In honor of Nurse Practitioners Week, we celebrate the dedication, leadership and the differences these team members make every day in helping us provide exceptional care.
Nurse practitioners play a vital role in delivering compassionate, high-quality care to our patients and communities. Their advanced clinical expertise, combined with a patient-centered approach, allows them to diagnose, treat and guide patients through every stage of health and healing. They epitomize how FMOL Health is doing all things with great love.
Kelly Crim, NP
Breast Medical Oncology
FMOL Health | Our Lady of Lourdes
Women’s & Children’s Hospital
“As nurse practitioners, we often wear all the hats. We’re a provider, nurse, counselor, confidant and friend. We offer our expertise in a compassionate and approachable manner and are an irreplaceable asset to the healthcare team.”
Katie Doggett, NP
General Surgery
FMOL Health | Our Lady of Lourdes
Hospital Medicine
“Nurse practitioners have a vital role in patient care. We help bridge the gaps in healthcare by providing quality patient care and navigating their interdisciplinary needs. We provide a holistic approach through a blend of personalized compassionate care that comes from a background in nursing, but with an advanced professional approach that comes from education as a provider. I chose to work in general surgery because I wanted a more hands-on approach of assisting in healing the body. It is a pleasure to get to know my patients and be a part of their health care journey.”
Jill Easley, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC
Family Medicine
FMOL Health | St. Dominic Medical Associates
Family Practice Associates Madison
“The role of the nurse practitioner in the clinical setting is to work closely with patients to provide compassionate, evidence-based, high-quality healthcare. I take pride in developing meaningful relationships with my patients and their families. Getting to know them on a personal level allows me to better understand their unique needs and goals.
“I believe that effective healthcare begins with trust and communication. I work alongside physicians, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team to ensure every patient receives comprehensive, coordinated care. Being an NP is not just a profession to me — it is a calling that combines my passion for medicine and dedication to helping others within my community.”
Mariana “Tina” Gross, MSN, APRN, WHNP-C
Obstetrics
FMOL Health | St. Francis
Healthy Moms Prenatal Clinic
“Even while in nursing school I felt a calling, like I could help women during one of the most transformative and meaningful times in their lives. Being able to support, educate and advocate for both mother and baby is a deeply rewarding and humbling experience.”
Josh LeJeune, NP
Pediatrics
FMOL Health | Our Lady of Lourdes
Women & Children’s Hospital
“I chose pediatrics because kids remind me that courage and curiosity are what make life truly extraordinary. As a nurse practitioner, I get to be part of their story, where every moment of growth feels a little bit like magic.”
Listen to Josh’s insightful and practical guidance for parents raising children with ADHD in this ParentingU podcast episode.
Dawn Malcom, FNP Family Practice FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Family Medicine Walk-In Clinic
“As a nurse practitioner in a walk-in clinic, I play a vital role in ensuring continuity of care, even within a setting that is often seen as short-term. By providing consistent treatment and thorough follow-up for acute type conditions, I help bridge the gap between urgent concerns and ongoing health management. Even in a walk-in environment, I strive to create a welcoming space where patients feel heard, respected and valued. By taking the time to listen to their concerns, educate them about their health and follow through with personalized care plans, I help create a sense of reassurance that extends beyond a single visit. Each interaction is a chance to strengthen that patient-provider relationship — to remember a concern they mentioned before, to notice small changes and to show that their well-being genuinely matters.”
Craig Manzer, NP Adult Cardiology FMOL Health | Our Lady of Lourdes Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
“As a nurse practitioner, I believe my role is vital because I serve as a bridge between patients and complex healthcare problems such as cardiovascular disease, providing personalized, evidence-based care that addresses both physical and emotional needs in our patient community. This direct impact not only improves health outcomes and reduces disparities but also empowers individuals to manage their well-being, fostering trust and long- term wellness in the medical landscape.”
Michelle Nelson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C General Surgery Services FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Surgeons Group of Baton Rouge
“The significance of my role as a nurse practitioner lies in my ability to provide comprehensive care to those entrusted to me. I prioritize attentive listening and understanding each patient’s unique healthcare needs. I am committed to treating every patient with the same respect and compassion that I expect for myself or my family members.”
Katherine Templeton, APRN, FNP-C Thoracic Surgery FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group
“My role as a nurse practitioner is a pivotal bridge between the surgeon and the patient. I strive to provide quality continuity of care before, during and after surgery. As a nurse practitioner, I am privileged to care for the members of our community as a patient advocate during some of their most trying times. I feel honored to work at Our Lady of the Lake to carry out our mission and the healing ministry to those most in need.”
Danielle Traweek, APRN, FNP-C Hematology/Oncology FMOL Health | St. Francis Oncology Clinic
“Nurse practitioners help provide increased access to quality healthcare. As a nurse practitioner in hematology/oncology, we see that specialized care close to home is essential. My nursing background helps foster personal connection in an evidence-based practice approach. It is rewarding to provide superior care to the patients entrusted to us.”
