October 21, 2025
Gehring and Sprunk recognized as 40 Under 40 honorees
For Immediate Release
(COLUMBUS, Neb.) – Columbus Community Hospital nurses Kayla Gehring, MSN, MBA, RN, and Natalie Sprunk, MSN, RN, were recently honored at the Nebraska Nurses Association (NNA) Annual Convention as members of the 2025 40 Under 40 class. The recognition ceremony took place Oct. 3 at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney, Nebraska.
Gehring and Sprunk were selected for their outstanding leadership, dedication and contributions to the nursing profession in Nebraska. The annual 40 Under 40 Awards, presented by the NNA and the Nebraska Organization of Nursing Leadership (NONL), celebrate emerging nurse leaders under the age of 40 who are making a meaningful impact in their workplaces and communities.
“I am incredibly proud of Kayla and Natalie for this well-deserved recognition,” said Tawny Sandifer, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, chief nursing officer at Columbus Community Hospital. “Their leadership, professionalism and commitment to excellence reflect the very best of nursing. They inspire others through their dedication to delivering exceptional care — not only to our patients, but to our entire community.”
Each honoree receives recognition for excellence in clinical practice, education, administration, research, policy involvement or community engagement. This honor highlights Gehring’s and Sprunk’s commitment to improving patient care, elevating nursing standards and advancing the profession both locally and statewide.
“The 40 Under 40 Awards shine a light on nurses who are leading with purpose, compassion and vision,” said Megan Lowery, MSN-Ed, RN, executive director of the Nebraska Nurses Association. “These honorees inspire those around them, elevate the quality of care in our communities and exemplify the leadership that defines nursing in Nebraska.”
Each year, the NNA and NONL ask for nominations of emerging nurse leaders. A joint review committee evaluates these nominations and selects honorees based on professional excellence and leadership potential. The organizations officially recognize award recipients each October during the NNA Annual Convention Awards Breakfast.
Columbus Community Hospital congratulates Gehring and Sprunk on this well-deserved honor and thanks them for their continued service and leadership.
To learn more about Columbus Community Hospital, visit columbushosp.org.
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Contact:
Amy Blaser, VP Physician Relations/Business Development
aeblaser@columbushosp.org, (402) 562-3371