Mark (Sparky) Steinborn graduated from anesthesia school in 1985 and spent the majority of his career as a nurse anesthetist at Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center. He provided anesthesia care to thousands of patients, mentored hundreds of anesthesia students along the way, and was a beacon of light to the community around him. Sparky exemplified what it means to be a leader, a great anesthetist, and most of all a friend. Simply put, Sparky was the best of the best, and when you are talking about CRNAs in South Dakota, that means something great. Throughout his career, he had a profound impact on patients, coworkers, student nurse anesthetists, surgeons, staff, and every person that he interacted with. His big smile, kind demeanor, and sense of humor put patients at ease when he told them he would be taking care of them. Sparky was a favorite of the students who would request to have him as their preceptor because of his ability to teach them in a way that made it fun and so they wouldn’t forget what they learned. His ability to be a servant leader was evident as physicians and staff were happy to see him in their room. It was his ability to bring confidence, happiness, and an attitude of working together that made each day better.
Sparky didn’t just make an impact in South Dakota, he also made an impact in underserved areas in developing countries such as the Dominican Republic with his many mission trips to help those in need. His work with Children of the Nations in Barahona, Dominican Republic made a profound impact within the community, so much that a plaque honoring him still stands in the hospital. Sparky had a passion for helping others, for embarking on humanitarian trips, and for just helping his everyday neighbors within South Dakota. Mark taught so many, not only anesthesia, but humanity and humility.
The South Dakota Association of Nurse Anesthetist (SDANA) made the decision to honor him through a gift to the AANA Foundation. The funds are used to support and promote ongoing research and education within the nurse anesthesia profession. In recognition of this donation, the SDANA received a medal to thank us for our support and to remind others of the need to support education and research in all forms. As a result, the SDANA decided to honor exemplary CRNAs like Mark who did not look for glory, recognition, or anything extra. They just do fantastic work every day. Therefore, at every South Dakota Education Meeting, we will honor one of the many outstanding CRNAs and provide them with an award and the medal to wear during that meeting.
The Mark “Sparky” Steinborn Award’s purpose is to honor Sparky and seek out outstanding CRNAs in South Dakota who possess a passion for caring for others, education, and helping those in need. The award recipient should embody integrity, kindness, respect for all, and an appreciation for humor.
Complete the form below to nominate an outstanding South Dakota CRNA who exemplifies these qualities.