Health and Human Services News

Nursing faculty member chosen for national leadership position of chief clinical officer

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Dr. Vicki Good, a nursing faculty member at Missouri State University, has been appointed the chief clinical officer of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).  

As the chief clinical officer, Good will lead the strategy and advocacy and practice excellence departments at AACN. Her role involves strategizing for nurses across the nation and engaging in discussions on health care issues. 

“It’s a huge honor and a blessing,” Good said. “It’s just the pinnacle of my career.” 

AACN and Good’s role 

The AACN serves as the largest professional organization in specialty nursing, with a membership of about 129,000 nurses.  

Their primary focus is on critical care, providing educational resources, certifications and advocacy efforts for nurses in this field. The organization engages in producing orientation materials and continuing education resources while actively participating in advocacy work on key health care issues like healthy work environments and clinician burnout. 

A journey of service and commitment 

Good’s involvement with the AACN dates back to 1989 when she first became a member. Over the years, she actively volunteered and served in several roles within the organization, including a board member and president. Her dedication and extensive experience with the AACN helped her to secure this coveted position. 

To Good, this honor represents an incredible opportunity to advocate for nurses nationwide, supporting over half a million critical care nurses across the United States.  

Her goal is to improve the work environment for health care professionals, focusing on creating a healthy and conducive space for optimal patient care. 

Good’s message to students and colleagues 

Due to the demanding travel and workload associated with her new position, Good will step away from her teaching role at MSU. She plans to offer guest lectures when her schedule permits. 

Good emphasizes the importance of a healthy work environment in health care and encourages students to engage professionally in their nursing careers.  

Her departure from teaching marks the end of a chapter, but she remains passionate about imparting wisdom and guiding the next generation of nurses. 

As Good takes on this new role, her legacy of dedication and commitment to nursing education will continue to resonate within the health care community. 

Learn more about the School of Nursing

Advocating for communal health

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Every year, the Missouri State University (MSU) Care Clinic and Mercy come together to serve underprivileged individuals in the Springfield community. The two partner to provide comprehensive health care to those who are uninsured.  

The Care Clinic serves as a lifeline for individuals whose income falls below 200% of the federal poverty line. They offer free primary care, lab services, medications and even a clothing bank and nonperishable food items. 

Art that makes an impact 

Recently, MSU and Mercy collaborated with renowned photographer Randy Bacon to create the Renewed Hope Exhibition, an inspiring collection of 12 powerful stories and portraits. These narratives highlight the transformative journey of patients who have found solace, care and a path toward stability through the clinic’s valuable services.  

“The exhibition aimed to resonate with the broader community, shedding light on the impactful role of health care in individuals’ lives,” said Justin Gassel, MSU Care Clinic practice manager. 

The exhibition’s culmination held in the O’Reilly Health and Science Center on Oct. 24 witnessed a celebration of these meaningful narratives. Patients, community partners and leadership from MSU and Mercy convened to appreciate the collective display of these stories.  

It wasn’t just an exhibition; it was a moment of profound recognition for the patients who courageously shared their stories, creating a space for empathy, understanding and appreciation within the community. 

Nurturing holistic well-being and community  

Beyond addressing medical needs, the clinic embodies a holistic approach, acknowledging the socioeconomic challenges individuals face.  

The stories display the profound impact of genuinely invested health care. By combining medical care with efforts to address basic needs like nutrition, shelter and overall well-being, the clinic fosters a path toward lasting change for its patients.  

“The exhibition’s core mission is to dismantle preconceived notions about health care and share the transformative power of authentic care,” Gassel said. 

As these stories resonate with readers and visitors, they encourage the community to support those in need.  

Learn more about MSU Care  

Kinesiology professor featured on international podcast

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Dr. Keith McShan, assistant professor of kinesiology at Missouri State University, recently made a guest appearance on The Sport Psych Show. 

The Sport Psych Show is an international podcast hosted by Dan Abrahams, a sports psychologist from Europe. On the episode titled “The Coach-Athlete Relationship from the Coaches’ Perspective,” McShan talks about the coach-athlete relationships. 

“I was very excited to share my knowledge of the coach-athlete relationships with international coaches,” McShan said. “I believe having a quality coach-athlete relationship enhances both the coach’s and the students’ sporting experience.” 

Listen to the podcast. 

Learn more about the department of kinesiology

A recap of Homecoming

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As Homecoming week has come and gone, now’s a great time to look back on the spirited events that brought our community together.  

The McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) tailgate served as a chance for our community to join together for some fun before the football game. This gathering brought out students, staff, faculty and advisory board members, all converging to cheer on the Bears.   

Representatives from many different programs contributed to the celebration.  

Nutrition and dietetics students showcased their talents by crafting delicious snacks for everyone to share. The Student Success and Advisement Center distributed swag, T-shirts and cups, adding a touch of MCHHS pride.  

“It’s a great opportunity to bring together alumni, current students, faculty, staff and friends when we are often otherwise spread out across campus,” Kimmy Walker, assistant director of student success and advisement, said. “I always have such a blast seeing familiar faces, making new friends and enjoying fantastic food.”

Welcoming alumni and friends to campus 

The participation of MCHHS alumni is a testament to the enduring bonds that tie our community together. Their support, along with the presence of advisory board members, enable alumni to witness the progress of MCHHS and the campus. 

It’s heartening to see the enthusiastic turnout and the college extends its gratitude to everyone who made Homecoming week a success. 

“We’re so thankful for our MCHHS alumni and the support they give the community,” Sarah Murray, nutrition and dietetics program director, said. “It was great seeing everyone at the tailgating event.” 

Looking forward to next year 

MCHHS eagerly anticipates reconnecting next year, as Homecoming continues to be a cherished tradition, reminding us of the bonds and camaraderie that make Missouri State a community like no other.

Learn more about Homecoming