I graduated from FHSU in 2011 with my BSN. My husband, Kody Cook, also attended FHSU and teaches and coaches at USD 431. We have three children Millie (9), Marcie (8), and Albie (7). We enjoy following our children around with sports and activities. We enjoy reading and being outdoors.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I am currently the clinic practice administrator for Clara Barton Medical Center Clinics. I started working at Clara Barton in February 2014 as a provider nurse and then moved into the nurse manager position for the last five years. I was promoted to clinic practice administrator in February 2023. I became a nurse to provide quality health care in a rural setting and to help patients understand their health. I decided to move towards administration when I realized I could do the same thing with staff by assisting them in offering patients the best care by providing forward-thinking healthcare in the rural setting. I also enjoy strategic planning with Clara Barton’s group of department managers and medical providers at our facility. Our patients are always our top priority.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
I chose to attend FHSU because I am very family oriented. My family is 45 minutes from campus, so I was able to spend quality time with them while also getting a quality education from FHSU. Small class sizes and personal one-on-one interaction with professors were also a bonus.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
My favorite memories are participating in intramural sports, attending FHSU student events on campus like hypnotists and comedians, and having clinical experiences in the nursing program like at Wesley Medical Center.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
FHSU is a very small-town experience with great opportunities. You can build relationships with your professors. Get involved with your program and take all the opportunities given to you.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
My nursing class of spring 2011 will always have a lasting impression. We cried together many times and had so many fun times, staying up late studying, but we also kept in contact with what was happening in each other’s lives.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
I am proud to be a Tiger because I received a great education that taught me always to have the character and drive to do more. I love learning and growing as a person, and my education challenged me. I want to continue to be challenged every day.