A Passion for Patient-Centered Care

From a young age, Elizabeth Brownlie (’12) knew she was drawn to the medical field. Growing up in Knoxville, her first exposure to health care came as a candy-striper at the old St. Mary’s Hospital.

“I absolutely loved being in that hospital,” Brownlie shared. “I loved walking the halls, seeing all the different jobs and departments. It was like its own little city there. I did all kinds of jobs at St. Mary’s, but when I finally got accepted to do the volunteer nursing program, I knew I wanted to work in that setting.”

After high school, she pursued pre-med studies at Washington University in St. Louis. However, after shadowing various medical professionals at Barnes Jewish Hospital, she realized that nursing, rather than medicine, was her true calling.

This revelation led her to transfer to the University of Missouri in St. Louis, where she earned her nursing degree in 2002. She began her career as a registered nurse at St. John’s Mercy, navigating long shifts in med-surg and ICU while balancing the joys and challenges of new motherhood.

After welcoming her second child, she and her family returned to Knoxville to be closer to loved ones.

“I was lucky enough to stay at home to raise our children until they started school, and at that time I decided to go to the University of Tennessee Knoxville for the master’s program,” Brownlie said.

Her time at college provided wonderful experiences, including a pivotal clinical rotation with nurse practitioner Martha Clinton in Sevierville.

“She was the first nurse practitioner I had seen with her own primary care office,” added Brownlie. “I did not even realize this was a possibility.”

For nearly nine years, she dedicated herself to primary care, but in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she faced an unexpected setback. She was let go from her job and left feeling devastated.

“I was so angry that this corporate medical system put so much emphasis on money and the bottom line that they truly did not care how staff and patients were treated,” she added. “I was so worried as to who was going to take over care for all of these people I’ve treated for years.”

Rather than let this defeat define her, she took a bold step forward. Within four months, she launched Magnolia Family Practice, determined to create a patient-centered, community-focused health care environment.

Building her practice was no small feat, but with the support of dedicated colleagues, the practice steadily grew.

“When I decided to open a primary care practice, I knew our team was the most important thing to run our office,” said Brownlie. “We were going to do things differently. I was lucky enough to have Donna Bryzek and Alex Jones take a huge leap of faith to help me start this dream up. They left good-paying, solid jobs to do this. We slowly grew our patient load as well as our staff.”

The now-famous “MFP Dream Team” operates on principles of respect, empathy, inclusivity and teamwork, ensuring that every patient is heard and valued.

Reflecting on her time at UT, she credits the college for instilling a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and critical thinking.

“The importance of keeping up with the most current management of health and really thinking about what is going on with a person head to toe is vital,” she added. “Dr. Pierce would give us a case study and have us make a list of all possible causes. That still sticks with me today to remember to not jump to conclusions, think about all possibilities as well as the possibility of more than one cause.”

Brownlie also believes in the importance of lending a listening ear to patients and accredits UT for that value.

“It was such a small thing, but I remember in one of our lectures a speaker expressed the importance of listening to patients,” she shared. “The speaker provided evidence that patients are interrupted quickly, on average, into a visit and then interrupted frequently. It’s such a small thing but, focusing on hearing my patients’ story has really been effective in my practice and has really made practice much more productive.”

Beyond her own journey, she is passionate about advocating for nurses, particularly nurse practitioners. She emphasizes the need for Full Practice Authority, pushing back against outdated perceptions that diminish the profession’s role in health care.

Through it all, she remains deeply grateful for the support of her husband, family, and the team at Magnolia Family Practice. She also honors the example set by her parents, who instilled in her a lifelong dedication to service and purpose.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

College of Nursing Building on Track for August 2025 Opening

Exciting progress continues the College of Nursing Building, which remains on schedule to welcome students for classes in August 2025. The glass curtainwalls on the west side are now complete, with work on the east side moving along. Brickwork is nearly finished, with only small sections remaining on the south and east faces. Over the next few months, crews will finish installing exterior metal panels and finalize ceiling installations.

Inside, drywall work wrapped up in March, along with the finally coat of paint. Doors and hardware installations finished up in April, and carpet and floor tile installation has started. The building’s communication networks are live, aligning with the installation of simulation equipment this month. Furniture installations will follow in June.

On the exterior, sidewalks, plazas, and landscaping began in March and continue through June, bringing the finishing touches to this state-of-the-art facility.

Stay tuned for more updates as we countdown to opening day!

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Leading With Purpose: PhD Student Shapes the Future of Nursing Through Education, Practice, Policy, and Research

Courtney Pitts is no stranger to hard work, dedication, and service — both in and out of the classroom. Pitts, who has formerly served as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty director at Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is currently pursuing her PhD at the University of Tennessee. She currently serves as a Clinical Professor at Emory and an FNP at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Her impact in nursing education has already been profound — having led a top-ranked master’s level nurse practitioner program for seven years, with three of those years earning a number 2 national ranking.

Pitts is a proud wife, mother of two, and devoted fur mom. Born and raised in Greenwood, Mississippi, she grew up enjoying the quiet joys of fishing and small-town life. Now, she draws daily inspiration from her children and her students.

“I see them both as developing and growing into themselves while allowing me to serve as a guide on their journey,” shared Pitts. “I expose them to the possibilities and allow them to choose their own path.”

Pitts is deeply invested in her research on how state-level regulations for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) affect access to care and patient outcomes.

“I have spent a great deal of time trying to increase access to care through clinical training programs and academic practice partnerships,” shared Pitts. “For more than two decades, advanced practice registered nurses have been working to increase their autonomy to help increase access to care.”

With the nation facing a growing shortage of primary care providers, Pitts’s work is vital in exploring how APRNs can bridge the gap and help improve health outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Her commitment to public service goes beyond her research and teaching. Pitts actively serves on several national boards and committees, including the National League for Nursing’s Public Policy Committee, where she helps shape the organization’s public policy agenda and provides tools to help nurses engage in policy. She was recently appointed to the National Organization for Nurse Practitioner Faculties’ (NONPF) Faculty Institute Committee and serves on the Tennessee Nurses Association Government Affairs committee. She formerly served as a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners’ (AANP) Awards Committee and an associate editor for the Journal for Nurse Practitioners.

In 2021, her leadership was nationally recognized when she was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Health to the National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice. She also served two elected terms on the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties’ Board of Directors.

Recently, Pitts was honored with the DAISY Extraordinary Nurse Leader of the Year award from the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). The award celebrates exceptional nurse practitioners whose leadership has significantly advanced the mission of NONPF.

Despite her many accolades, what stands out most is her heart for service and access to care.

“The foundation of my nursing career has been improving the health of those who are often considered the least of us — the underrepresented, vulnerable, and marginalized,” Pitts said. Her work leading the creation of clinical training programs and establishing academic-practice partnerships speaks to her belief that when we care for the most vulnerable, we uplift the health of all.

Her time as a Vol Nurse has been marked by close connections with her PhD cohort and faculty mentors. She finds joy in celebrating milestones — big and small — with her peers and values the opportunity to learn from some of the best nurse scientists in the field.

Looking ahead, her vision is clear: to become a nurse scientist who leverages research to influence policy and mobilize nurses at all levels to engage in shaping the future of health care.

College of Nursing Brings Research and Career Inspiration to East Tennessee High Schools

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing is taking its mission beyond the classroom and research lab by actively engaging high school students across East Tennessee.

As part of the UT Grand Challenge K-12 initiative, the College’s TennWell research team—led by principal investigator Ji Youn Yoo—has launched a series of outreach visits aimed at promoting health equity, education, and career exploration.

These visits are part of a broader interdisciplinary effort that brings together faculty and students from Nursing, Social Work, Public Health, and Psychology to meet with high school students in rural and underserved communities.

During the first spring outreach event with Oneida High School, team members shared academic resources, introduced students to career pathways in health-related fields, and answered a wide range of questions from curious and motivated students.

“Our goal is not only to recruit research participants but also to spark interest in higher education and empower the next generation of health care and community leaders,” said Yoo. “We want these students to see themselves in roles that contribute to the well-being of their communities.”

The team will visit Anderson County Career and Technical Center, Scott County High School, Overton County High School, Emerald Youth, and Clinton High School.

At Oneida High School alone, nearly 300 of the school’s 400 students attended the session, demonstrating strong interest in UT’s programs and career opportunities in health and social services.

“We are proud to represent UTK and help shape brighter futures across Tennessee,” shared Yoo.

If your school or organization is interested in hosting a visit from the TennWell outreach team, please contact Ji Youn Yoo at [email protected]. The team welcomes opportunities to connect with more students and communities across the state.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Nursing and Libraries Host Inaugural Health Care Conference

The College of Nursing and University Libraries recently hosted the inaugural Great Expectations in Health Care conference.

The conference was supported with grant funding from the Division of Access & Engagement. Designed to introduce K-12 students to the field of nursing, this event brought together students, teachers, and administrators from Algood Middle School in Putnam County to explore nursing careers in health care and gain foundational knowledge about the medical profession.

A nursing student sits at a round table with two middle school students at the Great Expectations Conference.

The conference aimed to spark an early interest in nursing careers for young students by providing engaging learning experiences and interactive educational sessions. Through several hands-on activities, students explored key aspects of health care throughout the day.

A key feature of the conference was the opportunity for students to experience the Health Innovation Technology and Simulation (HITS) Lab. This lab simulates real-world clinical environments, allowing students to observe and learn about the skills required in nursing. The students observed a CPR demonstration and then put their knowledge to the test in a team race, competing to perform the technique with the greatest accuracy. To gain a deeper understanding of patient experiences, students participated in simulations that replicated ailments such as reduced mobility through weighted vests and various eye conditions through specialized lenses.

A nursing staff member in scrubs walks two students through CPR training in the HITS lab.

A group of undergraduate nursing students played an essential role in making the conference a success. These students volunteered their time to guide middle school participants through activities, answer questions about nursing school, and share their own experiences in the field.

For many of the middle schoolers, engaging with nursing students offered a unique and personal perspective on what it means to pursue a career in health care.

Adding to the learning experience, students engaged in a Health Care Jeopardy game, crafted by library staff and held at the John C. Hodges Library, that challenged students’ knowledge of health, wellness, nursing, medical professions, and food.

The conference also featured an exhibitor session where students connected with professionals, which included the Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, College of Nursing Student Services, UT Admissions, and UT Student Life.

“The inaugural Great Expectations in Health Care conference has had a profound impact on middle school students, igniting their passion for nursing and health care careers,” shared Jada Russell, executive director of enrollment management and assistant professor of practice. “Through engaging in hands-on activities and immersive simulations, students gained invaluable insights into the nursing profession. As we look forward to Vol Nurse Discovery Day on April 17th, 2026, we are excited to expand this initiative, reaching even more young scholars and inspiring the next generation of health care professionals.” 

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Jenkins Named New Associate Dean of Practice & Global Affairs

The University of Tennessee’s College of Nursing is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeanne Jenkins as the new associate dean of practice and global affairs, effective March 2025.

Headshot of Jeanne Jenkins smiling in a black blazer and blue shirt.

In this role Jenkins will work on advancing clinical practice initiatives, strengthening global partnerships, and fostering innovative educational experiences. She will provide strategic leadership in expanding practice-based learning opportunities. Additionally, she will oversee global affairs efforts and cross-cultural learning experiences to prepare nursing students for the evolving global healthcare landscape.

Jenkins brings a wealth of experience in nursing education, leadership, and administration.

She joins UT Knoxville from Florida Southern College, where she served as director of the Master of Science in nursing and graduate certificate programs and assistant professor. In this role, she provided strategic oversight for multiple programs, led curriculum development, and played a key role in faculty and student engagement.

With an impressive academic background, Jenkins earned her PhD in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration), and Master of Business Administration from UNC Greensboro, along with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UNC Charlotte. She has also participated in numerous leadership development programs, including the BRIDGES Academic Leadership Program for Women and the Leadership Development Program at Duke University School of Nursing.

“I am thrilled to join the College of Nursing at UT Knoxville and collaborate with its outstanding faculty, staff, students, and community partners. “

Please join us in welcoming Jenkins to the Vol Nurse family!

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

College of Nursing and The University of Tennessee Medical Center Strengthen Academic-Practice Partnership with New Leadership Appointments

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing and The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) recently formalized their longstanding commitment to advancing nursing education and clinical practice with two new leadership appointments.

Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college, will now be serving as the Associate Senior Vice President for Nursing Academic Practice Partnerships at UTMC.

Sandy Leake, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at UTMC will now be serving as the Associate Dean for Academic Practice Partnerships at the college.

In these expanded, non-compensated roles, Niederhauser and Leake will co-lead academic-practice initiatives, and develop strategic approaches to address challenges in clinical nursing care.

The partnership aims to create a seamless connection between academic nursing education and clinical practice, ensuring that future nurses are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

This collaboration leverages the expertise of both institutions to develop innovative solutions addressing critical challenges in nursing education, workforce development, and patient care.

“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in integrating nursing education and practice,” shared Niederhauser. “By aligning leadership roles across both institutions, we are fostering an environment where nursing students receive high-quality education rooted in clinical realities.”

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, both organizations remain committed to leading the way in innovative nursing education and practice.

“This enhanced partnership reinforces our shared commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses with the skills and experience needed to provide exceptional patient care,” said Leake. “By bridging the gap between academic learning and clinical practice, we are creating new opportunities for individuals to become registered nurses, support workforce development, improve patient outcomes, and enhance care and access for our community.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Student Spotlight, Heidi Worley

Growing up in the small town of Whitwell, Tennessee, Heidi Worley always knew she wanted to dedicate her life to helping others.

“Kindness, compassion and service were at the heart of everything,” shared Worley.

She discovered her passion for nursing during her senior year of high school while participating in an honors nursing program.

“I still remember the first time I walked into our local nursing home—nervous, excited, and unsure of what to expect,” added Worley. “But the moment I sat beside a resident, held their hand, and saw their face light up just from having someone there, I knew I had found my purpose.”

Worley fell in love with nursing in that moment.

“It wasn’t the grand medical procedures or complex treatments that stood out to me; it was the small moments—helping someone feel seen, heard, and cared for,” she shared.

Worley took the next step on her journey to becoming a nurse when in 2023, she applied to join the BSN Scholars program, a partnership between UT Medical Center (UTMC) and the College of Nursing. She started the program in the fall of 2024.

She was initially nervous about transitioning to Innovation North for her coursework, worried she might miss out on the full college experience. However, her perspective quickly changed. As a BSN Scholar, she not only learns in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility provided by UTMC but also remains fully connected to the UT Knoxville community. BSN Scholars attend classes, labs, and activities at Innovation North while completing clinicals at UTMC—all while enjoying the same benefits, resources, and campus life as any other UT Knoxville student.

“Before our first class, we were welcomed with open arms and genuine excitement at a breakfast hosted for us at UTMC,” said Worley. “In that moment, I realized we weren’t just students in a rigorous program—we were stepping into a community that truly cared about our growth and success.”

From that moment on it was clear to Worley that they were valued and supported.

“This program has not only strengthened my confidence but has also confirmed that I am exactly where I am meant to be,” she shared. “All of the experiences, lessons, and growth I have gained along the way have prepared me to step into this role with confidence and compassion.”

Clinical rotations at the medical center have deepened Worley’s understanding of nursing, teaching her that patient care goes far beyond medical knowledge.

“Clinicals are about presence, adaptability, and empathy,” she added.

A particularly impactful experience involved caring for a stroke patient who faced significant communication challenges.

“Initially, I was unsure of how I would be able to connect with them in a meaningful way, but as I took the time to slow down and focus on nonverbal cues, I began to see how much small, intentional gestures mattered to them,” Worley shared. “A reassuring touch, a gentle smile, or simply sitting quietly beside them brought comfort in ways words couldn’t.”

Through patience and nonverbal communication, she was able to provide comfort in a meaningful way.

“That moment reminded me that nursing isn’t just about treating symptoms—it’s about creating an environment where patients feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter the barriers they face,” she says. “Each clinical experience has strengthened my ability to advocate for those in my care and deepened my understanding of what it truly means to be a nurse.”

The BSN Scholars program has taught Worley to see past the diagnosis and connect with patients on a deeper level.

Worley credits much of her growth to the mentorship and support she has received from the College of Nursing faculty, especially Vivian Rookard, chair of the BSN Scholars program, who has been a constant source of encouragement and guidance.

“She has consistently pushed me to believe in myself and reminded me that I am capable of more than I realize,” Worley says. “Her passion for nursing and dedication to shaping future nurses has inspired me to not only strive for excellence in my own practice but also to one day mentor and encourage others the way she has encouraged me.”

As Worley looks into the future, she hopes to advocate for patient care by addressing health literacy and improving access to healthcare in rural communities like her hometown.

“Growing up in a rural community, I saw firsthand how limited access to healthcare can impact individuals and families,” shared Worley. “Many people struggled to find providers nearby, and even when they did, understanding medical information often felt overwhelming.”

She wants to ensure that patients and families fully understand their conditions and treatment plans, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care.

“At its core, nursing is about more than treating illnesses—it’s about truly seeing people, meeting them where they are, and providing holistic care that supports not just their physical health, but their emotional and social well-being, too,” she explains.

Worley credits the medical center for providing her with an invaluable experience.

“UTMC has provided me with mentorship, and a supportive community that has shaped me into the nurse I am becoming,” she added. “The state-of-the-art facilities and diverse clinical opportunities have strengthened my skills and confidence, preparing me for the next step in my journey. Ultimately, I hope to apply to UT’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.”

For those considering a career in nursing or applying to the BSN Scholars program, Worley has one piece of advice: “Believe in yourself and embrace every opportunity to learn. Nursing school will challenge you, but it will also shape you into the nurse you are meant to be. Surround yourself with a strong support system, ask questions, and step outside your comfort zone—some of the best lessons come from your toughest moments.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Unexpected Paths, Candy Wilson

Candy Wilson’s path to nursing was not one she had meticulously planned, but rather a journey shaped by life’s unexpected turns. Nursing was not Wilson’s initial career ambition, but a childhood experience caring for her injured sister planted an early seed.

Now the interim associate dean of research and scholarship at the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing at Florida Atlantic University, Wilson’s career spans three decades of service in the U.S. Air Force, groundbreaking research on military women’s health, and a dedication to mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“I wish I could say my life was so purposeful and I had this plan from a young age, but I didn’t,” said Wilson. “One time, when I was babysitting my younger sister, she fell and hurt her arm. As a teenager taking care of her, I freaked out initially. Then I was like I’ve got to fix this. I went into nurse mode then without even realizing it.”

That realization solidified years later when complications during the birth of her first c child reignited her passion for health care. “I needed to go into nursing,” she recalled.  “Not just to provide for my family, but to help other women.”

Wilson returned to school and earned her BSN at Western Kentucky University.  

Wilson, a long time Air Force spouse, always found the field interesting. Her journey took a turn when her husband, then an active-duty Air Force member, left the service and challenged her: “You love it so much—why don’t you join?” And she did.

What began as a practical decision became a transformative experience, opening doors to a world of nursing beyond traditional hospital settings.

During her time overseas in Afghanistan, Wilson provided care to more than 3,000 women and children.

“The Air Force showed me the possibilities of nursing,” Wilson reflected.

Selected by the Air Force to earn her master’s degree at UT, she credits the university with providing the education and mentorship that shaped her career.

“I had the best educators and classmates,” she said. “Rocky Top still plays in my head, and I’m forever grateful for my time at UT.”

Following her time at UT, Wilson attended University of Colorado at Denver Health Sciences Center for her PhD.

“If you would have told 20-year-old me that I would earn a PhD, I would have laughed in your face,” added Wilson.

Wilson’s interest in symptom science research through an occupational health focus addressed military women’s health needs in three prominent areas that led to changing healthcare practice through policy and education.

Wilson’s research on genitourinary symptoms in deployed servicewomen, iron deficiency in female trainees, and alternative therapies for chronic pain directly influenced military policies. One of her most impactful contributions was her role in a 2015 report to Congress, which provided critical evidence supporting the decision to open all military occupations—including combat positions—to women.

Her studies on military medics’ preparedness to care for female service members led to tangible improvements in medical training and readiness.

“We discovered that medics wanted to do the right thing,” she explained. “But there were gaps in their training. Our research helped update training protocols, supply lists, and pre-deployment checklists to ensure better care for women in the field.”

Through her years of research and service, Wilson has remained committed to not only advancing knowledge but also ensuring that the next generation of healthcare professionals is well-equipped to make a difference.

Her advice to early-career nurse researchers? “Don’t be afraid of hard work. Be willing to put in the effort and stay passionate about your topic. And above all, read—read a lot. Understanding the broader landscape of research is key to making meaningful contributions.”

Whether mentoring students, collaborating with researchers, or shaping policies that improve care, she sees every challenge as an opportunity to drive meaningful change.

As she looks back on her journey—Wilson hopes to inspire others to embrace the unexpected paths that lead them forward.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Lainey Briggs: Named Volunteer 40 Under 40

From the moment Lainey Briggs set her sights on a career in nursing, she knew it was more than a profession—it was a calling.

“I was inspired to become a nurse because I have always wanted to help others,” shared Briggs. She was accepted into the nursing program at UT in 2004.

“The rigorous academic curriculum and hands-on clinical training strengthened my patient care foundation,” said Briggs.

Following graduation, Briggs accepted a job as a nurse on the oncology unit at Vanderbilt.

“My time at the bedside was a wonderful beginning to my nursing journey where I developed profound relationships,” added Briggs. “Bedside nursing taught me that I am more than a caregiver, but a source of strength, comfort, and hope to patients during their most uncertain and difficult times.”

She decided to return to school in 2012 to receive her MSN and is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Nursing practice (DNP) program. She will graduate in May with her DNP.

“The DNP program has allowed me to expand my leadership role, implement innovative care models, and help bridge the gap between research and practice to improve cancer patients’ outcomes,” shared Briggs.

Briggs believes her experiences at UT have provided her with a strong foundation in patient care.

“My passion for working with cancer patients stems from a deep sense of purpose and commitment to making a difference in their lives,” said Briggs. “Oncology is not just about treating a disease; it’s about walking alongside patients and their families during the darkest and most challenging times in their lives. The resilience, courage, and hope I witness daily inspires me to provide the highest level of care.”

As an advanced oncology certified nurse practitioner, Briggs finds the most rewarding aspect of her work to be the relationships she builds with her patients.

“Whether it’s celebrating remission, helping manage treatment side effects, or providing comfort at the end of life, I am honored to be part of their journey,” added Briggs.

Briggs commitment to service extends beyond the clinic walls—volunteering in her community reinforces her belief that compassionate care should be accessible to all. Her extensive volunteer work includes local school clinics, Lasagna Love, Girl Scouts of America, Remote Area Medical, and medical missions to Belize and Costa Rica.

“Engaging with underserved populations and participating in cancer awareness initiatives and education allow me to extend my impact beyond the bedside,” said Briggs. “Compassionate care should not be limited to nursing and should include all of society, ensuring everyone has the resources and support they need.”

Prioritizing what matters most, staying organized, and setting boundaries allows Briggs to dedicate time to her family, professional development, and community service. Her belief in making a meaningful impact in every facet of her life keeps her motivated.

Briggs also remains connected to UT, serving as a preceptor and adjunct faculty member at the college.

“It is a privilege to guide and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals,” she added. “Watching students grow, develop their skills, and gain confidence in their clinical skills allows me to give back to the institution that supported me during my nursing journey.”

Briggs has many fond memories at UT, but one landmark holds a special place in her heart.

“I have many found memories at Neyland Stadium,” shared Briggs. “I met my husband, Brad there. Now we get to experience gamedays with our children. Each gameday reminds us of a celebration, not just our love sports, but the life we have built since meeting in Neyland.”

Being part of the Volunteer family means embracing a commitment to service, leadership, and positive change. Briggs has done this in every aspect of life.

“My favorite part of my involvement at UT is connecting and knowing I am part of a broader community of compassionate people who give back,” she said. “We all play a role in creating positive change, and that is represented in the mission of the Volunteer family.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])