Wilson Medical Center Board Honored as 2026 KHA Board of the Year

In the News, Our Stories | 09/28/26

The Wilson Medical Center Board of Trustees was named the 2026 Kansas Hospital Association Board of the Year, a distinction recognizing hospital boards that demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment, advocacy and impact.

The honor was presented September 11 during the KHA Annual Convention and Awards Luncheon in Overland Park, where the full Wilson Medical Center Board joined fellow hospital leaders from across Kansas to celebrate the people working every day to strengthen health care in their communities. Wilson Medical Center was one of only two Kansas hospital boards selected for the 2026 honor.

The recognition reflects work that extends far beyond the boardroom. KHA specifically recognized the Wilson Medical Center trustees for visionary rural health care leadership, collaboration, community stewardship and a willingness to go beyond traditional models to strengthen access and sustainability.

Among the board's most significant efforts has been its support of Southeast Kansas Health, a regional cooperative bringing hospitals and behavioral health organizations together around shared challenges and opportunities. The board also supported an innovative executive leasing agreement with Labette Health, strengthening regional relationships while positioning Wilson Medical Center for continued growth and sustainability.

But perhaps the most meaningful measure of the award is what happens beyond the boardroom. Every decision ultimately comes back to people.

People who need care close to home. People who choose to build their lives in Southeast Kansas. And the physicians, nurses, therapists, technicians, support staff and countless others who walk through Wilson Medical Center's doors each day ready to care for them.

The Board of Trustees — Chad Estes, Board Chairman; Justin Newland, Vice Chair; Michael Springer, Secretary; Amy Brown, Trustee; Drew Johnson, Trustee; Mitchell Peitz, Trustee; and Miranda McKellar, MD, Treasurer provides the leadership and stewardship behind that work.

Keeping a rural hospital operating takes dedication. Building one that is positioned to thrive takes vision. The 2026 KHA Board of the Year recognition celebrates both, and the people who continue to believe that the future of rural health care is worth building together.