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on being nominated for th 2025 Women of Achievement. or the Family Hearing Specialists would like to Congratulate Lindee Miller
308-532-1880 www.nohuh.com 1220 South Willow North Platte, NE
Lindee Miller (BC-HIS)
THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025 PAGE 3 Women as Family Business Leaders WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT An ongoing trend is seeing women increasingly taking on leadership roles and leading family businesses to success.
GREEN SHOOT MEDIA As of November 2020, only 18% of family business leaders globally were women, according to research firm KPMG, with the numbers highest in Europe and Central Asia. Those numbers are rising. “As future generations become more involved in the business, family firms’ decisions on succession are increasingly being driven on merit, capability and willingness instead of gender or kinship,” wrote KPMG in its 2020 publication “The Power of Women in Family Business: A Generational Shift in Purpose and Influence.” BENEFITS Not only are women’s profiles rising in family businesses, but they are seeing great success. Research has long shown that women bring unique strengths to the business world, beginning with the work of Dr. Virginia E. Schein, a leading work and organizational psychologist, in the 1970s. “Women’s innate traits (e.g., being understanding, intuitive, and creative) make them better suited to leadership during a crisis, as compared to men, in line with Schein’s original work,” writes FamilyBusiness.org. “Female political leaders have been recently commended for their management of the COVID-19 crisis.” Not only are women good for family businesses, but putting more women in
leadership seems to perpetuate those benefits throughout the company and into the future. “Appointing women in senior roles can create a ‘trickle-down effect,’ meaning that more gender diversity at the executive level will translate into more gender diversity across the organization,” writes KPMG. Additionally, “There is a gender-based pattern to succession. When the current CEO is a woman, there is a higher chance that the next CEO will also be a woman.” HOW TO GET THERE Gender balance laws and other initiatives are helping. In 2019, of the Fortune 500 list included 33 firms helmed by women CEOS, a record in modern times. (In 1999, only two women were on the list.) The Global Gender Report 2020 of the World Economic Forum, however predicts another 100 years before gender equality is achieved. Because of the historically wide range of responsibilities heaped on women at both home and the workplace, women face challenges in bringing their skills to the family business and need extra support. “Although the family business legacy may be handed down to them, many women around the world still shoulder the primary responsibility as caregivers of their families and households,” writes KPMG. The lines between work and family life can become
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blurred. “As with women in non-family businesses, women in family firms require strong networks that are not dominated by family influence, as well as mentoring and guidance to orient them successfully toward management and leadership roles,“ writes KPMG. The firm also recommends legislative mandates and “organizational practices and policies … that promote fairness and minimize bias” to help develop the pipeline of future women leaders. “Women often feel invisible. They need
skills, tools and opportunities to increase their visibility and break the stereotypes so they can’t be overlooked.” Family businesses are uniquely positioned to help drive change. ThisisCapitalism.com reports: “A 2019 survey from Ernst & Young of 525 of the world’s largest family businesses notes that family businesses tend to foster an environment of inclusiveness and cohesiveness for both family and non- family employees that can help women rise through the ranks.”
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Women of Achievement PAST WINNERS
2024 Business: Kathryn Hisel Cultural Arts: Jessie Lovett Volunteer: Megan McGown Medical: Wendy Ward Government: Lisa Citta Education: Katy Henderson 2023 Business: Lori Bergman
2018 Business: Krista Heiss Cultural Arts: Renae Brandt Education: Brenda Aufdenkamp Government: Amanda Speichert Medical: Deborah Weaver Social Services: Shawna Tatman Volunteer: Shari Shore 2017
2014 Business: Clarine Eickhoff Cultural Arts: Mary Hepburn Education: Sally Thalken Government: Molly O’Holleran Medical: Lori Barrett Social Services: Jennifer Haneborg Volunteer: Claudette Nelson 2013 Business: Michele Aloi Cultural Arts: Pat Hoban Education: Linda Clavel Government: Lisa Josten Medical: Dr. Kathy Lopez Volunteer: Pat Dannatt Work with Youth: Susan Sukraw 2012 Cultural Arts: Sharron Hollen Business: Teresa Sweley Education: Joan Davis Medical: Barb Petersen Social Services: Kris Steinbeck Work with Youth: Brandy Buscher Volunteer: Waneita Schomer 2011 Business: Nancy Faulhaber Cultural: Cheri Erickson Education: Tami Eshleman Government: Dawn Miller Volunteer: Jan Wright Work with Youth: Vikki Carlson Social Services: Wilma Hackney 2010 Education: Margo Hirschfeld Government: Rebecca Harling Volunteer: DiAnn Nichelson Social Services: Jeanie Gilbert Work with Youth: Lee Ann Nielsen Business: Cindy Petersen Cultural: Sharon Skinner
Business: Kay Lucas Medical: Karen Waite
Education: Kathleen Craig Government: Angela Blaesi Medical: Jovanka Vuksanovic, M.D. Social Services: Caroline Sabin Volunteer: Barb Baldridge 2022 Business: Abbie Pack Cultural Arts: Sue McKain Education: Jody Tomanek Government: Judy Clark Medical: Dr. Renee Engler Up & Coming: Elleigh Fisher Social Services: Traci Sawyer Volunteer: Emily Wurl & Tauni Morris 2021 Business: Robyn Foote Cultural Arts: Paulette Stefka Education: Kimberly Flanders Government: Laurie Jones Medical: Jasmine Hahn & Jenny Lantis Social Services: Jenny Bonta Volunteer: Alyssa Fabik 2020 Business: Shae Caldwell Cultural Arts: Amy Minshull Education: Jodi Howard Government: Tanya Roberts-Connick Medical: Fiona Libsack Social Services: Molly Morales Up and Coming: Addilyn Wilson Volunteer: Kathy Swain Work with Youth: Mitzi Mueller
Social Services: Maria Lein Cultural Arts: Holly Carlini Volunteer: Sandee Kroon 2016 Business: Cassie Condon
Cultural Arts: Susan Werkmeister Education: Barbara Christensen Government: Dana Songster Medical: Kelley Hasenauer Social Services: Nan Hynes Up and Coming: Michaela Schmid & Emma Young Volunteer: Mary Pendleton Work with Youth: Betty Van Boening 2015 Business: Ardell Krizek Cultural Arts: Donna Pucket
Education: Joyce Delgado Government: Lisa Burke Medical: Kira Krautz, DVM Social Services: Jill Vaughn & Allison Huebner Up and Coming: Chantel Johnson Volunteer: Brandi Barrett Work with Youth: Carrie Lienemann
WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
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2025 Nominees: CULTURAL ARTS Keri Fisher Nominators: Elleigh Fisher, Jill Vaughn, Lane Swedberg & Dan O’Neill Keri Fisher has “demonstrated a persistent and loving commitment” to the North Platte community and those around her, her daughter Elleigh said. From volunteering in numerous positions at the North Platte Community Playhouse, dedicating time to Deborah’s Legacy as a board member and volunteer, to using her experience as a cosmetologist to shape and cut wigs for patients at the Callahan Cancer Center, Elleigh said Keri has devoted “an immense amount of time, energy, passion and dedication to the community.” “Her passion for the arts and her ability to inspire others have significantly enhanced the quality of productions at the Playhouse,” Lane Swedberg wrote. “Her tireless efforts in coordinating dance routines and ensuring seamless performances have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and the community at large. Her contributions have not only elevated the artistic experience but have also fostered a sense of community and inclusivity among participants and audience members alike.” Deborah’s Legacy co-founder Jill Vaughn highlighted Keri’s confidence, strategic creativity and leadership in her roles at the North Platte nonprofit. As the co-chair of the Putt-N-Crawl fundraising event, Keri helped raise over $25,000 for Deborah’s Legacy over multiple years. “Our organization is not the only to be blessed by Keri Fisher,” Jill said. “The number of organizations in this area that have felt her positive impact are countless.” Keri has been active in her daughter’s FFA chapter as both a supporter and competition judge, helping to raise over $100,000 and coaching several students. She also served as a member, chapter president, state president and national vice president for the Jaycees. Brittany McDaniel Nominator: Emily Sweeney Brittany McDaniel has been an English teacher at North Platte Public Schools for more than 10 years. Additionally, she has served as the high school’s play production coach and co-director of multiple shows and musicals. During this time, Brittany has taught her students public speaking, guided them with their writing and taught them how to become actors and actresses, nominator Emily Sweeney said. “The fire that drives Brittany is creating an environment for students that allows them to explore their abilities and become new and exciting characters,” Emily said. “She has opened the world of theater to so many students, made them feel welcome (and) made them feel like they belong.” For the past two years, Brittany has directed the school’s one-act plays that have won numerous awards, including Best Technical Show and Best Actor and Actress, and qualified for the state one-act competition. From spending hours building sets on the weekends, creating and assembling costumes, to rehearsing with her students in the evenings, Sweeney said, “Teaching students to love theater and everything it encompasses is (Brittany’s) absolute dream.”
Kelly Dowler Nominators: Wendy Ward & Jan Wright Community minded with a zest for life, Kelly Dowler is described by nominator Jan Wright as kind and compassionate in her work at Great Plains Health as the patient advocate experience coordinator. “You will see her at work with nursing units to help patients navigate this wide world of medical jargon and answer the tough questions,” Jan said. Jan added that Kelly never says “no” to anyone in need, whether it’s a loved one, a community member or a patient at the hospital. “She truly listens to the patients and their families’ experiences and is able to communicate effectively regardless of the difficult situations they are facing," Wendy Ward wrote in her nomination. Kelly’s true passion is to help people have the best experience while navigating the complexity of the health care system, Wendy said, and has made her instrumental in creating the Patient Family Advisory Council at GPH. “She is dedicated, hardworking and always a ray of sunshine in and outside the walls of the hospital,” Wendy said. Kayla Jensen Nominator: Maddy Krebs The “definition of success,” nominator Maddy Krebs said, Kayla Jensen uses her own leadership and knowledge to make others successful. Kayla is the owner of Enzo Athletic Performance in North Platte, but also works as a gym and nutrition coach, volunteers her time and sponsors many activities in North Platte. “Not only does she run a successful business with hundreds of customers, she changes lives daily,” Maddy said, adding that she is just “one of the many men and women who have had the privilege to be coached by (Kayla) at the gym.” Lindee Miller Nominator: Megan Dodson Family Hearing Specialists owner Lindee Miller has not only demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her field, nominator Megan Dodson said, but has made a profound impact on the North Platte community. “Lindee consistently gives back, dedicating her time and expertise to support various causes and organizations,” Megan said. This is evident through her company’s holiday hearing-aid giveaway, where Lindee donated two pairs of hearing aids to individuals in the community who did not have the means to afford them. Lindee also helps lead the Berean Church youth group, Circle Hill 4-H and has served on the McDonald Elementary PTO. “Lindee’s generosity and commitment to improving the lives of others in our community reflect her unwavering dedication to making a difference,” Megan said. “Lindee embodies the spirit of this award through her remarkable blend of professional excellence, compassion and community service.” 2025 Nominees: BUSINESS
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Congratulations to Kayla Jensen onher 2025 “Women of Achievement” Nomination in the Business Category! Enzo Athletic Performance 206 N. Jeffers • (308) 568-0676 • EnzoTraining.com The Classic Car Show tied perfectly into her interest of “all things cars” with her Mid-Plains Community College instructors noting her willingness to work hard. EmmaLee founded the No Coast Cruisers groups and continues to host the Cars and Coffee events as she works toward the upcoming Classic Car Show. Currently working as a cosmetologist after receiving her license from Joseph’s College of Cosmetology in Kearney, Emmalee Painter is also a budding philanthropist and classic car enthusiast. Starting in 2019, EmmaLee began organizing the Classic Car Show in Cody Park, donating the proceeds to the family of a child with a brain condition. The following three years EmmaLee donated proceeds to the Wounded Warrior Project. In August 2024, the Classic Car Show saw over 60 entries from five states, raising even more money for veterans across the state. Her aunt, Mary Agler, said EmmaLee “has always demonstrated an interest in being involved in the community and wanting to honor our veterans.” As a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Emmalee has a passion for the preservation of history and heritage. 2025 Nominees: UP & COMING EmmaLee Painter Nominator: Mary Agler
Ashley Johanson Nominator: Kimberly Zurcher A first grade teacher at Hershey Public Schools, Ashley Johanson has strived for consistency and passion over the past 21 years, Kimberly Zurcher wrote in her nomination. As an “autism mom,” Kimberly said, Ashley has been involved in the Autism Society of Lincoln County among several other organizations in the community. “Her core values are present and visible in the classroom daily,” Kimberly said. “She will advocate fearlessly for those students in need. In February, Ashley was named the Hershey Public Schools teacher of the month for her leadership. Formerly, she served as the head negotiator and a committee member for the Hershey Education Association and has served on various subcommittees for the district. Ashley was also one of five members of the Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation’s Applegate Fund Advisory Board, assisting in reviewing and recommending grants to schools and college scholarships for teachers. 2025 Nominees: EDUCATION
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Congratulations Megan Doughty for her nomination for volunteering. For the Women of Achievement 2025 Awards.
WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025 PAGE 7 2025 Nominees: GOVERNMENT Sgt. Shanna Hamilton Nominator: Deavon Hamilton Sgt. Shannon Hamilton has worked in corrections for 15 years and has worked her way up to sergeant and jail school trainer at the Lincoln County Detention Center. Her husband, Deavon Hamilton, said she doesn’t just teach jail school to local correction officers, but jail staff across the state. Shanna also helps with prisoner rehabilitation and partners with local organizations for resources. “She realized there was a need to help the community that was rehabilitating,” Deavon said, “and now works closely with local organizations to help get them the resources and things they need to better serve the community after their release.”
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HaLea Messersmith Nominator: Kaleb Engler HaLea Messersmith exemplifies an inspirational leader, dedicated educator and true role model who cultivates resilience and empowerment, her former student Kaleb Engler wrote. As a biology instructor at Mid-Plains Community College, HaLea takes the time to know each of her students’ names, majors and individual journeys, committing to the development of each student. “What truly distinguishes her is her genuine concern for her students' well-being,” Kaleb said. “If a student is unable to attend class due to illness or personal issues, Professor Messersmith reaches out with thoughtful messages, such as, ‘We missed you today. Are you doing okay?’ This small act of kindness fosters a supportive environment where students feel valued and recognized.” Kaleb added that her open-door policy encourages students to turn to her for guidance and support, creating a “safe space for students to discuss life’s challenges” and “ensuring they know someone truly cares.” “As a former student who has transitioned to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study pre-veterinary medicine, I can personally attest to the profound impact she has made on my life,” Kaleb wrote. “She has inspired me to pursue my dreams and instilled in me a passion for learning that will last a lifetime.” Niki Ruda Nominator: Sara Wilke, Shalea Cooley & Kathy Schroeder Niki Ruda is a speech-language pathologist for North Platte Public Schools, dedicating herself to engaging in conversations with children and helping them with their words and sounds. “She remembers conversations and moments that she has spent with each child from visit to visit,” Kathy Schroeder wrote in her nomination. “It is heartwarming to see children react when she engages them and remembers conversations she has had with them.” As a member of the Kids First Preschool Board, Niki volunteers for several of the school’s programs, consistently showing up to assist in any way she can. Sara Wilke said Niki has contributed to the entire North Platte area with her devotion to early childhood education and mentoring of numerous new professionals in the community. In a joint letter, Marcia Henline and Monica Carter wrote that one of Niki’s standout qualities is her ability to build rapport with both the children she teaches and their families, creating a “supportive environment that fosters communication and growth. “She has a remarkable ability to adapt her approach to meet the individual needs of each child, ensuring that therapy is not only effective but also enjoyable,” they wrote. “We have no doubt that Niki will continue to make a positive impact in the lives of the children and families she serves.” 2025 Nominees: EDUCATION
Hershey Public Schools is proud that Ashley Johansen has been nominated for a 2025 Women of Achievement Award in Education ! This nomination recognizes her outstanding commitment to student success, innovation in the classroom, and unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of young learners.
Congratulations Ashley Johansen!
PAGE 8 TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025 THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH 2025 Nominees: GOVERNMENT Julie Stenger Nominators: Angie and all of the Lincoln County Assessor’s Office, Rebecca Rossell & Micaela Wuehler WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT Micaela Wuehler Nominator: Shelby Morrison
In 2021, Micaela Wuehler was appointed as the first woman to serve as a Lincoln County commissioner, filling the District 3 seat after the retirement of former Commissioner Bill Henry. Shortly after, Micaela was the first woman to run for a full- term as a county commissioner and has just recently been named the first female chairperson to the board. Nominator Shelby Morrison, the Hershey village clerk, said that shortly after Micaela’s 2021 appointment, she received a call from the new commissioner introducing herself and “immediately began to attend our monthly Board of Trustees meetings.” “She is a loud voice for Hershey and Lincoln County as a whole,” Shelby said. “She is honest, straightforward with her interactions and stands true to her word. The dedication and heart she puts into her work is obvious.” Micaela retired from UPS after 32 years before becoming a commissioner and has made her impact known not just in the county, but across the state of Nebraska. She was involved in the passage of LB 869, which extends the eligible for certain veterans’ services to those that served during peacetimes. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen recently appointed Micaela to the Crime Commission’s Office of Violence Prevention Advisory Council and elected to serve as the secretary treasurer for the Nebraska Association of County Officials.
Since 2010, Julie Stenger has held the title of Lincoln County assessor, working hard to follow all statutory guidelines as her office sets values on property, handles valuation protests and exemptions, and more. Those who work in her office said in a joint recommendation letter that Julie is “compassionate about her position and employees,” honest, hardworking and respectful in every situation. “Julie is the person in the courthouse that anybody could talk to at any given time,” they wrote. “Her door is always open, and if it’s closed, she’ll open it for you.” While serving as the county assessor, Julie has also been the treasurer of the West Central District Assessors Association for many years, was involved in Lincoln County’s 100-year celebration and helps the students of Lincoln County learn about local government during County Government Day. County Commissioner Micaela Wuehler said in her nomination that Julie’s “work is a testament to her social responsibility and ethical principles, which she upholds without compromise.” Lincoln County Clerk Rebecca Rossell wrote that the characteristics Julie embodies “represent all that is good in Lincoln County government.” “She is dependable, efficient, detail oriented and works very hard to educate constituents on what her office does and what is required of her office by state statute,” Rebecca said.
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2025 Nominees: VOLUNTEER
Megan Doughty Nominators: Jan Wright, Marcus Doughty & Becky Smith
Project and a volunteer during the building of the North Platte Community Playground. “What truly sets Stephanie apart isn't her impressive list of volunteer commitments, but the heart and intelligence she brings to each one,” Emily said. “Drawing insights from her involvement across multiple organizations, she sees connections others might miss and offers innovative solutions to community challenges.”
A dedicated pharmacist and the current executive director for the Miss Nebraska Scholarship Competition, Megan Doughty “embodies every quality that defines an exceptional leader, role model and community member,” Becky Smith wrote in her letter of recommendation. “Her ability to juggle the demands of family, career and community service is nothing short of extraordinary,” Becky said. “Megan gives selflessly to those around her, whether it’s through her work, her friendships or her countless acts of kindness.” Her husband, Marcus, said Megan’s commitment goes far beyond showing up for work. “She truly cares about connecting and organizing the community around her patients,” he wrote. In 2017, Megan started serving the Miss Nebraska organization as the scholarship chair, establishing business and college relationships to promote the funding of the scholarship competition. Prior to being named executive director in 2025, Megan worked as co-executive director for several years. Additionally, Megan has served as a North Platte Hostess and on the McDonald Elementary PTO and the North Platte swim team board. “Megan is never done with projects or groups,” Jan Wright said. “She soars to become the best volunteer, bringing passion, fresh, new ideas and a willingness to put in the time for its success.” Sherry Weatherly Nominators: Patti Harkreader, Rev. Vidya Sagar, Marsha Seck & Cassie Condon Throughout her decades of volunteer service, Sherry Weatherly has had a profound impact on the North Platte community. She has served as den leader for Cub Scouts Pack 292 and coordinator for the North Platte Catholic Schools Activities Association and volunteered her time with TeamMates Mentoring, the Grand Island Diocesan Council of Catholic Women and the Women’s Resource Center of North Platte, among many others. “Any time of the day, she comes across to anyone as someone who cares and is ready to step out of her comfort zone to lend a helping hand,” the Rev. Vidya Sagar said in his letter of recommendation. “Her laughter is infectious, and her positive attitude is soothing to the soul.” He added that “there is no time” Sherry has said no to helping out or taking on extra roles at Holy Spirit Catholic Parish. Her daughter Cassie Condon said her mother is “a woman who exemplifies her volunteering with a huge heart and greets everyone proudly with a big smile and beautiful laugh.” Stephanie Wiesen Nominator: Emily Theiler Stephanie Wiesen has given back to her hometown of North Platte with her whole heart, nominator Emily Theiler said, working every day to make it a better place for everyone. Volunteering her time across several organizations, Stephanie has made an impact by helping to secure essential funding for projects and offering her expertise that helps nonprofit dollars go further, Emily said. Stephanie has served as a volunteer and board vice president for Bridge of Hope Advocacy Center, a committee member for the Great Plains Health Foundation
PAGE 10 TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025 THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH 2025 Nominees: SOCIAL SERVICES Laura Martinez Nominator: Emily Theiler WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
and their hopefulness, is to change the world for the better,” Meghan Trevino and Trudy Merritt wrote in a joint letter from the West Central District Health Department. Sandee Kroon and Angela Hipp wrote in their recommendation letter that Jayna has “played a key role in establishing the longest-running monthly drug take-back collections in Nebraska, ensuring the safe disposal of unused medications.” “Additionally, she helped develop a community-based mentoring initiative that has been providing vital support for young people for over 25 years, along with other innovative programs designed to address unmet needs in substance abuse prevention and youth development,” they wrote in the joint letter. Jayna’s leadership extends across several organizations and initiatives that impact youth, public health and community well-being. These include serving on the boards of Keep North Platte and Lincoln County Beautiful, HOPE Esperanza, Great Plains Health and the Nebraska Juvenile Justice Association. “Beyond her tangible contributions, Jayna embodies the highest standards of ethical leadership,” Shreya Agrawal wrote. “She leads by example, mentoring future advocates and inspiring others to engage in service. Her ability to unite diverse groups toward a common goal is unparalleled, and her work has left an indelible mark on North Platte.” 2025 Nominees: MEDICAL In her 25 years at the Center for Health PC medical office, Misty has provided comprehensive health care to patients of all ages with kindness, love and dedication, Loretta Baca wrote. Misty has been active both in her community and profession, serving as treasurer and pianist at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Brule in addition to training nurses, nurse practitioners and staff at the Center for Health. She was also a teacher of nursing at Mid-Plains Community College for many years. Misty Richards, APRN Nominators: Loretta Baca, Paula Bagnell & Laurie Soper Paula Bagnell wrote that in her 43 years of nursing she has been able to work with hundreds, if not thousands, of medical providers but “Misty Richards is one of the most amazing medical providers” she has “ever had the honor of working with.” “As I have worked with Misty, I have watched her continuously provide dedicated,
Laura Martinez has served for more than 30 years with the Women, Infant and Children program in North Platte and surrounding communities. There, Laura administers supplemental food benefits, teaches about nutrition and the developmental stages of young children and provides support and encouragement. Jodi Sonneman wrote in her nomination that Laura has “devoted herself tirelessly to uplifting families, promoting nutrition awareness and championing the well-being of families.” Working with the WIC program, Laura ensures families can provide the nutrition that their young children need to grow to their full potential, even staying overnight in surrounding communities to provide information and support to families. “Her passion and dedication have profoundly impacted the lives of those she serves, truly exemplifying the essence of caring and community service,” Jodi said. Amber McNutt Nominator: Rebecca Harling Amber McNutt has conducted thousands of forensic interviews, coordinated hundreds of medical exams and obtained counseling for the most vulnerable: the children of McCook, North Platte and Ogallala, Rebecca Harling said in her nomination of the Bridge of Hope Advocacy Center program director. Rebecca added that Amber’s “commitment to excellence has led to children being safer” and perpetrators of violence against children being held accountable. “Those of us in law enforcement, social services and prosecution are eternally grateful to Amber,” Rebecca said. “Whether it be day or night, weekday or weekend, Amber has always responded to our calls and has aided us in our investigations.” Amber has been a constant at the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center since its inception, spending her time ensuring that children who have been abused and neglected have a safe place to tell their stories. Jayna Schaaf Nominators: Shreya Agrawal, Sandee Kroon, Angela Hipp, Meghan Trevino & Trudy Merritt The executive director of Community Connections for 25 years, Jayna Schaaf has been an advocate for healthy communities with a focus on collaborative work, substance abuse prevention and youth development in North Platte and Lincoln County. “Jayna carries a deeply held value that to support our young people, their energy
WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
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2025 Nominees: MEDICAL
focused, knowledgeable, unbiased and empathetic care to her patients and to everyone around her,” Paula said. “Misty's kind and patient manner puts everyone immediately at ease, which refers not only to her patients but also to her colleagues, friends and all of those she comes in contact with.” Billie Fear Nominators: Jan Wright, Bailee Fear & Keaton Hope The current director of nursing at the North Platte Surgery Center, Billie Fear has been a registered nurse for over 30 years with experience in several units, including at Great Plains Health. Jan Wright described Billie as community minded, focusing on the health and well- being of North Platte and surrounding areas, and an advocate for her patients. “You will never meet a more compassionate nurse,” Jan said, and Billie was “instrumental” in helping students achieve their Advanced Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in collaboration with Nebraska Medicine at Kearney while the students were doing their rotations at GPH. Billie’s daughter Bailee said in her recommendation that her mom’s “drive and dedication, not only to her work but to her family and friends, is inspiring.” “She has dedicated most of her life to health care and has always strived to be the best nurse she could possibly be,” Bailee said. “She is the most caring, dedicated and wise woman I know.” Keaton Hope, administrator and CEO, of the North Platte Surgery Center said Billie has “without a doubt made thousands of lives better as a nurse,” and as a leader. “Billie oozes compassion for her patients as much as she does for her team,” Keaton
said. “Billie's work ethic, morals and values are embodied as much as they are spoken out loud.” Dr. Aleeta Summers-Dehaney Nominator: Laura Jarvis Aleeta Somers-Dehaney is a pain medicine physician at the Great Plains Health Comprehensive Pain and Infusion Center, where she has served the North Platte community for years as a board certified anesthesiologist. Laura Jarvis, Aleeta’s very first patient after moving to North Platte, said in her nomination she will "forever be grateful” for Aleeta. “(She) goes above and beyond for her patients,” Laura said. “She answers texts on the weekends. She calls to check on you after you’ve had a procedure.” The family-like atmosphere Aleeta nurtures in her office puts patients at ease, Laura added. “Aleeta never rushes you through an appointment. She makes a point to know who you are,” Laura said. “I cannot imagine not having her in my life. She has — in my eyes — saved my life.”
We salute this year’s Women of Achievement nominees with a special congratulations to our very own GPHealth nominees.
Kelly Dowler | patient advocate Dr. Aleeta Somers-Dehaney | GPHealth medical staff Stephanie Wiesen | registered nurse Jayna Schaaf | board member
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