Additional winners named for Legislator of the Year and Grassroots Award

Phoenix, Ariz. (Oct. 30, 2025) — The Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association (AzHHA) announced today that Roland Knox, retired CEO of Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, is the recipient of the 2025 Salsbury Award.

Named in honor of the late Dr. Clarence G. Salsbury, a respected missionary physician who advocated for access to healthcare, especially the underserved, the Salsbury Award is the highest honor AzHHA can bestow on an individual who demonstrates outstanding service and unselfish purpose while advancing healthcare and increasing its access in Arizona.

“For more than two decades, Roland has exemplified servant leadership, an unwavering commitment to people and a relentless drive to ensure rural communities have access to high-quality care,” said Ann-Marie Alameddin, president and CEO of AzHHA. “His leadership has strengthened communities like Safford and Willcox, and his influence has reached every corner of Arizona."

Under his leadership, Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center has doubled in size, added new service lines that created access to specialty care and brought care closer to home for his community. He always keeps patients and people at the center of his work – values that continue to guide our collective work statewide.

Knox served ten years on the AzHHA Board of Directors, most recently holding the position of Secretary-Treasurer before retiring earlier this year.

AzHHA also presented the following awards on Thursday:

Grassroots Champion Award presented to Jennifer Mendrzycki, TMC Health

The American Hospital Association, in partnership with AzHHA, recognized Jennifer Mendrzycki, president and CEO of TMC Health, with the Grassroots Champion Award. Advocating from the front lines in Tucson to the halls of Congress, Jennifer has built strong relationships with lawmakers and their staff, advocating tirelessly for patients and hospitals. Her leadership has elevated both urban and rural healthcare voices and strengthened community partnerships across southern Arizona. Her advocacy is a model for how local leadership can shape national policy.

The Grassroots Award was presented by Mary Naylor, regional executive, Region 8, with the American Hospital Association.

“Jennifer’s example reminds us that advocacy is everyone’s job, including hospital and health system leaders translating what’s at stake for their patients and communities,” said Naylor. “Leaders like Jennifer exemplify the power and passion of our members, bringing their work for their communities into the spotlight.”

Legislator of the Year Award presented to Rep. Julie Willoughby

AzHHA presented its 2025 Legislator of the Year Award to Representative Julie Willoughby (R-Dist. 13). Rep. Willoughby has championed key healthcare initiatives, including efforts to improve interfacility transportation and shape responsible regulation around artificial intelligence in health insurance. Her collaborative approach and commitment to patient-centered policy have made a lasting impact on Arizona’s healthcare landscape.

“Representative Willoughby is not just a policymaker; she is a problem solver and a collaborator who understands that effective healthcare policy starts with listening,” said Damien Johnson, director of government relations with AzHHA. “Her commitment to working together and her ability to bridge divides have made a significant difference for Arizona hospitals and the patients we serve.”

AzHHA is proud to recognize these healthcare leaders for their tireless commitment to advancing health and healthcare in Arizona.

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About the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association

AzHHA brings together diverse voices to advance health and healthcare in Arizona. As the champion for healthcare leadership in Arizona, AzHHA and its member hospitals explore ideas and take collaborative action at the state capitol, in hospitals and at home to achieve the best healthcare outcomes for our communities. Above all else, we put people and patients first through better care, better health and lower costs. Visit https://www.azhha.org for more information.