Kelly W., a ¹ú²úÖ÷²¥ alumna, veteran, and scholarship recipient, recently shared her inspiring journey.

At 17, Kelly made the decision to enlist in the military and had begun boot camp by the time she turned 18. Over the course of the next 12 years and two military tours, she developed invaluable skills and values that she later applied to her civilian career in healthcare.

In 2009, Kelly began her nursing education as part of WCU’s first graduating class in the LPN to ADN pathway program. She went on to earn her bachelor of science in nursing from WCU-Ontario in 2013, eventually becoming a nurse practitioner and clinical instructor at her alma mater.

For the past five and a half years, Kelly has worked in a pediatric emergency room while teaching clinical pediatrics students at WCU. She is deeply committed to supporting students and advocating for children. Recently, she embarked on a new academic journey, pursuing an MBA with a focus on healthcare. In recognition of her contributions to the community, WCU awarded her a scholarship to support her continued education.

What led you to join the Army?

My childhood was not easy, and I didn’t think I could support myself financially to get an education. While in high school, I joined the ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) and learned about the military. I joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 2002 in a medical unit. I reenlisted and did two tours overseas. Overall, I stayed for 12 years, so I enjoyed it.

How did the Army lead you to nursing?

I was working with a lot of medics, nurses and people in the healthcare field. I wanted to continue on and do more than just screening and triaging. I deployed in 2004 and was in the field. I came back and worked as an LVN but wanted to return to get my RN.

Why did you choose to attend WCU?

I saw they had the LVN to RN bridge program, and they were a GI school. Coming from the military, I wanted to use my benefits. I was happy the university was supporting veterans and was accredited. Given my background, I was able to grow in my career.

How do the skills you gained in the military impact your work as a nurse?

I live by Army values every day: selfless service, integrity, honor. I love it. I’m disciplined now because of my time in the military. I don’t take the little things for granted. I’m also reliable and responsible – I’ve stayed in most of my jobs for a long time because I feel devoted.

What made you want to return to teach at WCU?

When I graduated as a pediatric nurse practitioner, I got a job working in the pediatric emergency department. I also applied to teach at WCU. I love what I do and I wanted the students to realize what it is to take care of kids. Being in the emergency department, I felt I could bring a new perspective.

How did you run your clinical sessions as an instructor?

The feedback I often got was that they loved that I was so hands-on. I would take them to the emergency department and if there were baby catheters or IVs, I always volunteered to do it with my students so I could teach them the skills. They were grateful and excited to accomplish something with a patient. We would huddle at the end of the clinical and they would discuss their cases and feel proud of what they did.

Why are you #WCUProud?

I feel proud that I am recognized as an alumnus. I think it’s great that there’s unity within the university. I remember being there, and we had a veteran group. There was a lot of camaraderie. I also want to say thank you to WCU for continuing to support my career progression. I feel a family connection with the university, given the longevity I’ve had with them as both a student and a professor. I feel honored to be a recipient of this scholarship.

Editor’s Note: This interview was edited for length and clarity.

WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.