Faculty

Sherry Hyland

  • Nursing

While working as a medical secretary, Sherry admired nurses and the compassionate care they provided. That’s when she knew a career in nursing was her calling. As a non-traditional student, Sherry took the leap and pursued her associate’s from Penn College. Since then, she gained extensive experience across a variety of specialties and continued her education at the same time. Twenty years later, Sherry is back at her alma mater, sharing her expertise, and inspiring the next generation of nurses.

 

Sherry Hyland
Leading the Way

Q&A with Sherry

TELL US ABOUT ONE OF YOUR MORE REWARDING EXPERIENCES.

A few years ago, tragically, the young child of a student of mine was diagnosed with leukemia. All of the instructors in our program worked together to support the student with her learning through the challenges of her daughter's doctor appointments and treatments. Her daughter beat the cancer, and the student was able to graduate with her nursing degree and successfully passed the NCLEX.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING IN THIS DEMANDING FIELD?

Coaching the nursing students has filled a void in my life left when my children grew up and left the nest. Watching their excitement when they hear a patient's heartbeat or lung sounds with their stethoscope for the first time is like seeing your children's face when they first see the ocean. There are many people faced with illness, fear, and loneliness and knowing that our students make a difference in their lives through the care and compassion they provide is profound.

WHAT IS YOUR WORK OUTSIDE OF TEACHING?

I work part-time on a step-down unit in direct patient care. I have always been passionate about patient care and through this work, I am able to remain current with the latest trends in nursing practice and better prepare my students for what lies ahead. In addition, I am currently working to advance my nursing degree.

WHAT MAKES PENN COLLEGE'S NURSING DEGREE DIFFERENT?

I am a Penn College alumnus. I was a non-traditional student in 2003 and graduated from the associate's R.N. nursing program. As a former student and as an instructor, I appreciate the small classes and the knowledge, talent, and passion that the faculty impart on our students.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED A CAREER IN NURSING?

I worked as a medical secretary, which included coding, billing, and collections for physician offices. I watched the care that the nurses provided to the patients and knew that someday, I would become a nurse.

IF SOMEONE WERE INTERESTED IN PENN COLLEGE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM?

The campus is beautiful and very welcoming! Attend an open house or schedule an appointment to visit the college and the departments of interest. You will be amazed with our state-of-the-art lab facilities and the hands-on education we provide.

Real-World Ready

“Aside from all the wonderful things Penn College has to offer, the surrounding region is a beautiful place to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts will love it here!”

Sherry Hyland

Programs

Nursing

Pursue your passion for helping others and thrive in one of the most rewarding career fields.

All Programs

Unsure which major is right for you? See all academic programs at-a-glance.