Fifth Cohort Graduates from Rural Hospital CFO Certification Program

[Kansas City, Mo.] – The Center for Rural Health Leadership (CRHL) graduates the fifth cohort from the Rural Hospital CFO Certification Program, which began in March 2025.

CRHL was built in response to the National Rural Health Association’s initiative to address the rural hospital closure crisis by equipping executives with the knowledge and skills to lead successfully during the most difficult time in rural healthcare history. This program was created by rural hospital CFOs, for rural hospital CFOs and was informed through an essential question: “What do you know now that you wish you’d known then?”

The program includes expert-led classes and interactive live discussion sessions covering essential topics like financial management, leadership development, regulatory compliance, strategic planning with boards, and more.

Congratulations to the March 2025 CFO Cohort:  

• Anna Monroe – Scotland County Hospital, Memphis, MO
• Anne Marie Kloppel – Billings Clinic, Billings, MT
• Ashley Jaramillo – White Mountain Regional Medical Center, Springerville, AZ
• Brian Giles – Othello Community Hospital, Othello, WA
• Brittany Mooney – Iron County Medical Center, Pilot Knob, MO
• Caleb White – Fisher County Hospital District, Rotan, TX
• Gabriela Salgado – Winkler County Hospital District, Kermit, TX
• Jennifer Azua – Freestone Medical Center, Fairfield, TX
• Michelle Cumberland – Memorial Medical Center, Port Lavaca, TX
• Natalie Dennis – Coulee Medical Center, Grand Coulee, WA
• Natalya Keller – Hot Springs Health, Thermopolis, WY
• Nelia Hernandez – Iraan General Hospital, Iraan, TX

Graduates consistently report measurable growth across curriculum areas of leadership, operations, finance, and clinical/quality. Many continue to meet with their cohort members after graduation to share ideas and solve challenges in real time.

“This program was built to equip rural executives with the skills, strategies, and support to lead through the toughest challenges facing rural healthcare today,” said Sydney Grant, Chief Learning Officer for CRHL. “It’s about more than just learning—it’s about community, confidence, and action.”

To learn more about the Center for Rural Health Leadership, visit https://www.crhleadership.com.

About the Center for Rural Health Leadership

The Center for Rural Health Leadership (CRHL) equips rural healthcare leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to create stronger, more sustainable healthcare organizations. Through specialized programs and expert-driven education, CRHL is committed to developing the next generation of rural healthcare leaders and strengthening healthcare in rural America.