The Dean’s Distinguished Service Award is the highest form of staff recognition at WashU Medicine, honoring exceptional employees who go above and beyond their job responsibilities, foster a positive work environment, and make a lasting impact on their communities. This year, Kenya McKinney, CRNA, has been selected as a recipient of this award.
McKinney earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Webster University and an Master of Science in Nursing from the Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing. Before beginning the nurse anesthesia program at Goldfarb in 2009, she worked in the neurosurgery ICU at Saint Louis University. She joined the Department of Anesthesiology in 2013, quickly becoming a valued member of the team.
As CRNA team leader for the GI lab, McKinney sets a high standard for excellence through her leadership, collaboration with physicians, and commitment to patient care, while also playing a vital role in onboarding and training new team members. She’s passionate about supporting future CRNAs and is currently mentoring three students across local programs, providing both academic and personal support. Her passion for outreach is equally impactful. McKinney regularly speaks to nursing students at St. Louis Community College and shares her story with youth and women’s organizations to inspire careers in healthcare.
“This is such a well-deserved honor,” said David Eisenbath, CRNA, Director for CRNA Activities. “Kenya has been an inspiration and mentor to so many, truly exemplifying what discipline, effort, and passion can achieve. I’m thrilled to see her recognized with this award, which highlights all the extra ways she lifts our community.”
McKinney will be honored at the 2025 Staff Awards Ceremony on June 5, 2025, at the Eric P. Newman Education Center (EPNEC). She will receive an engraved glass award and be recognized in The Source for her exceptional contributions. Please join us in congratulating her on this outstanding achievement!