Success Stories

Following the advice of his father, Tom D’Ambrosio pursued his undergraduate degree in order to achieve his dream of becoming a chef. This pursuit started at PVCC and culminated in a business partnership with close friend and PVCC alumnus, Kyle Hollenbeck.

Tom’s pursuit of his dream was filled with success. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Tom was selected to work as an apprentice lead chef at The Greenbrier in West Virginia under certified Master Chef Richard Rosendale. This is just one of the accolades he has achieved along this journey. Chef Tom competed in a post-secondary Skills USA competition in Kansas City, where he placed first in the nation.

They combined Tom’s expertise as a chef with Kyle’s math, business and marketing acumen to form Aioli Burgers. Kyle credits the support he received in PVCC’s Tutoring Center with his appreciation for and success in his math coursework at PVCC. As the mathematician behind this business venture, Kyle utilizes his PVCC education on a daily basis. While students at PVCC, they both worked in the restaurant business and envisioned the day when they would own a restaurant.

Kyle refers to their business relationship as “the ying and yang of entrepreneurial enterprises.” Their seemingly opposite talents are complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in their business ventures and professional growth. They have added Oakwood Fire Pizza to their food truck line-up of Aioli Burgers and Modern Tortilla. More recently the business partners have added Bro's Seafood, Super Mac Bros, Protein and Poke, and AZ Lemonade Stand, a beverage brand you can find in stores such as Aj's and Frys. This totals their food truck fleet to 12. Their AZ Lemonade is now in over 350 stores and it will be 500 by the end of the year.

Chef Tom has also led Aioli brand into the winners’ circle of state & national competitions such as Arizona’s Burger Battle, Phoenix Devoured, and Scottsdale Culinary Classic Events. He was also crowned Chopped Champion on The Food Network in January of 2019 on the episode Tacos & Tequila. Their team has gone on to win Best Burger Phoenix New Times, Phoenix Magazine and several other awards for their Lemonade and Food Truck Brands.

Additionally, Kyle and Tom have purchased a commissary kitchen. This purchase enabled them to have the necessary kitchen prep space for their multiple food trucks, along with offering a solution to others who are trying to test or grow what they are doing in a commercial kitchen setting. This shared kitchen space had been custom designed to include a nursery to accommodate Tommy and Kyle’s role as fathers. Now that their sons are older, they have turned it into more office space, following the purchase of a second kitchen in Mesa and a soon-to-be third kitchen in Glendale. They are growing the Shared Kitchen Business Bltkitchens.com, to offer a place for other entrepreneurs to start or continue their business and help them grow. "We want to give space to other businesses to help them grow and pave an easier path for them than we had," Hollenbeck states.

Aioli Gourmet Burgers and Catering started with a food truck with something delicious to deliver; it has now grown into multiple food trucks, fully catered experiences, and three of the tastiest burger joints in the Phoenix area. They are located at 32nd Street & Shea, 7th St. and Bell, and Camelback and Litchfield in the Valley. Their business ventures continue to reach new heights.

A late-night conversation with his roommate while seated on the kitchen countertop provided the “a-ha” moment for Travis Guinta.  He always had an urge to serve his country...but in what way; this was the unknown.  In the late-night conversation they explored what they were good at, the life-style they wanted to live, and rewarding career options.  After several hours of deep conversation, everything pointed to one pursuit.  From that day forward, Travis would begin his journey to pursue the rewarding career of becoming a Firefighter!

At this point in time, Travis was teaching music with multiple organizations like, The Arizona Academy Drum & Bugle Corps and Dark Sky Percussion.  A former student of his was currently involved with the Fire I and II Academy and he suggested that Travis strongly consider the Fire Science program at PVCC.  After considerable research on the various programs available here in the valley, Travis was convinced that PVCC offered the best program to help him be successful.

From the get-go, Travis noticed a huge difference in the Fire Science program compared to other college classes he had taken.  From having numerous instructors for one class; to the abundant resources available for hands-on training with the same equipment used in the field; to Phoenix Fire Department allowing PVCC to use their Regional Training facility and apparatuses; to each student (known as a Recruit) getting exposure to multiple live burns.  Travis felt that this program was top-notch.

Among the most influential people for Travis was Captain Sunder, Fire Operations Academy Director.  Travis found Captain Sunder’s boisterous enthusiasm and passion challenged them to be smarter in their decision-making and thought processes and enabled them to become safe, competent firefighters.  Travis shared, “The Fire Science program is especially grueling mentally, physically and emotionally.  The Firefighter Mentors play a key role in breaking down and building up the Recruits as they move through the training process.”

A key component of the program that Travis found to be beneficial is the early initiation of hands-on-training and its continuation throughout the duration of the program.  “This has a huge influence on the preparedness of the students and their ability to succeed in this profession.”

Travis shared, “The resources that are made available to the students are extremely beneficial.  Additionally, PVCC has expanded and developed their Fire I and II program by offering Intern and station immersion opportunities after completing the Fire I and II Academy.  Students are able to focus on: expanding their networking skills, learning about station life and culture, advancing fire ground tactics, maintaining physical fitness, and working on interview prep while trying to get hired.”

Travis's educational and professional journey has offered a few twists and turns.  His expertise as a soccer player led to his giving of his time and talent as a volunteer coach for several valley high school programs.  Without a Bachelor's degree, Travis was not able to assume the title of Head Coach and get paid for the coaching he was doing.  As he reflected on his long-term ambitions, Travis was motivated to go back to school to get his B.Sc. to help with promotional opportunities in his Firefighter career.  Travis pursued and completed a Bachelor's degree through NAU's 90/30 program in Emergency Service Administration in 2013. Subsequently, Travis enrolled in the PVCC Fire I and II Academy.  He was then invited to be a Lab Tech for the program which provided him additional opportunities to hone his skills and insights while helping others do the same.

Travis Guinta exudes enthusiasm for his job, his role as an instructor, and for life in general.  Travis is currently employed with Scottsdale Fire Department and is thriving in his career and able to leverage his skills in a meaningful way.

Dr. Trisha Chandler attended several community colleges upon graduating from Desert Mountain high school.  She found the science track and professors at PVCC to be a perfect fit as she progressed through her educational goals. She felt at home at PVCC. The counselors and professors were supportive and helped tailor her education accordingly. At the time, Trisha did not know she wanted to pursue a career in pharmacy, but knew she was interested in healthcare with a passion to serve others.

With the start of her PVCC college experience, came Trisha’s most influential instructor, Dr. Hank Mancini.  She is forever thankful for the support and guidance he offered her.  Even after graduating from PVCC, Trisha continues to touch base with Dr. Mancini and update him on where her education and career have taken her.

One of the most memorable aspects of Trisha’s experience at PVCC was working with Dr. Jane Marks on an Honors project they developed for the Anatomy & Physiology 101/102 course. “The Honors program offers students a tailor-made approach and enables students to be creative and produce outcomes that are sustainable and applicable for future students to use.”

The PSP2 program was initiated during Trisha’s time at PVCC. Students interested in a science-based education or career could be part of this program. Trisha wrote her first published research paper while in the program on the drug “Vioxx” and its link to cardiovascular disease. A few years later, her “findings proved to be true and “Vioxx” was pulled from the drug industry due to its negative health risks.” Trisha continues to work with Dr. Scott Massey at PVCC and volunteers her time to speak with students on how PSP2 benefited her education and her pharmacy career.

Trisha’s vision of PVCC includes "guiding students along pathways, supporting them financially, educationally and emotionally to allow them to truly experience college in a smaller classroom setting while gaining the best resources and education to support their future career and educational goals.”

Trisha highly recommends PVCC to students. “The professors and counselors are supportive, and the learning environment creates an atmosphere that allows new students to adjust to college seamlessly from high school. The teacher to student ratio allows for individualized learning and the campus is very easy to navigate.”

As an Honors College scholarship recipient, Trisha encourages others to pursue the scholarship opportunities available to them at community colleges and beyond. “Obtaining an education can be expensive. Scholarships can assist in helping you successfully complete all your educational goals. You should never be intimidated to apply for all the scholarships you can and work hard to meet the GPA and other requirements for them.”

Trisha’s experiences at PVCC have defined who she is today. She always knew she would pursue a career in the healthcare industry and PVCC guided and refined her path to pharmacy.  Currently, Trisha is a Lieutenant Commander on active duty serving under the U.S. Public Health Service as a pharmacist. Her reach has, by far, exceeded her expectations.  “If you would have told me that this is where I would end up when I started at PVCC; I would not have believed you. The experiences and changes I have been able to make for patients and our healthcare systems are humbling and life changing.”

Uche’s family immigrated to the US from Nigeria in 1996. Upon graduating from high school, Uche zeroed in on computer engineering. He quickly realized that he was not cut out for a sedentary job. Per his Mother’s encouragement, Uche did complete the program and received an Associates in Computer Science Networking.  He took a year to travel the country with other young adults speaking to teenagers about making good choices. This experience really helped him “become more mature and learn about different ways of thinking, etc.” Additionally, he got to see a huge part of the west coast. 

Upon returning to Arizona, at age 20, Uche became a youth pastor to pursue his desire to mentor teenagers and young adults.  During that time, he discovered his passion for movement and the body’s ability to heal itself through exercise.  Uche did not have the prerequisites for PTA (Physical Therapy Assistant) school so he set about fulfilling these at PVCC while working as a Physical Therapy Technician at a couple of clinics.  He also continued his work as a pastor. Upon finishing PTA school, Uche realized that he wanted to do more so he set his sights on becoming a Physical Therapist.  The requisites for PT school are very different than those for PTA school.  Uche learned he needed to complete a Bachelor’s Degree.  He was able to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences through the NAU program offered at PVCC.

Uche found the environment at PVCC very conducive to learning.  He shared “the smaller class size and the teacher engagement and support meant there was someone always there to help you get through.”

Uche received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in July 2019 from AT Still University of Health Science. He currently works in the outpatient and home health settings. Uche loves working with people on an individual basis. His aim is to provide adequate physical therapy care while possessing a deep understanding of the body as a whole, synergistic system. 

Uche’s commitment to giving back is evidenced by his involvement in non-profit organizations, such as the Refuge Foundation. He is committed to supporting his community as well as his home country.

Additionally, Uche continues to give back to PVCC. This spring, Uche and his brother, Afam, were recognized for their service to their community as well as their outstanding leadership and dedication to PVCC with the Puma Choice Outstanding Alumni Award.

“I would describe PVCC as a community college ahead of others,” says Vanessa Mitchell. “PVCC is deeply invested in their students and is committed to providing great opportunities for those who seek them.”

Two distinct activities made Vanessa’s PVCC experience unique, her involvement with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and with Service, Learn, Inspire, Change, Educate (S.L.I.C.E.). “At PTK, I was VP of Service, and had the opportunity to make life-long friends, and learn valuable lessons outside of the classroom,” explained Vanessa. “Similarly, S.L.I.C.E. provided an opportunity to serve my community and learn about social struggles in a deep and personal way. I also met my husband through S.L.I.C.E., which I will admit is the biggest gift I got out of that class.”

Vanessa had very positive experiences with her professors. “I absolutely enjoyed Dr. Doyle and Dr. Hank Mancini's classes. I also really appreciated Dr. Scott Massey,” reflected Vanessa, when asked which instructors impacted her the most. “These instructors were wonderful, knowledgeable and influential in my education and future career choices. They were engaging, caring, and always took time to answer questions, going above and beyond to support students.”

Vanessa also mentioned Chris Hunt, Ryan Martin and Mike Ho. Each offered support, flexibility and patience that Vanessa appreciated.

“I learned a lot during my time at PVCC about non-classroom things, like managing projects, organization and group activities,” recalls Vanessa. “I absolutely believe these skills have helped shape me into the person, and professional I am today. Because of opportunities at PVCC for an internship, this led me to obtain other internships and positions, which helped land me in my career today.”

Vanessa’s journey after leaving PVCC is quite impressive. She transferred to ASU and worked as a teaching assistant and a research assistant in the ASU Biodesign Institute. After graduating with a BS in Biochemistry, Vanessa was hired by the Biodesign Institute to work in their start-up tech company. “While I was working, I actually came back to PVCC for a few pre-requisites for graduate school,” she said. “Then, I went to Physician Assistant (PA) School at A.T. Still University and obtained my Master's in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) in 2016.  Since then, I have been working as a PA in Family Medicine.”

Vanessa’s advice to students is to actively seek opportunities. “You get out of college, and your time at PVCC, what you put into it,” Vanessa said. “There is more to learn from college than just the materials you learn in the classroom, like people skills, communication, team work, project management, and other leadership and personal skills.”

Helping out in her son’s preschool classroom afforded Vicky Phetteplace the opportunity to discover her passion. “I loved being with the kids, helping them in their daily activities, having conversations with them and watching their eyes light up when they learned something new,” Vicky said. “I was hooked and I remember telling my husband, at the age of 34, I want to work with young children.” Her first class, Literacy for the Young Child with Barbara Rath, offered “amazing content” and Vicky couldn’t wait to take more classes.

Vicky credits Christie Colunga, Early Childhood Education faculty, with challenging the way she thought and bringing new ideas to light. Her hands-on approach to teaching and learning is impactful,” Vicky said. Meggin Kirk’s class, The Art of Storytelling, alleviated Vicky’s fears of storytelling in front of an audience. “I was extremely nervous about taking this class. Meggin gave me the tools I needed to take any type of story, tell it with feeling and be able to draw my audience in and keep them engaged.” With Ana Stigson, another influential instructor, Vicky fondly recalls learning how to create a family lending library. “I loved bringing what I learned from my early childhood classes into my classroom,” Vicky said.”

Engaging the children attending Festival of Tales afforded Vicky the opportunity to create an interactive children’s table and tell a story in a breakout session to a room full of families in our community. “Kids crowded around our table to have the chance to build something out of recycled materials. The children came up with things I never even thought of! I loved watching them think and then bring their creations to life,” Vicky shared.

Vicky credits a field trip through one of Christie’s classes to the Pinnacle Presbyterian Preschool, a Reggio Emilia inspired approach to early childhood education, as one of her most profound PVCC experiences. “This school focuses on the environment. From the classroom to the playground, the environment is inviting, enriching and full of new learning experiences,” Vicky said. “The field trip was amazing and it gave me a clear visual for my own classroom.”

Vicky shares her vision of PVCC as “a school that strives to give the students the tools they need to make a difference in the real world with professional instructors that will do whatever they can to help you meet your desired goal.” One area of advice Vicky offers to those considering PVCC is to “make sure to check into grants, scholarships and additional financial services.”

“My experiences at PVCC have reshaped me from someone who worked in an office and never even thought of pursuing a career working with children to someone who can manage a classroom, mediate social conflict between children, make connections with children and try my best to look at the world through a child’s lens,” Vicky said. “The role PVCC has played in my profession is huge!  PVCC has helped make me the teacher I never knew I could be.”

Vicky is currently a lead teacher in a Head Start Pre-K classroom in the Deer Valley School District. Vicky is currently enrolled at Mesa Community College to complete her Bachelors in Early Childhood Education.

Victor Atchison was desirous of a well-rounded college experience and the opportunity to encounter “more of what college is all about.” He heeded the suggestion of one of his instructors, Romy Nelson, and decided to extend his reach beyond online courses. He enrolled in a couple of on-campus classes and then became a full-time student. Soon, Victor settled right into his groove.

Victor said he was most impressed by how diverse the college is. “I was concerned about being an older, returning student but was treated respectfully by everyone on campus.”

Victor acknowledges a number of “influencers” during his PVCC educational experience. Participating in Rowdy Duncan’s COM 101 Diversity and Inclusion class changed his perspective on college and life in general. “Diversity is the key,” Victor said. “We are all different but learning about other’s culture, their orientation, and their beliefs taught me to be a more open minded and diverse person.”

Of the numerous memorable experiences Victor had while a student at PVCC, the one that sticks out most is an adult reentry panel discussion he “had the pleasure of being part of.”

Victor shared, “Being in the Diversity classes and later to be a Facilitator of those classes will always be a highlight and forever have an impact on my life.”

One reason Victor recommends PVCC “at any and every opportunity” is because of the diversity of the school and also because of the staff. Victor’s advice to anyone planning to attend college is “to not be afraid to ask for help.”

Victor goes on to say “I would not trade the experiences I had at PVCC for the world. The Diversity classes and mentors helped mold my mind into one of service to others.” Additionally, Mike Ho, Jim Rubin and Michaelle Shadburne plus many others played supportive roles as his mentors. He continues his relationship with his PVCC mentors and engages in conversations with them about what is happening within our community, the country, and the world. Victor is an AmeriCorps Alumnus, and he attributes his current job as Judicial Clerk with the Maricopa County Adult Probation Department to the relationships he built along the way. “My PVCC education will always be one that I will cherish and taught me a lot about myself as a person,” Victor says.

Despite plans to attend ASU, Wilson Okwuobu decided to embark on his educational journey at PVCC upon learning that he qualified for the President’s scholarship. This scholarship covered his tuition was a “deal he could not forego.”

The Male Empowerment Network (MEN) program “unequivocally” was the most memorable aspect of Wilson’s student experience at PVCC. Initially, he was a member and later on he was elected President. The MEN program played an important role in his mental development and was a source of empowerment as it helped foster his sense of belonging and connectedness to faculty, staff and fellow students. He often arrived on campus early so he could swing by and greet the people he connected with. Wilson reflects fondly on the comradery the program offered and the sense that all aspects of cultures were accepted.

Cranston Forte was an encouraging and supportive mentor to Wilson. Cranston nominated Wilson for the MEN conference in Atlanta. Participating in this conference proved to be a life changing experience. The diverse body of participants coupled with great speakers and a stay at a swanky hotel planted a seed of aspiration to attend university in the south. Wilson was very impressed by the “level of Black excellence” he observed during the conference “field trip” to Morehouse College. This experience changed the course of his life and would later become the impetus for his enrollment at the University of Georgia upon completing his Associates degree at PVCC.

Wilson also fondly recalls his interactions with Dr. Mary in Career Services and Cheryl Brensen in Admissions and Records. They were part of the MEN cohort of support. Rowdy Duncan introduced Wilson to Diversity Inc. Rowdy was very influential in expanding Wilson’s thought process and opened his eyes to diversity. HUM 190, an Honors Class taught by Dr. Jim Rubin, readily came to Wilson’s mind when asked about a specific course that had a profound impact on his PVCC experience.

Wilson felt prepared academically for the transition to university upon completing his degree at PVCC; however, he did find assimilating in the culture challenging. While at the University of Georgia, Wilson continued to be actively engaged in leadership roles such as Vice President of the Society for Entrepreneurs and Ambassador for the university football team. These leadership experiences taught him boldness as he learned how to leverage his platform to secure guest speakers as well as the technicalities of owning a business.

Upon returning to Phoenix, Wilson would engage his entrepreneurial spirit to start his own business. Due to the current pandemic, Wilson had to pivot and is currently engaged in exploring other options to capitalize on his entrepreneurial ambitions and talents.

What inspired you to attend PVCC? 

I was looking for a place that would not only support my educational goals but also offer a strong sense of community. When I learned about PVCC’s commitment to student success and saw how many resources were available—from student services to leadership opportunities—it just felt right. After visiting campus and meeting a few staff members, I knew this was where I wanted to start my journey.

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

Associate in Arts, General Education Certificate, and I Graduated in 2024.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

I was pretty involved on campus, joining the Student Public Policy Forum, where I had the chance to mingle with government officials and discuss important issues. It was an incredible opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the things that matter most, making my time at PVCC even more enriching. I also had the honor of receiving the Chancellor's Medallion, which remains one of my proudest accomplishments. And I can’t forget the love and support from the Veterans Services, shout out to them for always having my back.

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

When I think about my time at PVCC, one word comes to mind: home. I didn’t just earn an education here, I found a place where I belonged, where people believed in me, and where I grew into the person I am today.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students? 

Don’t be afraid to show up and get involved. Your journey is what you make it, so take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way whether it's joining a club, attending a forum, or simply saying hello to someone new. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC… 

After graduating from PVCC, I continued my education at Phoenix College, where I’m completing a Certificate in Fashion Design-Entrepreneur while preparing to enter a Dental Hygiene program. I’m also pursuing a Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene through a concurrent program between Phoenix College and Northern Arizona University (NAU). At the same time, I’ve been building Fayiima Fashion, my own brand, inspired by community, culture, and creativity. It’s been a journey of blending health, fashion, and purpose; we are on Instagram as Fayiima fashion.

I remain actively involved on campus—taking tennis classes, singing in the choir, and continuing to volunteer and give back to the community that has helped shape me. Since I’m still taking some classes at PVCC, I’m also part of student clubs and stay connected to campus life.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path? 

Start with what lights you up, what do you enjoy doing, what are you naturally good at, and what kind of impact do you want to have? It’s okay if the path isn’t straight. Don’t be afraid to explore different areas until something clicks. Talk to people in the field, ask questions, and stay open to evolving your goals as you grow.

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges? 

Like many students, I faced challenges along the way. There were moments when I wasn’t sure if I was on the right path or if I had what it took to succeed. But every time I doubted myself, PVCC reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Professors took the time to support me, mentors encouraged me to keep pushing forward, and the campus community gave me a sense of purpose. From the president to the fellow students, amazing company.

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do? 

Through my experiences at PVCC, I gained more than just knowledge—I built confidence, formed lasting connections, and discovered my own strength. Looking back, I realize how much this school shaped me, not just academically but personally. I am proud to be a Puma because PVCC gave me a home when I needed it the most. No matter where I go from here, PVCC will always be part of my story. And for that, I am forever grateful.

What inspired you to attend PVCC? 

I graduated in 1992 from ASU with a BA in Political Science. After graduation I married, and had two children. I never pursued a career with my BA; I was a stay at home mom for the first six years of my children's life, and then I taught Preschool and Kindergarten at a Scottsdale Charter School. My mother was an ICU nurse in Germany, and I thought that maybe I could pursue nursing. My husband wanted me to volunteer in the hospital before making a choice to go into nursing. So, I volunteered at John C. Lincoln Hospital in pre-op intake. I took my prerequisites at SCC. Once I completed my prereqs and then heard that PVCC was launching their own nursing program and that it would be located on Third street and Dunlap, across from JCL hospital. They were accepting employees of JCL first, and as a volunteer, I had a great chance of getting in. So, to answer your first question, PVCC found me!

What was your major or focus of study at PVCC? And what year did you graduate?

I was accepted into the PVCC nursing program and was part of the first ever nursing graduation class in 2005.

What were one or two of the most memorable aspects of your student experience at PVCC?

My most memorable experiences at PVCC were the faculty and their unwavering support for success. The faculty was instrumental and matched me with a nursing mentor in critical care, prior to graduation. This shaped the type to nurse I was to become. I also found it really amazing that a school would be so innovative and bring education to where it was needed most. To be able to go to school, lab, and then complete your clinicals all in one place was truly special. At the time, JCL and PVCC had an agreement, I did not pay for my education as long as I committed to working for JCL for 2 years post graduation. 

How would you describe PVCC to others? Would you recommend PVCC and why? 

Attending PVCC after having graduated from ASU was a different experience. I felt part of a family, and that my success really mattered to the faculty. The smaller class sizes were a plus, and so was being an adult learning. By the time I attended PVCC, I was a married adult with two children. So many others chose to attend PVCC as middle adults, it felt inclusive. I always told myself that one day, my dream would be to return to PVCC, teach, and give back to the community.

What piece of advice would you give to PVCC students? 

My advice to anyone who attends PVCC is to follow your heart, stick with the program, ask for help or advice early because you're not in this journey alone. We all are here to help, or provide the resources you need. You will make lifelong connections, so, enjoy the experience, and don't be so hard on yourself. Keep showing up, keep believing, put in the effort and it will pay back boat loads. I am still in touch with several fellow students from when I attended 20 years ago.

Tell us about your journey after leaving PVCC… 

I was hired as a new grad registered nurse into the Trauma Intensive Care Unit at JCL. I moved into a leadership role after a few years as relief supervisor. I enjoyed leadership and decided to go back to school and earn my masters in nursing from GCU. After graduating I moved into the role of ICU Director. After working at JCL for 17 years, I had the opportunity to advance to Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Thompson Peak Medical Center. I then decided to return to school and earn my Doctorate in Executive Leadership in Nursing from Old Dominion University. I graduated in 2023 and soon after became the Interim Chief Nursing Officer at Thompson Peak Medical Center. I decided on a career change once TPK posted a job for the permanent CNO. It was the time to follow my heart, and pursue a career in teaching at PVCC. I was hired for fall of August 2024, and gave my resignation in May 2024, so that I could be mentored and precepted into my new role and be ready and competent once the school semester started.

How would you advise students on how to choose their educational or career path? 

My advice for choosing a career path is that if you already have a passion, then follow it. If you are not quite sure, then try different subjects and different programs as you may uncover a love or skill set you did not know about before. Believe in yourself and do not be afraid to try hard things. You will find yourself and find the career that supports you in your growth and professional development. We are never too old to learn and to try on new skills. 

In your career journey, what has been one of your greatest successes and one of your greatest challenges? 

My greatest successes in my career would be building a nursing team that was highly engaged, that provided patient centered care, with great patient outcomes. I have been able to mentor and support so many nurses in their career journey into leadership, nurse practitioner, and research. My greatest challenges were when I took over new teams that did not know me. It takes time to build trust, and respect, and to show that you really care about the people you serve, and their wellness. 

How did your experiences at PVCC either directly or indirectly impact the work that you do? 

Without the acceptance to the PVCC nursing program, the faculty dedication and the opportunities then, and now as an instructor, I would not have had all the opportunities that I have experienced.  PVCC is a network of support, not just today, when you are a student, but later when you graduate and become a peer. I have stayed in touch with several instructors after I graduated from nursing school, and peers that I met in school.