Jennifer Koontz, Trauma Program Manager at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, has been named a 2025 Trauma Leadership Excellence Scholar by the National Quality Systems (NQS) Trauma TEAMS Scholarship program.
Koontz brings over 15 years of experience in trauma nursing and leadership. She began her career as a staff nurse, later managing an inpatient trauma unit before moving into her current role. At Conemaugh Memorial, she leads the rural Level I Trauma Center, coordinating high-acuity trauma care across a wide region and ensuring regulatory compliance while focusing on ongoing improvements in patient care and staff education.
The NQS Trauma Leadership Excellence Scholars program recognizes professionals committed to improving trauma systems and patient outcomes. The scholarship provides recipients with advanced educational opportunities, mentorship, and professional networking through partnerships with organizations such as the American Trauma Society (ATS), Trauma Center Association of America (TCAA), and Society of Trauma Nurses (STN). The initiative aims to prepare future leaders to strengthen trauma systems nationwide.
Koontz was chosen from a competitive group of applicants. Through this opportunity, she will continue developing skills in trauma systems management, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. These efforts are expected to enhance team coordination, expand education initiatives for trauma care, and improve outcomes for patients at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center.
“Jennifer’s recognition as a Trauma Leadership Excellence Scholar reflects her unwavering dedication to advancing trauma care both locally and nationally,” said Rodney D. Reider, CEO. “Her leadership is essential to maintaining the highest level of trauma care as a Level I Trauma Center, and we are proud to celebrate this achievement with her.”
