improving health and well-being across rural Iowa.

This year-long fellowship provides participants with hands-on learning, mentorship, and project-based experiences to strengthen leadership, advocacy, and collaboration within rural communities.

Who Should Apply

The Fellowship welcomes anyone passionate about rural health, including:

  • Rural health advocates and community leaders

  • Health professionals and public health practitioners in rural settings

  • Early-career individuals seeking leadership development

  • Community Health Workers (CHWs) and outreach specialists

  • Undergraduate and graduate students interested in rural and community health

  • Leaders from hospitals, clinics, EMS, behavioral health, education, workforce, and policy sectors

All are encouraged to apply—diverse voices and lived experiences strengthen Iowa’s rural health movement.

Program Highlights

  • Leadership & Advocacy Training: Build core skills in communication, collaboration, and systems-level change.

  • Mentorship: Connect with experienced rural health leaders and statewide mentors.

  • Project-Based Learning: Design and implement a community-driven initiative that addresses a rural health challenge.

  • Networking: Join a statewide cohort of rural health leaders committed to equity and innovation.

  • Exclusive Benefits: Fellows receive a one-year IRHA membership and FREE registration to all 2026 IRHA events, including the Annual Iowa Rural Health Conference.

Key Dates

  • Application Opens: November 20, 2025

  • Application Deadline: December 15, 2025

  • Notification of Fellows Selected: December 20, 2025

  • Fellowship Launch Retreat: January 2026

How to Apply

Complete the online application HERE.

Applicants will submit the following materials as part of their application:

  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Résumé

  2. Narrative Responses

    • What inspires you to apply for the Iowa Rural Health Leadership Fellowship, and how does this opportunity align with your personal or professional goals in rural health?

    • Describe a challenge or opportunity you see in your rural community related to health or well-being. How have you engaged with this issue—or how would you like to—in a leadership role?

    • How do you plan to use the knowledge, mentorship, and connections gained through this fellowship to strengthen rural health in your community or across Iowa?

  3. Reference Contact Information

Applications are due by 11:59 PM CT on December 15, 2025.