I joined College of the Redwoods in 2006 after spending 25 years in Critical Care nursing and three years as a Nurse Manager. While I valued my leadership role, I realized I missed the time I once had for teaching and mentoring new nurses. That realization led me to pursue a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education and Leadership—and ultimately follow my true passion: teaching.

In the classroom and clinical settings, I bring my years of experience directly to my students through real-world stories—both the successes and the challenges. Many former students have shared with me that, whether studying for exams or caring for patients after graduation, they still hear my voice and recall my stories, which is incredibly rewarding.

I emphasize the importance of people skills, strong study habits, and organization, along with the support of family and friends, in preparing for the rigor of the RN program. I also encourage students to build healthcare experience through roles such as EMTs, paramedics, medical assistants, nursing aides, phlebotomists, and scribes.

Nursing is a field full of opportunities, from clinics and hospitals to mental health, home health, wound care, and beyond. For those who pursue advanced study, paths in leadership, education, and advanced practice—such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner—are wide open.

What I value most about teaching at College of the Redwoods is the shared commitment among faculty to support students in their growth and success. I currently teach in the RN-ADN program, working with students in both their first semester in the fall and their final semester in the spring.