Ohio Alliance Board of Directors Spotlight

Francie Wolgin

Francie Wolgin, RN, MSN, is retired from Interact for Health and served as Executive Director of Growing Well. She served on the Ohio School-Based Health Alliance Board during its founding in 2002, and again since the organization was relaunched. She has been instrumental in the expansion of school-based health care not just in Ohio, but also nationally.

---

What inspired you to join the Ohio Alliance Board?

I have been involved with and supported SBHCs nationally, regionally, and in Ohio for 25 years. It is important to support this work and contribute to the organization.

Why is school-based health care important for Ohio’s students and families?

Many students and families struggle to have access to health care, dental, and vision services. SBHCs make it possible for those services to be available.

What do you see as the greatest opportunity ahead?

The greatest opportunity is expanding SBHCs, especially in rural counties and being able to expand the number of students who incorporate prevention and healthy habits into their lives as children. These students will grow up healthier - able to better care for themselves and their families when they are adults.

What excites you most about the Ohio Alliance’s work?

Healthy students are able to learn better. SBHCs support families and bring much-needed resources to the school.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I love to dance and travel.

Why does school-based health care matter to you?

I have seen the difference SBHC nurse practitioners and staff make in schools where they are working and collaborating with educators. Students learn to take control of their health and are better equipped to learn and grow. Students also become more aware of health care careers. It’s a great recruiting strategy.