MAY 1 - MAY 31, 2025
Appreciating Our Nurses
WHO KEEP ARKANSANS HEALTHY
When we think about the health and wellness of our families, friends and neighbors, we think about the hearts and hands that go into making sure Arkansas stays in top condition. All across the state, folks come into the hospitals and practices we love, getting to know each and every one of us as they monitor our well-being. So we’re showing our appreciation to the amazing individuals who have stepped into the field of nursing and given us their hours, dedication, and expertise in keeping us healthy.
How did getting your AAS and starting to work as an RN allow you to get a well-paid job in the field? Getting my AAS (Associate of Applied Science in Nursing) and starting work as an RN allowed me to enter the healthcare field quickly and begin earning a competitive salary. By obtaining this degree, I gained the qualifications needed for a well-paid, in-demand role, providing essential care while also building experience that can lead to career growth and further education opportunities. Obtaining my BSN while working was manageable with good time management and support from my husband. Working long hours can make it difficult to keep up with schoolwork and personal responsibilities, so strong time management is essential. Even with good planning, I might have struggled if it weren't for the support of my husband. I've noticed a difference in my nursing style and skills since completing the BSN program. I approach patient care with a broader perspective, using more evidence-based practices and showing stronger critical thinking and leadership abilities.
“To do what nobody else will do, in a way that nobody else can, in spite of all we go through, is to be a nurse.”
— Rawsi Williams, JD, BSN, RN, PhD
What is your nursing specialty? Maternal Newborn (High Risk Perinatal)
Why did you choose to become a nurse? My little sister was born prematurely and suffered from many chronic conditions. While at her bedside, I witnessed firsthand the effect the nurses had on her overall well-being. I wanted to do the same for others. To gain more exposure and better guide my career choice, I later accepted a position as a Clinical Technician at UAMS. My role was primarily clerical, but one of the technologists noticed me seeking every opportunity to advocate for and comfort the patients. She recommended that I consider nursing and after much thought and prayer, I pursued nursing!
Why did you choose that specialty? I was impressed by the clinical expertise and dedication it took to practice safely in this specialty. Complex conditions, limited access to resources and support systems, and low health literacy contribute to Arkansas’ alarmingly high maternal mortality and morbidity rates. I am continuously astonished at how much of an impact I can make in such a short time, and thankful for the privilege of supporting better outcomes for our maternal newborn population. What qualities do you think are essential for being a nurse? Nurses must be able to deliver care with an altruistic, unbiased attitude. Inclusivity, empathy, adaptability, and a willingness to invest in their own knowledge and professional growth are also essential qualities.
Honoring Our Nurses Year-Round!
Celebrating the People Behind UCA Nursing’s Simulation Center Accreditation
Earning national accreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) is no small feat — and at the University of Central Arkansas, it was made possible through the extraordinary dedication of the School of Nursing's faculty and staff. UCA's Nabholz Center for Healthcare Simulation is now one of the first programs in the state to achieve this prestigious recognition. But more importantly, this accomplishment reflects the tireless work and vision of the simulation team who brought it to life: Erin Garrett, MSN, RN, CPN, CHSE, Simulation Center Co-Coordinator, Sarah Luyet, Simulation Center Co-Coordinator, Tiffany Hall, Simulation Technician and Wendy Lowder, Simulation Technician. These educators and simulation specialists invested countless hours designing realistic, high-impact learning experiences that prepare UCA nursing students for the clinical challenges ahead. From building complex case scenarios to implementing best practices in simulation-based learning, their efforts ensure every student enters the workforce with confidence and competence. Their leadership and collaboration during the SSH accreditation process speak volumes about the caliber of faculty and staff at UCA. This milestone is not just about a program's success — it is a celebration of people who care deeply about student learning, patient safety, and professional excellence. UCA Nursing is proud to recognize the faculty and staff who continue to shape the future of healthcare through innovation, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
From a mission that matters, competitive pay, development opportunities, and meaningful benefits, a career at Arkansas Children’s is filled with purpose and fulfillment. Our Total Rewards program includes benefits that go above and beyond to take care of team members at work and at home!
See What’s Waiting for You. Search for openings and apply at archildrens.org/careers EOE, Drug-Free, Nicotine-Free Workplace.
QUALITY & AFFORDABLE EDUCATION
Traditional RN, LPN/Paramedic Transition - Simulation-based education
RN to BSN online, complete in two semesters
Nursing Specific Scholarships Available
Nationally ranked as one of Arkansas’ Best Places to Work for almost a decade, Conway Regional Health System is a supportive workplace for young nurses to embark upon their careers. Conway Regional was one of the first hospitals in Arkansas to achieve Magnet Recognition. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) created the Magnet Recognition Program to honor healthcare organizations for nursing excellence, based on American Academy of Nursing research. Another reason for their success is nursing preceptorships. Ninety-four nurses at Conway Regional have more than 20 years of experience working in med surg, surgery, labor and delivery, emergency medicine, intensive care, mental health, and other crucial healthcare areas. That is nearly 2,000 years of collective nursing experience. Nursing preceptorship is an essential part of Conway Regional’s Nurse Residency Program. Conway Regional accepts two cohorts a year in February and July following college graduation dates. The Nurse Residency Program meets twice a month for six months, and nurses continue in the program even after their orientation on the floor is completed. Located in one of the state’s fastest-growing areas, Conway Regional is deeply rooted in community history, with more than 100 years of serving Faulkner and surrounding counties. During the last decade, Conway Regional has grown its healthcare footprint to provide various specialized healthcare services to people across eight counties of north Central Arkansas.
“Nurses — one of the few blessings of being ill.”
—Sara Moss-Wolfe
ARKANSAS HOSPITALS
