Meet the Staff
Heidi Lucas
Heidi comes to MRHA with expertise in healthcare advocacy & policy, the social determinants of health, & coalition & community building. She is particularly skilled in expanding the capability & reach of organizations she has led, especially in influencing critical policy & legislative decisions. She is passionate about expanding access to healthcare in rural communities & believes healthcare should be a right and not a privilege.
Executive Director
MRHA
Sharlet Kroll
Sharlet joined MRHA following a career in state government where she worked for over 25 years in public health. She is experienced in managing statewide programs, budgets, and grants. Sharlet holds a master’s in public affairs from the University of Missouri. She was raised in rural Missouri and has a deep love of rural life.
Director of Projects & Initiatives
MRHA
Rachel Hassani
Rachel draws on a background in state government, policy, and advocacy to deliver MRHA’s outreach and training initiatives. She enjoys volunteering in her community, traveling with her family, and exploring local trails. A proud Southwest Missouri native, Rachel holds a master’s degree in public affairs and a certificate in project management. She is an alumna of Missouri State University and the University of Missouri.
Director of Education & Engagement
MRHA
Derek Landes
Derek has over 10 years of experience in nonprofits, specializing in rural healthcare for the last five years. With a master’s in social work focused on rural health policy, advocacy, & intervention development, Derek addresses challenges in rural communities through technology & engages in clinical supervision, research, & strategy, while residing outside of Kansas City with his family.
Director of Healthcare Technology & Research
MRHA