(April 3, 2026) – We know many people in Kansas play a key role in improving hospitals and health care in our communities. Whether they work inside or outside our ranks, the Kansas Hospital Association wants to recognize their efforts. To honor those who have gone above and beyond, please let us know by nominating them before 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 their lifetime of service and ongoing contributions to the health care of Kansas. It is the highest honor awarded by KHA. Established in 1971, this award commemorates KHA's first president, Charles. S. Billings for his dedication and years of service to Kansans.
Distinguished Health Care Advocate Award – This award honors individuals, organizations or groups that have demonstrated their commitment to health care through public involvement. It provides KHA members the chance to honor those who work on our behalf from 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 initiatives that improve the health and clinical outcomes of their community. This award was established in 2007 to honor long-time KHA president and CEO Donald A. Wilson's dedication and years of service to Kansans.
Board of the Year Award (New Award) – This award 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 celebrates hospital boards of directors who provide an exemplary contribution through their leadership and governance.
Heart of Health Care Award – This award honors the excellence of health care workers across the state and was formerly known as the Health Care Worker of the Year Award. All nominated employees (one from each hospital) will be recognized by KHA for their significant contributions to the betterment of their hospital.
Workforce Strategies Award – The award recognizes a team of employees, providers or volunteers who have collaboratively made a significant impact on the well-being, retention or recruitment of health care workers at their facility(s) or in Kansas.
Thank you in advance for your help in identifying and highlighting individuals who deserve recognition. Nominations are due by June 1 and should be submitted using our online awards portal. Learn more about KHA awards online.
--Chad Austin