OWOSSO, Mich., July 7, 2025 – Ben Frederick, associate vice president of advocacy, government relations, and business development at Memorial Healthcare, recently received the Michigan Health & Hospital Administration’s (MHA) Healthcare Leadership Award at MHA’s Annual Membership Meeting. This prestigious award recognizes healthcare leaders who have demonstrated exceptional advocacy for the health and well-being of their healthcare organization and the community.

Nominees for this award were judged in two categories: organizational contributions as well as leadership and culture contributions. The winner of the award was selected through a workgroup of MHA members. Frederick was nominated by Brian L. Long, president and CEO of Memorial Health System, and Tom Kurtz, president and CEO of Memorial Healthcare.

“At Memorial Health System, we are driven by a shared commitment to serving our communities in innovative, sustainable ways—beyond the walls of the hospital—while preserving our identity as a strong, independent healthcare organization,” said Long. “Ben’s leadership in advocacy and government relations has been instrumental in advancing that mission. His work builds vital connections, secures critical resources, and ensures that Memorial remains a trusted partner in improving health and well-being across the region.”

Since joining Memorial Healthcare in early 2023, Frederick has secured annual funding to support hospital operations and birthing services. He also led efforts to earn a grant from the Michigan Health & Hospital Association for behavioral health support and several maternal health grants. He has worked to strengthen the hospital’s student partnership with the Shiawassee RESD’s Health Science Academy program and secured changes in insurer policies to allow for proper hospital reimbursement and improved patient experience, among many other notable successes.

“Ben leads with integrity, purpose, and a genuine commitment to service,” said Kurtz. “His work has had a measurable impact across our organization and the communities we serve. Beyond the impressive outcomes, it’s Ben’s collaborative spirit and forward-thinking leadership that make him truly deserving of this recognition.”

“This is an award that is received only due to the support and excellence of our entire team and serves as a reflection of Memorial’s outstanding commitment to continuous improvement and community relations,” said Frederick. I’m honored to be serving on behalf of my hometown hospital as we continue to ensure world-class care is available for our patients.”

To learn more about the MHA Healthcare Leadership Award, visit: https://www.mha.org/about/awards/healthcare-leadership-award/

Pictured above (l-r): Tom Kurtz, President & CEO, Memorial Healthcare; Abbie Majzel, Chief Administrative Officer, Memorial Health System; Ben and his wife, Lydia; and Brian L. Long, President & CEO, Memorial Health System.