A Strong Commitment to Care at Mile Bluff Medical Center

For more than 45 years, Lisa Sullivan has been a familiar presence for patients and families at Mile Bluff Medical Center. Beginning her career in December 1979, Lisa is now the longest-serving employee still working at Mile Bluff—and the last remaining staff member whose journey began at the previous hospital building downtown.

Lisa started her career as a nursing assistant after completing on-the-job training and later earning certification under instructor Natty Kranz. In those early years, she worked in the medical and surgical units of the old hospital, forming experiences and relationships that helped shape her lifelong commitment to healthcare.

“I remember feeling sad when we left the old hospital,” Lisa recalled. “Even though I was only in that building a bit over a year, I had so many fond memories—the emergency room being inconveniently in the basement, the old freight elevator, and the cast room. Those early days were filled with good talks, lasting friendships, and education and encouragement to go back to school.”

When Mile Bluff moved to its current location in 1981, Lisa continued her own journey forward as well. Encouraged by those early experiences, she returned to school to pursue her nursing degree while continuing to work weekends, holidays, and school breaks in the Med/Surg Department. She graduated in 1985 and became a registered nurse.

Over the years, Lisa has cared for patients across many areas of the hospital, including Med/Surg, the Emergency Room, Surgery, and Obstetrics—often working demanding combinations of day, PM, and night shifts. In 2007, she committed fully to the Surgery Department, where she continues to work today.

In surgery, Lisa not only provides skilled patient care but also serves as a nurse preceptor, helping train and mentor new nurses. Supporting future caregivers has been a meaningful part of her career for more than four decades.

“I feel the hospital has given me everything I could possibly want or need in my profession. Mile Bluff is truly my family away from home.” She added, “The best part about my job is being able to care for patients alongside my amazing coworkers. Coming to work and seeing genuine, caring people is something you can't put a price on, and we certainly have an amazing team here, across the board!”

Throughout her career, Lisa has cared for generations of community members through the years. Her work reflects Mile Bluff’s long-standing commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care close to home

After more than four decades of service, Lisa’s appreciation for the people she works with and the community she serves remains strong. “I thank you all from the bottom of my heart,” she shared.

Lisa Sullivan’s story is one of dedication, compassion, and deep community roots. It’s a reminder that while facilities may change over time, the heart of Mile Bluff Medical Center has always been—and continues to be—the people who choose to serve here.