WINFIELD, Ala. -- Alabama Hospital Association recently honored hospital administrator Cathy Mitchell with the 2025 Alabama Hospital Association (AlaHA) Grassroots Champion Award.

Mitchell serves as the administrator for North Mississippi Health Services-South Marion in Winfield and North Mississippi Medical Center-Hamilton.

The AlaHA Grassroots Champion Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in their commitment to advocacy, investing in HOSPAC and championing issues that impact health care across Alabama.

Mitchell was selected for her outstanding advocacy efforts and her consistent presence at legislative events throughout the year. The Alabama Hospital Association highlighted her efforts to build strong community relationships and ensure hospitals and the patients they serve are heard where it matters most.

Advocating for the needs of rural communities in Alabama is more important than ever, Mitchell said.

“Rural health care is the foundation of healthy communities, yet it remains increasingly fragile,” Mitchell said. “Building strong relationships with legislators, community leaders and local stakeholders ensures that the voice of our hospitals and the people we serve is represented when decisions are made that affect access to care.”

Mitchell’s Marion County roots make the award especially meaningful, she said.

“My commitment to advocacy is deeply personal because I have the privilege of serving the community that shaped me,” Mitchell said. "Together, we can help ensure that our neighbors continue to receive the exceptional health care they deserve, both now and for generations to come.”