I have been a resident of the East Texas area for most of the last 25 years.  I am originally from Kansas, and have lived in Tulsa and Dallas.  I keep returning to East Texas because of the wonderful people and the beautiful area.  In my free time my husband and I enjoy working out, spending time on our boat, and loving on our 4-legged fur babies.  I graduated (the first time) from UT Tyler and returned for a second degree in 2010.

I have been an RN at The Hospice of East Texas for 6 years.  I started as a Clinical Liaison, transitioned into a Director role for 3 years and came back to the field last year when I returned to school to pursue my Master’s in Nursing.   I am blessed to be the conduit for families and patients to benefit from end of life care provided by the best hospice in East Texas.  Most of my day is spent educating healthcare professionals about the benefits of palliative care and hospice services.  The best part of the day is helping patients choose to have a dignified and comfortable final journey.  I am currently starting my second year in the FNP program at UT Arlington.  I hope to continue to practice in palliative care after graduation.

I was called to nursing after a 13 year career in Corporate America.  I worked for several large pharmaceutical companies in both Oklahoma and Texas.  After seeing the need for healthcare providers especially in rural settings, I decided to return to school with the intent of practicing someday as a FNP in the community.  The world of nursing is so broad and I have taken several turns because I have been interested in many areas.  I encourage all students, nursing or other to find what you love and enjoy because you will never “work” a day in your life if you love your “work.”  I strongly believe a career will be a journey and can be what you make it!