Tippy Ventress, MSN, RN, serves as director of nursing at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Throughout her 28 years with our ministry, she has witnessed the profound impact that compassionate care has on patients and families.
“My varied roles in my career — as a preceptor, coordinator, charge nurse, supervisor, manager and director — have provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in both adult and pediatric care,” Tippy says.
As a director, she works alongside a team of nurses, certified nursing assistants, customer service representatives and providers. Together, they strive to deliver safe, effective care to our community’s young patients while fostering an environment of support and collaboration among team members.
“My commitment extends beyond patient care. I want to ensure that my team has the resources and support necessary to perform their duties effectively. This includes advocating for their needs, whether it’s through training opportunities, or simply being present to listen,” Tippy says.
A Career Rooted in Compassion
Tippy discovered her passion for caregiving when she was young. Her responsibility to care for her grandmother, who struggled with diabetes and cardiovascular disease, resonated with her deeply.
“As a young adolescent, I took on tasks that many of my peers would have found daunting: preparing her insulin, gathering her medications, and administering her eye drops. Each of these actions not only honed my skills but also instilled in me a sense of purpose and empathy,” Tippy says.
Tippy learned about resilience, compassion and the human spirit. “It wasn’t just about administering medication; it was about understanding her fears and providing comfort during her moments of vulnerability,” Tippy says. Her experiences with her grandmother led her to pursue a career in nursing.
Beyond her grandmother’s care, Tippy found fulfillment helping others in her community. Even when her budget was tight, she often shared what she could, giving food to those who were hungry or assisting individuals with their daily activities of living. “Cooking meals for neighbors or helping them with errands became not just acts of kindness, but a source of joy and connection,” Tippy says.
Upon reflection, Tippy credits her early experiences with her grandmother for shaping her career aspirations and identity as a person. Being a caregiver started her desire to advocate for patients and to provide care for the physical, emotional and social well-being of her patients.
“I am driven by the knowledge that, like my grandmother, many individuals face daunting health challenges and that they all deserve compassion and competent care,” Tippy says.
Reflections on Black History Month
Tippy reflects on Black History Month as a time to remember the impact of Black pioneers and leaders on our community, organizations and cities.
“Black History Month is a time to remind myself daily that Black history cannot be contained to a single month but should celebrated year-round,” Tippy says.
When she thinks about this year’s Black History Month theme, African Americans and Labor, she thinks about the struggles and triumphs that Black leaders have faced while transforming American society.
“Figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Malcolm X championed civil rights at great personal risk, while innovators like George Washington Carver and Katherine Johnson contributed groundbreaking advancements in science and technology,” Tippy says.
Inspired by a Pioneer in Medicine
Tippy’s favorite historical figure is Dr. Rebecca Crumpler, the first African-American woman physician in the U.S.
“Dr. Crumpler’s medical practice primarily focused on assisting the poor — individuals who often encountered discrimination and lacked access to adequate healthcare,” Tippy explains.
In 1883, Dr. Crumpler published Book of Medical Discourses in Two Parts, a seminal work widely regarded as the first medical text authored by an African American.
“This groundbreaking book aimed to educate the public about health and wellness, offering insights into preventative care that were accessible to the general populace. It not only served as a medical guide but also paved the way for subsequent generations of African-American medical professionals,” Tippy explains.
The Importance of Self Care
“For me self-care is the practice of taking care of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of my life to promote health and wellness,” Tippy says.
Her advice to others is to remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for leading a balanced, fulfilling life. “Making time for ourselves is an investment in our health and happiness, so I do a lot of reading, internet surfing, sleeping and decluttering.”
A Lasting Impact
Tippy strives to make an impact on everyone she encounters and leads her team to do the same. “Every interaction matters, and I believe that a positive atmosphere can significantly influence recovery and satisfaction. I work diligently to create processes that prioritize comfort and dignity for our patients and their families, while simultaneously promoting a fulfilling workplace for our caregivers,” Tippy shares.
Ever since she took care of her grandmother, her journey has been one of unwavering commitment to serve others. “The ongoing dedication to serving is not merely a career choice; it is a vocation that shapes our lives and communities,” Tippy says.
Our Commitment
Our ministry’s commitment to a culture of belonging supports culturally competent care education for our team members all year long, including during Black History Month each February.
