Bethany Blackburn, CEO of North Side Christian Health Center (NSCHC), was elected President of the Three Rivers Alliance of Community Health Centers (TRACHC) on February 13, 2026. TRACHC is a 501(c)(3) organization comprised of six Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) serving underserved residents across the greater Pittsburgh region.

Federally Qualified Health Centers represent the largest network of primary health care providers in the United States, delivering comprehensive, high-quality services to patients regardless of their ability to pay. Rooted in the communities they serve, FQHCs work to eliminate barriers to care, advance health equity, and improve overall community health outcomes. Yet despite their critical role, they often operate below the radar — even in a city widely recognized for its world-class hospitals, research institutions, and medical innovation.

"Pittsburgh tells a powerful story about healthcare, but that story is incomplete without the FQHCs that have been serving our most vulnerable neighbors for decades," said Blackburn. "My vision is to bring these health centers the visibility they deserve and to work with regional partners on workforce development — because the future of community health depends on both."

In alignment with NSCHC’s mission to provide compassionate, patient-centered care to all — especially those facing economic and social barriers — Blackburn has identified workforce development as a key priority. She plans to engage regional academic institutions and employer partners to build a sustainable pipeline of clinicians and support staff committed to serving underserved populations.

Blackburn brings to this leadership role a deep commitment to community-based care and health equity, informed by her tenure as CEO of North Side Christian Health Center since August 2021. Under her leadership, NSCHC has continued expanding access to integrated medical, dental, and behavioral health services, strengthening its impact on the individuals and families who rely on it most.

Bethany Blackburn Elected President of TRACHC