During Nurses Week, we’re honored to recognize the more than 33,000 nurses across Ascension’s footprint, whose compassion, resilience, and purpose continue to elevate the standard of care in every community we serve. From those who are just beginning their nursing journeys to those who have dedicated decades to the profession, each nurse brings a distinct perspective grounded in experience, empathy, and a deep commitment to our patients and their families. Below are just a few of these extraordinary caregivers, offering a glimpse into the everyday moments of care, advocacy, and connection that define nursing at Ascension.
“Our nurses carry a remarkable responsibility, balancing clinical expertise with compassion in every moment of care,” said Rob Rose, Chief Nursing Officer of Ascension. “What stands out is not just what they do, but how they do it — with consistency, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people and communities we serve.”
Florida:
What keeps you going on the hardest days?
“Knowing that I can make even a small impact in these high-risk mamas’ lives keeps me going. Each one of their journeys is so unique to their case and I am honored to be able to provide both emotional and physical support to the strongest of women and their beautiful babies.”
Kansas:
What are you most proud of in your career?
“The amount of staff and co-workers I have had the privilege of working with over the years and a true feeling that I have made a difference. Mentoring, aka being Mom, to so many and showing them it is going to be okay no matter what happens during the shift. If I don't have the answer, I know the person to ask who does.”
How do you hope to shape the future of healthcare in your career?
“I hope to break barriers in healthcare and show that being Deaf doesn't limit the care I can give. It strengthens it and I want to advocate for better accessibility, ensure every patient feels understood, and be a positive example for others in the Deaf community.”
Illinois:
What kept you motivated in your career as a nurse?
“Seeing the positive impact in the lives of my patients and their families gives me a sense of purpose. I have seen and experienced how nursing has evolved in my many years of working as a nurse, especially with technology, but the feeling of satisfaction knowing that you have made a positive difference in someone’s life; that feeling is still the same. That keeps me motivated.”
What inspired you to choose nursing?
“When my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the compassion he received from his nurses and medical team was outstanding. It has given me the inspiration to carry on the same care for others who needed the support during their hardest times.”
Indiana:
What advice would you give to a young nurse, just starting out in their career?
“Keep a positive attitude and be ready to jump in and learn new skills. Don't be afraid to try new roles like charge nurse, preceptor, etc.”
How do you hope to shape the future of healthcare in your career?
“I hope to just fill my patients with love and support. I can’t change healthcare, I can’t change doctors or insurance or any of that, but what I can do is smile and laugh and be encouraging. I hope that even if I have the patient for one night I can bring a smile to their face or leave them with something they can look back and think at least I brightened their day just a little bit in the dark storm they are in.”
Maryland:
What kept you motivated in your career as a nurse?
“Advocating for my patients, my colleagues, and my profession. The patients that we serve in our community are some of the most vulnerable, underserved, and uninsured. Also, making a positive impact to those I serve.”
What inspired you to choose nursing?
“My mother was a nurse. She later became diagnosed with gallbladder cancer and that helped me make my decision. The level of care and attention from the nursing staff made me realize that I wanted to be that person for someone one day.”
Tennessee:
What keeps you going on the hardest days?
“On tough days, it’s easy to get frustrated or hang your head. Sometimes I like to remind myself that I once prayed to be in this position and caring for others. Practicing gratitude and leaning on my other nurses for support always gets me through. You can never control what gets thrown your way, but I can always control how I respond to it. I am especially grateful for my managers, the other bedside nurses on 6E, and the PCTs who never fail to help out when the load gets too heavy.”
Wisconsin:
What are you most proud of in your career?
“I am most proud of spreading kindness to all those I am honored to work with. Over the years, I am also proud of all the relationships I have fostered with patients, families, community members, and my colleagues. I started a free exercise class at our clinic that has been going on for over 20 years, and each week, I am so inspired seeing everyone working out together.”
What inspired you to choose nursing?
“Nursing was a very natural choice for me. My mom is a home care nurse, and from a very young age I saw firsthand how she cared for patients. I was always fascinated by what my mom did. Choosing to work in the NICU specifically was a goal of mine since I was in high school. I was born prematurely at 28 weeks here at Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Milwaukee 28 years ago. I was originally due at the very end of March and was born January 13. Since starting my career here in the NICU, it has been nothing short of amazing. I have gotten the privilege to work with nurses and neonatologists who took care of me when I was born. To say this experience has been full circle is an understatement — it has been a dream come true. To this day, my mom speaks extremely highly of the NICU nurses who took care of me. She refers to them as angels. They will forever hold a special place in my family's hearts. I strive every day to be one of those "angels,” to be a blessing to our NICU families.”
