By Artina Mitchell, Communications Chair
Hello HIMSS WA! We would like to introduce to you, Kelly Nettle, MS, RN-BC, Health Programs Operations Specialist at UW Medicine and HIMSS WA Volunteer. She is a light to so many and we are honored to share a little more about Kelly with you.
Six years ago, Kelly received a call from Rob Jablonski, former HIMSS WA President, to make good on her promise to volunteer for the WA Chapter. At that time, Kelly thought HIMSS was just for IT professionals and not for Clinical Informaticists, but a promise is a promise and she agreed. At the time, she did not realize how impactful that decision would be, for her and for those around her.
Kelly has now served as a volunteer and board member for six years, most recently as the treasurer, and now as the founder and President of the HIMSS WA Chapter Clinical Informatics Committee. In this role, her positive attitude, gentle nature, and lifelong experience is being used to help both tenured and aspiring informaticists expand their minds, build relationships, and develop their careers.
Most recently, Kelly has been involved with her organization's Epic Credentialed training bootcamp for their upcoming implementation. There was a variety of people on the team, from brand new to highly experienced. In this bootcamp, they had to present teach-backs as they learned content. Kelly found this to be a very humbling experience as there is always something new to learn and everyone matters.
On a personal note, we have learned that Kelly loves to go to the digital library read audiobooks. It is said she draws courage and faith from her love of history and the stories of people overcoming obstacles. Hooray for historic audiobooks! It is those who surround her that benefit the most from one of her favorite pastimes. We have also learned that she hates cleaning toilets…we agree with you Kelly!
When asked, "How has your involvement as a HIMSS WA volunteer impacted you professionally and personally?" Kelly responded with “Volunteering opened up a new world to me. I was able to attend HIMSS functions, such as training and education and was shocked at the wealth of all the available programs, education, and volunteer opportunities at state and national levels. The caliber of people I met and listened to gave me creative ideas for new opportunities. I have grown in so many ways participating in this organization.”
If you're thinking about volunteering for the HIMSS WA Chapter, Kelly says: “If you want to grow in your profession, I would highly recommend joining an organization that will help you grow and dream. HIMSS has so many opportunities to get your started, get your feet wet, or propel you into areas where you can make a difference.”
Kelly, we are so proud of you and thankful for your contribution to our community. Your dedication and positive outlook are an inspiration, and we are better because of you.