The Nebraska Nurses Association (NNA) and the Nebraska Organization of Nursing Leadership (NOLN) recognize 40 emerging nurse leaders under the age of 40.

Janae McMahon, MSN-Ed., RN, BS, NPD-BC, has been selected as one of the 2026 40 under 40 awardees based on contributions to leadership within the nursing profession through outstanding dedication, compassion, clinical practice, education, and healthcare innovation and advocacy.

Janae’s nursing career has consisted of caring for patients in pediatric behavioral health settings, clinical leadership, quality and safety management, and clinical education. In her current role at Children’s Nebraska Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, she has contributed to the development and implementation of clinical education during the opening and launching of the center in January of 2026.

The daughter of Joyce Pearce, Fairfax, Missouri, and the late John Pearce, she is a 2005 graduate of Rock Port High School. Janae resides in Gretna, Nebraska, with her husband, Ryan, and daughter, Amelia.