Lowell Community Health Center’s Lorna Kiplagat, a dedicated and accomplished Community Health Worker (CHW) in the Community Health Department, has been named the 2025 Statewide CHW of the Year by the Massachusetts Association of Community Health Workers (MACHW).

The award was presented earlier this month at the 2025 Community Health Worker Conference held at the DCU Center in Worcester, preceding a weeklong celebration of Community Health Work across Massachusetts. This year’s conference theme—”Celebrating the Resilience and Innovation of Community Health Workers”—honored the impact and commitment of CHWs who serve as vital links between communities and care.

“Lorna exemplifies what community health work is all about—compassion, advocacy, and results,” said Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell CHC. “Her work has improved blood pressure control, increased patient confidence, and ensured patients stay connected to care. What makes her stand out is not only her results, but her deep respect for the people she serves and her natural leadership in mentoring others.”

Lorna was recognized for her leadership in a pilot program focused on improving outcomes for patients with hypertension. Her role included providing education in ways that reflect patients’ needs and preferences, ensuring consistent follow-up, and helping patients navigate access to care—from scheduling appointments to connecting with specialists. Patients consistently report feeling more confident managing their health thanks to her support. Her efforts have also improved communication between providers and patients, contributing to better treatment adherence and more effective care plans.

A respected mentor and advocate, Lorna shares her knowledge freely with new CHWs and has influenced program improvements to better align care with the real-life priorities of the community.

The CHW of the Year Award is given annually in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Office of Community Health Workers. For more about MACHW and Community Health Work Week, visit machw.org.