Honoring Our Heroes: Celebrating Dixie St. John & The Vital Role of Nurses

Nurses are the heart and soul of  our health care system - the true heroes of healthcare. When you are sick or require care, they are often the first faces you see. They are the ones we lean on in times of need.

In schools, nurses are essential for keeping things running smoothly and ensuring students stay healthy and ready to learn. Here at Nuvision, we appreciate the hard work and dedication of nurses. Their impact on our lives and our communities is immeasurable, and we proudly celebrate their contributions.

Celebrating Dixie St. John: Alaska's School Nurse of the Year and True Community Hero

This month, we’re excited to shine a light on Dixie St. John, who has been honored as Alaska's School Nurse of the Year and nominated as this month’s Nuvision Hero. Dixie is a nurse at Kenai Middle School who everyone loves. Her nursing journey is truly inspiring, and her role goes far beyond typical nursing duties. She’s a mentor, a confidante, and a vital support system for the students and staff alike.

Dixie began her career at just 15, working as a CNA in a Montana nursing home. This early start sparked a lifelong passion for caring for others. Despite many challenges, including being the first in her family to graduate high school and attend college, Dixie pursued her dream with unwavering determination. It took her 12 years of balancing work and study to earn her RN degree, and she later completed her Bachelor's degree in her 40s, proving it's never too late to chase your dreams.

Throughout her career, Dixie has worked in various settings, from hospitals to home health and hospice care. After adopting her daughter 15 years ago, she found her true calling in school nursing. This role allowed her to balance work and family life, and she has thrived, enjoying the diversity and autonomy it offers.

Being a school nurse is more than just handing out band-aids and ice packs. Dixie provides vital social and emotional support, conducts suicide risk assessments, and promotes overall health and wellness. She leads the youth suicide prevention program, Sources of Strength, helping students focus on their strengths. Recently, she took four students to a suicide prevention conference in Anchorage, a significant achievement for the community.

Dixie's commitment goes beyond her job description. She has led and supported various initiatives to meet her students' broader needs. From organizing a backpack program to ensure kids have food over weekends to managing a clothing closet for those in need, Dixie's servant heart shines through. Her work with Change for the Kenai brings vital resources to tackle issues like drug and alcohol prevention, suicide, and domestic violence.

Dixie's impact extends beyond school hours. Her home is a sanctuary for students in need, reflecting the trust and respect she has earned. As a mentor, she guides and supports young people through life's challenges. She believes in the importance of having multiple safe adults in a child's life and lives this belief every day.

The Unwavering Dedication of Nurses

Dixie St. John's story highlights the incredible role nurses play in our community. They are more than healthcare providers; they are mentors, educators, and advocates who touch countless lives with their dedication and compassion. As we celebrate Dixie's achievements, we are reminded of the important contributions of nurses everywhere. Their hard work, compassion, and unwavering commitment make them true heroes. At Nuvision, we are proud to honor Dixie and all nurses who continue to make a difference, one life at a time.

Join Us in Honoring Nurses

If you haven't already, take a moment to thank a nurse in your life. Their dedication and hard work often go unrecognized, but their impact is profound. At Nuvision, we're committed to celebrating and supporting the vital work that nurses do every day. We are inspired by their stories and motivated by their passion for helping others.