Growing up, Kiah Nesbitt ’24 had the privilege of spending a lot of time with her grandmother, who played a major role in her life. During winter and summer breaks, Nesbitt stayed with her and her 11 siblings, helping take blood sugars, prepare meals, assist with ADLs (activities of daily living) and administer medications.
Those stays gave Nesbitt exposure to not only providing care but also to learning important life lessons.
Faith first
“My grandmother, whom I affectionately know as Nana, taught me how important it was to put my faith first, show compassion and be like Jesus,” she said. “This advice carried me through life. My family has encountered various experiences with health care providers, and several nurses impacted my career choice by their compassion and care for our family, as well as meeting the needs of my brother’s condition. He was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at age 2.”
These experiences pushed Nesbitt to become a nurse herself. As a nursing student at Newman, she learned not only technical skills but also about community and empowerment. Nesbitt also felt guided spiritually and morally.
Grateful for Newman nursing faculty
“I will always be grateful for Dr. (Melissa) Romaneschi, Professor (Rachel) Cheek, Professor (Debbie) Strickert, Professor (Ann-Michelle) Sherman, and Professor (Ashton) Clarkson,” Nesbitt noted. “Dr. Romaneschi pushed me to do my best and gave me the tools to become the best person and nurse for each patient. Professor Cheek was my advisor during school and taught me the importance of caring for yourself, teaching me ways to be compassionate and caring in today’s society.”
Sister Jenny Sellaro, ASC, also made a big impact on Nesbitt and is one of the most influential people on Newman’s campus, Nesbitt said.
“Sister Jenny embodied the values and example of what ASC represents,” Nesbitt said. “Sister Jenny opened up her home, her heart and knowledge with me during my nursing journey. Having Jenny by my side helped me tremendously during my nursing career, and I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for her guidance and kindness. She was by far the best of the best.”
Rewarding career
Today, Nesbitt works as a full-time cardiac nurse at KU Medical Center, where she started during nursing school as a nursing associate.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is being able to advocate for my patients and do my best to showcase my morals and values through the care that I give them,” she said. “It is satisfying to see them get back to their baseline.”
For aspiring nursing students at Newman, Nesbitt shared this piece of advice: “Give yourself grace and focus on the reason you started the career. Don’t lose sight and focus on who you are and who you’ve been called to be.”
Newman Nursing
Our nursing program provides a unique educational experience, highlighting challenges students will face in their careers as health care professionals and equipping them to transform society.
