Steve Sanchez, Community Relations Manager at Southeast Colorado Hospital, has been recognized for his outstanding commitment to rural healthcare by the Colorado Rural Health Center (CRHC), receiving the prestigious 2025 Rural Health Excellence Award.
The award, presented during the Colorado Rural Healthcare Conference, highlights Sanchez's extensive contributions to healthcare advocacy and community service. Since 2017, Sanchez has been instrumental in advancing healthcare initiatives across southeastern Colorado, serving in multiple leadership roles that extend beyond his hospital responsibilities.
Currently holding key positions including Board Chairman for the Southeast Regional Healthcare Coalition and State of Colorado Southeast Region Healthcare Coalition Board Chair, Sanchez has demonstrated remarkable dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and quality in rural communities. His involvement also includes serving as a Commissioner on the State of Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission, underscoring his commitment to comprehensive community health.
Notably, Sanchez played a critical role in facilitating the 2023 Marva Jean Jackson award, which funded the Ogallala Commons Internship program. This initiative aims to provide rural students with valuable work experience in critical healthcare careers within their home communities, potentially addressing workforce challenges in rural healthcare settings.
CRHC CEO Michelle Mills emphasized the significance of recognizing individuals like Sanchez who go above and beyond in serving their communities. The Rural Health Excellence Award serves to acknowledge professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable healthcare in rural regions.
Sanchez's recognition highlights the complex and collaborative nature of rural healthcare, where professionals work collectively to address community health needs. His award represents not just personal achievement, but also the broader efforts of healthcare workers dedicated to improving medical services in less-populated areas.
The Colorado Rural Health Center, established in 1991, continues to support rural healthcare initiatives through recognition programs like this award, which aim to inspire and celebrate professionals making significant contributions to community health services.
