HaysMed Celebrates National Hospital Week and 2026 Hospital Awards
HaysMed is proud to celebrate National Hospital Week, taking place May 10–16, 2026, honoring the professionals who make high-quality healthcare possible every day. This annual observance shines a spotlight on the service of hospital Associates who care for patients and support the health of the community.
Throughout the week, HaysMed will host a variety of activities to recognize and thank its Associates for their commitment to excellence, including the HaysMed Hospital Awards Celebration on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, which honors team members who exemplify outstanding performance, professionalism, and service.
The 2026 HaysMed Hospital Award recipients are:
Advanced Practice Provider of the Year Award – Mary Jo Gubitoso, DNP, APRN‑C
For Demonstrating Clinical Expertise in Patient Care
Norman W. Jeter Humanitarian Award – Sarah M. Dreiling, MSN, RN, CCM, CCDS
For Excellence in Human Kindness
Vic Eddy, MD, Physician of the Year Award – Kayla Gray, DO
For Exhibiting Excellence in Medicine
Sr. Mary Mollison, RN, Nurse of the Year Award – Gayla Binder, RN
For Demonstrating Exemplary Nursing Practice and Patient Care
“These individuals represent the very best of HaysMed, clinical excellence, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to our patients and each other,” said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO of HaysMed. “National Hospital Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate all our Associates, and especially those whose leadership and dedication set a standard of excellence across our organization.”
Advanced Practice Provider of the Year
Mary Jo Gubitoso, DNP, APRN‑C
DeBakey Heart Institute
Mary Jo Gubitoso, DNP, APRN‑C, has dedicated more than two decades to caring for patients at HaysMed, where she has served as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in cardiology since 2001. Originally from Pennsylvania, Gubitoso’s nursing journey began with a lifelong calling to patient care, leading her from ICU nursing to earning her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Her passion for cardiology developed early and has fueled her commitment to bringing exceptional cardiac care to communities across Western Kansas.
“I have always loved learning and growing in my role so I can better serve my patients,” said Gubitoso. “Cardiology is challenging and rewarding, and it means so much to me to care for patients close to home and support the nurses and students who are following the same path I once did.”
Mary Jo values time with her husband, Vince, and their daughter, Zoey, and while she enjoys visiting family on the East Coast, she says Western Kansas has truly become home and the place she cannot imagine practicing anywhere else.
Norman W. Jeter Humanitarian Award
Sarah Dreiling, MSN, RN, CCM, CCDS
Director of Clinical Care
Sarah Dreiling, MSN, RN, CCM, CCDS, has spent nearly 28 years serving HaysMed, beginning as a summer “Volunteen” at age 14 and growing into her current role as Director of Clinical Care. A Hays native, Dreiling’s career has spanned bedside nursing, oncology, case management, and leadership with each step shaped by mentorship, teamwork, and a deep belief in human kindness.
“Inspiration that led to the position I hold today, happened over time and through the support and influence of my family and co-workers. Regina Borthwick has been a mentor,” said Dreiling. “I like my current role because of the different aspects in healthcare I can be a part of, how the system is all connected, the challenge and the rewards/outcome you see from follow team members, patients, and families. I am very grateful the team I work with is amazing!”
Outside of her professional role, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband, Joe, and their three children, cheering on their activities, while also finding downtime through golfing, gardening, and walking her dogs.
Vic Eddy, MD, Physician of the Year Award
Kayla Gray, DO
Director of Hospitalist Medicine; Medical Director of Palliative Care/Hospice
Kayla Gray, DO, joined HaysMed in 2014 and currently serves as Director of Hospitalist Medicine and Medical Director of Palliative Care and Hospice. Originally from Ellsworth, Kansas, Dr. Gray’s path to medicine began unexpectedly but evolved through hands‑on patient care, military service, and a passion for hospital‑based medicine. Her dedication to improving healthcare delivery and supporting patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments is evident in every role she holds.
“I fell in love with hospitalist work during residency and changed paths leading me to HaysMed,” said Dr. Gray. “It’s an honor to care for patients here in Western Kansas and to work alongside colleagues who truly put people first.”.
Outside of work, Dr. Gray enjoys spending time with her husband, Ian, and their three children, and when her schedule allows, she and her family love to travel and hike together while exploring national parks.
Sr. Mary J. Mollison Nurse of the Year Award
Gayla A. Binder, RN, BSN, CPN
Ambulatory Surgery
With nearly four decades of service at HaysMed, Gayla Binder, RN, BSN, CPN, represents the very heart of nursing excellence. Binder began her career in 1986 and spent the majority of her time caring for pediatric patients, work she describes as her true calling. After transitioning to Ambulatory Surgery seven years ago, she continues to bring compassion, experience, and calm leadership to every patient encounter.
“Nursing has always been about people for me,” Binder shared. “I love getting to know my patients and hearing their stories. Working with such a strong team makes it possible to provide the kind of care I’m proud of every day.”
Gayla most enjoys time with her husband, Rick, their four children, and twelve grandchildren, often traveling to attend family events, while also making time for reading, running, and cheering on the Kansas State Wildcats as long‑time football season ticket holders.
