Why did you choose to attend the University of Mississippi?
Ole Miss has the reputation as a dynamic, evolving and respected educational institution. The School of Education treated me holistically, tailoring my education around a very serious health issue I encountered at the beginning of my dissertation process. I will always be grateful for their kindness, unwavering support and flexibility as I navigated the treatment of this illness.
Tell us about a favorite memory, professor, and/or academic course during your time at the School of Education:
Dr. Jim Payne will always stand out to me! He taught me so many successful teaching methodology techniques! I was always actually excited to attend his classes and used what he taught me in my own career. He was a dynamic, charming, and witty teacher who made me realize teaching and learning did not have to be painful, but could, indeed, be quite fun!
What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishments (both personally and professionally)?
Personally, my greatest accomplishment is my family! Married the right mate (45 years), have a brilliant and ethical daughter (JD from Ole Miss) and now have two magnificent, smart, beautiful grands (Faulkner and Beau)
Professionally, receiving the University of Mississippi Medical Center Nelson Award on three occasions, and being inducted into the University of Mississippi Medical Center Academy for Excellence in Education in 2023.
One other accomplishment was attending Omaha to see our great Rebs win that Natty!
Professionally, receiving the University of Mississippi Medical Center Nelson Award on three occasions, and being inducted into the University of Mississippi Medical Center Academy for Excellence in Education in 2023.
One other accomplishment was attending Omaha to see our great Rebs win that Natty!
How did you become interested in your field?
I started my career as a nursing assistant at the VA Medical Center caring for our amazing Veteran population. I had the privilege of caring for WWI, WWII, Korean, Vietnam and Gulf war veterans. I was hooked! The VA paid for my education and certainly jump started my long career. I worked as a Head Nurse at the VA for about 25 years, then transcended into Nursing Education at the UMMC Medical Center, working there for another 25 years! I love both fields of employment: nursing and education, and was blessed to be able to intertwine the two.
Tell us about the mentors and role models who inspired you throughout your career:
One of my best friends, Dr. Jean Walker, inspired me with her ability as an educator, to connect with students at all levels. She is an amazing clinical nurse as well, and also a Veteran. She and I gained our masters and doctorates together, and she was the logical, focused and organized side of our duo. Without her guidance, I doubt I would have finished my dissertation! Other mentors have included my other best friend and fellow nurse, Eileen Fisher, N.P. , and my beloved sister, Gaye Ragland, MSN, who were (and remain so today) my biggest cheerleaders!
Tell us about your community involvements and/or hobbies:
I am a member of First Baptist Church, Madison. I am also an avid baseball fan and member of the Ole Miss Ernie LeBarge Club! I am a passionate reader and gardener. The greatest amount of my time in retirement is serving as Granny!
What does this award mean to you?
The Ole Miss School of Education Practitioner of Distinction award means much to me, solidifying my educational career. Since receiving this award, I have spent a lot of time remembering all my classes of students throughout the years. When this award was published on Facebook, I started hearing from so many past students, telling me about great things they have accomplished since graduation. This gave me such a sense of accomplishment, that I played a part in their success! Just amazing how smart this new generations of nurses are! The circle of life continues.
Do you have any advice for our current students who are pursuing a similar career path?
DO IT! And make all efforts to pursue not only an undergraduate degree, but also a graduate and doctorate degree. A dream is just a dream. Putting a plan with feet forward is a dream that is realized! Eat the elephant one bite at a time. Get through this semester, and find a way to roll on in to the next semester. Keep moving forward! You will never regret that decision.