96 | www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com T H E P U L S E O N CHARLESTON NURSES JENNIFER CICCONE, MSN, RN, CHSE Clinical Instructor NURSES WHO CARED FOR HER MOTHER INSPIRED CICCONE Jennifer Ciccone knew she wanted to be a nurse ever since “early on in childhood,” she said. When her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, Ciccone looked up to and trusted to the nurses in doctors’ offices and in hospital settings. “I wanted to provide the same type of compassionate care to others that those nurses provided to my mother,” she said. Ciccone works with students at the Medical University of South Carolina’s Simulation Lab, where the they learn from immersive hands-on learning experiences using high-tech mannequins in a safe environment. As an educator, one of her favorite memories is when nursing students have that “aha” moment – “something that they have learned really clicks for them,” she said. “Whether that click unfolds in the hospital setting, classroom or simulation setting, there is something very special to being a part the students’ educational nursing journey.” Ciccone draws inspiration daily from her co-faculty at the College of Nursing. “They are truly dedicated to educating young nurses, and they go the extra mile to try to promote student success,” she explained. When Ciccone is not teaching, she enjoys time with her husband, John, their two teenagers, Maddy and Michael, and their puppy, Bailey. “My family and I like traveling, boating and snorkeling – and we enjoy cooking together,” she said. “In my spare time, I also enjoy spinning and traveling to new places.” Ciccone offered this advice for future nurses and nurse educators: “Nursing is a challenging and rewarding career. It is gratifying not only to care for patients who are in need but to also educate and support future nurses. Lean on experienced nurses, never be afraid to ask questions and understand that confidence will come with experience.” DR. KELLIE GRIGGS, DNP, MSN, RNC-OB Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Studies Assistant Professor, College of Nursing MENTOR, BUILDER, INNOVATOR Dr. Kellie Griggs describes herself as compassionate, a mentor, a builder, an innovator and an encourager. As the assistant dean of undergraduate studies and assistant professor in the College of Nursing at the Medical University of South Carolina, she considers it a privilege to bring out the best in faculty and students. “I work with an amazing team of professionals who inspire me with their dedication and caring every day,” Dr. Griggs said. “My team of colleagues supports each other’s ideas, encourages creativity, promotes innovation. Our team dynamic positively translates to students and practice outcomes.” Dr. Griggs is equally passionate about her students: “Wow, can I just say that we have an incredibly diverse group of students who bring a multitude of experiences, wisdom and backgrounds to our programs,” she said. “My goal is to expand their minds, encourage them to step outside of their comfort zones, influence the world around them, and connect others to experiential learning experiences.” Dr. Griggs took a less traditional path into nursing and completing her education. “As an adult learner, I appreciate that my life experiences created a framework for my professional philosophy, which centers on investing in others’ successes and reminding people they can create positive change,” she explained. “My clinical scholarship includes understanding the birth experience of minority women, enhancing barriers related to social determinants of health, removing barriers for maternal substance use disorder and evaluating preventable factors that may contribute to maternal mortality and morbidity.” When Dr. Griggs is not mentoring others, she enjoys interior design and “making spaces feel comfortable, cozy and welcoming.” She also savors time with her “rock-star husband, Sterling, of 23 years and four children, ages 15 through 21,” she said. “Our lives are filled with many sports, family dinners, time with friends, game nights and time at the beach. We also serve as volunteers with Meals on Wheels and other community service agencies.” Griggs’ advice for nurses: “Continue to globalize and enhance your knowledge in a multitude of areas ranging from organizational to communities. The profession of nursing is evolving at a rapid pace, and nurses must possess enhanced knowledge to be leaders and influencers for policy and health care.” HealthLinks CHARLESTON has partnered with the MUSC College of Nursing to highlight some of the Lowcountry's top nurses. Expand your career: nursing.musc.edu
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