Cultivating Community: MSU Health Care Nurses Reflect on the Importance of Community During Nurses Week

May 9, 2023

collage of msu health care doctors


In honor of Nurses Week (May 6-12), we take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible work and dedication of MSU Health Care nurses. This year's Nurses Week theme, "Cultivating Community," highlights the critical role that nurses play in creating a sense of community within health care organizations. A few MSU Health Care nurses share what the MSU Health Care community means to them and how they have worked tirelessly to cultivate a sense of connection and support among their colleagues, patients, and families.

Theresa Vommero, LPN

The definition of community is, in short, a group of people who live in the same place and/or share something in common. To me, the word community has numerous layers, just like MSU has numerous layers. MSU has internationally recognized education and research which provide leadership along with answers and solutions creating a positive influence around the world. Our athletics are among the top in the nation. We also have MSU Health Care which thrives to improve the health of all the communities we serve. Together, the MSU community works to create partnerships globally so we can provide the best possible care to all our patients. I feel MSU/MSU Health Care community means collaboration and oneness. It's a community of strength and inclusion. MSU community is Spartan Strong.  

Jessica Ruthig, RN

Jessica Ruthig, RN

MSU Health Care community is unique, as we are our own network of resources all in one entity. To me, the MSU Health Care community is a part of who I am and drives my passion of caring for others. Through the care I provide as a nurse, I am honored to be leaving my small footprint on our patients’ well-being, improving the health of our community. It is my privilege to share in the responsibility of enhancing the lives we touch and identifying the needs of our community. Being a nurse at MSU Health Care gives me the opportunity to incite change, advocate, celebrate, learn, and continue to empower our community and patients in their health care journey. Go Green! 

Denise Hershey, PhD, FNP-BC 

Denise Hershey, PhD, FNP-BC

The MSU Health Care community has demonstrated a commitment to supporting nurse practitioners and recognize nurse practitioners as an essential member of the health care team. As a provider in the MSU Health Care Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner practice, I have been able to provide comprehensive quality care to my patients.