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2025 Honorees
Enrique Ayala
Medical Center Hospital
Enrique Orona Ayala is a dedicated and compassionate registered nurse, he began his nursing career at Odessa College earning his Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and receiving the Asset to the Profession award in December of 2022. He started his first nursing position at Medical Center Hospital on 9C telemetry Stroke Unit, where he continues to work today, gaining valuable experience and providing compassionate, evidence-based care to his patients. Committed to professional growth, Enrique continued to further his education in nursing by graduating in May 2024 from Texas Tech University with his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). He has great plans of expanding his experience in the Medical Centers Intensive Care Unit in the near future and he is also aspiring to advance his education and go back to school. Known for his dedication, teamwork, and patient-centered approach, Enrique strives to make a positive impact in every aspect of his nursing practice. Enrique is honored to receive this award.
Jacob Tanner Barb
Continue Care Hospital Odessa
Jacob Tanner Barb is the Chief Nursing Officer at ContinueCARE Hospital at Medical Center, a Community Hospital Corporation facility. In this role, he provides strategic and operational leadership for a long-term acute care hospital located within Medical Center Hospital.
Nationally recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of its Rising Stars: 100 Healthcare Leaders Under 40 (2025), Tanner is known for transforming nursing operations into high-reliability, high-performance systems that consistently surpass national benchmarks. He has spearheaded the development of shared governance councils, built strong academic partnerships to strengthen workforce pipelines, and implemented evidence-based clinical pathways that have reduced harm events, improved throughput, and enhanced patient outcomes. Tanner’s leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to excellence, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and empowerment among nursing teams.
He holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Arkansas State University, a Master of Science in Business Administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Tennessee State University. He is currently pursuing his Doctor of Nursing Practice at Arkansas State University. Tanner is a Board-Certified Nurse Executive (CENP), a Six Sigma Black Belt, and a recognized thought leader in sustainable, high-performing care models. Actively engaged in professional advocacy, Tanner is a member of AAN, AONL, TONL, ACHE, ANA, TNA, and Sigma Theta Tau, working to advance health equity and shape the future of nursing leadership.
Areli Bustamante
Medical Center Hospital
Areli Bustamante began her nursing career in 2009 as a Nurse Intern and graduated from Odessa College with an associate degree in 2010. She received her BSN in 2016 from Chamberlain College of Nursing. Areli has been employed at Medical Center Health System for 16 years and currently serves as a Charge Nurse in Critical Care. She is an exemplary leader and role model to her fellow nurses. She received the Florence Nightingale Nurse of the Year Award in 2019. She is a member of the American Association of Critical Nurses and several other committees at Medical Center Hospital. She is grateful for all the life experiences, mentors along the way, and family that have supported her throughout her career. She is a leader by faith and is dedicated to improve patient outcomes. She is proud to work with an awesome group of nurses. Her greatest pride is her son Isaac and daughter Jeseli and thanks them for being patient throughout her nursing career. Areli is honored and humbled to have been selected as a Permian Basin Great 25 Nurse.
Johnna Crossland
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Permian Basin
In 1997, Johnna Crossland graduated from Angelo State University and began her career as a community health nurse. She gained valuable experience working with a home health agency and an internal medicine physician before embarking on an 18-year career as a dedicated school nurse.
During a medical mission trip to Africa, Johnna discovered a deep passion for teaching. Inspired by this experience, she returned to school and earned her Master of Science in Nursing Education from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2018.
Currently, Johnna serves as a Level 4 nursing instructor at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing on the Odessa campus. She finds great fulfillment in guiding and supporting her students on their journey to becoming registered nurses. In addition to her academic role, she has had the honor of serving on the board of The Springboard Center in Midland, TX, for the past year.
Kristie Cummins
Medical Center Hospital
Kristie Cummins is an RN with over four years of experience in MedSurg nursing and is nationally certified in the specialty. In this role, she built a strong foundation in clinical skills, patient education, and collaborative care, earning a reputation for reliability and compassion.
Just before beginning nursing school, Kristie experienced the devastating loss of her son, Dakota. This life-changing event became a driving force behind her commitment to nursing, shaping a deep sense of empathy and resilience that carries into every aspect of patient care.
Currently serving in the Emergency Department, Kristie thrives in a fast-paced environment, where critical thinking and quick response are essential. With a passion for providing quality care during patients’ most vulnerable moments, she brings both technical expertise and a calming presence to each encounter.
Dedicated to lifelong learning and professional growth, Kristie continues to expand her knowledge and skills while striving to make a meaningful impact on patients, families, and the healthcare community.
Megan Davidson
Midland Memorial Hospital
Megan Davidson is the Nurse Manager of the Progressive Care Unit at Midland Memorial Hospital. She graduated with her BSN in 2016 from the University of Texas-Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas. She began her career in the Neurological Trauma ICU at UTMB, as she always had a passion for caring for critically ill patients. She ended up relocating to the Midland area when she met her now husband, Taylor, when working on a travel assignment in the area. She started her career at Midland Memorial working as a travel nurse where she quickly fell in love with the people she worked with and the hospital system. She later came on as a staff nurse and was promoted to Charge Nurse. She recently stepped into her current role as a Nurse Manager and is excited to continue to grow the unit and develop the nurses further to support better patient outcomes. She is involved in numerous committees within the hospital as she is always wanting to improve patient safety while increasing nurse satisfaction. She is a board-certified Critical Care Nurse and is passionate about furthering her education while developing an advanced leadership skillset. She currently serves on the Permian Basin Organization of Nurse Leaders as the Secretary/Treasurer for the local chapter. She is honored and grateful to have been chosen as a Permian Basin Great 25 Nurse.
Trinity Doan
Midland Memorial Hospital
Trinity was born and raised in Vietnam and moved to the United States in 2012. Valuing education, her parents worked tirelessly to support her dream of becoming a nurse, a commitment that Trinity holds close to her heart as part of her success.
She began her nursing journey at Midland Memorial Hospital in 2017 as an intern while completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), where she graduated as valedictorian. After graduating in 2019, she joined the Critical Care Unit (CCU), where she has devoted her career to caring for and helping others.
Over the years, the CCU has become more than just a workplace — it has become her second family. Trinity loves what she does and deeply values the opportunity to work alongside such a skilled and compassionate team. She currently serves as a charge nurse, leading her team with dedication and compassion.
Trinity is a member of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) and holds a national board certification in Critical Care (CCRN).
Outside of nursing, Trinity and her supportive, loving husband, Michael, own Jayden Nail Spa, a three-time Readers’ Choice award-winning local business. Together, they are proud parents to two young sons, Jayden and Adam.
Trinity is deeply honored to be selected as part of the Permian Basin Great 25 Nurses Class of 2025.
Christine Everett
VA Medical Center
Christine’s nursing journey began in 1993 after graduating from Western Texas College LVN program. In 2002, she received her associate’s degree in nursing from Vernon college and went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University in 2017. Christine is passionate about serving in the rural community and has served Howard County and five surrounding counties in the role of certified Pediatric and Adult sexual assault nurse examiner since 2004. Her nursing career began at Scenic Mountain Medical Center where she provided compassionate care for over 25 years in the emergency room. She served as charge nurse, preceptor and leader to fellow nurses. During her journey at Scenic Mountain Medical Center, she also served in the role of Trauma Coordinator to improve processes and the culture in the emergency department. Christine also served in the roles of Infection Control and Risk Management. In 2020, Christine followed the Lord’s calling to serve Veterans at West Texas VA. In May 2025, Christine received Daisy Award at West Texas VA for assisting a veteran obtain a heater during the winter when he notified her that his current one was leaking carbon monoxide. July 2025, Christine received the Edith Rust Medical Service Award during the 2025 Texas Association Against Sexual Assault Conference for her commitment to sexual assault survivors. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and traveling to watch her daughter play softball at the collegiate level. She actively serves with Awana and in the nursery at her church home. Christine is honored to be chosen as a Permian Basin Great 25 Nurse and being the hands and feet of Jesus while serving veterans and their families
Dr. Lori Forbus
Midland Memorial Hospital
Dr. Lori Forbus is the Recognition Program Manager at Midland Memorial Hospital, where she champions excellence in nursing practice through initiatives in accreditation, professional governance, and employee recognition. In this role, she oversees nationally recognized programs such as the DAISY and BEE Awards, ensuring meaningful recognition remains a cornerstone of the organization’s culture. She also partners with hospital leadership to advance strategic initiatives that strengthen workplace engagement and drive measurable improvements in national benchmarks, including the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade.
With more than 20 years of nursing experience, Dr. Forbus has built a career dedicated to advancing the profession through leadership, advocacy, and innovation. Her expertise has been instrumental in guiding Midland Memorial Hospital’s continued pursuit of prestigious accreditations, including Pathway to Excellence designation and the Practice Transition Accreditation Program, which reinforce the hospital’s commitment to high standards of nursing care and professional development.
Beyond her work at Midland Memorial Hospital, Dr. Forbus is a visible leader in the broader nursing community. She serves as President of Texas Nurses Association District 21, where she advocates for nurses across the Permian Basin and contributes to statewide efforts to strengthen the nursing profession. A 2025 graduate of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, she brings forward-thinking strategies to address the evolving challenges of healthcare delivery while remaining grounded in her passion for recognition, culture, and professional growth.
Dr. Forbus exemplifies the spirit of leadership and service, advancing both the profession of nursing and the health of her community.
Tyler Smith Gesell
Midland Memorial Hospital
Tyler Smith (Gesell) became a nurse with the calling to walk alongside patients and families on what may be the hardest days of their lives. Years later, she continues to honor this mission, delivering compassionate, skillful care, and treating every patient as she would her own family. For Tyler, being an ICU nurse means more than keeping people alive—it means bringing humanity, advocacy, and comfort into the most clinical of settings.
After earning her BSN from Abilene Christian University in 2020, Tyler began her career on a Trauma Med-Surg unit at BUMC, where she discovered her passion for trauma care. She later transitioned into the Trauma/Surgical ICU, which revealed her love for intensive care. A Midland native, she returned to the Permian Basin in 2023, married her loving husband, Connor Gesell, and joined the Critical Care Unit at MMH.
Tyler is known as bubbly, personable, outspoken, and determined—never one to shy away from raising concerns or challenging the way things are done. She is board certified as a critical care registered nurse, serves on multiple committees, and has trained numerous new nurses. She believes that advancing her own skills and knowledge while mentoring the next generation to be thoughtful, safe, and devoted caregivers is the most meaningful gift she can give to patients.
Tyler is a Daisy Award recipient, Florence Nightingale nominee, and is honored to be recognized as one of the Permian Basin’s Great 25 Nurses. She will carry this honor with pride, and she promises to continue striving to exemplify what it means to be a truly great nurse.
Kimberly Kwiatkowski
Medical Center Hospital
Kim has dedicated 27 years of exceptional service to Medical Center Hospital where she has built a reputation as a skilled nurse, an inspiring leader, and a compassionate caregiver. Throughout her career, she has served in multiple capacities, including bedside nursing, nursing education, and charge nurse leadership, always striving to raise the standard of patient care.
Her colleagues admire her for her steady guidance, her ability to mentor new nurses, and her unwavering commitment to teamwork and excellence. As a charge nurse, she has led with grace and strength, ensuring that both patients and staff feel supported. Her passion for education has left a lasting mark on countless nurses who credit her for shaping their practice and instilling confidence in their roles.
Dr. Brandi McDonald
Midland Memorial Hospital
Brandi has been a Registered Nurse for 26 years. She received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2018 and holds professional certifications in Medical-Surgical Nursing (CMSRN), Progressive Care (PCCN) Nursing, and Executive Leadership (NEA-BC). She currently works as the Director of Clinical Operations and Critical Care Services at Midland Memorial Hospital. Brandi was instrumental in leading the ICU team to AACN Beacon Gold status recognition and through implementation of a Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), a new treatment modality not originally offered in our region. She developed a Donate Life Committee to assist in recognizing local organ/tissue donors through initiatives such as the Honor Walk, an annual recognition ceremony, and fundraising opportunities to help create a recognition wall. She was the Founder and President of the Permian Basin Organization of Nurse Leaders where she helped lead development of a community-wide nurse recognition program. She has served on multiple committees with the Texas Organization of Nurse Leaders and the Texas Nurse's Association.
Dr. Cassandra McDorman
Midland Memorial Hospital
Cassandra McDorman, DNP, RN, NEA-BC is a Practice Transition Manager at Midland Health, where she recruits and trains new nurses, and recently implemented an internship for high school students pursuing healthcare careers. She has a diverse nursing background, including experience in NICU, Med-Surg, Hospice, and Palliative Care, and has served as a faculty member and hospital educator.
Cassandra began her career as an LVN in 1998 and earned her ADN in 1999 from Odessa College. She continued her education with a BSN (2010) from the University of Phoenix, an MSN (2015) from Western Governors University, and a DNP (2025) from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She also completed a Nurse Leadership course at Duke University in 2022.
Cassandra is active in professional organizations, including the Association for Nursing Professional Development (ANPD) and the Texas Nurses Association (TNA), where she serves as secretary for District 21. She is also a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, a certified values coach, and a graduate of Midland Health’s Management Essentials Training.
Outside of work, Cassandra enjoys spending time with her husband, Lanny, their four children, three grandchildren, and five pets. She is an active volunteer in the Junior League of Odessa and loves cheering on the Red Raiders and relaxing at their lake house.
Aubri Shoup Mandisodza
Self Employed
Aubri Shoup Mandisodza has always had a deep love for babies, which led her to a fulfilling career as a neonatal nurse. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Midland College in 2007 and later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Texas at Arlington in 2017.
Aubri began her nursing career in 2006 as a nurse tech in the nursery at Midland Memorial Hospital, where she gained invaluable experience caring for infants. She continued working with newborns at Midland Memorial and surrounding hospitals until 2021, when she shifted her focus to fostering children in her home.
Throughout her career, Aubri has been deeply committed to supporting families. In 2023, feeling a renewed desire to work directly with mothers and babies, she transitioned to supporting new moms as they navigate life with their newborns. Now, Aubri uses her extensive experience to help mothers establish healthy routines, provide newborn education, offer feeding assistance, implement sleep training, and even provide overnight care, ensuring that exhausted parents can rest while receiving the support they need.
Aubri has been married to the love of her life for nearly 24 years, and together they are parents to nine children. Her personal and professional experience make her uniquely qualified to offer compassionate, hands-on support to families adjusting to life with a newborn. Her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of both babies and families is the legacy she strives to leave behind.
Monica Mendoza
Pecos County Memorial
Monica Mendoza has dedicated her entire career to Pecos County Memorial Hospital District; her journey began in 2014 as a hospice volunteer. That same year, she joined the hospice team as a biller and quickly proved her commitment to serving patients and families with compassion and excellence.
While working full time, Monica pursued her nursing education at Midland College, earning her LVN in 2016 and Associate Degree in Nursing in 2018. In 2020, she achieved her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at El Paso. Monica never stepped away from the hospital, demonstrating her loyalty and drive while contributing to her community’s needs.
Her clinical path led her to hospice nursing, where she cared for patients and families with deep compassion. She was then entrusted with the role of Operating Room Director, where she strengthened surgical services by successfully managing a demanding operating room with limited staff. Her ability to lead with vision and efficiency made a lasting impact on both patient care and hospital operations.
In early 2025, Monica was honored with an additional leadership role as Director of Hospice. Under her guidance, the department has regained stability and focus, reflecting her talent for balancing organizational excellence with heartfelt compassion.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Monica serves her church community as a nursery volunteer and finds her greatest joy in her three daughters: Idaney (23), Katheryn (21), and Audrey (19). She is deeply honored and humbled to be recognized as one of the Permian Basin Great 25 Nurses, knowing it reflects the work of many.
Elizabeth Nhoy
Midland Memorial Hospital
Elizabeth graduated from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2022 and quickly began her nursing career in the Progressive Care Unit at Midland Memorial Hospital. Since then, she has poured her heart into caring for her patients and supporting her team.
One of Elizabeth’s favorite parts of her job is mentoring others—she has proudly precepted new graduate nurses, nursing students, and nurse interns, always eager to share her knowledge and love for the profession. She has also been an active voice on several hospital committees, working to make a difference beyond the bedside.
In 2024, Elizabeth earned her Cardiovascular Registered Nurse Board Certification (CVRN-BC), an achievement that reflects her commitment to growth and excellence. She is also a member of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.
Elizabeth is honored to be recognized as a Permian Basin Great 25 Nurse. She considers it a privilege to serve her patients, her colleagues, and her community—and she looks forward to continuing to grow as a nurse.
Nancy Ornelas
Midland Memorial Hospital
Nancy Ornelas, LVN has dedicated 30 years to the nursing profession, beginning her career in 1995 at Permian Regional Medical Center in Andrews, Texas. Born and raised in Sweetwater, Texas, she is the fourth of seven children, a proud mother of two daughters, and grandmother of two grandchildren. She is currently employed at Midland Memorial Hospital as a Programs and Projects Specialist.
Nancy is an active member of the Texas Nurses Association (TNA), serving on the LVN Committee. She holds the distinction of being the first LVN to become a member of TNA and the first LVN to present at the association’s 2025 annual event. She is also co-author of the article “Using interns to support nurses during COVID-19: Challenge met,” published with Cameron Long, MSN, RN, CMSRN, and Carol Boswell, EdD, RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN.
Her desire to become a nurse was inspired by her grandmother’s struggles with diabetes, where a lack of education and resources led to preventable suffering and, ultimately, her death. That experience instilled in Nancy a lifelong commitment to patient education, advocacy, and safety.
Today, Nancy continues to champion the role of LVNs in healthcare and emphasizes the importance of nursing organization membership. A strong advocate against workplace violence, she works to ensure safety for patients, staff, and visitors. To her, nursing is not just a profession but a calling—one that requires compassion, courage, and dedication.
Nancy is overwhelmed with humility and honor as the first LVN named to the Permian Basin Great 25 Nurses.
Obadiah Pruitt
Southwest Transplant Alliance Midland Texas
Obadiah Pruitt began his career in the medical field in 2016 as a CNA at PCMH (Pecos County Memorial Hospital), while still attending Fort Stockton High School. While enrolled in his prerequisites at Midland College, he worked part-time in Stanton as a CNA. Obadiah graduated from Midland College's LVN program in 2019 and passed his state boards for LVN and Registered Pharmacy Technician within a month of each other. In 2020, during the pandemic, Obadiah worked part-time as an LVN at PCMH, Medical Center Hospital in Odessa, Texas, and at McCamey County Hospital District. Obadiah then went on to graduate from Odessa College with his Associate's degree in Nursing in 2021. Obadiah began working at MCH's ICU on the second floor in September 2024. Obadiah now works as an Organ Recovery Coordinator for Southwest Transplant Alliance. Obadiah is currently enrolled at the University of Texas at Arlington to complete his Bachelor's degree in Nursing and has a clear goal to continue his education until he obtains his Nurse Practitioner license. Obadiah plans to continue his hard work in the field of organ donation and help save as many lives as possible from those lists.
Geneo Roberts
Odessa College
Geneo A. Roberts is a native of Odessa, Texas. He is honored to now serve as faculty at Odessa College where his career first began. Since entering the nursing profession in 1987, he has advanced through every stage of nursing education, progressing from CNA to LVN, RN-ADN (OC), BSN (TTUHSC), and MSN (TTUHSC). His career has been dedicated primarily to Maternal-Child Health, while also expanding into nursing leadership, administration, and education.
Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of roles that shaped his professional growth, including Staff Nurse, Charge Nurse, Assistant Director of Nursing, ADN Program Director, House Supervisor/Administrator on Duty, and currently, Nursing Professor. These roles have allowed him to provide direct patient care, lead healthcare teams, and mentor future nurses—experiences he considers among the most rewarding aspects of his career. Teaching provides him with the privilege of combining his passion for nursing with his dedication to guiding the next generation of professionals.
In addition to his work in healthcare and education, he remains active in the community. He was a founding board member of SHARE, an organization supporting families of children with special needs, and he continues to serve as the staff nurse for the respite services SHARE provides.
Outside of nursing, he enjoys hobbies that bring balance to his life. He is bilingual in English and Sign Language, collects seals and sea lions, loves cooking and baking. He credits his faith in Jesus Christ as the foundation of his personal and professional journey.
Nova Robinson
Medical Center Hospital
Nova is a dedicated nurse on the Observation Unit at Medical Center Hospital. Originally from New Jersey, brought nearly 30 years of healthcare experience with her when she moved to Texas in 2022.Over the course of her career, she has served in a variety of roles, including Long-Term Care, the Emergency Room, Clinical Coordinator and Surgical Liaison.
What truly sets Nova apart is her unwavering compassion and commitment ,not only to her patients but also to her fellow coworkers. She is often heard saying she treats others the way she would want to be treated. Nova is recognized for her compassion ,advocacy and dedication; all qualities reflected in her multiple Daisy Award nominations and her recognition as June Associates Nurse of the Month. Nova's passion for nursing extends beyond the bedside. She actively contributes to multiple committees at MCH and is currently pursuing her Master's degree through WGU. Outside of work, she enjoys spending her free time cruising. Nova is deeply honored to be recognized as one of the Permian Basin Great 25 Nurses.
Anita Rodriguez
Midland Memorial Hospital
Anita Rodriguez is a registered Nurse in the Progressive Care Unit at Midland Memorial Hospital. She started working at Midland Memorial during nursing school as a nurse intern in 2019. Anita began her nursing career in 2020 after she graduated with her BSN from the University of the Permian Basin. Progressive care unit has always been home for Anita; she has served as a preceptor to many nurses and interns. Anita is now a charge nurse on the progressive care unit. She is a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses organization. Anita has obtained her National Cardiovascular certification through the American Board of Cardiovascular Medicine. In the future, Anita plans to go back to school for her master's in nursing. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband Jesus and her two little sweet boys Jeremiah and Zachariah. Anita is truly honored and humbled to be nominated and chosen as one of the Permian Basin Great 25 nurses.
Richard Roman
Midland Memorial Hospital
Richard Roman, BSN, RN, LP, CMSRN, is a distinguished healthcare professional serving as Hospital Supervisor of Clinical Operations at Midland Memorial Hospital, where he has worked for 11 years. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Tech University, 20 years as a Registered Nurse, and 22 years as a licensed paramedic, Richard brings extensive expertise to his leadership role. Previously, he achieved the rank of Captain with a Master Fire Certification at the fire department, demonstrating exceptional leadership under pressure.
Richard excels in overseeing clinical operations, ensuring high-quality patient care, and mentoring staff, leveraging his expertise in emergency medicine and nursing. His commitment to excellence earned him the prestigious DAISY Award for extraordinary nursing. As a BSN-prepared nurse and Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN), Richard utilizes his extensive and specialized knowledge, applying evidence-based practices to deliver clear patient education, safer care, and effective support, empowering patients to achieve their health goals. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Nursing, Richard is dedicated to advancing his skills to enhance healthcare delivery.
A passionate advocate for community health in Midland, Texas, Richard remains committed to innovative healthcare solutions. Outside work, he enjoys golf, working out and hiking with his loving wife, Kimberly, and engaging in family activities with their children, reflecting his initiative-driven approach and balanced perspective on wellness. With a forward-thinking mindset, Richard aspires to elevate hospital operations through advanced education and mentorship, continuing to make a lasting impact in healthcare.
Alyssa Stewart
Big Bend Regional Medical Center
Alyssa Stewart serves as Emergency Department Director at Big Bend Regional Medical Center in Alpine, Texas. She is often recognized for her leadership in guiding the department to exceed standards of care and for championing initiatives that elevate the patient experience. Known for leading with empathy, while holding herself and her team to the highest standards. Alyssa cultivates growth and accountability in her department. She is committed to mentoring and welcoming the next generation of nurses. Her pursuit of a dual MSN/MBA at Grand Canyon University reflects her forward-thinking commitment to healthcare leadership and sustainability, while balancing and cherishing her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother.
Kristen Upchurch
McCamey County Hospital District
Born and raised in Odessa, Texas, Kristen began her nursing journey by earning her LVN from Odessa College, followed by her RN from Howard College. She later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and is currently advancing her education as a Family Nurse Practitioner student at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
For the past four years, Kristen has served as the Chief Nursing Officer of McCamey County Hospital District, where she leads with a strong commitment to rural healthcare. She also represents rural hospitals on the Texas JRAC Executive Board, advocating for access to high-quality care across the region. Before transitioning into her leadership role, Kristen worked primarily in the emergency department, where she found great fulfillment in the fast-paced environment and developed her passion for critical care and teamwork.
Being nominated as one of the Permian Basin’s Top 25 Nurses is an honor that reflects her dedication, compassion, and service to the nursing profession, her team, her patients, and her community. Kristen credits her success to her strong personal values, the steadfast support of her family and friends, and the collaborative efforts of her team, who share her vision for advancing healthcare in West Texas.
Outside of her professional role, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband, Mitchell. Together, they love working out, hunting, traveling, and embracing new adventures.
This recognition highlights not only Kristen’s professional accomplishments but also her enduring commitment to service, leadership, and the betterment of healthcare throughout the region.
Dr. Rosemary Walulu
Texas Tech University Health Sciences School of Nursing Permian Basin
Rosemary Walulu has been a nurse for over four decades. She began working as a staff nurse at Lodwar District Hospital after graduating with a diploma in Nursing from the College of Health Professions in Nairobi. She has worked in several areas of nursing, including medical-surgical, pediatrics, and NICU. Her desire to pursue further studies led her to Texas Tech Health Sciences Center SON in Lubbock, where she completed a BSN and MSN, and her PhD from the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio.
Rosemary has a passion for teaching and empowering future generations of nurses across programs and has spent almost thirty years in academia, with the majority of that time at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center. The greatest reward is seeing the students succeed while in school, alumni excelling in the communities they serve, and the pursuit of lifelong learning. She has given multiple presentations at the local, national, and international levels and has published manuscripts. She has been a recipient of several awards for teaching excellence, leadership, and service at both the University and National levels. She considers the nursing profession in all its forms as a privilege and a blessing. It is humbling to be recognized among a wonderful group of peers.
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