RHAU Appoints Tracy Braithwaite as Student Representative to Board of Directors

August 4, 2025

St. George, UT — The Rural Health Association of Utah (RHAU) is proud to announce the appointment of Tracy Braithwaite as the new student representative to its Board of Directors. Tracy brings a strong passion for rural healthcare and an impressive background in emergency medical services, leadership, and community advocacy.

Tracy was raised in Moroni, a small town in northern Sanpete County, and has deep roots in rural Utah. He began his healthcare journey as a volunteer EMT and later became a paramedic, serving with North Sanpete Ambulance Service (NSAS) where he held leadership positions including Supervisor, Training Officer, and Chair of the Board of Directors. Tracy has also served on the EMS Operations Subcommittee with the Utah Bureau of EMS and was an associate member of the Rural EMS Directors of Utah, advocating for rural EMS systems statewide.

His professional experience includes working as a public safety dispatcher and paramedic for both Gold Cross Ambulance in Provo and Mountain West Ambulance in Tooele. He received his AAS in Emergency Care & Rescue from Weber State University in 2015 and completed a B.S. in Emergency Services Administration from Utah Valley University in 2023. Tracy is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Utah's St. George campus, selected specifically for its emphasis on preparing students to serve rural communities.

Tracy's long-term goal is to return to a rural Utah community as a practicing PA, continuing his commitment to improving access to high-quality healthcare in underserved areas.

“Tracy brings a unique blend of frontline experience, leadership, and a clear dedication to rural health,” said Kasey Shakespear, Executive Director of RHAU. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the board and look forward to the insight and perspective he will bring as a student and future rural healthcare provider.”

Tracy’s appointment reflects RHAU’s commitment to engaging emerging professionals and ensuring that the voice of rural healthcare students helps shape the future of healthcare in Utah.