SUU’s Utah Center for Rural Health Welcomes Dr. Tyler Watson as New Executive Director
Published: October 09, 2025 | Author: SUU | Read Time: 2 minutes
CEDAR CITY, Utah — Oct. 8 The Utah Center for Rural Health (UCRH) is pleased to announce that Dr. Tyler Watson will succeed longtime Executive Director Rita Osborn, who is retiring after decades of dedicated service advancing healthcare access and workforce development in rural Utah.
Dr. Watson brings more than 28 years of experience in healthcare leadership, public health, and education. He most recently served as a professor and Public Health Program Director at Brigham Young University–Idaho. He is also a Lieutenant Colonel with the Idaho Air National Guard’s 124th Medical Group and co-founder and CFO of the Rexburg Free Clinic. His career has spanned roles in epidemiology, health promotion, compliance, training, infection control, and occupational safety and health, all with a strong focus on underserved populations.
The Utah Center for Rural Health was the birthplace of my professional career. I worked as an intern for the Community Clinic in Enterprise, UT, where I wrote my first grant 3 decades ago. I hope I can contribute and build upon the tremendous legacy that Rita has created,” said Watson. “Rural Utah is home to resilient, resourceful communities, and I am committed to advancing programs that strengthen healthcare access, workforce pipelines, and the health of the people we serve.
Dr. Watson holds a Doctor of Arts in Political Science with an emphasis in Public Administration and International Relations as well as a Master of Public Health from Idaho State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education from the University of Utah. His experience in both civilian and military healthcare leadership, along with his commitment to mentoring the next generation of health professionals, positions him to continue UCRH’s mission of improving access to quality healthcare in rural communities.
Rita Osborn has led UCRH since its inception, growing it into a statewide leader in healthcare workforce development and rural health advocacy. Her tenure saw the launch of numerous pipeline programs, student training opportunities, and rural health initiatives that have impacted thousands of Utah residents.
Leading the Utah Center for Rural Health has been the privilege of my career,” said Osborn. “I am confident Tyler will bring fresh vision, deep expertise, and a passion for rural health that will carry the Center forward for years to come.
The Utah Center for Rural Health, based at Southern Utah University, works to improve healthcare access and quality for Utah’s rural residents through education, training, workforce recruitment, and community partnerships.
For more information about the Utah Center for Rural Health, visit suu.edu/ruralhealthTags: Campus Center for Rural Health Community
Contact Information:
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu