Member Spotlight: Melissa Studer of Palo Alto County Health System

Melissa Studer’s experience with long-term care began at age 14 when she began working at a nursing home. As the chief aging services officer at Palo Alto County Health System in Emmetsburg, she enjoys improving the quality of life for residents and watching her staff grow.

How did you become interested in the long-term care profession?
I began working in a nursing home when I was 14.

What do you like most about working in long-term care?
The residents always makes me smile, which reminds me we are doing things right here. I love to encourage and empower my staff to grow. I enjoy seeing them grow in their positions and how it impacts our facility in such a positive way.

What would you tell others to encourage them to consider a career in long-term care?
Long-term care is a family. We just do what needs to be done, improving quality of life in any way that we can. We are very blessed to be able to work in the residents’ home.

What lessons have you learned working in long-term care that also help outside of work?
Life is short. Live each day as you are able. Do all the things you want to do while you can.

When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy working at my store, teaching leadership classes, spending time outside with my kids and dogs and watching my boys play sports.

What is your favorite quote and why?
“It is what it is.” So many things in life are just that. Go with the flow, take it for what it is and move on. It’s a mindset.

More about the Member Spotlight
Recognize your best employees! Select an employee to complete this form and return it to communications@iowahealthcare.org. Photos of the selected employee are also encouraged, but not required. The photo release form can be found here.

We will feature the Member Spotlights in the Weekly Bulletin, the IHCA Facebook page and the IHCA website.