The Robert J. Greczyn, Jr. Community Health Center Leadership Award was established by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation in partnership with the North Carolina Community Health Center Association (NCCHCA) to honor Bob Greczyn, CEO Emeritus of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina and former Chairman of the BCBSNC Foundation.

Bob's career began at a Community Health Center in Anson County. He often credits that experience with opening his eyes to the health care needs of North Carolinians. To return to his roots as well as celebrate his legacy of leadership and commitment to the health and well-being of North Carolinians, this award program has been established in his name.

The Award is given annually and honors a community health center professional excelling in service to his or her fellow North Carolinians in the field of public health and primary care. Recipients receive a commissioned vase handcrafted by renowned Seagrove, North Carolina potter Ben Owen III; along with a $25,000 grant that goes toward advancing the work of his/her community health center.

2010 Recipient

The inaugural Robert J. Greczyn, Jr. Community Health Center Leadership Award was presented to Brian Toomey, chief executive officer of Piedmont Health Services based in Carrboro.

“Bob Greczyn’s career began at a community health center in Anson County, so it was our desire to honor his legacy of leadership and highlight the vital work of our state’s community health centers,” said Kathy Higgins, president of the BCBSNC Foundation. “One of Bob’s many great strengths was his ability to lead others toward making a difference in the lives of North Carolinians, something evident in Brian’s work at Piedmont Health Services. We congratulate him on this honor and for being a model for others in the field.”

The award recognizes excellence in leadership and an overall commitment to improving the health of North Carolinians. It was announced at the NCCHCA Annual Meeting on June 11 in Asheville.

“Brian is very well respected nationally for his innovative efforts in community collaboration. He has established partnerships that are truly leading the way for community health centers across the state,” said Ben Money, chief executive officer of the NCCHCA. “Brian embodies the tireless efforts needed to ensure that all North Carolinians have access to health care services.”

Pictured from left to right: Kathy Higgins, President, BCBSNC Foundation; Bob Greczyn, CEO Emeritus, BCBSNC; Brian Toomey, Chief Executive Officer, Piedmont Health Services; Ben Money, Chief Executive Officer, NCCHCA