Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Nurse Tonya Akers Receives National Award for Nursing Excellence

7/28/2025

POPLAR BLUFF, MO, July 28, 2025 – Tonya Akers, R.N., a registered nurse at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center for 6 years, has received a national 2025 Nursing Excellence Award. Akers is one of ten national winners selected across all hospitals affiliated with Community Health Systems, one of the nation’s leading healthcare providers. Developing operating healthcare delivery systems in 36 distinct markets across 14 states, the organization’s affiliates include PBRMC and 69 other hospitals.

Akers was surprised with the recognition during PBRMC’s annual employee banquet with hospital leadership where she was presented with a crystal plaque, a symbolic check for the cash award she received, and a congratulatory video featuring remarks.

“Tonya exemplifies the heart of nursing. Her compassion, leadership, and commitment to excellence are felt not only by her patients but by every team member who has the privilege of working alongside her,” PBRMC’s Chief Nursing Officer Carla Rider said. “ Being one of only ten nurses recognized nationally is an incredible honor—and one that couldn’t be more well-deserved.”

The Nursing Excellence Award program was created in 2020 with the celebration of the “Year of the Nurse” as a means to recognize the tremendous effort and sacrifice made by nurses during the COVID pandemic. This is the fifth occasion for the peer-nominated award recognizing the vital work nurses play in the collective purpose to help people get well and live healthier.

Characteristics synonymous with nursing excellence include outstanding care, compassion, service and innovation, and reflects the efforts of someone who is a demonstrated team player and/or mentor to others, is a leader in times of crises, and who regularly promotes health in the Community.

Akers joined PBRMC in 2019 and currently serves as the team lead in the emergency department. She also undertakes additional quality projects, including sepsis, stroke, and throughput. When Tonya leads her team as a charge nurse, she focuses on employing strong communication techniques with physicians, staff, and patients. In addition to receiving the national Nursing Excellence Award and a recognition gift, Akers received a cash award.

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