EXCELSIOR SPRINGS — Excelsior Springs Hospital CEO Kristen DeHart has been recognized with the Civic Leadership Award from the Missouri Municipal League’s West Gate Region, honoring her exceptional leadership and deep commitment to the Excelsior Springs community.
DeHart received the award on October 23, 2025, during a ceremony at the Adams Pointe Conference Center in Blue Springs, where she was nominated and presented the honor by Mayor Mark Spohn. The award is given each year to civic leaders who are nominated by their city’s mayor in recognition of outstanding contributions and dedication to public service within the MML West Gate Region, which includes municipalities throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Under DeHart’s guidance, Excelsior Springs Hospital has continued to move forward despite the challenges facing rural healthcare systems. The hospital’s 2024 Annual Report highlights a year of meaningful growth and financial recovery. Through strategic focus and teamwork, the hospital achieved:
• Zero hospital-acquired infections in 2024, a major milestone in patient safety.
• Readmission rates below the national average and emergency transfer times consistently under 50 minutes.
• Substantial growth in outpatient visits, radiology procedures, and laboratory testing.
• A 173.9 percent year-over-year improvement in net revenue, representing a strong financial turnaround
Even during times of major transition, such as the hospital’s move to direct management and the restructuring of home health and hospice services, DeHart maintained a calm and transparent approach. Her leadership has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as the Excelsior Springs School District, Rotary Club, Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Thrive Excelsior, and the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, where she serves on the board.
Beyond her professional role, DeHart is a central figure in community life. She played a key role in the creation and continued success of the Excelsior Springs Farmers Market and helps organize Waterfest Weekend, where her family manages the Chamber’s Brew Tent to raise money for student scholarships. Her commitment to service extends far beyond the hospital, touching nearly every part of the community.
“Kristen’s influence reaches well beyond healthcare,” said Mayor Spohn. “She demonstrates what it means to be a civic leader through her compassion, innovation, and dedication to the people of Excelsior Springs.”
Through DeHart’s leadership, Excelsior Springs Hospital has not only endured difficult times but emerged stronger, more efficient, and deeply community-centered. Her award recognizes a career defined by collaboration, integrity, and a steadfast belief in the power of local leadership.
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