the
Cox College I Springfield, MO
Winter 2017
The Road to Cox College
Husband and wife work as over-the-road drivers to fulfill their dream
Anything is Possible Overcoming odds and adversity to become a lead dietician at a community hospital
UPDATE: Reinvestment Campaign
Meeting the Challenge Foundation offers matching pledge
Built to Serve From small town to college boardroom, nursing was in her DNA
In Her Footsteps Student follows family tradition in health care
men in nursing A rapid and rising culture change is taking place in the nursing profession
in this issue... Men in Nursing
More and more men are choosing the nursing profession. Here's why.
Cox Health Daisy Award
Several Cox College graduates win health system award
Engaged Student Body
Highlights of student accomplishments in the community
Road to Cox College
A husband and wife work as over-the-road drivers in order to fulfill a lifetime goal
Exceptional Faculty
Highlights of faculty accomplishments in the community, and new additions UPDATE: Reinvestment Campaign
Meeting the Challenge
Oklahoma foundation makes large matching contribution
Health Care Industry Career Fair
Bi-annual career fair helps invites recruiters to our campus to showcase vast job opportunities.
Anything is Possible
Overcoming odds and adversity to become a successful lead dietician at a community hospital
Around Campus
Catch up on some of the daily events and happenings at Cox College
Built to Serve
From small town to College Boardroom, nursing was in her DNA
winter '17
cont ents
4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
In Her Footsteps
16
Alumni Dinner
18
Where Are They Now?
20
Student follows family tradition in health care
Highlights and photos of annual event
The latest news about Burge and Cox College Alumni
University and College Designers Association
What you do today can improve all your tomorrows. - Ralph Marston
A
s I read this quote, I am reminded of our purpose here at Cox College. Along with our mission statement of being “committed to excellence” we are dedicated to providing the upmost quality education for improving the lives of those coming through our doors as educators. We know what we do today matters and makes a difference for the standard of excellence tomorrow. As Cox College/Burge alums, you know firsthand the education we provide changes the future for not only alums but also for health care breakthroughs and discovery, communities, and patients served. Consequently, as you begin reading our next edition of the Pulse, please accept our heartfelt appreciation to the Burge and Cox College alumni who helped blaze the pathway of excellence for future generations of health professionals. For all alums, current students, and future prospective students, we hope you enjoy this edition of YOUR magazine celebrating YOU.
Sonya Hayter, EdD (Health Science ’01)
One of the Region's Most Successful ASR Programs Cox College’s Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) Program is one of the most successful radiography programs in the region. Providing a well-rounded education and significant training students receive rotating through multiple specialty modalities (US, MRI, CT, mammography, IR, Radiation Therapy and Nuclear Medicine), students rotate through 14 various clinical sites in Springfield, Monett, Bolivar, and West Plains, Missouri, for valuable experience in x-ray technology and advances. Students completing the Program also receive guaranteed acceptance into the Diagnostic Imaging Bachelor’s Degree program too. Experiencing a 99% registry exam pass rate and 100% job placement rate for the past five years, our program admits annually with the deadline for applying of Dec. 22, 2017. Call today 417/269-3401 or visit us online at coxcollege.edu for more information.
get your Cox College gear here
Cox College Helps Raise Money for Harmony House, Awareness for Domestic Abuse Friday, October 27th, Cox College students, faculty, and staff participated in the iCare Event sponsored by Harmony House of Springfield, MO. Participants were invited to wear a black patch under one eye in an effort to raise awareness of domestic abuse in Southwest Missouri. Started three years ago by Harmony House, this annual event serves as a reminder that one in three women will experience a violent relationship during their lifetime. The goal of Harmony House is to provide assistance and education to victims and survivors of domestic violence. For this event, Cox College held a Coach Purse raffle raising $820.00 with the proceeds going to Harmony House to provide shelter, meals, counseling, and other services for abuse victims.
Top photo: Jana Roberts, Director of Compliance and Assurance, and Cory Mygrant, MND/DI student, man the raffle table. Bottom photo: Erin Britton, BSN student, did a great job getting the word out and promoting the event.
Empowering Student Success
Left to right: Jamelle Brownlee, Camille Fagan, Ashley Payne, Audrey Carter RN, Netanya Curry RN, Rob Kinney RN. Not pictured: Stephanie Franklin RN, Camron Dykes, and Taylor Williams.
The learning partnership between tutors and students continue to grow. Students served this year in the Academic Resource Center (ARC) has increased 256% over 2016. Our dedicated staff include four practicing RNs who are passionate about their profession and seeing students reach their highest potential. Thank you, Cox College Tutors!
Snacks • Drinks • Supplies Open Monday - Friday 7 am - 5 pm
incre e expan
From left to right: Heath Jennings, Randy Melton, Brad Neiman, Gary Miller, Brian Dixon, Kyle Shaw.
men in nu The nursing profession is experiencing a noticeable demographic shift. Males are entering the nursing profession in increasing numbers as evidenced in top news magazines, including The Wall Street Journal and USA Today. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the percentage of male RNs has increased threefold rising from 2.7% in 1970 to 9.6% in 2011. The added diversity of male nurses is rapidly shaping the profession and many of those men are choosing the nursing profession because of increased job market, enhanced technology, and expanded growth opportunity. As Cox College has continued to grow, so have our male graduates into the nursing profession. The College admitted its first males (as transfer students) back in 1965 when it was known as Burge School of Nursing. Additionally, in 1971 four male students were admitted as Freshman with the first two male graduates, Lee “Alex” Miller and Rodney Hoover graduating in 1974. Today, our institution is
seeing a higher trend having graduated 12% male nurses in 2014, and 13.2% male nurse in 2016. The Male Nurses of CoxHealth Randy Melton, BSN, having graduated from both Burge (1981) and Cox (2014), was introduced to nursing when, as a junior in high school, his mother was in a traumatic car accident. This significant event required an extended stay Melton in the hospital at which time Randy began to entertaining nursing as a career. Today, Randy has enjoyed multiple job opportunities over his 36-year nursing history, ranging from the ICU to his current position as Nurse Manager of Meyer Orthopedic Rehabilitation Hospital (MORH) and Same Day Surgery Miller (PACU) Departments at CoxHealth.
4 The Pulse • Winter 2017
eased job market, enhanced technology, nded growth opportunity
ursing According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the percentage of male RNs has increased from 2.7% in 1970 to 9.6% in 2011.
Story by Rhonda Amore BSN /Student Ambassador Photos by Mike Wingo
Staff Photographer/CoxHealth
Kyle Shaw, BSN, '17, chose the nursing profession because nurses are involved in every aspect of care. Currently, Kyle is employed at CoxHealth NTICU, where he assesses, analyzes, and interprets patient data for critical care of patients. Kyle states, “I love what I do and could not imagine having picked a different career.”
Gary Miller, BSN, '17, conveyed the quick hiring opportunity CoxHealth MICU offered helped alleviate stress during his final semester of school. Current BSN Student, Brad Neiman, shared a similar experience Neiman having been offered an RN position months before graduation, which is rare. “The thing I love most about the nursing field is the multitude of opportunities it offers.”
Shaw
Becoming a nurse has additional benefits such as earning a competitive salary right out of school. Jobs are plentiful and the demand for nurses continues to grow. Watching the profession grow and expand to include more male nurses is equally exciting and adds another level of diversity and perspective to patient care. Source: Gross, L. (2013). More men join nursing field as stigma starts to fade. USA Today. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/07/10/men-join-nursing-fieldas-stigma-fades/2504803
5 Cox College • Springfield, MO
CoxHealth
make sure the family had all the items she could give them for memories. Emily even called in a professional photographer to take pictures for the family." “During all the care, Emily played lullabies softly in the patient room. Emily held this baby girl until she passed as the mother was in NTICU and the father was too overwhelmed and could not do it emotionally. This little girl passed away in the loving arms of the nurse who cared for her until the end of her short life. Emily exemplifies what an extraordinary nurse is.”
Leshin
Matheson
Each quarter, CoxHealth recognizes nominated nurses with DAISY Awards. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is presented in medical facilities throughout the United States to recognize the education, training, skill, and compassionate care nurses provide. Patients, their friends and families, colleagues, physicians, and volunteers may nominate a nurse for the award. This quarter all three recipients are alumni of Cox College. Congratulations, Andrew, Emily, and Jenea. Andrew Leshin, '16 CCU/MICU A fellow nurse nominated Andrew for the compassion he showed to a patient who was making the transition to comfort care at the end of life. After the comfort care order was put into action, Andrew gathered a team of nurses and PCAs to fulfill the patient’s last wish of sitting outside on a porch one last time. They placed him in a wheelchair, gathered multiple oxygen tanks and took the patient out to the patio at the West Pavilion with his family. “The patient was so thankful and he smiled so big,” Andrew’s colleague wrote in the nomination. “Andrew then stayed to sit and
Vanman talk with the patient, as his family was unable to stay with him after his oxygen was removed. The patient was made comfortable and Andrew sat next to him holding his hand. Andrew answered all the patient’s questions and shared a few laughs with him in his last moments." “Andrew went more than above and beyond. I only hope my family members can have a nurse as compassionate and caring as Andrew if the situation ever arises. Andrew is truly a remarkable nurse, not only on this day, but on every day he comes to work.” Emily Matheson, '16 Neonatal ICU A nurse manager nominated Emily for the care she provided a premature newborn after a major trauma involving a pregnant patient. Due to the seriousness of the mother’s injuries, she was cared for in the Emergency Department and Neurotrauma while Emily took care of the extremely premature infant in the NICU. “Emily continued to provide care until the baby passed away just prior to Emily’s shift ending at 7 a.m. Emily stayed four hours after her shift to care for this baby post mortem and to 6 The Pulse • Winter 2017
Jenea Vanman, '16 900 Medical-Surgical A colleague nominated Jenea for the care she provided for a patient who came to the floor after suffering a septic miscarriage.
by Jayne Bullard
“This young lady was scared and in pain. Jenea stayed with her, held her hand, and kept her calm,” the nomination read. “She helped get her comfortable and talked her through the whole ordeal. She stayed with her, rubbed her back and when it was over, the patient told Jenea she deserved an award. Jenea is such an amazing, caring nurse and she touches everyone’s lives in such a positive light. She is a blessing.”
Posted online at www.coxhealth.com on 10/20/17. Story by Randy Berger, Senior Communications Coordinator at CoxHealth in Springfield, MO.
DON'T FORGET! Help make the difference in the future of health care by donating to the CoxHealth Foundation. Please review the giving envelope that is inside this issue. There are several worthy funds that need your help. THANK YOU!!
engaged student body We believe in providing a learning environment that promotes student inspiration, support, and academic achievement.
Students Participate at CoxHealth's Trunk or Treat
Student Nursing Association Recieves Attendance Award The Cox College Student Nurses Association (SNA) was awarded $100 for having the highest attendance of nursing students at the MONSA conference!
Several students, Audrey Caychingo, Jazmine Lee, Sarah Bennett, and Michelle Averion, participated in the Halloween Event, Trunk or Treat, held at CoxHealth for children. A fun time was had by all!
RSSA Trivia Night Sets Record On October 20, 2017 the students of the Radiologic Sciences Student Association (RSSA) hosted the 13th annual Radiography Trivia Night “Nightmare on South Street” at the Veridian Event Center. The night was filled with spooky decorations and costumes, semi-competitive trivia, 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction displaying items donated by local businesses. Clint Girlie from Alice 95.5 hosted the event and kept the crowd of 200 ghosts and goblins entertained with
trivia questions designed by RSSA students. This year, the student's hard work paid off by raising $7,248.56. This total is the MOST money raised in the history of this event. The funds will go to help the RSSA support students in avenues of professional development and scholarship opportunities
RT in the JC
7 Cox College • Springfield, MO
ROAD to Cox College The
THE STUDENTS SPEAK
"The reason people should choose Cox College is because all the faculty, from Gen Ed to nursing, are invested in the success of the students that come here.”
Story by Lorraine Frazier
– Brad Ermey"
Student Support Coordinator
C
ox College has witnessed much growth in recent years. We wanted to find out why our students chose our College. Who better to ask, than our current students who have often made major life changes to attend Cox College for the promise of a secure future in healthcare.
This decision to return to school was not taken lightly by Brad and Laurie Ermey. Constrained by debt, but dreaming of attending nursing school together, the Ermey’s set out on a 4-year plan to save money as over-the-road drivers with Prime Trucking.
“I’ve had a lot of medical experience in my background, and that’s really what has driven me to pursue a career in nursing,” explained Laurie. “It’s something I’ve wanted to do for many years.” Brad and Laurie are not from Springfield, Missouri, but had passed through many times during their time with Prime. Considering schools from Texas to Alaska, the Ermey’s chose Cox College because of exceptional NCLEX pass rates and powerful testimonials from other students. Laurie credits the quality and willingness of faculty and other students as the thing that really sets Cox College apart. “We all 8 The Pulse • Winter 2017
help each other together, we all work together. Everybody is so willing to bend over backwards to help YOU succeed.” Brad and Laurie Ermey’s partnership embody the Cox College Core Value of Nothing is Impossible, which states that, “We believe in working together, taking reasonable risks, and daring to change so that the impossible becomes possible.” For the Ermey’s, the road led them to Cox College, but their partnership and dedication is sure to be the catalyst for their success long after their time here.
exceptional faculty
Cox College is committed to excellence by meeting the educational needs of students and the health care community.
College team members and programs for implementation of specific IP projects. The goal of this initiative is to provide a more realistic environment for students that models today’s health care setting. Aurentz
Cole
FACULTY ATTEND INTERPROFESSIONAL FACULTY PROGRAM AT MIZZOU Cindi Aurentz and Amanda Cole attended the Macy Train the Trainer (T3) Interprofessional (IP) Faculty Development Program at Mizzou in September. This was a national faculty development initiative with the goal of promoting interprofessional education and collaborative, team-based care. Topics covered included curricular design, evalution, IP leadership, and team dynamics/culture. Both professors participated in extensive training for leading interprofessional team activities, and were provided with resources to support future interprofessional projects at the College. Moving forward, plans are to work collaboratively with other Cox
COX COLLEGE HOSTS CLINICAL FACULTY ACADEMY The Clinical Faculty Academy was hosted by Cox College on August 1-2, 2017. This annual event brought nursing educators together from all area higher education institutions for two days of clinical training. The Academy provides education for clinical faculty to improve student clinical experience and nursing outcomes. Dr. Amy Townsend, Chair of the Undergraduate Nursing program at Cox College, was instrumental
in bringing the Academy to the College this year. Previously, Nurse educators drove to St. Louis or Townsend Kansas City for the training required by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Through the efforts of a local steering committee and Dr. Townsend, the Academy was brought to the Southwest Missouri area on a rotating basis. Previous locations have been Southwest Baptist University and Missouri State University. Over 55 faculty attended from area colleges and universities with the response to this year’s Academy being very positive.
CONGRATULATIONS Amanda Cole, Assistant Professor Undergraduate Nursing, has received PhD candidacy.
(More faculty news continued on page 15)
welcome new faculty & staff
Zola Morris, BSN
Shauna Romine, BSN
Cynthia Mylar, MSN
Gillian Ray, BS
Assistant Professor Undergraduate Nursing
Assistant Professor Undergraduate Nursing
Assistant Professor Undergraduate Nursing
Admissions Counselor
Amissions Counselor
Recruiter
Recruiter
9 Cox College • Springfield, MO
Monica Lewin, BS EMD
Meeting the Challenge UPDATE: reinvestment campaign
By renovating and increasing the size and number of classrooms... the more nursing students cox college can graduate. BY LISA ALEXANDER
W
e have some great news to share about the Cox College Reinvestment Campaign! In September, College president, Dr. Amy DeMelo; board chair, Jan Harris; board member, Larry Lipscomb; VP of Facilities, Rod Shaffer; and myself visited the Mabee Foundation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This private foundation is focused on helping organizations achieve their goals through facilities construction and development. Each year they selectively choose a number of organizations to support from the hundreds that apply. Their mission is to offer Challenge Grants to help organizations close the gap on their fundraising and spur gifts by matching dollar for dollar up to the challenge amount. This week we learned Cox College has been approved for a $1 million dollar Challenge Grant. To be selected is affirmation that Cox College is viewed by Mabee as having the highest standards of excellence in its field and the capability of meeting the challenge. What’s next? We need your support! This Reinvestment Campaign is not about fresh paint or carpet. This campaign is about our ability to continue to attract the best students to become our next generation of nurses and health professionals. For the last several years Cox College has filled health science programs, but has been unable to fill 250 nursing seats. Students who selected Cox College,
10 The Pulse • Winter 2017
BKD Contributes $15,000 to Reinvestment Campaign
but did not attend were asked why they chose another institution. They expressed that our campus is too outdated. Equally important, nearly every student stated they preferred our nursing programs and quality of education. To attract incoming students in all programs it is essential that the facility equals the education received inside it. As a tuition and fee based organization, the only other way to make the renovations would be to increase both. Realizing the struggle students face to afford an education, raising tuition and fees was not an option. The other reason this project is so important is the dire need for nurses. In Springfield there are over 700 vacant nursing positions. On average, the Missouri Hospital Association reports a 16% vacancy statewide, mirroring the reports of hospitals across the country. This impacts safety, quality and access to care for patients. By renovating and increasing the size
and number of classrooms, Cox College can apply to the State Board of Nursing for additional nursing seats. The more nursing students Cox College can graduate, the greater the impact on patient care. Additionally as shortages of other types of health professions loom, the college needs to be prepared for growth in all areas. Now the challenge is in our hands. We have raised $3.5 million to date from the generosity of community businesses, area foundations, individuals and 54 alums. With an amazing alumni base of thousands, it is our hope you will affirm that your education was outstanding. A gift is confirmation that your education at Burge/Cox College gave you a career filled with lifetime rewards. We can only receive the full amount of the challenge by raising the full amount. Gifts of all size are gratefully received and will be doubled starting today. If you would like to assist in meeting our Mabee Challenge Grant, please use the enclosed envelope or go online to www.coxhealthfoundation.com. If you would like to discuss a stock gift or other forms of giving, please contact me at 417-269-7109. We look forward to showing the Mabee Foundation that Cox College has what it takes to accomplish this goal. With your help a new era of excellence is about to begin!
Lisa Alexander is the president of CoxHealth Foundation in Springfield, MO.
Health Care Industry Career Fair
Students are able to visit recruiters from a wide variety of vendors A student’s time at Cox College is just one step in pursuing their professional aspirations. While students typically focus on the hospital environment when choosing a health care career, there are many other opportunities that exist when talking about health care. Cox College is dedicated to inviting recruiters to our campus to showcase those many and varied oopportunities. Cox College’s Health Care Industry Career Fair continues to grow with vendor attendance increasing from 12 to 25 in only a year and a half. Students, current
healthcare professionals, and community members are invited to attend this bi-annual event to learn more about our local and regional healthcare community. Through the Healthcare Industry Career Fair, students are able to visit with recruiters from hospitals, military and government departments, home health agencies, nursing and rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities. Additionally, several colleges and universities attend to share information with health care professionals looking to continue their education.
Don't miss the next event! Spring 2018 Career Fair
Thanks Mabee Foundation for the matching grant!
Tuesday, April 3rd 11:00 am - 3:30pm
11 Cox College • Springfield, MO
STUDENT SUCCESS screaming one-year-old infant crying the whole time.” A short time later, Iesha received a call from Professor Williams offering her a seat in the Master of Science in Nutrition Diagnostics/ Dietetic Internship program. “I had an infant who depended on me to provide her with the best life possible, and I knew Cox College was the next step in achieving that,” Iesha said. She graduated in May, 2017, fulfilling her dream of completing her Master’s Degree in Nutrition Diagnostics.
Anything is possible! Iesha Finley, was raised on the West side of Chicago. She is the third of seven children born to a single mother living in a Hispanic ghetto. At the age of 16, Iesha was kicked out of the house. This significant event started her on a path to be the best and go as far as she could in life. With determination, she finished high school and began college. While pursing her degree, Iesha became pregnant. Her fiancé decided to forgo his own schooling so she could continue working on her bachelor’s degree. She was able to stay committed and worked hard toward the goals she established. As a result, she graduated with a 3.7 GPA (with honors) and a one-year-old child. After earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with an
emphasis in nutrition, Iesha decided to pursue a dietetic internship. The application process involved an online matching method with schools throughout the United States. Unfortunately, Iesha did not match up with any schools during the first round. However, her professor and the dietetic director pulled her and other students aside to look at the vacancies still available. Until then she had not heard of Cox College, but applied to all the internships that met her requirements. A few weeks later, Kristen Williams, Nutrition Diagnostics Program Chair, along with Kyle Brashear, clinical professor, contacted her to schedule a phone interview. “It was one of the most nerve racking and awkward interviews,” Iesha recalls, “because not only did I not expect it, but I had a
12 The Pulse • Winter 2017
Looking back on her time at Cox College, she is thankful for the professors who provided advanced, extensive knowledge. Iesha discovered there was so much more to dietetics and nutrition than she could have possibly imagined. Even though she had dreamed of succeeding when she was younger, she never thought obtaining a Master’s degree was possible. She is thankful Professor Williams believed in her ability.
“
To all dietetic students
and interns: anything is possible! The biggest barrier in your life will be yourself. If a low-income city girl, whose only goal was to survive into adulthood, could take and pass the Registered Dietitian's exam on the first try while in the middle of a cross-country move–you can too! Look where I am today; promoted to Director of Nutiritonal Services after 3 months of
being hired as lead dietitian.
”
Thank you, Cox College!
Campus around
WE APPRECIATE OUR PRECEPTORS!
NEW SIM MANNIKIN
Going to clinicals for the first time can be a stressful and scary experience. However, having amazing preceptors like Katie Campbell, Sommer Wakefield, and Kayla McVicker from 3-west can make that experience go much smoother! Pictured below, these wonder ladies created a welcome board for our students.
The Simulation Center has a new addition to the family! Meet "Sim Mom." A team from Laerdal brought her in, made her comfortable, and has now passed her to the care of the Sim Team and our students. If you haven't met "Sim Mom", come in and be introduced. We'll be taking suggestions for her name for the next scenario.
Why Choose Cox College?
166% Lindsey Crain (below with Dr. Hayter) works in the Step Down Unit and was praised for her outstanding work as a preceptor. We are so grateful for these opportunities with CoxHealth and for all of the great people there who make it happen! We could NOT do it without YOU!
HEALTH ASSESSMENT
GROWTH NATIONALLY IN DEGREES CONFERRED IN HEALTH PROFESSIONS SINCE 2009-10
9-1 FACULTY TO STUDENT RATIO
94% AVERAGE FIRST TIME PASS RATES ON LICENSING REGISTRY
The BSN Entry Cohort practices respiratory and cardiac assessments. Students practice locating and then drawing physical landmarks, and identifying the underlining structures.
$40,400
EXPERIENCE COX COLLEGE Over 60 prospective students attended our Experience Cox College Event held in October, 2017, and visited with staff, faculty, and attended workshops. If you missed this one, stay tuned for upcoming future opportunities to learn more about Cox College and what we can do for you! 13 Cox College • Springfield, MO
AVERAGE STARING SALARY FOR COX COLLEGE GRADUATES
SOURCES: https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/ d16/tables/dt16_322.10.asp?current=yes; https://nces.edu.gov/collegenavigator/?q=Cox+ College&s=all; http://coxcollege.edu/cox-collegescorecard/; https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/search/ ?zip=65804&distance=50&sort=salary:desc
ALUMNI
serve Built to
Mertie Jones always knew she wanted to be a nurse. She was built for it.
Born and raised in a very small town in Southwest Missouri, Mertie’s parents had high expectations and provided a strong support system for both Mertie and her twin sister. She credits her parents as well as the responsibility and accountability she gained from working several jobs during her youth as a major factor in establishing her strong work ethic. Those principles were put to the test when she decided to go to nursing school in 1963. The education she received was excellent but very different. All nursing students lived in the dorms on campus and their housemother carefully supervised them. The students were held accountable for following the rules and keeping their rooms clean. Having curfews, they were required to sign in and out each time upon leaving the residence. Mertie was jealous of her sister, who was attending a different college, because she was able to go home for weekends and holidays. Despite the restrictions and hard work nursing school required, Mertie knew it was worth every minute. All of the memories and experiences she had in the dorm with friends would last a lifetime. Her classmates quickly became her family. After graduating from Burge in 1966, Mertie began working in the recovery room at Cox Hospital. While it was a great learning experience, it was only the beginning of great opportunities she experienced.
Story by Kyle DeVries Outreach Coordinator, Cox College
Mary Ruth Cuddy, Director of Burge at the time, offered Mertie a position as a faculty member. Mertie spent 20 years in this position, and loved what she did. When asked about this experience, she replied, “Until you have worked with very bright groups of nursing students, it is impossible to understand what they expect of you!” This role never ceased to challenge her and allowed her to continue learning as she helped future nurses prepare for their own careers.
14 The Pulse • Winter 2017
Freshman Nursing Student
exceptional faculty
An entirely new view of patients was realized when she eventually moved from the school to the hospital as the Director of Admission Services. Mertie had the opportunity to work with nurses and non-nursing staff. This was yet another challenging position, but an incredibly rewarding position that she loved very much.
(continued from page 9)
PROFESSOR INVITES LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER TO SPEAK TO CURRENT ISSUES
Today, Mertie serves on the Cox College Board of Trustees. After all the experiences she has had in her life, she finds it easier to see the big picture now. “As a student in a rigorous and demanding program, sometimes it is easy to have a self-centered view of things. As a practicing nurse with additional responsibility, one is likely to recognize that every decision affects important outcomes,” she said. In her role as a Cox College board member, she has gained yet another dimension of perspective adding, “working with a group of professionals to further the institution in all endeavors has been a rewarding and enlightening experience.”
To better understand some of the challenges health care providers will face with difficult patients, Helena Cox, Assistant Professor in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, organized an educational event for her senior level nursing students (Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing II). She decided it would be beneficial to have a police officer discuss current safety issues and how they impact the medical profession. Professor Cox reached out to the Springfield Police Department, and Captain Ben King immediately responded to the invitation to Cox come speak.
The biggest change from her time as a student to her time as a Board member is the increased need in the process of educating Health Care Providers. The expansion of programs beyond nursing is vital to the community and nursing is no longer just for 18 year olds who can devote time to being a student only. Graduation Photo Cox College has adapted to the needs of all students regardless of their stage of life. Mertie urges all prospective students to consider becoming a health care provider because it is a profession in high demand with many rewarding career opportunities.
Captain King shared his experiencesCox and discussed many issues and addressed the students thoughts and concerns. The event was so successful that Professor Cox hopes to invite another law enforcement representative to her class next year.
The place to be
There are many reasons why Cox College is a leader in health care education: exceptional professors with a breadth of experience in the real world; exceptional pass rates for registry and certifications; and our simulation center where students can experience “real life” situations, develop teamwork, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Now add being part of the CoxHealth system and having access to U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Regional Hospital” for clinicals, is there any doubt Cox College IS the place to be?
Life was never easy for Mertie. She knew she had high expectations from her parents, teachers, and supervisors and chose a profession that challenged her from every angle. Those challenges were met with unrelenting hard work and dedication. She committed her life to mentoring students and employees, as well as furthering the institution that helped propel her in life. She always knew she wanted to be a nurse and for her, and it turned out perfectly.
15 Cox College • Springfield, MO
in her footst Student follows family tradition in health care
Lindsey working on her nursing skills in the Virtual Hospital
L
indsey Brockman is a Springfield, Missouri native who grew up surrounded by the healthcare professions. From an early age. She remembers making “the rounds” with her father, Dr. Don Brockman. Starting their day at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), they would peer through the windows at the smallest of patients before making their way to the Pediatric floor, grabbing graham crackers and grape juice on the way. While her dad was seeing patients, Lindsey would pass the time by sitting at the nurse’s station, pretending
to chart or schedule patients for her dad. Her grandmother, Darlys Shelton (an alumnus of Burge School of Nursing class of 1963), was a nurse at the hospital and would teach Lindsey various medical terms until she had them memorized. Lindsey graduated from Glendale High School as Valedictorian in 2013. She pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee graduating Magna Cum Laude in just three years. With her faith being at the forefront of her life, she decided to attend the Kanakuk Institute in Branson, 16 The Pulse • Winter 2017
Missouri. The Institute offered an 8-month graduate discipleship program, teaching Biblical knowledge and leadership skills. It was there she felt God calling her to become a nurse. She knew this would be her ministry. In addition to her family’s medical heritage, Lindsey has also been on the receiving end of extensive medical care. Diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disorder, Lindsey has undergone two bowel resections and has also recovered from two hip surgeries. In both situations, she experienced the depth of caring nurses bring to their
teps
patients. Knowing how much nurses influenced her life, and because of the spiritual calling she received at the Kanakuk Institute, she made the decision to go to nursing school.
Choosing Cox College was easy for Lindsey. She wanted to follow in her grandmother’s footsteps. Lindsey remembers a favorite story her grandmother would tell about how she met Lindsey's grandfather. He was a new Missouri State Trooper who came to the hospital to investigate a fatal accident during one of her grandmother’s 3pm-11pm shifts. After only six weeks, the pair became engaged, marrying six months later. Today, they have enjoyed 54 wonderful years together. Lindsey loves the Virtual Hospital and the Simulation Lab at Cox College, where students feel like they are in
the flexibility in the health care programs. “My grandmother and I both agree that Cox College is a great program. They have been teaching health care providers for over a century, and has a high percentage graduation rate of its students. The staff is excellent and eager to work with each student to help them in their health care journey.” This coming May, Lindsey and her dad are going on Cox
College’s medical mission trip to Haiti. She states, “I love how Cox College offers real-world cultural and clinical experiences for their students.” She is also excited to have the opportunity to fulfill another dream. She will finally get to work alongside her dad as a nurse. Lindsey will be graduating with the BSN-Accelerated cohort in the Spring of 2019. Her goal is to become an NICU Nurse.
Darlys Shelton, Class of '63 Lindsey's grandmother, Darlys Shelton, graduated from Burge School of Nursing in 1963. Darlys worked on a surgical floor for nine months, then as an office nurse for a pediatrician for two years. She later returned to Burge-Protestant Hospital, working in the recovery room for four years, and then spent several years as a float nurse. Darlys eventually became a full-time nurse in the new radiation center at Cox South, where she worked for 10 years. She finished the last two years of her 25-year career at CoxHealth as the office nurse for Lindsey's father, Dr. Don Brockman, at the Cox Family Practice Clinic. Darlys retired in 1995 after a rewarding career in nursing.
Darlys' class photo
nd her Lindsey a ther m grand o
Lindsey and her dad, Dr. Don Brockman. a hospital, not a classroom. She is grateful to the staff and faculty, stating they all "make students feel like they genuinely care for them and want them to succeed." She also appreciates
HAITI 2018 / MAY 17-25 This trip is the clinical component of the 3 hour Cross Cultural Healthcare offered in Spring 2018. We are starting to develop the team, so students interested in taking the course and experiencing this clinical and rewarding cultural opportunity may contact Assistant Professor Debbi Groves at 417/ 269-8258 or by email at Deborah.Groves@coxcollege.edu.
17 Cox College • Springfield, MO
annual
ALUMNI DINNER CELEBRATING THE COLLEGE'S LONG HISTORY AND BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD Over 130 alumni, faculty, staff, and current students met at the beautiful White River Conference Center on Saturday, September 23rd, 2017. The annual event allows the faculty, staff, and students to visit with alumni and to hear stories of their time spent at the College. It is also a time for alumni to catch up with former classmates and professors or to make new friends. Highlights included recognizing the classes of 1967, 1977, 1987, 1997, 2007, and 2017 with the class of 1967 being given gifts for their 50th anniversary. The DeeAnn White Scholarship recipient this year was Ashlynn Harmon, a current BSN student. Ashlynn shared her story of growing up in Westphalia, MO, and coming to Springfield to attend Ozarks Technical Community College. Graduating with an Associate Degree in Surgical Technology, she quickly secured a job at CoxHealth, but soon after began to entertain the idea of becoming a nurse. Through a major life-changing event occurring this year of losing her father suddenly, she knew nursing was the path she was to take. Ashlynn applied and is currently a student at Cox College in the BSN program and is anticipating graduating in Fall 2019. Lisa Alexander, President of the CoxHealth Foundation, provided an update on the reinvestment
Photos by J. R. Raybourn
project currently in progress at the College. To date, over $3.5 million has been raised with several grants still outstanding. If everything goes according to plan, construction could possibly start in 2018. Cox College’s new President, Dr. Amy DeMelo, provided a warm welcome and introduced herself to the alumni. Providing a brief history of her experience as an educator, she also relayed her vision for the future of Cox College. Next year's Alumni Dinner will be Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the Oasis Hotel & Convention Center. Please save this date and plan to attend!
18 The Pulse • Winter 2017
engaged student body
(continued from page 7)
MSOT Students Make An Impact at State OT Conference in St. Louis The Cox College Master of Science in Occupational Therapy students did an outstanding job presenting at the Missouri Occupational Therapy Association Fall Conference at St. Louis University. There were two poster presentations of research work and three workshops on mental health practice topics. In all, fourteen students presented at the conference. One practitioner from the St. Louis area sent a follow-up email to Dr. Amy Vaughan, Program Director, commenting, “It was so nice meeting you, your colleagues, and the Cox College students at the MOTA conference on Saturday! I really got a lot out of the Childhood Trauma presentation, and am impressed with the students’ knowledge and professionalism. I also found the poster presentations interesting, so kudos to all!” Numerous educators and practitioners commented on how much the Cox College passion for the OT profession was appreciated at the conference event. As a result, Cox College has been asked to help promote key advancement in the professional practice agenda at the state level. Way to go MSOT students!
The Alumni banquet was a fantastic celebration. It was wonderful to see current and former students bond over a shared calling and deep commitment to the healthcare profession. - Dr. Amy DeMelo 19 Cox College • Springfield, MO
1423 N. Jefferson Avenue Springfield, MO 65802
Nurse Residency Open House
It was all smiles at CoxHealth's Graduate Nurse Residency Open House! Cox College students had an opportunity to meet nurse managers to learn about career opportunities after college. Michelle Welch, Nurse Recruiter for CoxHealth, said "our residency program is what we hire new nursing graduates into, but we also love to hire nursing students while they are still in school." There are several networking events throughout the year. For more information, you can call Michelle at 417-368-9490 or email her Michelle.Welsh@coxhealth.com
Painting with a Twist Fundraiser To help raise funds for the Cox College Reinvestment Campaign, the College held a fundraiser at Painting with a Twist, located on South Campbell. The core value of Painting with a TwistÂŽ is to be an active member of the community and to focus on giving back. With this in mind, Painting with a Purpose was created. Over twenty staff and faculty attended helping to raise $490 for the campaign. Everyone had a great time and another event is planned for early next year. Stay tuned!
Where are they now?
Our Burge and Cox College graduates are making an impact on the world! Angela Mart, '12: Received a degree in Health Services Management from Drury University in May 2017. She currently works at Ferrell-Duncan Clinic. Janet Jaeck, '12: Received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Management from Drury University in May 2017. She currently serves as a Faculty Support Specialist at the College. Cameron Hayter, '13: Began CRNA School earlier this year with an anticipated graduation date of 1020. Amber Phillips, '13: Was just accepted in the ASN Night and and Weekend program at Cox College.
Student Pantry Update
The Student Pantry (Room #422) is available for any student in need. The last three months have seen high usage, with the holidays fast approaching, we could use your donations. There are several donation boxes located throughout the College. Thank you for helping make a difference!
Carrisa Gaddie, '14: Earned her BSN at Maryville in 2016 and is now working as a traveling ICU nurse with AYA Healthcare. Jackie Trent, '16: Promoted to Assistant Director at Republic Nursing and Rehab Nursing Home in Nixa, MO. Jessica Nakano, '16: Currently traveling nurse with Kaiser Permanente LA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, in the Intermediate Cardiac Surgical Unit. Sarah Rinaldi, '16: Currently an adjunct professor at Cox College.
In Memoriam
Bonnie (Ellis) Provance, '47 November 1, 2017 Luftkin, Texas
stay in touch
We want to hear from you! Send all submissions (including photos!) to alumni@coxcollege.edu.