Sunday, May 11, 2025
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Dominique Anderson
What does this recognition mean to you?
Words cannot explain what this means to me. It shows that hard work, dedication, and patientcentered care does not go unnoticed. I have worked diligently in my pursuit as a nurse and now nurse practitioner, and this recognition helps to fuel my desire to do more as an advocate for individuals in need of care.
What kind of impact do you hope to have?
I hope to show my patients and colleagues my unwavering passion for patient care, specifically mental health. There is need for enthusiastic, devoted nurses to help meet the gaps in care for this population, and I am willing to be a nurse and an advocate. I challenge current and future nurses to do the same when they see other disparities in healthcare.
Devin Austin
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I’ve always wanted to be in a profession where I can help people. Helping people is one of the most rewarding things that I could be doing in my life. It really is like being a modern day superhero.
What impact do you hope to have?
The Baton Rouge Clinic, Baton Rouge James Blankenship
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Weigh all the options and know that there is a place to you. The road to becoming a nurse is not the easiest but is the most rewarding. There is flexibility and the profession can accommodate your lifestyle even as circumstances change. With hard work and determination, you can unlock limitless possibilities.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My inspiration first came from my parents. Both are registered nurses and have actively demonstrated their compassion for people throughout their careers. With a genuine care for others and a naturally inquisitive nature, I found that nursing was the perfect fit for me.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I feel deeply honored to have been nominated and selected. I also feel a sense of validation for my efforts. Oddly enough, careers that involve service to others can seem to lack gratitude at times. When this occurs, you look for ways to find fulfillment in the work itself, and both nursing and academia have no shortage of this. However, when you are recognized for your efforts, it makes it all the more rewarding, and for that, I am most grateful.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Our profession is rooted deeply in the human experience, as we are there from the beginning through the end of life. It has endless possibilities and opportunities, and should be strongly considered by individuals who want to make an impact on people’s health and wellness.
My impact on my patients is to be their strength. I want them to be able to fully trust me. It’s scary when someone is a patient, and I want them to know that I will always be there for them when they need someone to hold onto. The impact on my colleagues is for them to see how we all start off in the same place. Through hard work and dedication, all things are possible. Strive to do your best and then do better.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
This really is a one of a kind profession. The gratitude that patients give you is one of the greatest feelings ever. There will be hard times where you feel like you can’t do it. Persevere and you will make it. I can’t imagine my life doing anything but nursing.
East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie Amy Booth
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge
What does this recognition mean to you?
This is an incredible honor, and one I certainly cannot take full credit for. I have had amazing nurse mentors and teachers that have inspired my journey and I would not be where I am today without them. This recognition also represents the incredible teamwork, engagement and dedication from everyone involved in stroke care at Our Lady of the Lake. I could not work with a better team!
What kind of impact do you hope to have?
I would hope that the impact I have on my patients would bring them some bit of joy and peace in what is most likely some of the worst days of their life. I hope the impact I have on my colleagues is that the most important question we can ask when making decisions is “Is this what is best for the patient?” When that is our priority, everything will fall into place.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Nursing is not for the faint of heart. You have to find your “why” and return to it often to maintain your compassion. It is also one of the most meaningful professions you could ever enter.
Alicia Boudreaux
Ochsner Westbank Hospital, Gretna
What inspired you to become a nurse?
The deep connection I had with my grandparents. They were a huge part of my life, and I was fortunate to be able to care for them as they aged. My grandma, in particular, had a lasting impact on me, especially during her final days in hospice. Being there for her, providing comfort and support, and seeing the difference compassionate care made in those moments truly shaped my desire to become a nurse.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I’m truly honored and humbled to accept this award. It’s hard to put into words just how much it means to me. There are days when you question yourself, whether you’re on the right path, whether what you do truly makes a difference. This is a powerful reminder that the work I do matters, and it touches me deeply. To be recognized in this way is not just encouraging, it’s incredibly meaningful. I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for seeing something in me worth recognizing.unlock limitless possibilities.
A shlynn Capace
Our Lady of the Lake Head and Neck Center, Baton Rouge
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Watching my grandmother provide end of life care for my great grandparents inspired me to become a nurse.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I am thankful and honored to receive this recognition. It truly came at the right time to “fill my cup” and motivate me to continue being a valued part of the team.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Nursing is a wonderful career choice. It is highly flexible in that there are so many pathways—OR, ICU, clinic, working the floor, leadership, etc. You can find what you like without obtaining additional education.
Brooke Callahan
Manning Family Children’s, New Orleans
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I love helping people. Taking care of others was always very fulfilling.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I could not go above and beyond every day if it were not for my amazing team. I am very excited and humbled to be recognized.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope inspiration comes to all throughout their careers to do what inspires them and strive for the best.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Be willing to pivot quickly and ensure you get comfortable with change. Nursing is constantly evolving.
Cole
Clement
East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My mom worked at Children’s Hospital, so when I was a kid, I would go there often. She is the one who inspired me to work in healthcare and become a nurse.
What does this recognition mean to you?
To me, this recognition means that I am doing a good job caring and advocating for my patients that come into the operating room every day.
What kind of impact do you hope to have?
I hope to provide a comforting experience for my patients because surgery for a lot of people is scary. So if you appear comforting and confident, that may put the patient at ease. For my colleagues, I want them to see that we can all make a difference in the patients’ experience when coming to the hospital.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
My advice to anyone considering nursing is to take the leap and apply to school. There’s no better time than now to get into nursing. There are so many opportunities to further yourself and your career.
Future leaders of nurs ing
Congratulations to our 10 outstanding nursesfromEast Jefferson GeneralHospital, Manning Family Children’s,and University Medical Center NewOrleans forbeing recognized on theLouisiana StateNursesAssociation (LSNA) 40 Under 40 list!
BrookeCallahan, BSN, RN, PED-BC
Caroline Richardson, BSN, RNC-OB
Cindi Taylor, BSN, RN
Cole Clement, BSN, RN
Devin Austin, BSN, RN
Elizabeth Sanderson, MSN, RN, CPON
EliseOrtolano,MSN,RN, CEN
KalleighFlucke,BSN,RN
Megan GreerSmith,MSN,RN, CCRN
Meghan Mattison, MHA ,BSN,RN
Cari Granier
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Initially, I decided to go to nursing school after taking an anatomy and physiology course in high school. I was very interested in the course material and wanted to learn more. During my time in nursing school, I realized how much influence nursing instructors could have on a student, and I knew I wanted to eventually return to the university setting to be a good role model, inspire students and offer support to students during their nursing school careers.
What impact do you hope to have?
At the bedside, I hope to always leave patients feeling like they received more than just a medical treatment. As an educator, I truly enjoy spending extra time with my patients to educate them on their medical conditions and treatments, but my favorite part of nursing care is getting to sit with my patients and hear their stories. I hope to lead by example and teach my students that nursing care should extend beyond medical treatments. Getting to know your patients on a more personal level is where you impact lives, make a difference, and find fulfillment.
Jordan Kahan
Ochsner Health, New Orleans
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I was inspired after witnessing my mom become differently abled due to a medical error when I was very young. That opened my eyes to the complexities of the healthcare system and the profound impact it can have. The healthcare journey of my mom — and of the many patients I’ve encountered since — continues to inspire me to be part of improving healthcare systems.
What does this recognition mean to you?
It’s a reminder that new leaders and fresh ideas are constantly emerging and helping to move the industry forward. This not only motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and advocating for positive change, but it also carries a responsibility for me to continue supporting my peers as we all work together to create a better healthcare system for everyone.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope patients feel confident and safe, knowing that I’m truly on their team, advocating for their care. I want my colleagues to feel empowered and supported, knowing that we’re all in this together. I want to bring kindness, joy, and a sense of purpose to everything I do, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and can thrive.
Alyssa Hicks
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is an incredible honor that affirms the hard work, dedication, and passion I’ve poured into my nursing career. It means that my contributions—whether through clinical practice, education, leadership, or advocacy—are making a difference and being seen by my peers and professional community. This recognition inspires me to keep pushing forward, continue growing as a nurse leader, and serve as a role model for others in the profession.
What kind of impact do you hope to have?
As a clinical educator, I hope to inspire confidence, competence and a sense of purpose in my colleagues. I want to be a resource they can trust—someone who supports their growth, encourages critical thinking, and fosters a learning environment that feels safe and empowering. By helping nurses develop their skills and knowledge, I know we ultimately improve patient outcomes. For patients, my impact is more indirect but just as meaningful—I want them to receive care from nurses who are not only clinically sound, but compassionate, confident, and committed to excellence.
Amanda Knight
Our Lady of the Angels Hospital, Bogalusa
Why did you decide to become a nurse? I went into nursing to help others. Nursing has provided so many opportunities for me to help patients and their families during difficult times.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I am honored to be recognized by colleagues for the work I am doing in our organization. I am blessed to work with some amazing healthcare professionals. I hope I am a positive light for my patients and colleagues. I strive to assist others in any way possible.
What advice do you have for people considering a nursing career?
Nursing provides many different opportunities to care for others. If you truly love helping others, then this is the career for you. It’s not always easy, but it’s very rewarding!
Jarvis Malveaux
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Growing up, I always liked helping people and seeing the results of what my assistance provided. Nursing has given me these opportunities every time I come to work through helping patients, family members and coworkers.
What does this recognition mean to you?
This recognition means is a huge honor. It shows that having a caring heart and taking pride in the work that you do in this profession doesn’t go unnoticed.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to impact my patients and colleagues by being an advocate for them by providing support and knowledge anytime it is needed.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
It is a very rewarding profession. Nursing provides multiple career avenues, so don’t think you can only do bedside nursing with this profession. There are leadership, IT, remote, consultation, and many more opportunities in nursing that you can pursue until you find your calling.
Ashley McCammon
North Oaks Medical Center/Southeastern Louisiana University School of Nursing, Hammond
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Becoming a nurse was inspired by the experience of caring for my grandmother, who underwent open heart surgery and later faced a breast cancer diagnosis. Watching her fight through those challenges ignited my desire to help others in their most vulnerable moments. Additionally, seeing how compassionate and dedicated the nurses were made a lasting impact on me. They not only took care of her physical needs but also brought comfort and dignity to her during such a difficult time. I realized that nursing was more than a career; it was a calling to be there for others when they need it most.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to have a lasting impact on both my patients and colleagues by being a source of compassion, strength, knowledge and support. I strive to be a team player and a positive influence -- someone who uplifts others, shares wisdom, brings comfort and helps create a collaborative and respectful work environment. Ultimately, I hope my presence makes people feel valued, heard, and cared for, whether they’re patients, families, friends or colleagues.
Meghan Mattison
East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Since I was a young girl, I knew nursing was my calling. The opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives, help others achieve their goals and build meaningful personal connections deeply resonated with me. I was drawn to the spirit of servanthood, the commitment to continuous learning, and the incredible diversity within the profession.
What does this recognition mean to you?
This deepens my commitment to continuous learning, extending compassionate care beyond the bedside, and strengthens my drive to advocate for nursing across all healthcare settings. It’s also a heartfelt reflection of my mentors and fellow nurses who have guided me along this journey. Their steadfast support has been a constant source of inspiration, fueling my passion for excellence and my dedication to serving others.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to be remembered as someone filled with grit and grace—who served with fire in her soul and a smile on her face. I want our patients to feel truly seen and cared for, and my colleagues to feel supported and inspired. More than anything, I strive to lead and serve with intention and integrity in every interaction.
Danika Mills
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center/ Grand Canyon University, Baton Rouge
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is truly an honor and a humbling milestone in my journey. As a new Director of Nursing, this affirms that the work I’ve poured into my first year in higher leadership has made a meaningful impact. It’s a powerful reminder that passion, purpose, and dedication do not go unnoticed. This honor fuels my commitment to keep pushing forward—not only to maintain the momentum I’ve built but to continue growing, evolving, and making an even greater difference in the lives of patients, staff and the community.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Lead with your heart. The technical skills will come with time and training, but your compassion, resilience, and willingness to show up for others will make the greatest impact. There will be days that are tough mentally, emotionally and physically. In remembering your why, you’ll find strength even on your hardest days. Surround yourself with mentors, stay curious and never stop learning. Most importantly, treat every patient the way you’d want your loved one to be treated.
Caroline Richardson
East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie
What does this recognition mean to you?
Nursing is a tough business. Some days it is incredibly rewarding and other days it is a thankless job. This recognition makes me feel seen. The challenges I’ve overcome and the successes I’ve had haven’t gone unnoticed. It makes me feel like the time and effort I’ve put into my practice has made a difference in someone’s life.
What impact do you hope to have?
As a new nursing supervisor, I hope I give my team the confidence they need to perform at their highest level. I want them to know they have a listening ear, a cheerleader, a motivator, and someone that is willing to advocate for what they need to perform at their best.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Nursing is not for the faint of heart! Gear up for a career that is as rewarding as you make it. You will get out of the nursing profession what you put into it. Be engaged in learning, seek every opportunity, be present, and don’t forget to fill your cup too!
Liz Sanderson
East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie
What inspired you to become a nurse?
It started when I watched my grandmother go through her battle with breast cancer. I was young, but I remember how everything changed for my family. Hospital visits became routine, and I saw the emotional and physical toll it took on her and everyone around her. But what stood out the most was the nurses. They weren’t just giving medication or checking vitals—they were her comfort when we couldn’t be there, her advocates when she was too tired to speak and her source of strength when she felt like giving up.
What does this recognition mean to you?
It’s an incredible honor, but it’s more than an award. It’s a reflection of the hard work and passion that have driven me throughout my professional journey. It symbolizes the impact I’ve made in the lives of those I serve. This recognition also comes with a responsibility and is a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles – it’s about influence, integrity and using your platform to lift others up. I see this as motivation to keep pushing forward, keep growing and to continue making meaningful contributions.
Brittney Sanders
Louisiana Department of Health/ Office of Public Health/Bureau of Community Preparedness, Baton Rouge
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My inspiration for becoming a nurse stems from my great-grandmother. Growing up, I often heard her speak passionately about her work as a CNA and the patients she cared for. Her dedication was evident— she walked to and from work for every shift until the day she retired. Watching her commitment and compassion deeply influenced me and sparked my desire to pursue a career in nursing.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to foster an environment of trust, compassion and support. I aim to contribute to a collaborative and respectful workplace where we all feel empowered to learn from one another and deliver the best possible care.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Never stop learning and always ask questions. Don’t be afraid to lean on others for support and guidance. Remember to take care of yourself. Compassionate care starts with self-care, and finding a balance between work and personal time will help you sustain your passion and energy. Lastly, be patient with yourself. It takes time to build confidence and expertise, so trust the process and know that every experience is an opportunity for growth.
Ashley Singleton Humana, Metairie
What inspired you to become a nurse?
As a teenager in high school, I had the opportunity to shadow a nurse at the local parish jail. This experience influenced my decision to enter nursing because it never crossed my mind that these inmates should not receive medical care. The only thing I thought about at that moment was this population had medical issues that needed to be addressed, and I was eager to assist them in any way I could. This same passion has carried me throughout my nursing career.
What does this recognition mean to you?
This award is truly a testament to the hard work and dedication that I have poured into my endeavors. This accolade serves as a reminder of the impact one can have through selfless service and a commitment to bettering the lives of others.
What advice do you have for others considering a nursing career?
Embrace the passion, not the prestige. The nursing profession is a profound and rewarding journey, but it is crucial to embark on this path with the right motivations. Becoming a nurse should be driven by a genuine passion for helping others, not the allure of financial gain or the prestige of the title.
Chase Tassin
Our Lady of the Lake, Greenwell Springs
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My grandfather was diagnosed with nonHodgkins lymphoma in 2000 and had just had surgery. The oncologist and surgeon told us it was terminal. I went into the hallway and began to sob. A woman in scrubs embraced me. I never got her name, but this interaction made me want to be the person who would be there not only for my patients’ families, but anyone who needs love and support from a fellow human.
What does this recognition mean to you?
I am very humbled and excited, but this is not just me. I have worked around amazing people who have given me insight on how to be better.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to always bring the light and love that Jesus gives us. While I am far from the perfect Christian, I strive to show peace, patience and love like He did to my own patients. With my colleagues, I hope to bring a sense of safety. I want them to feel comfortable coming to me and know that if I don’t know how to provide a solution, we will work together to find someone who will.
Travis Lane Regional Medical Center, Zachary
What inspired you to become a nurse?
Since I was a young girl, I’ve always had an aspiration to help others. Growing up around influential people in my life, who were also nurses, and seeing their passion and love for the profession really helped to influence my decision. A career in nursing offered so many opportunities to choose from and the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is truly an honor and rewarding experience. I’m proud to be part of a profession that allows me the opportunity to make an impact on the lives of others every single day. This recognition affirms the hard work, challenges and sacrifices that I’ve made throughout my career and inspires me to continuing growing and contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession.
What impact do you hope to have?
For my patients, I seek to be a source of comfort, empowerment and knowledge, ensuring they feel valued, respected, and fully supported throughout their healthcare journey. My goal is to create an environment where they can make informed choices about their care with confidence, knowing they have a trusted advocate by their side.
Cindi Taylor University Medical Center, New Orleans
What inspired you to become a nurse?
I was inspired to become a nurse because my older brother took sick at a young age. Being the youngest sibling, I was always in and out of hospitals as well as doctor’s appointments with him and my mom. Even in my brother’s last days, the nurses were knowledgeable, confident, compassionate and treated us as if we were family. I vowed that I would one day become a part of an organization and do my very best to display positivity, love, and compassion in life saving circumstances.
What impact do you hope to have?
I hope to have a positive impact on my patients and colleagues. I want them to feel comfortable coming to me about anything and know that we are a team. I want them to know that I will be there to listen on their bad days and support all of their major achievements. I want them to also know that I will always be there to give them that extra push to get through their hardest hospital days.
Theriot Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, Lake Charles
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is incredibly humbling. I view it as a reflection of the collective work and dedication of so many people I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with — from patients and families to colleagues across multiple disciplines. It’s also a reminder that leadership in nursing is not just about titles, but about commitment, innovation, advocacy, and heart. This recognition motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and finding new ways to advance care for our community and beyond.
What impact do you hope to have?
My greatest hope is to create a ripple effect — to not only improve individual patient care and outcomes, but also to empower and inspire my colleagues. I aim to be a resource, mentor and advocate, equipping others with the tools, education and encouragement they need to thrive. I want every patient to feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for, and every colleague to feel supported, valued, and part of something bigger. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and compassion, I hope to build lasting improvements in healthcare that extend far beyond my immediate reach.
Courtney
Misty
