Jerry Karbeling was a member of the Iowa Rural Health Association and served on the Board for 5 years.  He served as President of the Association in 2002-2003. At the time of his death in 2005, Jerry was the Senior Vice President for Public Affairs and Corporate Development for the Iowa Pharmacists Association, a practicing community pharmacist, and owner of Big Creek Pharmacy in Polk City. He was a healthcare activist, an adjunct professor, and served on the City Council of Polk City.


The Iowa Rural Health Association seeks to recognize Jerry’s legacy, and to retain the memory of his contributions. The Jerry Karbeling award will be presented on an annual basis to a member of the Iowa Rural Health Association. The award will recognize an individual who has demonstrated successful activism for improving rural health and a commitment to community service as exemplified by Jerry.

The individual’s contributions should include:

1. Respected leader in the healthcare industry;
2. Community oriented as evidenced by serving on boards/committees, for the purpose of advancing a healthy lifestyle;
3. Activist as identified by participation and enthusiasm in developing public health policy.

The letter of nomination should include documentation to the above three categories, and be accompanied by 3 letters of support speaking to the nominees effectiveness as a health leader, a community minded individual, and previous policy contributions at the local, state, or national level.

The nomination should be submitted to the Iowa Rural Health Association by August 1 of each year.

Contact Melissa Primus at IRHA