Newman Regional Health Chief Nursing Officer Heather Aylward Honored with Kansas State Nurses Association Nurse Administrator of the Year Award 

(EMPORIA, KS) The Kansas State Nurses Association (KSNA), the state’s premier professional organization for registered nurses, announced Heather Aylward, RN, MSN, Chief Nursing Officer at Newman Regional Health, as the recipient of its Nurse Administrator of the Year Award. This accolade recognizes Aylward’s exceptional leadership, innovative contributions to nursing practice, and unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare in Kansas communities. 

The KSNA, with a mission to protect and enhance registered professional nursing practice in all environments, serves as a unified voice for nursing in Kansas. KSNA promotes nursing standards through accreditation, education, professional development, research, and legislative advocacy. It represents nurses licensed in Kansas and has been instrumental in fostering excellence in the field for over a century. 

Aylward was nominated for her ongoing commitment and dedicated service in nursing at Newman Regional Health and beyond. With 16 years of dedicated service at the organization—beginning as an obstetrics nurse and advancing to lead the Women’s Life Center for 11 years before assuming her current role as CNO—Aylward has spearheaded initiatives addressing the nursing shortage, including partnerships with local educational institutions like Emporia State University and Flint Hills Technical College. During her time, Newman Regional Health achieved ACHC reaccreditation in 2025, validating the hospital’s commitment to clinical excellence and teamwork. She has also driven the facility’s receipt of the High 5 for Mom & Baby Premier Recognition in April 2025 for outstanding maternity care and supported scholarship programs that have funded nursing education for dozens of students. Aylward’s innovative use of advanced fetal monitoring technologies and her focus on compassionate, patient-centered care have elevated standards in obstetrics and women’s health, making her a role model for nurses statewide. 

“Heather’s visionary leadership has not only strengthened our nursing team but has directly improved outcomes for families across Lyon County and beyond,” said Cathy Pimple, CEO of Newman Regional Health. “Her tireless service—mentoring the next generation of nurses, championing accreditation efforts, and ensuring every patient receives the highest standard of care—exemplifies the heart of what it means to be a nurse leader. We are immensely proud of her and grateful for the profound impact she continues to make every day.” 

Aylward was nominated by Diana Moore (SANE Coordinator for NRH) and stated: 

“Heather’s impact reaches far beyond administrative duties. She is a tireless advocate for safe, high-quality care and the advancement of the nursing profession. Her door is always open; she is never shy to step in and help when needed. She has been essential in promoting and advancing the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program for Newman Regional Health. She provides guidance, support, and continuing education to those who want to practice in this field. I know I always have an advocate for the work that I do.” 

The Nurse Administrator of the Year Award, part of KSNA’s suite of recognition programs, honors nurses who demonstrate excellence in knowledge of their practice area, innovative care delivery, and selfless dedication during challenging times. Nominations for the award highlight recipients’ ability to inspire colleagues and advocate for health equity, aligning with KSNA’s core values.