Rural Leader Magazine October 2024 by Rural Leader Magazine

OCTOBER 2024

Cover Story Boost your health this fall with 5 expert tips, pg. 9 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2024 1

Contents

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com

About Us

Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad. Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent. Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermag.com Contact Us info@ruralleadermag.com editor@ruralleadermag.com ruralleadermagazine@gmail.com

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6 Innovation and vision: A trailblazing university president’s first year

15 Cybercriminals are attacking rural communities: Here’s how to help

COVER STORY 9 Boost your health this fall with 5 expert tips

18 Making the Grade with Medicaid and CHIP

11 New study: 60% of Americans say their network opens doors to moneymaking 13 Leaves are falling, but your risk for pneumococcal disease may still be high-get vaccinated to help protect yourself

20 Empowering women with affordable wellness solutions for total well-being 23 Tri-State Nominations Now Open for 2025 Forty under 40 Honors

Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@RuralLeaderMag.com—

Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Inside this issue, there are a number of great articles about leadership best practices, building positive self-esteem and productivity! We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support! Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

What you do matters. @RuralLeaderMag

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Innovation and vision: A trailblazing university president’s first year Elise Awwad became president and CEO of DeVry University a year ago, bringing 20 years of experience and a belief in the power of education to transform lives. She answered questions about her first year and her vision for DeVry. What three words best describe your first year as President and CEO? I’ll say students, innovation and speed. “Students” is my first word, because every decision I’ve made is with student success in mind. We have more than 30,000 currently enrolled students, all striving for better lives for themselves and their families. More than 13,000 students have graduated since I became president and CEO. They are my inspiration. Next is “innovation,” because it’s core to how we think and operate at DeVry. We’re continuously changing our curriculum to match the steady beat of change in technology and workforce needs. We are creating new ways to break down barriers so that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed. We are enhancing our offerings and reimagining how we operate to ensure that we have the agility necessary to respond to the needs of students and the industries they will enter. 6

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And I have to say “speed,” because this year flew by. It was easily the fastest year of my life! You’ve made active listening a priority, engaging with hundreds in the DeVry community. How has that shaped your perspective? I’ve made it a point to speak to as many professors, colleagues and students as possible during my first year, and I enjoyed every conversation. I visited classes and sat in on council meetings. Commencement weekend alone was a masterclass in understanding the needs of our stakeholders and impact of our decisions. Authentic active listening is fundamental to a culture that embraces change and innovates quickly. We’re working to cultivate active listening across the university. When people feel truly heard and understood, they’re more invested in our shared success. Clear and consistent communication has to be part of that culture, too. It can’t be just about broadcasting successes. We know we have to confront challenges head-on and clearly communicate steps we’re taking to address them. For us to be successful, faculty and staff must understand the vision and strategies as well as their roles in making them happen.

Can you describe your most memorable moment from the past year? Commencement comes to mind first when I reflect on a year filled with memories. Standing on that stage as president and CEO and looking out at the Class of 2024, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and responsibility. It wasn’t just another ceremony. This was about the privilege of joining these students and their loved ones in celebrating a monumental milestone, representing my colleagues, and showcasing the strength and potential of the DeVry community. What accomplishments from the past year contribute to DeVry’s strength and potential? We’ve accomplished a lot in the past year. I’ll start with the agility of faculty and administrators, their pace of curriculum changes to meet real-time workforce needs. We launched new market-relevant AI course offerings in a matter of weeks and built a roadmap to continue innovating. Our faculty demonstrated how they can navigate the changing landscape by responding to GPT technologies’ impact on learning, leading the way with innovative strategies that embrace its use. We maintained our commitment to affordability through our tuition freeze for the 2024-25 academic year, and expanded scholarship programs. Prioritizing return on student investment is central to every decision, from affordability to outcomes. Our robust Career Services offerings for students and graduates grew stronger. We forged strategic partnerships with organizations to advance our commitment to student success. We advanced the use of AI technology, continuing our long-standing work to integrate AI in the classroom and beyond. We’re reimagining the relationship between people and technology to drive results. What is the greatest challenge in higher education today? Prioritizing access and affordability are at the top of the list. Education should be the ultimate equalizer, yet barriers continue to impede progress. It’s our duty as educators to identify the barriers and

dismantle them. We must ensure that every individual - regardless of socioeconomic background, race or gender - has equitable access to the opportunities that education provides. You are the first woman in DeVry’s 93-year history to be president and CEO. What does that mean to you? Serving as the first woman president and CEO in DeVry’s 93-year history is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility. I hope my journey inspires others - especially women who may doubt their own potential. I started as a student advisor at the university over 20 years ago. I’ve continually challenged myself to achieve what once seemed impossible. My experiences have shown me that with determination and the right support, even the toughest barriers can be overcome. I deeply believe in the power of perseverance, and I am committed to giving back in every way I can. That’s why I established DeVry’s first Business Resource Group dedicated to supporting women in the workplace and the broader community. I also sponsored our Women+Tech Scholars program designed to empower women to start or advance careers in the tech industry. My goal is to ensure that the path forward is a little clearer and a little easier for those who come after me. What’s your vision for DeVry? My vision is for DeVry to be a leading institution of higher education, where innovation, inclusivity and deep industry connections create meaningful opportunities for every learner. We strive to be the go-to source for 21st-century talent, equipping our graduates to excel and lead. Our goal is to prepare students not just to keep pace with the future but to shape it, fostering a culture of creativity and critical thinking. We aspire to be a place where every learner has a fair chance to achieve success.—

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COVER STORY

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Boost your health this fall with 5 expert tips Do you find that your health and fitness take a back seat during the fall and winter months? As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, it can be difficult to motivate yourself to make healthy choices that support your well-being. Instead of throwing in the towel, get ahead of the sluggishness of the colder months by taking proactive steps to prioritize wellness. Check out these five expert tips that can help you thrive this fall and winter with ease. 1. Set a smart routine, One of the best ways to set yourself up for health and fitness success during fall and winter is by establishing and maintaining a routine. For example, waking up and going to sleep at the same time each day can help ensure you’re getting enough rest every day. That said, new routines can be hard to get into at the beginning. To help you toward your goal, set alarms and reminders on your phone or other devices to remind you when to go to bed and wake up. You can do the same to remind you to get some exercise and any other health and fitness goals you may have. 2. Caffeinate (wisely). Caffeine can provide a needed boost of energy to start your morning on the right foot or help you stay focused during the afternoon. However, be careful how much caffeine you ingest. Too much caffeine can make you jittery and can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to tiredness, stress and anxiety. Instead of reaching for a cup of Joe or an energy drink, consider an exact or more controlled delivery and vitamin packed option like AdvoCare’s Spark powdered energy supplement. Each sugar-free stick pack offers 120 milligrams of caffeine, b vitamins and minerals that enhance mental focus and elevate energy levels. Available online or at CVS in 12 delicious flavors, Spark is your convenient and flavorful solution for sustained energy at home or on the go. To learn more, visit advocare.com/BrandptSpark. 3. Get moving. Even during the colder months, it’s important to move your body every day. The weather may prevent you from going on a walk or jogging outside, but you can still engage in an indoor workout for daily exercise.

Any activity will do. If you’re a social butterfly, a dance or group fitness class can make working out more fun, which may make it easier to do more consistently. If you want to pair exercise with mindfulness and meditation, yoga may be more your speed. Don’t worry if you can’t fit in an hour of exercise every day. Any amount of physical activity is better than none and help you feel better. 4. Double down on nutrition and immune support. Eating a balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods is key to maintaining your health and wellness. A well-rounded diet is especially important during fall and winter to boost your immunity during flu season. However, even the most balanced diets have nutritional gaps, so consider adding a nutritional supplement to your daily routine. You could take pill supplements, but a convenient and tasty way to support your nutrition and immune system is with Spark. In addition to a moderate dose of caffeine, each dose contains vitamins A, B, C and E, zinc, copper, chromium and other vitamins that support a healthy immune system. 5. Manage stress. Stress is an inevitable part of life. Some stress can even be positive when managed properly to help motivate you to achieve your goals or meet a deadline. However, prolonged periods of stress can negatively affect your physical and mental health. For example, you may find that when you’re stressed you adopt poor eating and sleeping habits. Try out different stress management strategies to keep your stress in check. Mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises or journaling can help ground you after a long day at work or before a big event. Incorporating self-care moments throughout the day, like taking a bath or reading in a quiet and cozy space, can also help you manage your stress. Good health and fitness don’t happen by accident. Using these five tips, and with the support of your healthcare provider, you can invest in well-being and stay healthy and active all fall and winter long.—

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New study: 60% of Americans say their network opens doors to moneymaking

One in three (31%) Americans say they owe the job they have now - and the salary they make (29%) to their personal network, according to new research from Empower, a leader in financial planning, investing, and advice. For Millennials, that number rises to 40% on both dimensions. Six in 10 Americans believe that the strength of their connections is key to success, from career advancement to pay and promotions. Half of people (50%) say it would be naive not to take advantage of personal connections. Some 75% say it’s important to use your network to help others, and half of Americans say they’ve actively helped others get a job (53% overall, 61% Millennials). “The ‘Network Effect’ is real, and your dream salary may be one connection away. Many Americans see the power of personal connections as a key to unlocking moneymaking opportunities,” says Rebecca Rickert, head of communications at Empower. “People view the investment of time or money as a means of paying it forward - an investment that pays back.” People are also turning to their inner circles for financial help. A third of Americans (32%) say they have not saved enough and need to rely on their network to make ends meet (41% Gen Z, Millennials). One quarter receive an average of $390 per month ($4,680 annually) in financial support from relatives or personal connections. Nearly a third admit to receiving financial assistance from their parents after the age of 18 (30%) - and 45% of parents say they provide financial support to their adult children. Additionally, 28% of people have received help with living expenses such as groceries, rent, or mortgage payments. Still, 50% feel embarrassed about having to rely on others for help with money, as the majority (79%) of Americans believe it is important to be financially independent and many (57%) are doing everything they can to achieve it. Some 61% say rising prices and inflation are preventing them from getting ahead financially. The power of personal connections extends to giving back, too: 66% say paying it forward to others in this way increases their happiness. Six in 10 Americans have paid it forward to strangers in small ways, too, like paying for the person behind them in the drive thru. More findings:

generation needs financial help because they are at a disadvantage compared to other generations (54% Gen Z, 55% Millennials, 36% Gen X, 23% Boomers). * Keeping up with the Joneses: A quarter say they spend more than they make trying to keep up with others (23% overall, 33% Gen Zers); Men are more likely than women to agree (27% men, 19% women). * Diploma dilemma: More than 1 in 5 (21%) have received financial help for education from their network. Though, nearly a third say that due to their career choices (e.g., lack of a degree, low-paying jobs) they need to financially rely on others (27% overall, 38% Gen Z, Millennials). Just 7% say they received a legacy admission to a college of choice due to personal connections. * Opening doors: Some 25% of Americans say they’ve received career support from their parents, including connections, advice, introductions, and professional development. One in 5 Millennials have gotten freelance opportunities due to their personal connections. * Picking up the bill: One in 4 admit to having daily discretionary expenses like eating out and getting coffee covered by others. 17% of people have enjoyed a fully paid vacation courtesy of their relatives, friends, or personal connections (20% Gen Z and 22% Millennials). * Family ties: 58% believe that family members and close friends need to help each other financially; 35% prefer to live at home with family or roommates to save money. Visit The Currency to read Empower’s full research report, “The Network Effect.”— *ABOUT THE STUDY Empower’s “The Network Effect” study is based on online survey responses from 2,200 Americans ages 18+ fielded by Morning Consult between August 5-7, 2024. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults (aged 18+).RO3846417-0924

* Generational hardships: 40% overall say their GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2024 11

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Leaves are falling, but your risk for pneumococcal disease may still be high-get vaccinated to help protect yourself The flavors of fall are often what make the season so special - they bring us together and remind us to slow down and smell the spices. That’s why it’s the perfect time to try out new recipes and share your creations with friends. Apple pie, cider donuts, pumpkin bread - the possibilities are endless. Especially while there are so many fresh ingredients in season, like apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes and even butternut squash. This fall, be sure to take advantage of all the deliciousness that this season brings. And while you cook up some tasty treats in the kitchen, don’t forget an important recipe for a healthy fall season - getting vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Vaccination can help protect you against these diseases, so you can try some new fall recipes without disruption. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening. The same bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia are responsible for IPD, which includes blood infection and meningitis. There’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia during flu season or in the winter, but you can get it any time of year. If you’re 19-64 with certain underlying medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, chronic heart dis-

ease and COPD, you’re at increased risk. Adults 65 or older are also at increased risk. In fact, if you’re 65 or older, you’re at over 10x greater risk of being hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia compared with adults 18-49. If you fit in any of these groups, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself - and your fall plans. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is a great time to assess if pneumococcal vaccination is right for you. Even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia previously, your healthcare provider may recommend another vaccination for additional protection. Getting pneumococcal pneumonia or IPD shouldn’t be on your fall checklist, so don’t let it get in your way of enjoying all the delicious things this season has to offer. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal vaccination and visit VaxAssist.com to schedule a vaccination today.— Brought to you by Pfizer.

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Cybercriminals are attacking rural communities: Here’s how to help Cybercriminals are increasingly attacking rural hospitals across America, posing a direct threat to patients. For many Americans living in rural areas, the nearest emergency room may be miles and miles away - and in an emergency, every second counts. Cyberattacks can disrupt the essential operations of hospitals, leaving people at risk. These attacks are increasing in number: In 2023, the healthcare sector reported more ransomware attacks than any other critical infrastructure sector, and attacks involving ransomware against the healthcare sector were up nearly 130%. Cybercriminals are also increasingly targeting rural communities, where digital defenses may not be as robust due to resource constraints. These attacks can be devastating, particularly to smaller, independent hospitals with limited means of protecting themselves. When a rural hospital falls victim to a cyberattack, it’s not just the institution that suffers; the entire community feels the ripple effect. Just last year, an Illinois hospital permanently shut its doors partly due to a devastating ransomware attack. NBC News reported that because of the hospital closure, some residents are now more than thirty minutes away from emergency services. Here are three ways people in rural communities can help: 1. Strengthen rural hospital cybersecurity Hospitals need tools to protect themselves. That’s why the White House along with cybersecurity experts like Microsoft, are providing free and lowcost resources available to every rural hospital across the nation. This includes advanced security products along with free cybersecurity assessments and free training for frontline and IT staff. Rural hospitals can sign up for the program or learn more at nonprofits. TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.

2. Explore a cybersecurity career. America is facing a cybersecurity skills crisis. There simply aren’t enough people with the skills to defend against cybersecurity attacks: There are nearly half a million job openings requesting cybersecurity skills, but there are only 85 cybersecurity workers available for every 100 cybersecurity jobs demanded by employers, according to Cyberseek. Anyone, anywhere can take advantage of the opportunity and start a career in cybersecurity. Building the skills necessary is easier than ever, especially given the free classes and tools available. For example, the Career Essentials in Cybersecurity learning path from LinkedIn and Microsoft allows you to earn professional certification in the field. 3. Protect yourself. Rural communities can protect themselves by strengthening vital infrastructure and hiring cybersecurity professionals, but the most important step is personal. Whether you work in a hospital or elsewhere, it’s critical to understand cybersecurity threats and prepare yourself. Cyberscams are a pervasive threat in our increasingly connected world, and no one is immune to their risk. These scams, often disguised as tech support, prey on the unsuspecting, exploiting trust and causing harm. It’s essential to be vigilant and informed to protect yourself and your loved ones on how you can identify these online con artists. By staying aware and cautious, you can defend against the tactics of cybercriminals and keep your digital life secure. Learn more about the threats to rural hospitals at nonprofits.TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.—

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Voter ID ID in Georgia

VOTING IN PERSON

You must present an acceptable photo ID to vote in person:

• Georgia Driver’s License (acceptable even if expired) • Georgia State ID (must be unexpired) • ID issued by U.S. government or any other state (must be unexpired) • Free Georgia Voter ID Card (must be unexpired) • U.S. Passport (must be unexpired) • Military ID (must be unexpired) • Employee ID issued by U.S.government or Georgia entity (must be unexpired) • Tribal ID (must be unexpired) • Student ID issued by certain colleges, universities and technical colleges (find list online)

VOTING BY MAIL

To vote by absentee ballot, you will need to provide one of the following: • Georgia Driver’s License number • Georgia State ID number • Copy of acceptable ID (find list online)

Need ID to vote? VoteRiders can help! Call or text 866.432.8683 Helpline@VoteRiders.org GET A VOTER ID REGISTER TO VOTE CHECK VOTER REGISTRATION STATUS 16

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FREE

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Email: etta.johnson@dph.ga.gov Or Visit our website https://westcentralhealthdistrict.com/programs services/snap-ed/ This material was funded by USDA'S Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This Institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Note: SNAP-ED is a good fit for those who are eligible for the following programs SNAP,WIC, TAND & Medicaid

West Central Health District

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2024 17

Making the Grade with Medicaid and CHIP Back-to-school season is in full swing, which means it’s time to make sure your kids have the essentials they need for a successful school year. Health coverage should be at the top of that list - and being insured is important for students all year long. Academic success, long-term health outcomes, and health coverage all go hand-in-hand: Studies show that when children have health coverage, they are better equipped to participate in the classroom and during extracurricular activities, miss fewer days of school, and are more likely to complete high school and graduate college. Finding free or low-cost health coverage for your family can be as easy as ABC. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide coverage for a broad range of health services for kids up to age 19. When enrolled, kids have access to preventive care, emergency services, dental visits, behavioral health care, immunizations, vision care, and more. For the millions of families who are currently covered, now is also a good time to ensure kids are caught up on routine vaccines and well-child visits needed to participate in school activities. Get Insured with Medicaid and CHIP. The Connecting Kids to Coverage National Campaign wants families to experience the peace of mind and security that comes with knowing their child is covered no 18

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matter what the school year brings. Medicaid and CHIP cover more than 37 million children in the United States and have helped ensure that more than 94% of the nation’s children have health coverage. Enrollment is open year-round, meaning your family doesn’t have to wait for an open-enrollment period to see if you qualify. Coverage must be renewed each year, and it’s important to make sure your address, email, and phone number stay up to date with your state Medicaid office so your family can receive communications about important renewal information. Medicaid and CHIP eligibility varies by state and depends on family income and how many people are in your household. In most states, children up to age 19 with family income up to $80,000 per year (for a family of four) may qualify. Families can apply online, over the phone, by mail, or in-person with their state’s Medicaid office or visit the “Find Coverage for Your Family” section on InsureKidsNow.gov. For more information, call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877543-7669). With health coverage, children can get the services they need to make the grade this school year by staying healthy and thrive academically.— Provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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Empowering women with affordable wellness solutions for total well-being When we talk about women’s wellness, physical, mental and emotional health often take center stage, but there’s another key aspect that’s just as important: sexual wellness. Like any other part of health, sexual wellness plays a vital role in reducing stress, improving mood and fostering a deeper connection with yourself or your partner. Despite its importance, this area of wellness is often overlooked. There remains an ongoing gap between how women’s and men’s sexual wellness is prioritized. This gap isn’t just about access to products, but also extends to education, resources and pleasure. Research shows that women’s experiences with sexual satisfaction and wellness are frequently under-prioritized, contributing to broader inequalities in how women’s sexual health is addressed. As discussions around women’s wellness evolve, many are beginning to recognize that sexual health is a vital part of self-care. However, access to high-quality, safe sexual wellness products often comes with challenges, whether it’s the cost or finding options that feel empowering and inclusive. Bellesa Boutique, known for its commitment to empowering women, is offering a direct solution 20

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by launching BB Outlet by Bellesa, making sexual wellness products more accessible than ever before. With over 300 high-quality, body-safe products, it’s creating a space where women can explore and prioritize sexual wellness as an essential part of their health journey - regardless of their budget or level of experience. “Sexual wellness is a fundamental part of a woman’s overall health, and everyone should have access to products that support that without financial barriers,” says Michelle Shnaidman, CEO of Bellesa. “BB Outlet was created to ensure that no one has to choose between quality and affordability when it comes to their sexual health and well-being.” Every item is made with 100% body-safe, premium materials, so whether you’re looking to explore something new or enhance your wellness routine, there’s a collection for every body and preference. The selection also includes wellness products and accessories tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all. Ready to explore your pleasure on your terms? Visit BBOutlet.com and discover affordable ways to prioritize your sexual wellness today.—

•Eligible employers can apply for funding for up to ten (10) apprentices •Contract completion award $5,000 per apprentice, regardless of the length of the RAP

Connect with us to learn how a Registered Apprenticeship Program can help serve your workforce development and hiring needs! CareerRise is hosting one-on-one exploration meeting to explore the value of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs), an employer-led workforce development model and strategy designed to provide employers with additional support to train skilled workers and meet growing workforce needs. Questions? Contact Keren Cadet kcadet@careerriseatlanta.org GetRuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2024 21

2024

FRIDAY

CONVENTION SATURDAY

OCT

18TH STARTS AT 7 PM

19TH Rev. David Hamm, Jr.

Dr. Jeffery Lawrence VICE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT

Rev. Lucious Albritton

Bishop Melvin McCluster

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

THIRD DISTRICT MODERATOR

HOST PASTOR

REPAIR.

Rev. Dr. C. L. McKinstry CONGRESS PRESIDENT

STARTS AT 10 AM

Sister Terre Wade

Deacon Rodney Burks

WOMEN'S AUXILIARY PRESIDENT

LAYMEN'S PRESIDENT

REBUILD. HOST CHURCH

REINFORCE.

OLD CORINTH BAPTIST CHURCH

425 BROWN SMALL RuralLeaderMag.com | OCTOBER 2024ROAD |

LESLIE, GEORGIA 31764

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