Jody joined the Russell Regional Hospital (RRH) Acute Care and Recovery Department in October, 2023 and then moved up to the Director of Nursing for RRH in June, 2026. With more than 23 years of experience, Jody brings an immense amount of knowledge to RRH. She began her journey at Hays Medical Center right after graduating college in 2004.

Jody started her degree at North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC), receiving her LPN in 2004 and her Associates Degree in Nursing in 2006. She then went on to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2013 from Fort Hays State University.

Growing up Jody always knew she wanted to be a nurse. She believes that Patient care is patient centered. Being the eyes and ears for her patients is very important.

“We are here to take care of their needs. It is not just the patients; their family/support system is also a part of their care.”She takes great pride in watching her patients improve from their first, initial treatment to the very end. “Nursing is tough, it is not for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of patience and compassion and seeing your patient improve is the most satisfying part of my job.”

Jody is a Hays, KS native. When she is not taking care of her patients, she is busy chasing around her four children; triplets and her son. She is a big race fan whether it’s drag racing, motorcycle or circle track. Also watching any level of sports is something she enjoys with her children, alongside cooking and baking.