O’NEILL, Neb. (June 24, 2025) – Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital is proud to announce that Sheila Johnston, pharmacy manager, was recently recognized by the Nebraska Rural Health Association with its “Rural Health Emerging Leader Award.”
Each year, the Nebraska Rural Health Association honors people who have contributed to rural health care through leadership. These awards recognize individuals and organizations who take on leadership roles in health care and their communities. Johnston received the recognition during the 2025 Nebraska Rural Health Conference held June 9-10 in Kearney, Neb.
“Being a hospital pharmacist has been the most rewarding experience of my career so far,” Johnston said. “I’m humbled and grateful to be recognized as an emerging leader. I love being a part of the Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital team and helping to create a positive, high-quality health care environment for our patients.”
Johnston has served as the pharmacy manager at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital since 2024 after several years of being a clinical pharmacist on staff.
“In her first year as a manager, Sheila has shown to be effective in the role and has patiently worked through several improvements,” Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital President and CEO John Kozyra wrote in the nomination letter. “Her commitment to continuous improvement is a strength. In addition to her role in the hospital, Sheila also was the catalyst for creating a community-wide service and clean-up day.”
In September 2024, Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital, in partnership with the O’Neill Ministerial Association, brought together 30-plus volunteers to do housework for homebound seniors in the O’Neill community in advance of the winter months. This included projects such as yard work, basic house maintenance and moving furniture.
“I believe her effectiveness as a pharmacy manager, and her commitment to make a positive impact in our community, makes Sheila a great candidate for recognition.”
Johnston did her undergraduate work at Wayne State College and went on to earn her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Creighton University in Omaha. She has nearly 20 years of pharmacy experience, including nine years at Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital.
