Courtney Vose, C.R.N.P., Administrator, Behavioral Health and Medical-Surgical at LVH-Muhlenberg, and Neurosciences at LVH-Cedar Crest

She pursued a career in the Navy until her grandmother helped her discover a passion for nursing

After high school, Courtney Vose, R.N., began a career in the U.S. Navy, studying mechanical engineering at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. But two years later when her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer, her career ambitions changed. Vose put her education on hold and returned home to Indiana, Pa., to care for her "Nana."

Her grandmother, a nurse, inspired Vose to pursue a career in nursing. "She was my hero," says Vose who graduated with a bachelor's degree in nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Her drive to care for others grew stronger. While working as a medical-surgical nurse and then as an emergency nurse, she earned a master's degree in nursing and became a certified registered nurse practitioner.

Vose came to Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network in 2003 as the director of emergency services at LVH-Cedar Crest. A natural leader, Vose quickly set goals for the department, which was struggling to retain staff. "I wanted colleagues to function as a team and be empowered to make decisions at the bedside."

Under Vose's leadership, staff reached each of these goals - all while improving patient satisfaction. In fact, patient satisfaction scores jumped from the 15^th percentile to the 99^th percentile.

Vose attributes these accomplishments to staff members' positive attitudes, hard work and their competency. "Without them, we couldn't have done it," she says. "I want to be around positive people, so I expect that from the people I work with." Yet, staff members say Vose's infectious energy and smile certainly inspired them, as well.

Despite working long hours as an administrator, Vose makes time to spend with her husband, Tom, and young boys, Jonathan and Dylan. "My weekends are dedicated to them," she says. When they're not attending one of many sporting events, they head to the movies. When Vose finds time for herself, she heads to the garden or local art studios. "I think it's important to have hobbies that help calm your mind and give you enjoyment," she says.

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