Honoring Our Nurses: Perspectives from Cumberlands Alumni

May 6 is National Nurses Day—a time set aside to thank nurses and raise awareness of the vital work they do. In honor of this special day, five recent graduates from University of the Cumberlands’ Forcht School of Nursing shared their perspectives on the field.

While nursing can certainly be a challenging profession, it is also full of rewarding moments.

Gabriel Griffin, a 2022 graduate now working in emergency medicine, finds the most rewarding part of his role to be "seeing patients stabilize in the ER so they can either be admitted to our hospital, transferred, or discharged home."

Cody Sears, a 2022 graduate currently working in geriatric psychiatry, says, "Being a listening ear for patients who may have no one else to talk to and seeing them improve in condition from admission to discharge" is what he finds most fulfilling.

Even with a strong education, some lessons can only be learned on the job.

Makenzi Gibbs, a 2023 graduate now working in medical-surgical nursing, says what surprised her most was the crucial role of floor staff. “Nursing is a job that many don’t understand—the emotional and physical toll it takes and what nurses see and go through; however, your co-workers will understand and be the first ones to help,” she shared.

Chloe Hollis, a 2022 graduate working in psychiatry, added that she didn’t anticipate the emotional resilience the role would require. “I didn't expect to face such intense situations daily,” she said.

At some point, everyone feels misunderstood—nurses are no exception.

Latisha Sears, a 2022 graduate now working in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, expressed that many people mistakenly think nurses enter the field for financial reasons. “We chose it to help others. We see the patients more than any other profession and we keep the doctors updated on their condition. It’s not only the doctors who are taking care of you,” she explained.

Hollis emphasized that "nurses are not just caregivers, but advocates for their patients. Nurses provide emotional support, educate patients about their conditions, and ensure that their voices are heard in the medical process."

Gibbs reflected, “Most nurses don’t understand how to cope with what they go through in a shift, or even how to talk and vent about the situations to those who don’t understand. It sometimes makes you feel selfish to think about yourself and take care of yourself when you are so used to taking care of others.”

For those considering a nursing career, these Cumberlands alumni offered heartfelt advice.

Gabriel Griffin advises, "Utilize teamwork in the healthcare setting. When the healthcare team works together, everything runs smoothly."

Latisha Sears encourages students to "stand up for yourself. Be confident in what you do. Trust your gut. Stand up for your patients and get them the treatment and care they need."

Cody Sears urges future nurses, "Don’t be afraid to try a specialty or role you never thought you would consider. I moved from long-term care to psych and haven’t looked back."

Makenzi Gibbs reminds future nurses, "It will be a change in your life that is such a big shift from clinicals or any other medical position you’ve previously worked. There will be periods when you sit and think 'how' and 'why.' But there is a reason God put this dream or want in your heart. You’ve got this, and don’t be scared to ask for help or advice!"

Chloe Hollis adds, "Don’t feel overwhelmed by everything you will learn as you enter the workforce. Remember, it’s okay to ask questions as a new nurse—that’s how you will learn!"

A Message from Dr. Cailen Baker, Department Chair

"Nursing is more than a career—it’s a calling," says Dr. Cailen Baker, department chair of the Forcht School of Nursing. "Students who pursue a nursing degree are entering a field where they have the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives every single day. The profession offers job stability, diverse career paths, and the chance to combine science, compassion, and critical thinking to improve health outcomes and communities."

For those looking to enter the field, Cumberlands offers a high-quality, affordable education that equips students with foundational knowledge and skills through a personalized approach, preparing them to excel in the classroom and beyond.

"What truly sets Cumberlands’ nursing program apart is our commitment to personalized education rooted in excellence, ethics, and service," Dr. Baker continued. "Our students receive hands-on clinical experiences, learn from faculty who are experienced nurse leaders, and benefit from a supportive learning environment that prepares them for success at the bedside and beyond. We emphasize not only clinical competence but also leadership, communication, and lifelong learning."

A Note of Thanks

Dr. Baker offers a closing message of gratitude and encouragement:

"We are deeply grateful to all nurses—especially our alumni—who continue to serve with strength, skill, and heart. Your impact is immeasurable. To our future nurses: stay inspired, stay resilient, and know that the work you’re preparing for matters more than ever. We’re proud to walk alongside you on this journey."

Learn More

To learn more about Cumberlands’ nursing program and other academic offerings, visit ucumberlands.edu/academics/undergraduate.