William W. Massengill Jr. Honored with Community Star Award on National Rural Health Day by North Carolina’s Office of Rural Health

In honor of National Rural Health Day, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services presented William W. Massengill Jr. with the Community Star award today. The National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health created the award in 2015 to recognize those who are enhancing rural health services.

William W. Massengill Jr., this year’s recipient, was honored for his leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and his 27 years of commitment to nonprofit health care, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. “William has been a tireless advocate for improving access to care in rural and underserved areas across our state,” said Maggie Sauer, Director of the NCDHHS Office of Rural Health, who also praised him, adding that William has been a true champion for our rural communities throughout his decades of service through advocacy and nonprofit work. We can’t wait to honor his recognition.” He was crucial to Benson Health’s ability to continue providing necessary services during the pandemic.

Massengill was the Chief Executive Officer of Benson Health, a Rural Health Clinic designated by CMS. Under his direction, the clinic’s exceptional service, especially for the community’s economically disadvantaged residents, earned it the 2023 State Designated Rural Health Center of the Year award.

In addition to his services to healthcare, Massengill was elected Johnston County Citizen of the Year in 2018 and was Benson’s mayor for ten years. He currently supports rural healthcare and shapes policies to increase access throughout North Carolina as a member of the UNC Health Johnston board.

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