Kristina Smouse, CNM, CRNP, Awarded 2026 Thomas P. Gessner Healthcare Scholarship

The Latrobe Area Hospital Charitable Foundation was proud to recognize the very accomplished Kristina Smouse, CNM, CRNP, as the recipient of the 2026 Thomas P. Gessner, MD Healthcare Scholarship.

Kristina's commitment to advancing her education in healthcare reflects the very spirit of this scholarship — dedication to learning, professional growth, and delivering exceptional care to our communities. Through her hard work and passion, she exemplifies what it means to invest in both personal and professional development.

Kristina earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State University, a Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Carlow University, and a Post-Masters Certificate in Nurse Midwifery from Frontier Nursing University. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in Nurse Midwifery at Frontier Nursing University.

She began her career at WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital in the Emergency Department before transitioning into Nurse Midwifery, where she found her true calling in the continuum of obstetrical care. As a Connellsville native, Kristina welcomed the opportunity to work closer to home at Independence Health System. Our patients are fortunate to have such a dedicated and compassionate practitioner caring for them.

The Thomas P. Gessner, MD Healthcare Scholarship supports Independence Health System employees who are pursuing advanced degrees in the healthcare disciplines, helping them take the next step in their careers while strengthening the future of patient care.

Kristina's journey is an inspiration to her colleagues, demonstrating that with determination and support, continued education is within reach. Her advice to others considering graduate studies in healthcare is to dive in, take action, and stop postponing. There is never a perfect time to add to an already busy schedule, but tenacity and perseverance will see you through.

Congratulations to Kristina on this well-deserved scholarship award!

Pictured above: Dr. Thomas P. Gessner, Current Trustee on the Latrobe Area Hospital Charitable Foundation Board, Retired Pediatrician and Medical Director of Latrobe Area Hospital, and Kristina Smouse, Certified Nurse Midwife and Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner.