By Staff
Ruth Harrell responded to congratulations for a recent public health award with typical modesty, saying she is just proud that someone from Escambia County was recognized as 2008 Alumnus of the Year by the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health.
Harrell also credits the many people she works with both in Escambia County and elsewhere in Alabama with the work that groups she is involved in have been able to do. Here at home, Harrell leads the Coalition for a Healthier Escambia County, and she also works with the Alabama Medical Education Consortium.
While Harrell is blessed to work and volunteer alongside many dedicated individuals, just about all of them would say they are amazed by her level of energy and enthusiasm for improving healthcare opportunities in her community and in the state.
Harrell herself said that among the best aspects of her 28-year career in public health is that she has “learned what it means to be a servant.”
How many of us would truly say that about our careers or avocations?
Ruth Harrell is a force in public health, helping advocate for better rural healthcare across the state and for healthier conditions here at home, but she is also an example that those of us in any industry or walk of life can aspire to.
Harrell retired 10 years ago, but you would never know it to look at her schedule. Her desire to serve - her family, her church, her community, her state - transcends her chosen field and should stand as an example of the power of one person choosing to serve her neighbors.