Pender Community Hospital Recognized with Statewide Advocacy Awards

Pender, Neb. (March 23, 2026) – Pender Community Hospital is proud to announce it has been recognized by the Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) with two distinguished honors celebrating leadership and commitment to healthcare advocacy across the state.

The awards were presented during NHA Advocacy Day on March 4.

Pender Community Hospital received the NHA PAC Pacesetter Award – Most Over Goal among Critical Access Hospitals, recognizing the organization’s exceptional efforts in exceeding its Political Action Committee (PAC) fundraising goals. This award highlights hospitals that go above and beyond in supporting advocacy efforts that strengthen healthcare access and policy.

In addition, Laura Gamble, CEO of Pender Community Hospital, was named a 2026 AHA Most Valuable PAC Player (MVPP)—an individual honor recognizing outstanding leadership and impact in advancing advocacy initiatives.

In 2025, Gamble achieved 275% of the hospital’s PAC goal—the highest percentage among Critical Access Hospitals in Nebraska—marking more than a 100% increase from the previous year. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to engaging staff and championing initiatives that support the future of rural healthcare.

“Advocacy plays a vital role in protecting and strengthening access to care for the communities we serve,” said Shane Schuster, Chief Operating Officer, who accepted the awards on behalf of the hospital at Advocacy Day. “These recognitions reflect the dedication of our entire team and the leadership that continues to move our mission forward.”

The NHA PAC Pacesetter and MVPP awards are presented annually to hospitals and individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to advocacy efforts at both the state and national levels.