Wood River Health's Awards

Awards and Recognition

Wood River Health’s awards honor individuals who have gone above and beyond to advocate for equitable access to high‑quality, affordable health care for all people, regardless of income, insurance status, or background.

The following awards were presented during Wood River Health’s 50th Anniversary Founders Breakfast and Awards Ceremony on March 20, 2026, at the Ocean House in Watch Hill. Each award recognizes individuals who demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing the mission and values of community health centers.

Health Center Champion Award

Recipients of the Health Center Champion Award demonstrate strong leadership in promoting policies and initiatives that support and strengthen the health center movement.

Award recipients actively engage with stakeholders, policymakers, and communities to ensure health centers remain a vital part of the health care safety net. Their efforts may include legislative advocacy, public education, coalition building, or championing innovative programs that expand access to care and improve health outcomes.

This award honors individuals whose passion, dedication, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on the health and well‑being of our community. Their leadership has played an important role in sustaining community‑based health care in Rhode Island.

John Bergeron Legacy Award

The John Bergeron Legacy Award honors the life and service of Dr. John Bergeron and recognizes individuals whose leadership and dedication reflect the values he championed throughout his career.

Dr. Bergeron was born and raised in Central Falls, Rhode Island, alongside his eleven siblings. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong love for learning, particularly in science. He earned a Master of Science degree from Brown University in 1977 and later received his medical degree in internal medicine from Brown University in 1983.

Dr. Bergeron dedicated 37 years of service to caring for underserved patients at Wood River Health. Colleagues remember him as an astute physician and gifted diagnostician, known for his modesty, selflessness, and commitment to others.

This award recognizes individuals whose lifelong contributions have strengthened community health centers through leadership, innovation, advocacy, mentorship, and service. Recipients embody a lasting commitment to advancing access to compassionate, equitable health care and inspiring future generations.

Community Service Award

The Community Service Award honors an individual, organization, or partner who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to serving the Wood River Health community.

This award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond to provide support, resources, and programs that improve health, wellness, and quality of life for patients and families.

Nominees exemplify: