My passion for nursing began in childhood, as I watched my mother pursue her nursing education while my father served during Operation Desert Storm. She made a significant impact on many individuals throughout her career as an oncology nurse. I have always known I wanted to care for others and play a small role in their lives, creating positive experiences for them. It was an incredible honor to receive the Cameos of Caring Award, which highlights the vital role that expert nurse educators play in shaping the future of nursing.

I began my career in healthcare as a staff nurse at a local hospital. During that time, a former professor asked whether I would be interested in teaching nursing students. Since then, I have never looked back. My goal has always been to help students build confidence in their abilities, enabling them to make a positive impact on their communities.

For the past eight years, I have had the privilege of serving as a professor at PennWest University. As a nurse educator, the most important aspect of my role is creating a safe environment where students can thrive. On their first day of nursing school, we ask students, “What is your why?” We often hear responses such as, “I want to help people,” “I had a bad experience and want to ensure others have a better one,” or “I want to be like a nurse I admired.” We encourage them to reflect on the significant impact they will have on others’ lives and remind them of that importance frequently.

Nursing goes beyond textbooks; it’s about learning to care for individuals during critical moments in their lives and about becoming a true professional. Each semester, I am inspired as I watch my students grow into compassionate nurses. I remind them, “If you remember anything, be kind, empathetic, and strive to be excellent nurses.” At PennWest, we cultivate exceptional nurses who genuinely care for their patients.

Working at a PASSHE university allows me to connect with students in a meaningful way that enhances their learning. The students are not just numbers; they are aspiring individuals whom we have the privilege of shaping into life-changing professionals. Our system values its students and is responsive to their needs, making necessary adjustments to support their communities, lives, and the future of education.

To address the nursing shortage in Pennsylvania, we can implement educational programs at multiple levels to tackle different aspects of the issue. PASSHE universities offer pathways for aspiring bedside nurses at the undergraduate level, training for nurse practitioners to address provider shortages, and specialty-level certificates to develop nurse leaders. Students can begin their education at any stage, enabling them to grow and meet the needs of their communities while pursuing their personal goals. I always encourage graduates to believe in themselves. They have received an excellent education that equips them to make a significant impact on the future of healthcare. I want them to trust their instincts; they are compassionate, intelligent, and skilled nurses. They represent the future of nursing, and that future is bright.