About
Leah is a board-certified Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with over
a decade of experience in critical care and surgical nursing. Prior to joining the
faculty at Ouachita Baptist University, she served in both clinical and leadership
roles at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, including general surgery
nurse practitioner, clinical services manager, and clinical specialist.
Leah is married to her high school sweetheart, and they are raising four kids. Together,
Leah and her family are actively involved at New Life Baptist Church, where she serves
in the technology ministry and enjoys participating in missions alongside her children.
Fun Facts
What do you like most about your field?
I love that nursing allows me to care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
It's one of the few professions where you have the opportunity to meet people in their
most vulnerable moments and offer not just medical care, but compassion, comfort,
and hope.
Why did you enter your profession?
My journey into nursing was shaped by a desire to serve others and make a meaningful
impact in moments that matter. Early personal challenges taught me the importance
of resilience, compassion, and faith—qualities that align beautifully with the nursing
profession. I was drawn to Ouachita because it integrates faith, learning, and service
in a way that reflects my own values. It’s a place where I can teach with both my
head and heart.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy being with my husband and our four kids—whether we’re cheering
on someone at a school event, serving together at church, or just enjoying time at
home. We enjoy traveling and are on a quest to visit as many of the National Parks
as possible.
If you were anything else, what would you be and why?
I’d likely be doing something creative and service-driven—maybe working in event planning
or design. I love creating meaningful experiences and bringing people together, and
I find joy in the small details that make people feel seen and valued.
Areas of Expertise
My clinical background is in acute and critical care, including trauma and general
surgery, as well as progressive care nursing in an academic medical center setting.
I’ve also worked in clinical education and leadership, developing and implementing
training programs, mentoring nurses, and managing patient care teams. I thrive by
helping learners and nurses connect evidence-based practice to compassionate, real-world
care.