The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) recognized a Georgetown University Berkley School of Nursing professor for her work in rural healthcare systems, the university announced Jan. 27.
Melody Wilkinson, who teaches in the doctorate of nursing and family nursing programs, received the West Virginian 2026 State Award, which celebrates contributions to the field of nursing on a state-by-state basis. Originally from West Virginia, Wilkinson was recognized for her “Appalachian Community Engagement” course, which has graduate nursing students partner with local organizations in Clay County, W.Va., to address rural health disparities.
Wilkinson, who has taught the class since 2017, said she was honored to receive the award.
“I felt genuinely surprised and very grateful,” Wilkinson wrote to The Hoya. “The work this award recognizes has always been deeply collaborative and community-rooted, so my first thought was of the many students, partners and colleagues who have been part of it over the years.”
Wilkinson said her work in West Virginia aims to educate nursing students about healthcare outcomes and access in rural communities.
“Rural communities experience profound disparities in access to care, resources, and opportunity, yet they also have incredible strengths, resilience, and wisdom,” Wilkinson wrote.
“As the daughter of a West Virginia coal miner, I am deeply and personally aware of how social drivers shape health long before anyone enters a clinic. This course helps students understand that health is shaped by relationships, environment, and systems — not just clinical care.”
West Virginia, where over half of the state’s population lives in rural areas that sometimes lack healthcare infrastructure, ranked 46th of 50 states for health and well-being in 2025, according to the United Health Foundation.
Nathalie Mojica (GRD ’26), Wilkinson’s student and mentee, currently pursuing a doctorate of nursing practice, said the “Appalachian Community Engagement” course was a transformative experience.
“The course went far beyond traditional classroom learning; it immersed us in real communities, real needs, and real relationships,” Mojica wrote to The Hoya. “Professor Wilkinson guided us with intention, preparation and humility, modeling how to engage with communities ethically, respectfully and sustainably. Throughout the experience, she was consistently present, supportive and deeply invested in our growth as future nurse leaders.”
Heather Grandal (GRD ’26), who is pursuing a master’s degree in family practice nursing and took Wilkinson’s course last spring, said Wilkinson reaffirmed her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner.
“That experience in Clay, working alongside Dr. Wilkinson, seeing her lead with quiet confidence, encouragement and compassion, was a turning point,” Grandal wrote. “It reminded me why I chose this path and reaffirmed that showing up with presence, empathy, and intention matters just as much as clinical knowledge.”
Mojica said she admires Wilkinson’s commitment to her students and the university’s Jesuit values of “cura personalis,” or care for the whole person, and “cura communitatis,” or care for the community.
“She is always there to help — academically, professionally and personally — and she leads with authenticity, empathy, and integrity,” Mojica wrote. “She exemplifies cura personalis and cura communitatis in everything she does. She does not simply teach the spirit of Georgetown. She lives it daily.”
Grandal said Wilkinson deserves the AANP’s recognition because of her dedication to serving others.
“Watching someone so accomplished engage so authentically with the people of Clay County is a powerful reminder that our impact is not defined by titles, degrees, or letters after our names, but by how we consistently show up for others,” Grandal wrote. “Her leadership exemplifies the qualities that make her an outstanding nominee for the award.”
Wilkinson said that although access to healthcare remains varied due to economic inequality, she is hopeful about future health outcomes in Clay County.
“Sustainable change happens when local voices are centered, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful that can be,” Wilkinson wrote.
“I have great hope because of the creativity and leadership that exists within these communities,” Wilkinson added.
Wilkinson said receiving the AANP award is the result of her long-term service to the Clay County community.
“This award reflects long-standing partnerships and the commitment of many students and community members over time,” Wilkinson wrote. “It’s a reminder that meaningful learning and meaningful service often happen together.”
