Dawn Lambert, BSN ’01, had no intention of becoming a nursing student when she arrived at Michigan State University in 1997. However, she quickly realized that making the jump to nursing school was the best choice she could have made as a Spartan.
“I just decided to try it out, and I’m so glad I did. I found my passion in nursing,” said Lambert. She took advantage of many opportunities in the MSU nursing experience, including participating in the London Study Abroad program where students are immersed in nursing history and Florence Nightingale.
Lambert is still following the field today after working in Sparrow Hospital’s cardiac and outpatient surgery units for 15 years. She now works in a McLaren Health Care inpatient center participating in same-day procedures. She honors her student experience in London by serving as a member of the McLaren Nurses Honor Guard, and organization that pays tribute to nurses at the time of their death with Nightingale comradery.
In addition to practicing, Lambert serves as an adjunct associate professor for the Lansing Community College nursing department. She has instructed skills labs and clinicals for LCC for 10 years. Continuing the path of nursing excellence, Lambert is pursuing a master’s degree in nursing education from Western Governors University.
Lambert explained that she found a home in the MSU community. From the homey atmosphere of campus to the people that are connected to it, she feels the Spartan community everywhere she goes.
“You can yell ‘Go Green’ anywhere, and there is bound to be someone who answers ‘Go White!’” Lambert said. “There is always green around you if you look for it.”
Lambert has a reminder for Spartan Nurses, past, present, and future, this Nurses Week. “Always thank a nurse. Thank them for what they do, for what you do, and for what you’re becoming.” She also emphasized the importance of caring for oneself. In the midst of a nursing crisis, it is crucial now more than ever to take care of your wellbeing.
“Always keep sight of what is truly important. It will help you persevere through the tough times.”