Local health care workers honored by Rural Health Association of Utah
On Wednesday, November 12, the Rural Health Association of Utah (RHAU) hosted the 2025 Annual RHAU Conference. The event brought together leaders, practitioners, educators, and advocates dedicated to strengthening healthcare in rural communities.
As part of its commitment to celebrating excellence in rural healthcare, RHAU presented several awards recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to rural health.
Several awardees represented San Juan County.
Dr. Casey McCullough of Blue Mountain Hospital was recognized by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services as a 2025 Impact Award recipient for his meaningful contributions to health in rural Utah.
The Rural Health Association of Utah honored Sulane Knight, Chief Nursing Officer at Blue Mountain Hospital, as the 2025 Rural Nurse of the Year and the inaugural recipient of this new award.
Sulane, who joined Blue Mountain Hospital as a floor nurse in 2012, has embraced diverse roles – from med/surg and labor & delivery to dialysis and the OR – always leading with positivity, flexibility, and dedication.
Since becoming Director of Nursing in 2019 and Chief Nursing Officer in 2023, she has continued to lead by example, supporting staff, covering shifts, and advancing patient care.
Under her leadership, the hospital has strengthened patient safety, quality, and access through expanded telehealth services.
Her unwavering commitment and compassionate mentorship make her an invaluable leader and advocate for the community.
Dr. Jeanne Wigant, Family Medicine Physician at San Juan Health, was named the 2025 Rural Provider of the Year by the Rural Health Association of Utah. With advanced obstetrics training, Dr. Wigant has become a vital advocate for maternal and women’s health, providing essential prenatal care and enabling families to deliver close to home. Her rapid response during a recent complete placental abruption saved the lives of both mother and baby.
She continues to expand her skills and collaborate with visiting specialists to bring additional surgical care to rural patients, exemplifying the excellence and compassion of rural medicine.