Dr. Teresa Owens Gardner Tyson, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, FAANP, is a distinguished leader in rural healthcare. She serves as the President and CEO of St. Mary’s Health Wagon in the heart of Appalachia. Having grown up as a coal miner's daughter, her deep personal connection to the region has profoundly influenced her mission to provide comprehensive and accessible medical care to one of America's most underserved communities. Under her leadership, the Health Wagon has transformed into a vital healthcare provider for rural Virginia, featuring a network that includes two stationary clinics, several mobile health units, a pharmacy, and a dental clinic. This expansion has enabled the organization to significantly increase its outreach, managing nearly 29,000 patient interactions in 2024 alone and delivering essential healthcare services to over 10,000 individuals. Dr. Tyson’s strategic vision encompasses a wide array of innovative healthcare solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges of rural healthcare delivery. She has successfully implemented telehealth technologies, drastically increasing access to medical specialists and routine care for remote populations. Her pioneering work also includes overseeing the first FAA-approved drone delivery of pharmaceuticals in the U.S., enhancing the logistic capabilities of the Health Wagon to distribute medications effectively across rugged terrains. The annual Move Mountains Medical Mission, a key initiative led by Dr. Tyson, is a testament to her commitment to healthcare equity. This event provides thousands of Appalachians free access to medical, dental, and vision care, addressing the region's acute need for comprehensive healthcare services. Her efforts ensure that financial and geographic barriers do not prevent individuals from receiving the care they need. Dr. Tyson's influence extends beyond local healthcare improvements. She has garnered national and international acclaim for her work, with features in major media outlets and speaking engagements at global institutions like the United Nations and the World Health Organization. Her advocacy has highlighted the critical need for sustained investment in rural healthcare infrastructure and has drawn attention to the successful models of care developed under her guidance. In addition to her administrative roles, Dr. Tyson is passionate about education and mentorship. She has forged partnerships with over 50 educational institutions, creating opportunities for students to engage directly with rural healthcare settings. This educational outreach enhances students' learning experiences and helps cultivate a dedicated workforce committed to rural health. Looking forward, Dr. Tyson is focused on further advancing the Health Wagon's capabilities by integrating more sophisticated medical technologies and expanding the range of services offered. Her plans include the development of mobile specialty clinics and enhancing preventative care programs, aiming to improve overall health outcomes in the Appalachian region. Teresa Tyson’s personal life is deeply intertwined with her professional endeavors. A mother of four and a grandmother, she draws continuous inspiration from her family and community, reinforcing her commitment to her work. Her leadership changes individual lives and impacts the broader community, ensuring that the Health Wagon's legacy continues to grow and thrive under her stewardship.