Meet the Candidates
The Nebraska Nurses Association is pleased to introduce the candidates seeking to serve in NNA leadership positions for the 2027 term.
NNA’s elected leaders help guide the association’s priorities, strengthen the voice of nurses across Nebraska and support our work in advocacy, professional practice, education and member engagement. We encourage you to learn more about each candidate, review their position statements and consider the experience and perspective they would bring to the role.
Your participation helps shape the future of NNA and ensures our association continues to reflect the nurses and communities we serve.
Make Your Voice Count
Eligible NNA members will receive voting instructions by email when the election opens on October 26, 2026. Please review the candidates below and confirm that your contact information is current in your NNA member profile.
TREASURER
CANDIDATE
Todd Hovey
BSN, RN, NREMT, EMS-I
Position Statement
As a healthcare professional and educator, I understand the importance of responsible stewardship, transparency, and accountability. The Nebraska Nurses Association plays a critical role in supporting nurses across our state, advocating for our profession, and advancing quality patient care. As Treasurer, I will work to ensure our financial resources are managed effectively and strategically so that we can continue investing in programs, advocacy efforts, professional development, and member engagement.
Together, we can build a financially strong association that supports Nebraska nurses today and prepares for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE
CANDIDATE
Sue Schuelke
PhD, RN, CNE, CHSE-A, CCRN
Position Statement
I am submitting my name to be a candidate for the Nebraska Nurses Association Member Representative position because I bring a broad perspective on nursing practice, education, research, which gives me a unique perspective on being a “Nebraska Nurse” As an Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, a past member of the NNA Board of Directors, past Chair of the Professional Development Committee, and participant on the NNA Communication Task Force, I have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the nursing profession within Nebraska. I would look forward to representing the state as important issues affecting healthcare and nursing are discussed.
CANDIDATE
Alyssa Dishman
BSN RN, Medsurg-BC
Position Statement
I am seeking a leadership position within the Nebraska Nurses Association because I believe nurses deserve a strong voice in decisions that impact our profession, our patients, and the future of healthcare. I am particularly passionate about advancing rural healthcare, supporting the nursing workforce, expanding access to behavioral health services, and promoting opportunities for professional growth and mentorship. As a DNP-PMHNP student and practicing registered nurse, I bring a unique perspective that combines bedside experience, leadership, quality improvement, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. I am dedicated to listening to nurses across Nebraska, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policies that strengthen our profession while improving patient outcomes.
LARC – REGION 1
CANDIDATE
Barb Petersen
DNP, APRN-BC, CPHQ, CPPS
Position Statement
My name is Barbara Petersen and I am hopeful to serve you, the nurses of the Nebraska Nurses Association as a member of the LARC committee. I have been a registered nurse in the state of Nebraska for over 30 years, an APRN, family nurse practitioner since 2006 and most recently received my DNP from Creighton University in 2023. I work in the capacity of a Chief Quality Officer for Great Plains Health in North Platte, Nebraska. I have clinical background in a variety of nursing fields including Emergency Medicine, family practice clinic, cardiology, pain management and have been working in the field of quality improvement for the past 9 years. I am also the Executive Director of the Clinically Integrated Network for Great Plains Health Innovation Network. I look forward to the opportunity to serve as a voice of Nebraska nurses through the legislative process.
LARC – REGION 2
CANDIDATE
Melissa Florell
PhD, CRN
Position Statement
I am writing to let you know that I am interested in the LARC position. I have attached my CV. I currently serve as PAC Treasurer, but I believe this is my last year. I have also served on the committee prior to my time as NNA’s Director.
LARC – REGION 3
CANDIDATE
Bre Rogert
MSN, RN
Position Statement
As a registered nurse and nursing instructor at UNMC College of Nursing, I am passionate about advancing the nursing profession and advocating for policies that support both nurses and the patients we serve. My experience educating future nurses, as well as caring for adult and pediatric patients at the bedside, has given me insight into many of the workforce, educational, and healthcare challenges facing our profession. Additionally, my participation in the Nebraska Nurses Association Health Policy Fellows Program has strengthened my understanding of health policy and advocacy, while reinforcing the important role nurses play in shaping healthcare at the local and state levels. I would bring strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills to the committee, along with an educator’s perspective on issues affecting nursing practice and healthcare delivery. I am eager to learn more about the legislative process and contribute to efforts that support nurses and improve healthcare outcomes across Nebraska.
LARC – REGION 4
CANDIDATE
Kara Tomlinson
DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC
Position Statement
I am passionate about nursing’s pivotal role in healthcare, I am driven to advocate for our profession’s advancement and the well-being of nurses. With a robust background spanning clinical practice, nursing leadership, and advocacy, I am committed to fostering legislative changes that empower nurses, enhance patient care, and address systemic challenges. As a candidate for the Legislative and Advocacy Committee leadership position within the Nebraska Nurses Association, I pledge to leverage my expertise, collaborative spirit, and dedication to drive impactful initiatives. Together, let’s amplify nurses’ voices, shape policy, and ensure a brighter future for nursing in Nebraska.
LARC – AT LARGE
CANDIDATE
Michelle Burnett
DNP, RN, CNOR
Position Statement
As nurses, there is no one better to speak for our profession than those of us who are a part of it. Just as nurses advocate for their patients, we should also be advocating for our fellow nurses and our profession. By becoming involved, we have a voice in shaping our scope of practice, our identity, our professionalism, and the care that we give to our patients and our communities. Nurses have a responsibility, when able, to actively participate in discussions and conversations, and to advocate, for the policies and practices that guide the delivery and accessibility of healthcare for all persons. I believe that leadership is not only a responsibility, but a privilege. One that should not be taken lightly but with the full understanding of what it means to speak for those that you represent.
NPDC – NURSING PRACTICE
CANDIDATE
Stephanie Pelan
MSN, RN
Position Statement
Nursing has provided me with incredible opportunities to grow as a clinician, leader, and advocate, and I believe it is important to give back to the profession that has given so much to me. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to supporting nurses, promoting professional development, and advancing high-quality patient care.
My previous involvement with the Nebraska Nurses Association, including serving on the Nursing Professional Development Committee and as Chair, was both meaningful and rewarding. After completing my recent term as Secretary/Treasurer for the Nebraska Organization of Nurse Leaders, I found myself wanting to reconnect with NNA and contribute once again to the organization that represents and supports nurses across our state.
If elected, I will bring leadership experience, a collaborative approach, and a genuine passion for nursing. I am committed to listening, engaging members, and helping advance the mission and future of nursing in Nebraska.
NPDC – NURSING FACULTY (2 POSITIONS)
CANDIDATE
Melina Olerich
RN, MSN
Position Statement
I believe nursing is grounded in lifelong learning. As nursing becomes increasingly complex, nurses must continue developing professionally, strengthening critical-thinking skills, and applying evidence-based practice.
I am passionate about professional identity and believe nurses should understand not only what they do, but who they are as professionals and how their values, knowledge, and actions contribute to nursing. Professional development is a shared responsibility, with educators providing meaningful opportunities while nurses take ownership of their growth.
I am seeking an NNA leadership position to contribute beyond my individual role and support nurses across Nebraska. My experiences in clinical practice, nursing education, and both urban and rural settings have given me a broad perspective of nursing. I hope to promote education, professional growth, mentorship, recognition, and professional identity for nurses throughout Nebraska.
CANDIDATE
Sheri Rowland
PhD, APRN-BC FNP
Position Statement
For nearly 30 years, I have cared for Nebraskans as a nurse and nurse practitioner, educated future nurses, and conducted research focused on the health of rural, agricultural, immigrant, and underserved populations. My work has taken me into communities across Nebraska, where I have seen firsthand the vital role nurses play in improving health and addressing local needs. Through these experiences, I have come to appreciate the importance of ensuring that nurses have a strong professional voice, remain engaged in the profession, and are effectively represented. As Associate Professor and Assistant Dean at the UNMC College of Nursing, I bring experience in governance, strategic planning, quality improvement, and leadership development. I am seeking this position to support member engagement, develop future nurse leaders, and help strengthen the Nebraska Nurses Association for the nurses and communities we serve.
CANDIDATE
Rachel Kunkle
PhD, MHA, APRN, RN, AGPCNP-BC, GERO-BC
Position Statement
I believe a strong nursing profession depends on creating opportunities for nurses to learn, lead, connect, and grow throughout every stage of their careers. As a nurse educator, clinician, researcher, and professional nursing leader, I am committed to strengthening the connection between nursing education, practice, and professional development. I am seeking a leadership position on the Nursing Professional Development Committee because I want to help ensure Nebraska nurses have access to meaningful educational opportunities, recognition, mentorship, and resources that reflect the evolving needs of our profession. I am particularly passionate about developing our nursing workforce, supporting nurses in both rural and urban communities, and creating opportunities that engage nurses across specialties and career stages. If elected, I will bring a collaborative, evidence-informed perspective and a commitment to listening to Nebraska nurses and helping NNA provide professional development.
CANDIDATE
Christine Anne Townsend
EDD, MSN, BSN, RN, IBCLC
Position Statement
The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses is the driving force of my career and life. I have been reading, applying, and using the ANA Code of Ethics as my daily mantra for over 25 years. I share the Code of Ethics with my students in class and clinical to help them become ethical nurses and humans.
We have to make sure legislation aligns with the ANA’s ethical standards. I have the experience and wisdom of a seasoned nurse, educator, and citizen who wants to help make positive change for the nursing profession and humanity.
CANDIDATE
Jayme Weber
MSN, RN, CNL
Position Statement
I am honored to seek election to the Nursing Professional Development Committee. I have been a member of NNA since graduating from nursing school in 2011. As a nursing faculty member at the UNMC College of Nursing–Kearney Division, I am committed to preparing future nurses who are ready to meet the evolving needs of Nebraska communities.
My background includes psychiatric-mental health nursing, medical-surgical nursing, population health, and rural community engagement. As a PhD student, my research focuses on improving access to rural behavioral health and opioid use disorder care through telemental health and tele-MOUD implementation. I serve on the BHECN Central Board and the APNA Scope and Standards of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Practice Advisory Panel, experiences that have strengthened my commitment to advocating for lifelong learning, evidence-based practice, and meaningful professional development.
NPDC – NURSE EDUCATOR (2 POSITIONS)
CANDIDATE
Jillian Krumbach
DNP, RN, NE-BC
Position Statement
In the last year as I have I taken on the role as Undergraduate Nursing Director, I have been working very closely with BSN students, faculty and clinical partners. This work has really re-ignited my passion for advocacy, policy and change. Additionally, changes in the political landscape and the impact to healthcare has made me recognize there is a need for my voice and action here in Nebraska and beyond. I cannot see a better way to promote change than working within and through an organization such as NNA among respected colleagues and fellow nurses. I believe I can bring value to the organization through a leadership role and enable my strength of activator into action.
CANDIDATE
Wendy Wells
DrPH, MSN, BS, RN
Position Statement
I am interested in the NPDC position because nursing professional development/education is a passion I have pursued throughout my career. Providing evidence-based education to health care professionals is the bedrock of safe, effective care. The nursing profession advances through continuing education, as new topics continually emerge. Reference proposals are an important tool for increasing knowledge of current topics. I have extensive experience planning conferences (including past NNA conferences) for various audiences. I was on the original committee that developed the Nebraska Nightingale Tribute; it would be an honor to assist with that as well as the awards, scholarships, and recognition programs. An appropriately educated nursing workforce improves the health of the populations they serve, which has been my lifelong goal. It would be a privilege to examine, approve, provide, and support professional development opportunities for nurses across Nebraska.
GFMC – STAFF NURSE
CANDIDATE
Krystal Novotony
MBA, MSN, RN
Position Statement
I currently serve as the Director for three Rural Health Clinics with Valley County Health Systems. I hold a dual master’s degree in nursing leadership and business administration. As a staff nurse, I worked at a critical access hospital and have seen the powerful impact that rural healthcare facilities have on patients and communities. My passion resides in rural health and increasing awareness on the importance of rural healthcare facilities. I ‘m an active member of the National Association of Rural Health Clinics. I lead all quality projects in the medical clinics, and work to implement best practices in our facility that foster positive outcomes for our rural community. I would be honored to serve on the Governance, Finance and Membership committee, to increase awareness of the positive impact that the NNA has for all nurses and the facilities in which they work, most importantly from a rural standpoint.
GFMC – NURSING FACULTY
CANDIDATE
Jenna Hesse
Ed.D, RN
Position Statement
I am seeking election to the Governance, Finance, and Membership Committee because I believe a strong professional nursing organization depends on engaged members, thoughtful leadership, and responsible stewardship of its resources. As a nurse educator, I am passionate about developing the next generation of nurses while strengthening connections between nursing education and professional practice. My experience managing simulation and laboratory budgets, combined with my commitment to leadership development and member engagement, has prepared me to contribute to the committee’s work. I would be honored to serve the members of the Nebraska Nurses Association by supporting sound governance, fiscal responsibility, and a strong, vibrant professional organization for nurses across our state.
GFMC – RURAL
CANDIDATE
Heather Brahmsteadt
MSN, RN
Position Statement
I am seeking this leadership opportunity with the Nebraska Nurses Association because I believe strong professional organizations are built through purposeful governance, responsible stewardship, engaged membership, and leaders who are willing to turn ideas into action.
If selected to lead the Governance, Finance, and Membership Committee, my priority would be to help ensure that NNA remains relevant, sustainable, and responsive to the nurses it represents. Effective governance should provide clear direction while creating opportunities for diverse nursing voices to influence the future of our profession. Financial stewardship should not simply focus on maintaining resources, but on intentionally investing those resources in initiatives that advance NNA’s mission and provide meaningful value to its members. Membership should extend beyond recruitment numbers; it should reflect whether nurses feel connected, represented, supported, and empowered through their professional organization.
GFMC – URBAN
CANDIDATE
Krystal Davis
EdD, RN, CHSE
Position Statement
I have actively served on the GFMC committee from 2023-2026, being the Chair for the past 2 years, and would enjoy continuing to use my strengths to increase membership recruitment and retention of NNA. I have been a nurse for 20 years and an NNA member since 2010. I have received my Ed.D from Bryan College of Health Sciences in 2020, attained my MSN in nursing education from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 2013. I am currently an assistant professor at UNMC teaching in the traditional undergraduate program. I am a dedicated nurse who is committed to nursing excellence and advancing healthcare. My passion is nursing education and truly believe being a positive role model is essential in growing our soon to be nurses to be a proactive voice and advocate for improving health for all.