Supporting students beyond the classroom: an Owensboro Extension staff Q&A

The UofL School of Nursing's impact goes far beyond the city of Louisville. To help meet the demands for nurse education in the Commonwealth, the School of Nursing Owensboro Extension was created in partnership with Owensboro Health, offering students in the Owensboro area the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in a traditional format.

Holly Bodne is an integral staff member of the Owensboro Extension who works behind the scenes to keep the operation running smoothly. In this Q&A, she shares her experiences working for UofL in Owensboro and how it has shaped her opinions of Cardinal Nurses.

What is your role at the UofL School of Nursing? 

H.B. I am the Department Coordinator at the School of Nursing's Owensboro Extension. I serve as the central point of contact, coordinating daily operations, maintaining schedules, organizing meetings and events, and providing administrative support to faculty and students. 

If you could describe your experience working at the School of Nursing in three words, what would they be and why? 

H.B. The first word I would use to describe my experience is rewarding because I contribute to the growth and development of students. My second word is fulfilling because I get to make a positive impact on a student’s life and see their progress. This always fills my cup. My third word is community-oriented because I work for an organization with a strong sense of shared purpose and connection. I appreciate being part of something that makes a direct impact on our community.

Pick one aspect of your role that you believe impacts the UofL community the most. What is it and why? 

H.B. Student support. I love seeing our students succeed, and I take pride in being a support to enhance their experience at the School of Nursing Owensboro. Nursing school is challenging, especially when students are managing their academic responsibilities alongside their personal lives, mental health and extracurricular interests. Whether it’s answering a simple question or just listening to how their day has been, I have a sense of purpose in my role.

What is one unique thing you have learned while working at the School of Nursing that you believe will stick with you throughout your career? 

H.B. I’ve been with the School of Nursing Owensboro for nine years, and since then, I’ve seen many familiar faces in healthcare who have graduated from our program. I know the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices students make to become registered nurses. We have an amazing faculty that is committed to sending students into the world of healthcare as professional, compassionate and highly-educated nurses. 

I know I’m in good hands with a Cardinal Nurse.

Outside of your professional responsibilities, what are some hobbies or interests that help you unwind and stay balanced? 

H.B. I enjoy being a mom, reading, and watching College volleyball.

I’ve been married to my husband for 20 years. We have two children, Lincoln (11) and Lillie Kate (15), and two dogs (Cali and Cags). We spend a lot of time watching our kids on the court or field for their school or travel sports. Life is super busy, but I love every minute of it, even when the days are long. 

I know one day I’ll look back and miss this time watching my kids grow up.