It Runs in the Family—Aspiring Saint Luke’s Nurse Continues Career Journey

Amelia McPherson’s nursing career at Saint Luke’s is just getting started—after working for four years at the on-site daycare, she recently enrolled in Saint Luke’s Nursing Assistant Academy. 

Saint Luke’s launched this six-week training program to provide students with on-the-job training—assisting patients with daily living tasks, collaborating with other health care team members, and responding to the needs of patients’ loved ones. Students are paid during the program, and eligible for positions upon completion.

Amelia says it’s been a rewarding start to her nursing training.

“You start in the classroom, learning book material,” Amelia said. “My first 12-hour shift was great, learning everything on the unit. It’s rewarding to work alongside a bigger community of students in the program.”

Her peers are taking notice, including Jennifer Davis, senior manager of nursing excellence at Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City.

“I first met Amelia at Saint Luke’s Child Care Center, where she was my son’s teacher,” Jennifer says. “From the very beginning, her bright and cheerful presence greeted us every morning at drop-off, instantly putting my mind at ease and confirming my son was in the best hands while I was at work.”

“When I heard Amelia was interested in pursuing a career in nursing, I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Her natural compassion and unwavering kindness are qualities that will undoubtedly make her an exceptional nursing assistant. I have no doubt she will thrive in this new chapter, and I am excited for her to continue to grow and succeed at Saint Luke’s,” Jennifer said.

Amelia is no stranger to the health care workforce—her two aunts also work for Saint Luke’s. They’ve been on staff for more than 20 years as a nursing and medical assistant.

“I’ve been inspired by family,” Amelia said. “I’ve always wanted to work in health care, but never got to it until now.”

Amelia is following in their footsteps, while also hitting some major milestones in her personal life. She recently married and is about to celebrate her 14th year as a Kansas Citian. Originally from Jamaica, she arrived in the United States as a high school student. She says her nursing aspirations at Saint Luke’s, and helping patients, is making her parents proud back home in Jamaica.
“I’m looking forward to helping people get back up,” Amelia said.

“Amelia came in with a very positive attitude and has been eager to learn. She has already received a few award nominations from our patients for the great patient care she has provided,” says LaShiya Ellis, a nurse manager at Saint Luke’s Hospital. “I am eager to continue to watch Amelia grow on her journey in health care,” LaShiya said.

If you’re interested in enrollment in Saint Luke’s Nursing Assistants Academy, learn more here.