Barbour Community Health Association (BCHA) has named longtime Barbour County community advocate Josh Allen as its new Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant leadership transition following the retirement of Deborah “Debbie” Schoonover after 25 years of service, according to a press release from BCHA.
Allen’s appointment supports BCHA’s continued mission to provide high-quality, accessible care to patients across Barbour County and surrounding communities.
A former Barbour County resident for more than 20 years, Allen previously served as BCHA’s Community Engagement Specialist and has been part of key community initiatives through the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP). He brings a strong background in community engagement, leadership, and a deep commitment to rural health which will help strengthen patient services, support staff, and advance BCHA’s long-term goals.
In addition to his work at BCHA, Allen serves in a leadership role with the West Virginia Hope in Action Alliance (HIAA), a statewide nonprofit focused on strengthening community well-being across West Virginia and the Appalachian region. He joined HIAA in 2023, was elected to its Board of Directors in 2024, and then served as Vice Chair. Most recently he has assumed the role of Chairperson beginning in 2026. Prior to joining BCHA, Allen spent more than five years as Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Alderson Broaddus University and previously served as Director of Alumni Relations, where he led fundraising, engagement, and relationship-building initiatives.
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving a community that’s been a part of my life for more than 20 years,” Allen said. “My focus is simple: support our staff and make it easier for patients to get the care they need.”
Allen said he plans to focus his first year on listening, learning, and building upon the strong operational framework already in place. His priorities include supporting staff development, enhancing communication and collaboration across all sides, and continuing to reduce barriers to care for patients, particularly those in rural areas who may face challenges with transportation, costs, or insurance coverage.
“Josh is an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” said Eric Ruf, Chief Executive Officer of Barbour Community Health Association. “His operational experience, strategic mindset, and commitment to community health make him the right person to carry forward the work that Debbie so faithfully led for 25 years. We are excited for the expertise and energy he brings to the organization.”
BCHA’s mission is to ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare for all, serving patients with insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and those without insurance through its Health Access program. It also operates wellness and school-based health centers that support the health of students, families, and community members.
The leadership transition comes as Barbour Community Health continues expanding services to meet growing demand for accessible healthcare in rural West Virginia. For more information about Barbour Community Health Association and its services, visit barbourhealth.org.
