When Grace Wakulchik was a Cuyahoga Falls High School student considering a career in health care, a friend’s mother introduced her to a nurse who had earned her master’s degree. At the time, most nurses were trained in hospital-based schools and not colleges. But Grace took her advice and enrolled at Case Western Reserve University. “She suggested that I get a bachelor’s degree in nursing and then a master’s, and that was a big influence in […]
Kari Phillips signing off after 32-year career as executive assistant
When Kari Phillips applied to Akron Children’s in 1989 at the urging of her childhood friend (Gayle Zimmerman), she never imagined they both would have 30+ year careers at Akron Children’s and retire in the same year. On Oct. 1, Kari will log off her computer for the last time as executive assistant to Pam […]
Bidding farewell to Nancy Mosca and Janet Rogers
Akron Children’s has been blessed to have many nurses throughout its 131-year history who have left an indelible imprint and helped the hospital’s nursing program evolve through their leadership and accomplishments. Janet Rogers, director of nursing, critical care, emergency department, behavioral health and transitional care, and Nancy Mosca, director of nursing professional practice, are two […]
Traveling and transplanting to a warmer climate on the “to do” list for newly retired dialysis nurses
Friday, May 7, was an emotional day in the division of nephrology and dialysis because 2 longtime nurses said their final goodbyes as they begin their retirements. For Jim Flanagan, clinical coordinator, who has worked for Akron Children’s since 1979, and Julie Mate, since 2009, it was bittersweet. “Just about every patient we saw this […]
Disney World and outdoor adventures await Leslie Knowles in retirement
When Leslie Knowles, lead business intelligence developer in information services, answered a want ad in the Akron Beacon Journal classifieds 21 years ago, she had no idea the adventures that were in store for her at Akron Children’ Hospital. From the evolution of her department, which used to be housed in the basement of the […]