Hetal Patel

Hetal Patel is an experienced professional focused on leadership and community development within rural areas. Currently serving as the Rural Forward NC Program Manager at MDC since September 2021, Hetal provides facilitation, consultation, and leadership coaching to support local leaders. Previously, Hetal held the role of Rural Forward NC Partnership Manager at the Foundation for Health Leadership & Innovation from May 2020 to September 2021, contributing similar services to enhance community initiatives. Prior to that, Hetal was the Executive Director/CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Eden, overseeing its operations and mission fulfillment. Additional experience includes serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA with the Corporation for National and Community Service, a Family and Consumer Science Agent with NC Cooperative Extension, and various internship roles related to nutrition and community engagement. Hetal holds a degree from East Carolina University, completed in 2016.