We are excited to recognize Clinical Assistant Professor Morgan Nemeth and Simulation Center Coordinator Jessica Matney .
Nemeth is a faculty member in the School of Nursing, while Matney is a staff member in the McQueary College of Health and Human Services.
Let’s get to know them!
What is your favorite memory here so far?
Nemeth: I’ve had an enriching experience working at MSU, but one standout memory is from this semester’s (spring ‘24) Skills Fair for senior nursing students. We transformed the event into a lively carnival, dressing up in costumes, decorating the Simulation lab and providing treats for the students. This allowed the faculty to enjoy themselves and helped ease the nervousness among students as they demonstrated hands-on skills.
Matney: Attending the Staff Awards Luncheon and celebrating the dedicated faculty and staff who have contributed to the success of Missouri State is my fondest memory.
What brought you to Missouri State?
Nemeth: Prior to joining MSU, I held a position in nursing education at a local hospital. While I enjoyed education, my passion led me to the pre-licensure side, where education wasn’t a mandatory yearly event. Working with students at the beginning of their nursing careers and contributing to the preparation of future nurses have been incredible opportunities I feel fortunate to be a part of.
Matney: I began as a part-time employee, assisting in the Simulation Center and embracing the people and atmosphere.
Where are you from?
Nemeth: I was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, with both my dad and sister graduating from Southwest Missouri State University (SMSU). After moving to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2002, I obtained my nursing degree there. I moved to Seattle, Washington, in 2015 due to my husband’s job. However, the distance and weather led us back to Springfield in 2017— a journey that truly feels like coming home.
Matney: I currently reside in Ozark, Missouri, and I was raised in the surrounding area.
How many years have you been at Missouri State?
Nemeth: I started working at MSU in August 2021.
Matney: I’ve been with Missouri State for a little over a year now, working both part time and full time.
What’s your favorite part about working here?
Nemeth: The most rewarding aspect of working at MSU is the vibrant community of individuals I interact with daily. From fellow faculty and students to administrators and clinical partners, everyone shares a collective focus on continuous growth and improvement. The university’s commitment to student success not only aligns with my values, but also makes my role more fulfilling, as their success translates into mine.
Matney: My favorite part about working for Missouri State is the camaraderie and the fulfillment of adding value to my community.
What are you most looking forward to this semester?
Nemeth: Each semester brings a new cohort of students, and I’m particularly excited about getting to know my current students and accompanying them on this phase of their nursing journey. Learning from my students and constantly evaluating how I present and apply my knowledge in the nursing profession is an ongoing process — the learning doesn’t cease just because I’m the instructor!
Matney: I’m eager to contribute to the creation of engaging experiences for students and faculty, assisting in overcoming challenges in simulation and providing a beneficial resource to the college.