Medical student Natasha Salmen receives national AHEC Award

Natasha Salmen, M3, has been honored with the National AHEC Organization 2024 Alumni/Advocate of the Year Award for her outstanding contributions to the AHEC mission. It is awarded yearly to an individual who has portrayed exemplary achievement in service of AHEC. 

A graduate of the Eastern Ohio AHEC Scholars program, Natasha has founded innovative initiatives such as “A Day in the Life of a Healthcare Provider” and a rural high school pipeline program, both of which connect students from underserved areas to healthcare career pathways. Her leadership and commitment to mentorship have inspired students and professionals alike, ensuring the sustainability of these impactful programs. 

AHEC leaders presented the award to Salmen on Dec. 16 at NEOMED.

Photo caption:

From left: Daniel Palmer, Ph.D., Kent State University, Eastern Ohio AHEC board president; Natasha Salmen, M3 NEOMED; Patti Thornborough, M.S.Ed., regional program director, Northeast Ohio Area Health Education Center Program; Maureen A. Drummond, M.S.M., SLM, VCM, director, Eastern Ohio AHEC, Regional Center Director for AHEC Scholars Programming