Five Questions With Shelley Spires
Highlighting ACU Members Advancing Care in Underserved Communities
As part of ACU’s Five Questions With… spotlight series, we’re highlighting the dedicated ACU Members whose leadership and lived experience help advance compassionate, community-centered care. This series offers a closer look at the people behind the work, what motivates them, what they’ve learned, and why serving communities with the greatest need remains at the heart of their careers.
In this edition, we’re honored to feature Shelley Spires, CEO of Albany Area Primary Health Care (AAPHC). Shelley has worked with Albany Area Primary Health Care for nearly two decades and now leads the organization in expanding access to high-quality care for rural and underserved communities in southwest Georgia. In addition to her leadership locally, Shelley is an active leader within ACU, where she serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors. Through her involvement with ACU, she helps elevate the voices and experiences of clinicians and health centers serving underserved populations, including sharing perspectives with policymakers on workforce challenges facing these communities.
Tell Us About Yourself
Earlier in my career, I served as Human Resource Director for America’s Counseling Service from 1998 to 2000. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management from Georgia Southwestern State University in 1998 and later completed a Master of Science in Health Care Management from Troy State University in 2003. Beginning my service in the Health Center World, I served as Human Resource Director until 2009 and was later promoted to Deputy Director before being selected to lead the organization as CEO in September 2015.
Why Did You Choose to Focus on Caring for Underserved Communities?
My background includes witnessing and experiencing life in an underserved situation. It put my family and me in a vulnerable situation when it came to health care and oral care. The saying “pay it forward” applies in this situation. Someone gave me a chance, and now it is my time to give back.
What Motivates You in Your Day-to-Day Work?
The patients and staff motivate me. When things get tough or challenging, I visit a clinic and spend time with patients and staff. This is a reminder of why I do what I do.
What Does ACU Mean to You?
ACU is very special to me. I get the privilege of sharing stories and experiences with people like myself. It has afforded educational opportunities for provider staff and leadership around rural health care. It really focuses on strengthening the workforce, which is very helpful. As a National Health Service Corps ambassador, I’ve seen how this wonderful program has benefited so many over the 25 years I’ve been with AAPHC.
“I get the privilege of sharing stories and experiences with people like myself.”
What Would You Like People to Know About Underserved Communities and Their Health Needs?
People should be aware that the lack of resources, along with the role of State Departments of Health, plays a significant role in whether people receive health care. The big question is, “Why aren’t they worthy of the same resources that larger cities have access to?” That question continues to drive my advocacy for rural communities. I want to spend my work life working hard for rural communities to ensure they always have access to care.
“People should be aware that the lack of resources, and that the State Departments of Health play such a big role in people receiving health care.”
Get Involved with ACU
Shelley’s leadership and decades of experience show that lasting change comes from persistent advocacy and building systems that truly meet the needs of rural communities. Through its trainings, advocacy, and professional community, ACU brings together clinicians and leaders committed to expanding access to practical, compassionate care in communities with the greatest need.
Interested in getting involved with ACU? Learn more about membership, explore benefits, and discover opportunities to connect, lead, and grow within the ACU community.
