I began my nursing career in 2002 after earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa. In 2007, I completed a Master’s in Nurse Anesthesia at Mount Marty in South Dakota and became a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). My clinical experience spans high-acuity care at a Level II Trauma Center and independent practice in rural facilities, providing a broad perspective on patient needs and healthcare delivery. In 2021, I earned my Doctorate of Nurse Practice from Morningside College, further strengthening my foundation in advanced practice and leadership.
As an educator, I set a high bar for my students and expect them to rise to the challenge. I am committed to molding hard workers who approach their training and future careers with accountability and resilience—no excuses. I believe the future of nurse anesthesia depends on preparing professionals who are not only clinically skilled, but also dedicated, adaptable, and ready to advocate for the profession. Through my teaching and mentorship, I strive to instill these values, ensuring our graduates are equipped to advance the field and meet the evolving demands of healthcare.

Since 2007, I have worked at a facility that regularly hosts nurse anesthesia students, where I served as a staff CRNA and clinical coordinator for all Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists prior to joining USD. In this capacity, I educated students on the roles and responsibilities of Nurse Anesthetists, emphasizing the realities and expectations of clinical practice. My transition to an official teaching role with the University of South Dakota began in August 2022, and I am proud to be part of the new USD DNAP Program, which is dedicated to preparing future CRNAs for rewarding and impactful careers.
Currently, my position is evenly split between administrative leadership and direct teaching. I teach both pharmacology and professional aspects of nurse anesthesia—two areas I consider absolutely essential for developing competent, ethical, and resilient practitioners. Through my teaching, I set high expectations and challenge students to meet the rigorous standards of our profession, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the future of nurse anesthesia.