My first exposure to considering a nursing career was back in middle school. I spoke with a nurse who talked about her work in labor and delivery. In listening to her stories, I immediately recognized her ability to positively impact lives which sparked my interest and I knew that this is where I was meant to be. My life continued to lead me down a path from being a certified nursing assistant (CNA) to becoming a registered nurse (RN) with my bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) to obtaining my master’s in healthcare administration (MHA).

From the day I spoke to the nurse in middle school, I was determined I wanted to be a labor and delivery nurse. As life will have it, I never was a labor and delivery nurse, however, there isn’t a thing I would change about the career path I did end up on. I am a strong believer that everything happens for a reason and that is why I am where I am today.

What’s the best part of your work?

Every day, I have the opportunity to impact other people’s lives. When the opportunity for the CEO position came open in Humboldt, I had a true desire to want to step in and work to make a difference in the medical community that I call home. It is an honor to get to make a difference for my family, friends and neighbors every day, as well as work with amazing people who want nothing but the best for others.

What motivates you to give back to your community?

Humboldt is one of a kind when it comes to the people, the opportunities and the support. I personally enjoy giving my time to this community in return for what it continues to give and has given me over the years. There are endless opportunities for people to get involved and take ownership and pride in what we have. Helping others makes me a better person and fills my cup.

What community project that you were involved in are you most proud of and why?

The most recent community project I was involved in was the development of Kiddie Cats Child Care and Learning Center. As a board member, I had the opportunity to work with others in the community to determine what our needs were and create it. There was a significant gap in childcare in our community and we knew we needed to do something about it. I personally did not need childcare at the time but knew of many with serious concerns about whether they would be able to work or not based solely on the ability to secure quality childcare. This center will give parents and employers the security and stability they need for years to come.

What’s your advice to other young professionals?

“It’s not about how far you fall, but how high you bounce.” This is one of my favorite quotes. Life is going to hand you cards you weren’t expecting, or you are going to have to work for people that you struggle with. These moments and your response are vital in creating you and your future. Don’t give up and don’t give away your joy. Persevere and allow those moments to make you a better you and allow it to be an experience in life that molds who you are and what you can become. It is in moments of failure and disappointment that we learn who we truly are and what we can become.

What would you like to share about your family and/or hobbies?

My husband Ross and I were both born and raised in Humboldt. We spent a few years in Urbandale prior to moving back home in 2007. We have 3 boys (Carson, 14; Parker, 12; and Dawson, 9). Ross works for Abens Marty Curran Agency in Humboldt as an insurance agent. We spend the majority of our time attending or participating in sporting events and I believe our family motto has become, “The busier, more active we can be, the better!”