Emerging Leaders Under 40 Spotlight: Kerri Hensler, DNP, MPA, BSN, RN, CNOR, NEA-BC

The Leadership Behind the First Domino Heart Transplant for Infants

At New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, a landmark domino heart transplant demonstrated the extraordinary possibilities of collaboration and innovation in pediatric care. In this first-of-its-kind procedure for infants, one baby received a new heart, while the baby’s own heart, though no longer viable for survival, provided a perfectly functioning valve for another infant in need.

For Kerri Hensler, the director of nursing for perioperative services, participating in such a groundbreaking moment exemplifies her leadership philosophy: care driven by connection, teamwork, and purpose.

A Perioperative Nursing Career Rooted in Connection and Growth

Kerri’s path to nursing began in the fast-paced world of emergency medical services as a college EMT. She discovered a deep love for the immediacy of care and the trust built with patients in critical moments.

That passion led her to nursing, where she gained foundational experience in a medical stepdown unit before transitioning to the medical ICU. It was there that she honed her critical thinking skills and saw the potential to blend dynamic, fast-paced environments with the precision required in perioperative care.

“I was eager to join a team where we could see immediate, tangible outcomes—patients coming in sick, leaving better, and knowing we made a difference. That’s where I found my purpose,” she said.

Leading Nursing Teams to Achieve Excellence

Kerri’s leadership is defined by her ability to inspire teamwork and set ambitious goals that drive perioperative care to new heights. Under her guidance, her team achieved significant milestones that reflect their shared commitment to safety and innovation. Both campuses earned the AORN Go Clear Award, highlighting their dedication to creating safer environments for patients and staff alike.

Additionally, the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit became the first in New York City to receive Beacon designation, a recognition of their exceptional teamwork and commitment to high-quality care. Their innovations extended beyond their immediate environment, gaining national recognition through podium and poster presentations, one of which was honored with a best practices award.

“These accomplishments are not just about checking boxes. They’re about creating a culture of excellence that puts patients and staff safety at the forefront,” she said.

Rising to Meet Unprecedented Challenges

That culture of excellence was put to the test during the pandemic, which Kerri says presented multiple challenges.

At the height of the crisis, her team transformed more than 20 operating rooms into ICUs in just 72 hours. Drawing on her relational leadership style, she met individually with over 200 staff members to address concerns and build trust. By developing a triad care model pairing nurses from the ICU and OR along with physicians, her team provided high-quality care to critically ill patients in a completely new environment.

“It was daunting, but the trust we built as a team carried us through. Leadership during a crisis means being present, communicating clearly, and creating solutions together.”

Breaking Barriers with Innovation

That same dedication to collaboration and problem-solving also summarizes Kerri’s approach to innovation. From pioneering domino heart transplants (which was featured on Good Morning America) to advancing robotic surgery programs, she embraces opportunities to push the boundaries of care.

Her involvement in transplant innovations, like using normothermic perfusion technology to extend organ viability, reflects her commitment to improving outcomes for patients.

“Being part of these projects is more than exciting—it’s meaningful. It shows what’s possible when teams collaborate and believe in a shared vision,” she said.

“My role is to amplify the voices of my team, support their efforts, and remove obstacles so they can thrive. When you lead with integrity and trust, everything else falls into place.”

Prioritizing Work-Life Balance for Nurses

After the challenges of the pandemic, Kerri helped her team transition to four-day workweek for nurse leaders, recognizing the need for flexibility and space to focus on both professional growth and personal priorities.

As the mother of two young children, she embraces moments that matter at home while staying fully engaged with her team’s needs at work.

“It’s not about balance—it’s about harmony. I prioritize what matters most, whether that’s attending a school event for my kids or leading a crucial meeting at work,” she said.

About AORN's Emerging Leaders Under 40

This recognition highlights outstanding AORN members under 40 who have demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas over the past five years: Teamwork, Communication, Collaboration, & Equity; Mentorship or Preceptorship at national, community, or organizational levels; Involvement in AORN Governance or Volunteerism; Impactful Change or Innovation; and Educational Achievements or Certifications earned in 2023. Nominees were self-nominated or nominated by others. All were recognized at AORN’s Annual Conference.