September Staff Spotlight Winner - Nickie Oliver
What is your official job title at Ohio State? Clinical Placement Coordinator
What department / college / unit do you work in? I work in the Clinical Placement Office at the College of Nursing.
How long have you worked at OSU? I have worked at OSU for a little over 2 years.
In your own words, describe your job here at Ohio State. My primary role is to coordinate clinical placements for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) students. I recruit new clinical sites and preceptors and work with faculty to match students with our available placements each semester. I also assist with coordinating preceptor benefits and preceptor recognition efforts.
What do you love most about Ohio State? I love the positive and supportive work culture within the Clinical Placement office and the focus on health and wellness at the College of Nursing. I am also in grad school which is a goal made achievable for me as a full-time working parent through OSU's employee tuition benefits, supportive colleagues, and flexible work arrangements. The clinical year and the clinical placement process can be stressful for graduate nursing students. I love establishing a positive rapport with students, helping them navigate their clinical year, and watching them graduate and start their careers as Nurse Practitioners.
What is your favorite memory as a staff member at Ohio State? My favorite memory was while attending my first College of Nursing Transformation Day event. I realized that I'd never been surrounded by so many high achieving, passionate, kind women of all ages and how inspired I was by their accomplishments and leadership.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I love being active outdoors and traveling with my family. It's a joy to see the world through my daughter's eyes. I raise chickens and keep honeybees. We are always working on DIY home improvement projects, so we spend many weekends repeatedly driving to and from Lowes.
What is something that most people don’t know about you? I am also a Physical Therapist Assistant and specialize in neuromuscular rehabilitation.
What is your favorite quote, TV show, movie, or book? My favorite quote from my favorite book and movie: "What a superbly featured room and what excellent boiled potatoes! Many years since I've had such an exemplary vegetable." Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen. I am always tempted to say it when there's an awkward silence.
Preferred pronouns (optional): she/her
Nominator’s Remarks: “Nickie Oliver is one of the most compassionate and dedicated employees that I have had the privilege to work with. I have watched many others struggle with the difficult work assignments that she handles with grace and intelligence.”
