April 13, 2026
dr. cara marshall working with patient

Dr. Cara Marshall Recognized with Innovation in Family Medicine Award

Lowell Community Health Center’s Cara Marshall, MD, was recently recognized with the 2026 Innovation in Family Medicine Award from the Massachusetts Academy of Family Physicians (MassAFP). Dr. Marshall serves as Program Director of the Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency and is a Clinical Associate Professor of Family Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine.

Read more from Tufts University School of Medicine

The award honors physicians whose innovative approaches in care delivery, education, technology integration, and community health create sustainable, measurable impact.

Dr. Marshall was recognized for her leadership in developing the Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency, a partnership between Lowell Community Health Center, Tufts Medicine, and Tufts University School of Medicine. The program is designed to expand access to care and strengthen the primary care workforce across Greater Lowell.

As founding director, Dr. Marshall has led the development of a rigorous, community-based training focused on clinical excellence and primary care. The program prepares future physicians to deliver care that is compassionate, evidence-based, and grounded in the realities of patient care.

Beginning in the summer of 2026, the residency will welcome six residents per year, with the inaugural class beginning training on June 29. Once fully established with 18 residents in training, the program will create capacity for approximately 5,000 primary care patients at Lowell Community Health Center and will graduate six new Family Medicine physicians each year.

“Cara’s leadership has been instrumental in building a residency program that reflects both the needs of our patients and the future of primary care,” said Kumble Rajesh, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Lowell Community Health Center. “This recognition reflects the strength of her work and the impact this program will have on access to care throughout the region.”

The award was presented at the MassAFP Annual Spring Meeting by Majed Abbas, MD, clinical assistant professor of family medicine, co-course director of the Competency-based Apprenticeship in Primary Care (CAP), and a member of the Core Faculty of the Lowell Community Health Center | Tufts Medicine | Family Medicine Residency.

May 8, 2025

Lowell Community Health Center Honors 2025 DAISY Award Recipients for Extraordinary Nursing

Lowell Community Health Center is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses: Bridget Porter of Adult Medicine and Sophornna “SO” Nuon of the PASS (Cariño) Department. Presented during National Nurses Week, the DAISY Award is a national recognition that honors nurses who provide extraordinary care with compassion and dedication.

L-R – Miranda Ribeiro, Nurse Manager for Adult Medicine, Susan West Levine, CEO, Sophornna Nuon, Bridget Porter, Elizabeth Hale, COO, Robert Wheeler, Chief Human Resources and Facilities Officer

This year’s honorees represent the best of Lowell CHC’s mission in action. Both Bridget and Sophornna are known for the unwavering compassion they show patients and the steady support they offer their colleagues every day.

“Bridget and Sophornna are examples of what it means to lead with compassion and respect,” said Elizabeth Hale DNP, RN, CENP, Chief Operating Officer of Lowell Community Health Center. “Bridget is someone her colleagues rely on without hesitation—whether it’s helping a new teammate or bringing calm during a hectic moment. And Sophornna is that rare kind of caregiver whose empathy shows in every interaction —from taking extra time to explain a diagnosis to singing softly to help ease a patient’s fear. Their peers see them not just as nurses, but as role models.”

According to peer nominations, Bridget Porter is someone who “always goes above and beyond to ensure her patients’ needs are fully met.” Team members described her as “the one everyone turns to when things get stressful” and praised her calm demeanor, constant willingness to help, and leadership by example. She was also commended for mentoring new staff, jumping in wherever needed, and creating a supportive environment where patients and colleagues feel valued and cared for. Her coworkers consistently described her as compassionate, patient-focused, and uplifting.

Sophornna Nuon, affectionately known as “SO,” was similarly recognized by his colleagues for the compassion and calm he brings to his work. As shared in multiple nominations, he is known for singing to frightened patients, helping unhoused individuals access care, and offering kindness and support in every interaction. His peers called him a “natural leader” and “the purest soul,” highlighting how his calm presence and clinical skill make patients feel safe and respected—especially in sensitive situations.

The DAISY Award was created by the DAISY Foundation to honor the exceptional work nurses do every day. Lowell CHC is proud to have been the first community health center in the nation to present the award annually. This year marked the fourth year of honoring our nurses with the DAISY Award during National Nurses Week, held from May 6 to May 12.

The awards were presented during a ceremony recognizing this year’s honorees and the vital role nurses play at Lowell CHC.

About the DAISY Award
The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Foundation was established in 1999 in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. The DAISY Award recognizes nurses whose clinical skill and compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that patients and families, as well as staff, remember and celebrate. Learn more at www.DAISYfoundation.org.

October 1, 2024

Lowell Community Health Center Recognized by HRSA

Lowell Community Health Center has been nationally recognized by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) through the 2024 Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) Badges. These prestigious recognitions highlight the health center’s commitment to improving health outcomes and access to care in Greater Lowell.

Lowell Community Health Center has been awarded badges in the following categories:

  • Access Enhancer – for increasing access to comprehensive care.
  • Health Disparities Reducer – for improving care for underserved populations and reducing health disparities.
  • Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT) for Quality – for leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes.
  • Addressing Social Risk Factors – for addressing the social determinants of health impacting our patients.

Additionally, Lowell Community Health Center continues to be recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home, reflecting our focus on comprehensive, coordinated care that puts our patients first. These recognitions underscore the health center’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, equitable care to the people of Greater Lowell. We are proud of the work our dedicated staff does every day to serve our community.

November 1, 2024

The Women’s Edge and The Boston Globe Name Lowell CHC Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts for 2024

Annual Award Highlights Women Leaders’ Impact on Massachusetts’ Economy and Community Health

Boston (November 1, 2024) – The Women’s Edge, in partnership with The Boston Globe, has once again recognized Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) among the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts for a sixth consecutive year. This honor celebrates women-led organizations that drive substantial economic and societal contributions statewide. This year’s honorees collectively generated more than $124 billion in revenue, underscoring the critical role of women leaders in advancing the region’s economy.

“We’re thrilled to be honored by The Boston Globe and The Women’s Edge once again this year,” said Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell Community Health Center. “This acknowledgment reflects our team’s commitment to serving the community with compassion and innovation. With our new pharmacy offering high-tech, multilingual service, the planned Health Justice Learning Institute aimed at creating future health career pathways for local youth, and our upcoming Family Medicine Residency Program addressing urgent workforce needs, we’re continually evolving to provide accessible, equitable care for Greater Lowell.”

UMass Lowell and Lowell CHC Teams at the Annual Top 100 Women-Led Businesses Breakfast on November 1, 2024.

Lowell Community Health Center congratulates UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen, the other Lowell organization recognized on this year’s list, as well as Deb Fowler, Co-Founder and Executive Director of History UnErased, for receiving The Women’s Edge Impact Award. We are honored to be part of such a distinguished group making a meaningful impact throughout the Commonwealth.

Susan West Levine, who nominated Deb for this recognition, added, “I am incredibly proud to congratulate Deb Fowler on receiving The Women’s Edge Impact Award. Her leadership and dedication to inclusive education through History UnErased have transformed classrooms and empowered students to see themselves reflected in history. This award is a testament to her remarkable contributions.”

This is the 24th year that The Women’s Edge has curated the Top 100 list, in collaboration with The Boston Globe for the past twelve years. The selection process includes evaluating revenue or operating budgets, workplace diversity, board composition, and innovative projects.

About Lowell Community Health Center

Lowell Community Health Center, established in 1970, is the healthcare home of choice for more than 36,000 individuals in Greater Lowell. At the heart of our mission lies a strong commitment to offering comprehensive and culturally responsive healthcare services, ensuring that every patient receives the care they need, regardless of financial status.

About The Women’s Edge

The Women’s Edge, a Boston-based nonprofit, supports women in leadership by offering relevant programs and fostering a diverse community of high-performing leaders. Visit thewomensedge.org for more information.

May 7, 2024

Lowell CHC Announces 2024 DAISY Award Recipients

Lowell Community Health Center is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses: Sary Sem and Tiffany Yonhorn. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the extraordinary care and compassion they demonstrate daily. Presented during National Nurses Week, the DAISY Award honors those who go above and beyond in delivering exceptional nursing care. Sary and Tiffany have distinguished themselves by their commitment to patient well-being and their ability to inspire their colleagues. The award highlights their invaluable contributions to the Lowell Community Health Center and underscores our commitment to excellence in nursing.

This year’s ceremony marked the third annual presentation of the DAISY Award at Lowell Community Health Center, which was the first community health center in the nation to begin presenting the Daisy Award annually. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s programs nationwide to recognize the extraordinary care nurses provide every day. The awards were presented during a luncheon last week for the health center’s nurses as part of the National Nurses Week celebrations held from May 6 to May 12. This year’s theme, “Nurses Make the Difference,” honors the incredible nurses who embody the spirit of compassion and care in every healthcare setting.

(L to R) Mary Wolfenden, Nurse Director of Family Medicine and the Metta Health Center, Dr. Kumble Rajesh, Chief Medical Officer, Susan West Levine, CEO, Tiffany Yonhorn and Sary Sem – 2024 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses awardees, Elizabeth Hale, Chief Operating Officer, Melanie Goyette, Nurse Director of Adult Medicine the Patient Walk-In Center and Specialty Care.

April 24, 2024

Dr. Ria Roberts Awarded Community Clinician of the Year

Lowell Community Health Center proudly announces that Dr. Ria Roberts has been honored as the Essex North District of the Massachusetts Medical Society’s 2024 Community Clinician of the Year.

An Andover resident, Yale-trained internist and Harvard-trained geriatrician, Dr. Roberts is the inaugural Medical Director for the Program for Healthy Aging at Lowell Community Health Center. Her expertise in geriatric medicine is exemplified by her comprehensive care model based on the “5 Ms” of Geriatric Medicine: Mind, Mobility, Multi-Complexity, Medications, and Matters Most. This award acknowledges her dedication to patient-centered care and her significant contributions to the field of geriatrics.

“Dr. Ria Roberts’ approach to addressing complex health issues in older adults, such as cognitive health and mobility, as well as her efforts to optimize medication management, truly sets her apart,” said Dr. Kumble Rajesh, Chief Medical Officer at Lowell Community Health Center. “This accolade is a fitting reflection of her exceptional work and the tangible impact she has made on our patients’ lives.”

Dr. Roberts holds a staff appointment at Lowell General Hospital and is a clinical instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. She also co-leads the Harvard Medical School’s Black Women in Medicine Committee. At Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Dr. Roberts contributes her expertise as a part-time academic hospitalist and leads initiatives for diversity, inclusion, and advocacy in Graduate Medical Education and the Department of Medicine.

Originally from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Roberts earned her medical degree from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences after completing her undergraduate studies at Brandeis University.

March 20, 2024

Sheila Och Honored by The Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy

Lowell Community Health Center is proud to announce that Sheila Och, Chief Engagement and Equity Officer, has been recognized by The Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy (IHE) as part of their “Women Leading the Charge” feature for Women’s History Month. This distinguished acknowledgment celebrates Sheila’s exceptional contributions to advancing health equity within the community health sector in Massachusetts.

In the “Women Leading the Charge” feature, Sheila shares her invaluable perspectives alongside other influential women leaders. Her dedication to enhancing community health through cultural proficiency, comprehensive engagement, and a steadfast commitment to addressing the social, emotional, and cultural factors impacting healthcare sets a benchmark for leadership in health equity.

In receiving the recognition, Och remarked about community health centers, “We aim to actively engage our communities and collaborate in health initiatives, outreach programs, and health education. This engagement helps foster a sense of ownership and empowerment, centers our communities’ voices and strengths in our work, and advances our mission to bridge the gap in health disparities.” 

Lowell Community Health Center is thrilled that Sheila’s work and the impact of our collective efforts are being recognized on such a prestigious platform. This accolade not only honors Sheila’s individual contributions but also highlights the critical role of community health centers in providing accessible, quality healthcare to underserved populations.

The Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy is an initiative of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers.

January 31, 2024

Lowell CHC’s Cindy Slaga, NP Recognized As 2024 Community Health Center Clinician of the Year  

Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) is proud to announce Cynthia (Cindy) Slaga, NP, as the 2024 Community Health Center Clinician of the Year, awarded by the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. Joining Dr. Stephanie Billings of Holyoke Health Center, Cindy is one of only two statewide recipients. She will receive this honor at the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers’ Annual Awards Gala on June 7th. 

Read the story in The Sun.

Cindy leads Lowell CHC’s school-based health center program, which includes centers at Lowell High School and Stoklosa Middle School. 

Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell CHC, speaks highly of Cindy: “Cindy’s dedication is evident the moment she speaks about her students and you see the smile and passion on her face. Her leadership has transformed our School-Based Health Centers into environments that are safe havens for students where they can receive comprehensive care and support.” 

Kumble Rajesh, Chief Medical Officer, comments on Cindy’s holistic approach: “Cindy ensures all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, receive complete health services. Her work addresses their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.” 

Elizabeth Hale, Chief Operating Officer, remarks on Cindy’s role: “Cindy is more than a clinician; she’s a trusted caregiver and advocate. Her innovative practices and commitment to health equity exemplify what this award signifies.” 

Cindy Slaga reflects on the award: “Thank you! I am truly honored. I appreciate all the support that has been given to the growth of the school-based health program. I am excited to share this recognition with our entire school-based health center team and the youth of Lowell. This award inspires me to continue the very important work of a community health center in meeting the unique healthcare needs of the community.” 

Since 2016, Cindy has been pivotal in Lowell CHC’s School-Based Health Center program, focusing on adolescent health. Her efforts during the pandemic and her continuous work in promoting health equity and innovative youth health services underscore her worthiness of this recognition. 

Cindy’s initiatives, like offering diverse contraceptive services and LGBTQIA+ support, and integrating behavioral health services into the School-Based Health Center program, demonstrate her commitment to addressing the varied needs of students. Additionally, her work providing healthcare and vaccines to refugees and new arrivals during summer breaks highlights her dedication to health equity. Most recently, she’s launched a Youth Advisory Council to further engage and ensure a student-centric program. 

Lowell CHC’s School-Based Health Centers facilitate academic achievement by ensuring medical and behavioral health services are accessible in the school environment. Recognizing that addressing students’ physical and mental health needs increases their readiness for learning, the centers aim to reduce class time missed and enhance lifelong success. 

November 3, 2023

The Women’s Edge and Globe Magazine Honor Lowell CHC in Annual Top 100 Women-Led Businesses

The Women’s Edge, in collaboration with Globe Magazine, has once again named Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) as one of the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts. This is the fifth consecutive year Lowell CHC has received this honor. This prestigious recognition celebrates women-led organizations that have a profound economic and societal impact here in Massachusetts.


“Our staff choose to dedicate their careers to this community, and our patients purposefully choose us for their care — a testament to the mutual trust and respect cultivated at Lowell CHC. Receiving this acknowledgment from The Women’s Edge and Globe Magazine for a fifth consecutive year is a remarkable honor that genuinely reflects the commitment and passion of our team,” expressed Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell Community Health Center. “We are honored to be included among such influential women-led organizations, including UMass Lowell, collectively driving progress and making a meaningful impact throughout Massachusetts.”

Now in its 23rd year, The Women’s Edge, a Boston-based nonprofit organization, has been steadfast in its commitment to uplifting women in leadership roles. This collaboration with Globe Magazine marks a decade of recognizing excellence across both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Criteria for the Top 100 list include revenue or operating budget, workplace and management diversity, board composition, and innovation in projects.

The 2023 awardees were celebrated at a special ceremony on November 3rd, with the full list of honorees available on Globe Magazine’s website.

The Women’s Edge 2023 Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in Massachusetts: https://thewomensedge.org/events-awards/top-100-women-led-businesses/massachusetts/2023-alphabetical-list/