I completed my undergraduate degree in nursing from Mount Mercy College in 2008 and then decided to complete my master's degree from Mount Mercy University in 2018. I have kept in contact with folks in the nursing department and was excited when Dr. Kim Bro notified me of a position opening and for the opportunity to be “back home” at Mount Mercy.

I enjoy students who are eager to learn and I like building relationships with students. I look forward to a more precedented time to continue to build upon those relationships on campus. I love seeing the “aha” moments when it all clicks for the student and to see their progress in the program.

I teach several levels in the nursing program ranging from the freshman introductory course, to sophomore skills and online courses. I also teach at the junior level.

A high point was when a student came up to me after taking my nutrition course and was proud to tell me she had tried several healthy foods I mentioned in class, and she liked them. Positive comments and notes on evaluations make it all worth it. 

I'm a firm believer in self-care in the form of exercise. I am a runner and yes, it keeps me in shape, but it has been my emotional equalizer as well. My daughters know if I'm getting tense or stressed that mom needs to go for a run! It keeps my mind sharp and positively impacts my efforts as a wife, mother, nurse, and educator.

I know I speak for all nurses in saying your gratitude is much appreciated. The best way to give nurses and healthcare workers a standing ovation is to stay vigilant: wear a mask, stay at home, socially distance, and get vaccinated.