SOUTH PLAINS CELEBRATES 25 NURSES AT NINTH ANNUAL AWARDS EVENT

SOUTH PLAINS CELEBRATES 25 NURSES AT NINTH ANNUAL AWARDS EVENT

Members of Lubbock’s medical community joined families, colleagues and supporters October 27 for the ninth annual Great South Plains 25 Nurses celebration, recognizing 25 nurses for their contributions to patients and families across the region.

The 2026 celebration honored nurses from different areas of the profession, highlighting the compassion, leadership, clinical skill and dedication they bring to their work.

The organization has celebrated nurses since 2017. Its annual recognition also brings attention to the people supporting that work, including families, fellow healthcare professionals and community partners.

“Nursing is family,” organization president Jennifer McMinn wrote in the event’s welcome message, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another and keeping patients the priority.

Organizers also highlighted the role of sponsors, whose support helps provide local scholarships and invest in the future of nursing throughout the community.

Among this year’s 25 honorees was Kara Johnson, a senior staff registered nurse, team lead and pulmonary hypertension coordinator at the Texas Tech Physicians Internal Medicine Clinic.

According to Lone Star Lungs, Jericka Gamez nominated Johnson after observing her dedication to patients, nurses and physicians. Johnson’s 16 years in nursing have included caring for people with pulmonary arterial hypertension and other complex chronic conditions.

Johnson also helps coordinate support and educational opportunities through Lone Star Lungs, connecting patients, caregivers, healthcare workers and students with pulmonary hypertension education.

Her recognition was part of an evening celebrating 25 nurses whose service makes a difference throughout the South Plains.

Photo credit: Lone Star Lungs