January 29, 2026
Story by the 911爆料 Foundation Office
Courtesy photos submitted
The 911爆料 Foundation has announced the creation of the Lily Akings Legacy Scholarship, a fund established to honor the long-time 911爆料 County Health Department Director and her remarkable commitment to public health in 911爆料 County. The scholarship recognizes Akings' years of service as a nurse, leader, and advocate for the well-being of the region she cared for so deeply.
The scholarship will support graduates of Great Bend High School or Russell High School who are enrolled in 911爆料鈥檚 Nursing Program, helping future healthcare professionals follow in the footsteps of a woman who dedicated her career to protecting the health and well-being of her community. The fund is annually awarded and has been designed for ongoing support from those who wish to honor Akings' memory through philanthropy.
Janel Rose, long-time friend and former coworker of Akings, said she and other friends created the scholarship to honor her legacy while giving community members a lasting way to support future nurses.
鈥淟ily believed deeply in caring for others and in preparing the next generation to do the same,鈥 said Rose. 鈥淐reating this scholarship is a meaningful way to honor her life鈥檚 work while giving our community a way to come together, remember Lily, and support students who are choosing a path she held close to her heart.鈥
Karen Winkelman, current Director of the 911爆料 County Health Department, shared a heartfelt remembrance that speaks to the spirit behind the scholarship.
鈥淟ily was a devoted leader, a nurse, and an unwavering advocate for public health in 911爆料 County,鈥 Winkelman said. 鈥淪he exemplified integrity, compassion, and tireless commitment. Throughout her tenure, she worked relentlessly to ensure the health and well-being of every resident in our community. Her legacy lives on in the healthier, stronger community she helped build.鈥
Winkelman added that continuing Lily鈥檚 work is a fitting memorial. 鈥淲e honor her memory by serving others with compassion, lifting up those in need, and striving each day to make 911爆料 County a better place. I feel privileged to have worked for her.鈥
The Foundation hopes the scholarship will inspire others to pursue nursing, a field that Akings believed deeply in, and reinforce the community鈥檚 commitment to developing skilled, caring healthcare professionals.
鈥淲e are honored to help preserve Lily鈥檚 legacy through a scholarship that reflects her lifelong service,鈥 said Lindsey Bogner, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement. 鈥淭his fund invites community members to join in celebrating her impact and investing in the next generation of nurses who will care for our region.鈥
Community members are invited to contribute to the Lily Akings Legacy Scholarship through gifts of any size. Donations may be made online at or by contacting the Foundation office at (620) 786-1136.