I am an Assistant Professor of Nursing at Ouachita and instruct undergraduate nursing
courses in curriculum and clinical settings.
Biography
I grew up in the small town of Amity. My mother was a nurse and set the standard high.
She loved taking care of people and I can remember when she was off, there were always
staples being removed or dressings being changed in our kitchen. Even in her last
few years after “surviving” three brain aneurysms, she would always talk about how
much she missed being able to be a nurse. I have always loved teaching others about
their health but had never thought about being a professor until God opened this door.
After many hours of prayer and discussion with others at Ouachita, I knew this was
where I was meant to be. The older I get, the more I understand the mind set and dedication
being in health care drives from deep down and I want to show that to students. Nursing
is the most rewarding mission.
I started my nursing career as a Certified Nursing Assistant while obtaining a bachelor’s
degree at Henderson State University. After graduation, my RN nursing career included
working in Med-Surg, observation, outpatient and clinic areas. I then attended UAMS
and obtained my Adult - Gerontology Primary Care certification and worked in urology
for 8 years as a nurse practitioner. I currently am a Board-Certified Urology Nurse
Practitioner and 1 out of 4 in entire state Arkansas. Earlier this year I started
my own business with one of my best friends with the goal of helping people with wellness
and aesthetics! I still live in Amity with my husband, Keith, and two children, Lincoln
and Oakley. I enjoy traveling, being on the lake, going to the spa, trying new foods
and restaurants and attending any live sporting event.
Romans 12:12: Rejoice in hope; remain patient in tribulation; continuing instant in
prayer. This verse has reminded me that no matter what you are going through in life
that God remains good and we should always remain faithful.
Q&A
Why did you come to Ouachita?
I came to Ouachita because the moment I stepped on campus it felt like home. There
is a sense of welcome from a huge family who prays for you and wants you to succeed.
Why did you decide to become a professor?
I wanted to enjoy an opportunity to teach students that nursing is still a calling
and rewarding field that makes you appreciate life every single day and be thankful
for what God provides.
Why is your subject an important one in our world?
Nursing offers an opportunity to serve others with compassion, reflecting the love,
mercy, and healing power of Christ all while combining science with the care you provide.
What do you want future students to know about your degree program?
Anyone can be a nurse, but the difference is a good nurse is one that understands
the "why" they are doing it and performs even the smallest tasks with pride they are
making a difference in someone's life.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my husband and kids, traveling, attending Razorback games
(baseball is my favorite), trying new restaurants and online shopping.
What has been a meaningful Bible verse or passage for you?
Romans 12:12: Rejoice in hope; remain patient in tribulation; continuing instant in
prayer. This verse has reminded me that no matter what you are going through in life
that God remains good and we should always remain faithful.