(May 8, 2026) – We know many individuals in Kansas are instrumental in making a difference for hospitals and the health care they provide in our communities. Whether these individuals work in a hospital or outside our ranks, the Kansas Hospital Association wants to recognize their efforts. To honor those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, we need you to nominate them by June 1. KHA members are encouraged to submit nominations through our online awards portal for the following awards:
Charles S. Billings Award – This award recognizes a hospital leader for a lifetime of service and ongoing contributions to health care in Kansas. It is KHA's top honor. Established in 1971, it honors KHA's first president, Charles S. Billings, for his dedication and years of service to Kansans.
Distinguished Health Care Advocate Award – The award honors individuals, organizations or groups that have demonstrated their commitment to health care through public engagement. This award gives KHA members the opportunity to recognize those who work on our behalf outside our ranks.
Donald A. Wilson Visionary Award – The award recognizes hospital-related individuals who have made outstanding, innovative contributions to health care delivery, health care financing or to initiatives that improve the health and clinical outcomes of their community. Established in 2007, the award honors the long-time KHA president and CEO Donald A. Wilson's dedication and years of service to Kansans.
NEW Board of the Year Award – The award recognizes and honors hospital boards of directors who are leaders, give back to the community and routinely go beyond the call of duty. KHA members are encouraged to recognize hospital boards that have served with distinction and made significant contributions to the betterment of their hospital and community. The award honors hospital boards of directors for their exemplary leadership and governance.
Heart of Health Care Award – The award recognizes and honors the excellence of health care workers statewide. Previously known as the Health Care Worker of the Year Award. All nominated employees (one employee from each hospital) will be recognized by KHA for making a significant contribution to their hospital's betterment.
Workforce Strategies Award – The award recognizes a team of employees, providers or volunteers who collaborated to make a significant contribution to the well-being, retention or recruitment of health care workers at their facility(ies) or in Kansas.
I thank you in advance for your assistance in identifying and highlighting those individuals deserving of recognition. Nominations are due by June 1 and can be submitted through our online awards portal. Learn more about KHA awards online.
--Cindy Samuelson