Bismarck’s Wendy Kopp named to ‘CNOs to know’ list

Nov. 14, 2024

Contact:
Jessica Schindeldecker
Sanford Health Senior Communications Specialist
(701) 516-4903 / Jessica.Schindeldecker@SanfordHealth.org

BISMARCK, N.D. – Becker’s Hospital Review has named Wendy Kopp, Sanford Health Bismarck’s chief nursing officer, to the 2024 edition of its “Hospital and health system chief nursing officers to know” list.

This list honors chief nursing officers for their dedication to bettering their hospitals and health systems and directing efforts to ensure top quality nursing care. The Becker’s Hospital Review editorial team accepted nominations for this list and curated it to highlight the exceptional work of chief nursing officers from hospitals and health systems across the nation.

Kopp serves as the chief nursing officer at Sanford Bismarck, leading nearly 1,200 nurses across western and central North Dakota. In 1989, She began her nursing career as a float pool/telemetry unit registered nurse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of North Dakota, a Master of Science in nursing from the University of Mary and a Doctor of Philosophy in occupational and adult education from North Dakota State University.

Kopp was instrumental in guiding the organization through the Covid-19 pandemic, implementing innovative care strategies and ensuring the safety and well-being of both staff and patients. Under her leadership, Sanford Bismarck achieved its fourth Magnet designation, a prestigious honor that only 2% of health care organizations worldwide receive. Kopp also spearheaded the creation of the “Zen Den,” a wellness room designed to support the mental health of frontline workers. Beyond the organization, she contributes to the nursing profession by participating in professional boards, publishing research and advocating for policies that prioritize patient care and nurse wellness.

“Wendy’s leadership has greatly impacted both Sanford Bismarck and the nursing profession,” said Dr. Todd Schaffer, Sanford Bismarck president and CEO. “Her commitment to innovation, excellence and her team’s well-being has helped us achieve incredible milestones. We’re proud to see her recognized for her contributions.”

See the full list of chief nursing officer honorees.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization serves 1.4 million patients and nearly 200,000 health plan members across 250,000 square miles. The integrated health system has 45 hospitals, 211 clinic locations, more than 160 Good Samaritan Society senior living centers, 2,900 Sanford physicians and advanced practice providers, 540 active clinical trials, and nine world clinic locations around the globe. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.