NEVADA, IOWA – MaryJane Hunt, Chief Nursing Officer at Story County Medical Center, was honored with the 2024 Outstanding Nurse Executive Award from the Iowa Organization for Nursing Leadership (IONL) at the Iowa Hospital Association's Annual Meeting on October 9 in Des Moines. This award recognizes exceptional nurse executives who demonstrate outstanding achievement in nursing leadership across the state of Iowa.
Since joining Story Medical in May 2020, Hunt’s impact has been felt across the organization, from enhancing relationships with key stakeholders to improving clinical quality outcomes and patient experience indicators. Her leadership has helped drive a cultural shift at Story Medical, placing a renewed focus on nursing excellence.
"MaryJane joined us at one of the most challenging times in recent history,” says Nate Thompson, Story Medical CEO. “She stepped into her role just as the COVID pandemic began. Her leadership and vision have been nothing short of inspirational. Her ability to connect with our team and drive needed cultural changes has made a lasting impact. She is an exceptional nurse leader, and we are proud to have her on our team."
During her tenure, Hunt has introduced numerous initiatives aimed at improving staff engagement and patient care. She re-established the DAISY Award program at Story Medical to recognize extraordinary nurses, started the Nursing Council, and championed the Patient and Family Advisory Council. Hunt's focus on staff recognition has fostered a culture of appreciation and professional development within the nursing team.
Hunt is also known for her compassion and hands-on leadership. From helping a colleague whose home was impacted by a tornado, to supporting frontline nursing staff during times of high patient demand, her empathy and commitment to the well-being of others have been evident in all that she does.
"MaryJane brings a unique ability to balance the regulatory and business needs of the organization with the realities of patient care," Thompson says. "Her leadership style, centered on kindness, generosity, and integrity, has made us all better at what we do. I’ve learned a great deal from her, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her lead our nursing team."
The Iowa Organization for Nursing Leadership, an affiliate of the Iowa Hospital Association, seeks to shape healthcare in Iowa through innovation, leadership expertise, professional development, education, and advocacy. Each year, IONL recognizes a nurse executive who demonstrates outstanding leadership and a commitment to excellence in patient care and nursing services.
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About Story Medical
For more than 60 years, Story County Medical Center, Story Medical Clinics and Story Medical Senior Care have been the trusted providers of high-quality, local healthcare services for the residents of Story County. Their modern South Campus creates a healing environment that matches the personalized care and clinical expertise of its medical staff.