Empowering Women for Rural Healthcare Leadership Mentoring Program

Danielle Howerton
mentored by Stacey Schepens Niemiec

I completed my bachelor's degree in child development, masters in occupational therapy, and am enrolled in the PhD in Occupational Therapy program – all at TWU. I began my health care career on a trauma team where I learned about the importance of meeting my patients where they are, being flexible, the resilience of the human spirit and creating triumph in the face of overwhelming obstacles.

I later worked in outpatient settings and helped establish a new Day Neuro program, in public schools, and then helped launch the occupational therapy department at Synaptic Pediatric Therapies. I am blessed to be doing what I’m called to do and love thinking outside of the box in order to help build skills and adapt activities, tasks and environments to meet the needs of each individual and facilitate his/her growth and independence. 

Read more about Danielle

Violita McDonald
mentored by Ashley Anthony

I have been a nurse for 23 years, first as a licensed vocational nurse, later earning an associate in nursing degree, followed by a bachelor in nursing degree, and master's in nursing administration degree. This career pathway and the experience gained sparked my passion for healthcare and encouraged me to pursue a path of perpetual growth in nursing.

For the past 18 years, I've served as a rural school nurse, dedicating myself to the health and well-being of students in my district. Driven by a desire to further my education and expand my contributions to the nursing field, I am pursuing a PhD in nursing science at TWU. This journey from LVN to PhD candidate is a testament to my unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and my passion for advancing the nursing profession, particularly in rural healthcare settings. I aspire to use my expertise to contribute to more effective policies and practices that promote health and wellness in rural school settings and contribute to student academic success.

Aline Pennington
mentored by Jordyn Rodas

I will graduate December 2024 in Health Studies-Public Health. I am a non-traditional student, choosing to return to college after working with a rural nonprofit organization that helped young mothers figure out the best way to take care of their families and feed them healthy meals.

A particular moment impacted me deeply. I had seen food insecurity and even dealt with it myself, but helping a mother showed me that not only did I love helping others, I also wanted to help make a bigger impact on health disparities especially in rural communities where accessibility is a major factor. My work in developing resources guides for Palo Pinto county residents will further my goals in rural public health. 

Shonda Pittman
mentored by Tara Haskins