Alumni Profile: Janice Walker, Class of 1989
Dr. Janice (Goodwin) Walker has been busier than ever since the breakout of COVID-19. Dr. Walker serves as the system executive vice president and chief nursing executive for Baylor Scott and White Health, and has been with the largest healthcare provider in the state of Texas for nearly 10 years.
Along with her leadership team, she is working to meet the needs of patients and caregivers during this unprecedented time. Dr. Walker took time out of her busy schedule to share her experience from college and how it prepared her for her current role.
When did you graduate from Henderson, and what was your major?
1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Why did you choose Henderson?
The location and the highly recommended Nursing Program
Who were your favorite professors?
Dr. Joyce Shukers in Nursing and Dr. Charles Hughes in English
What is your current occupation?
System Executive Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive
How did Henderson prepare you for your career?
It taught me the basics of nursing practice.
What is your favorite memory of Henderson?
Nursing Clinical Rotations
When’s the last time you have been on the Henderson campus?
Five years ago to drive through it
How do you relax after a hard day?
Glass of tea and a good movie
Who do you admire the most, and why?
My father who has a good Christian background and a hard work ethic
What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Take a relaxing cruise vacation
What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned?
To slow down and relax and enjoy life
What are three interesting facts about you?
1. Mother of four amazing children
2. Love to antique shop and decorate my home.
3. I have my Doctorate in Healthcare Administration.
If you could make one rule that everyone had to follow, what would it be?
To be a hard worker and strive to do your best
What have you been doing since the Corona Virus outbreak?
I am so blessed to be “called to be a nurse.” It is truly a calling. I never in my wildest dreams would have realized the blessings I have received in a clinical role to lead in healthcare. I have continued to lead over 46,000 employees/14,000 clinical staff members of our nursing staff for the largest not-for-profit healthcare system in Texas. Along with our chief medical officer, we strengthened existing partnerships to create a 24-hour command center, a resource for clinical staff when caring for COVID19 patients. I redeployed members of our leadership team to the field to fill gaps and share firsthand knowledge of implementation and routinely toured hospitals to see the needs of clinicians firsthand. I quickly worked to create resources for caregivers during this crisis. My role is to keep patients and team members safe so they can feel confident receiving or delivering care during the most serious aspect of our clinical life.