For nearly two decades, St. Louis Magazine has dedicated itself to spotlighting the heartbeat of the region’s healthcare system. This year marks the 17th annual Excellence in Nursing Awards, presented by BJC HealthCare and Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing.
Among the list of honorees is Abby Bisch, DNP, CRNA, who has been named the 2026 recipient in the Advanced Practice category. She was also awarded the “Perfect Score” Award, given to the six finalists who receive a perfect score across all judges. Bisch, a nurse anesthetist within the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU Medicine, was recognized for her clinical expertise and leadership during a celebratory reception at the Missouri Botanical Garden on June 4.
Bisch’s path to the operating room was paved with diverse academic pursuits. Her educational background reflects a commitment to both science and service. She earned a bachelor’s degree in food science and industry with a minor in nonprofit leadership from Kansas State University, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Saint Mary in Kansas City, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Baylor College of Medicine.
Since joining the team at WashU Medicine in 2021, Bisch has rapidly ascended as a leader. In 2022, she co-created the CRNA Mentorship Program, which she now co-directs, and in 2025, she joined the faculty at Barnes-Jewish College Nurse Anesthesia Program as an assistant professor.
Raised on a farm, Bisch’s affinity for science began early. However, it was a high school shadowing program that narrowed her focus to nurse anesthesia. She was captivated by the unique blend of clinical rigor and the specific lifestyle the field offered.
Today, Bisch specializes in obstetric anesthesia, providing critical care during some of the most intense and rewarding moments of a patient’s life.
“Thankfully, at WashU Medicine, we have a care team model and a ton of resources. So if I need an extra set of hands, I can easily call in someone,” said Bisch when asked about managing the pressures of the operating room.
As a faculty member and mentor, Bisch is passionate about transparency in the profession. Her primary advice for aspiring nurses? Get out of the classroom and into the field.
“Shadow, so you can get a feel of what life looks like,” Bisch said. “What life looks like in school isn’t similar to how it’s going to be in the actual workforce. When I shadowed a nurse anesthetist and an anesthesiologist, their lifestyles were completely different.”
Through her clinical excellence, dedication to mentorship, and academic contributions, Bisch continues to elevate the standard of care at WashU Medicine and beyond. “Abby is a powerhouse in both the clinical and academic settings. Her dedication to her peers and her students is exactly what the Excellence in Nursing Award represents,” said David Eisenbath, Co-director for CRNA activities.
