Sheila is a Nurse Educator in the outpatient setting with SSM Medical Group and has also served in the inpatient clinical environment. Throughout her career, she has provided new hire orientation, annual education, ongoing updates, and Lunch & Learn sessions for both Nurses and Medical Assistants. Sheila continuously seeks out new information and evidence-based best practices to ensure staff are supported with the most current clinical knowledge.

As a member of the STL Practice Council, Sheila actively assesses and responds to the educational needs of each department. She always approaches education with a positive, encouraging attitude, offering praise while also providing supportive coaching when needed. She fosters a safe learning environment where questions are welcomed.

During my time working in the ER at St. Mary’s, I assisted with CPR and ACLS training. Sheila was incredibly helpful and supportive when I first began instructing these courses. She has always been responsive to the evolving needs of the Medical Group. For example, when COVID-19 testing was initiated in the Urgent Care and Express Clinics, Sheila ensured I was properly trained so I could assist with the process.

As a partner to clinic leadership, Sheila leads Lunch & Learn sessions and actively gathers feedback to shape future education. She researches ways to meet those needs and ensures staff are equipped with the necessary skills. She is accountable for confirming that staff complete all required training and assessments and for providing additional coaching when necessary.

During STL Practice Council meetings, Sheila regularly gives educational updates and reminds team members of required learning opportunities, while also encouraging participation in optional professional development such as Education Summits and Workshops.

Sheila has been a clinical educator for the majority of my 40-year nursing career at SSM. She brings a bright smile and compassion to every training session. Her teaching is always organized, clear, and easy to understand. She remains up to date on nursing advancements, frequent CPR guideline changes, and evolving technologies such as point-of-care testing, medication administration updates, and documentation enhancements, ensuring she can confidently train others in these areas.

Sheila’s dedication to ensuring every staff member is competent, confident, and prepared for safe patient care is truly admirable. Her passion for education, compassion for her colleagues, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire all of us who have had the pleasure of learning from and working alongside her.