Michigan Center for Rural Health Names Billi Jo Hennika Rural Health Professional of the Year

Billi Jo Hennika receives the 2026 Rural Health Professional of the Year award at the Michigan Center for Rural Health annual event.

Photo courtesy of Michigan Center for Rural Health.

Billi Jo Hennika, Chief Operating Officer at McKenzie Health System, has been named the 2026 Rural Health Professional of the Year by the Michigan Center for Rural Health (MCRH). Notified in late March, she attended MCRH’s Spring Conference on April 23 at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort to receive the award in person.

This annual award honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, commitment, and service to improving healthcare in rural communities across Michigan. The recognition highlights professionals who go above and beyond to ensure access to high-quality care close to home.

Previously known as the Lauren Gettel Award, the honor carries a strong legacy within McKenzie Health System. Past recipients include President/CEO Steve Barnett and Dr. Mark Hamed, reflecting the organization’s continued dedication to rural healthcare excellence.

“Billi Jo leads with both purpose and heart. She understands what it means to serve a rural community, and she brings that perspective into every decision she makes. This recognition reflects not only her leadership, but her commitment to ensuring our patients have access to the care they need—right here, close to home,” said Barnett.

As a past recipient of this honor, Hamed echoed that sentiment. “Billi Jo is exactly the kind of leader who makes rural healthcare work. She brings strong operational excellence along with a genuine dedication to this community, and that combination is what truly sets her apart. She represents everything this recognition is meant to highlight,” said Hamed, McKenzie Emergency Department and Trauma Program Medical Director.

As COO, Hennika plays a key role in advancing services, strengthening operations, and helping guide the organization through significant growth, including ongoing efforts to expand access to care and invest in the future of healthcare locally.

Her work has been instrumental in ensuring that patients in Sanilac County and surrounding communities have access to essential services without needing to travel far from home.

“I’m truly honored to receive this recognition. The work we do is a team effort, and I’m grateful to be part of an organization so deeply committed to serving our community. Providing access to quality care close to home is something we all take pride in,” Hennika said.

The Michigan Center for Rural Health is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Michigan’s rural residents through advocacy, education, and partnerships.