Strong partnerships help build a stronger, healthier community. Catawba Valley Health System (CVHS) is proud to partner with Appalachian State University in supporting initiatives that strengthen healthcare education, expand clinical outreach and create opportunities for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
One example of this collaboration is CVHS’s sponsorship of the Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness (App Well) Interprofessional Clinic at App State Hickory. The clinic serves as both a community resource and a hands-on learning environment for university students, bringing together education and clinical services to address the needs of children and older adults.
Through its Growing Well and Aging Well programs, the clinic offers services such as developmental assessments for children, gait and balance assessments, nutrition consultations and health education for older adults. Students gain valuable experience working alongside other healthcare disciplines while developing the skills needed to provide collaborative, patient-centered care.
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Helping bring this partnership to life has been Marcus Osborne, CVHS director of wellness services and an App State alumnus. Through his service on the Beaver College of Health Sciences Advisory Board, Marcus helped connect university development leaders with CVHS executives, fostering the relationship that supported the clinic partnership.
His involvement extends beyond the clinic. Marcus also coordinated agreements between CVHS, Catawba County Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools and App State’s Athletic Training Education Program, creating opportunities for athletic training students to gain clinical experience at local high schools. Additionally, he has served as a guest speaker for App State’s healthcare management program, sharing his professional experience with students preparing for careers in healthcare.
Marcus’s dedication to his alma mater and service to the community were recognized this year when he received the 2026 Alumni Award from App State’s Honors College. The award recognizes his professional contributions and continued engagement with the university.
CVHS is proud of Marcus’s leadership and its ongoing partnership with Appalachian State University. By bringing healthcare and higher education together, we are helping prepare future healthcare professionals, expand community resources and build a stronger healthcare future for the Catawba Valley.
