Gothenburg Health has been recognized with the 2026 Nebraska Governor’s Wellness Award at the Harvester level, the highest level of recognition in the statewide workplace wellness program.

The award was presented during a special ceremony at the Nebraska State Capitol on Sept. 8, where Corporate Wellness Director Rachel May accepted the honor on behalf of Gothenburg Health. 

This year, 31 Nebraska businesses received Governor’s Wellness Awards across four levels: Honorable Mention, Sower, Grower and Harvester. Gothenburg Health was one of only 10 organizations statewide to earn the Harvester Award.

The Governor’s Wellness Award recognizes Nebraska employers that create supportive, health-focused workplaces. The Harvester designation is reserved for organizations that demonstrate the benefits of advanced wellness programming through high-quality outcomes and sustained employee engagement.

Gothenburg Health was recognized for its strong leadership support, wellness-focused culture, use of data to guide and evaluate programming, increased employee participation, and success in reducing personal health risks among employees.

“Since this was our first year applying, I honestly wasn’t expecting us to reach the Harvester level,” May said. “It’s a really exciting accomplishment for our program, though I believe there are always areas where we can continue to grow and improve.”

The application review team also highlighted Gothenburg Health’s onsite YMCA facility as a standout strength, noting the accessibility it provides for employees seeking to improve and maintain their health. Reviewers further praised the organization’s leadership team for its active involvement and commitment to workplace wellness initiatives.

“This award is something our entire organization can be proud of,” May said. “I get to see every day the effort our staff puts into taking care of their overall well-being, and it’s really rewarding to see that recognized. I’m especially proud of the way our employees continue to show up, participate and support each other. That is wh at makes our wellness program successful and helps build a culture where taking care of yourself is valued.”

May continued, “I’m also thankful for the support of our leadership team and for great partners like the YMCA who help make wellness opportunities accessible to our employees. It’s been really rewarding to see our wellness program continue to grow, and I am excited to keep finding ways to support our employees and make wellness a part of everyday life at Gothenburg Health.”

Through wellness initiatives, educational opportunities, fitness resources and employee engagement efforts, the organization continues to invest in the physical, mental and emotional health of its workforce while encouraging health, sustainable habits. The Harvester recognition reflects the collective effort of Gothenburg Health employees, leaders, and community partners who continue to make wellness a part of the organizations culture.