By Charlene Chambers, Public Relations Coordinator
Arkansas State University-Beebe takes pride in the accomplishments of its alumni, and Allison Patterson stands as a shining example of the caliber of professionals it produces.
Since graduating from ASU-Beebe in 2016 with an Associate of Science in Health Sciences degree, Patterson has embarked on a remarkable journey in the field of nursing, demonstrating versatility and dedication at every turn.
With experience spanning various specialized areas, including bariatric medical surgical units, neurosurgery clinics, dialysis and radiation oncology, Patterson's expertise has continually evolved, enriching her skill set and benefiting the communities she serves.
Currently, as a registered nurse at NavistaCare, LLC since 2022, Patterson is instrumental in providing preventive health care services to facility residents. Her role encompasses a diverse array of responsibilities from implementing innovative health care strategies to offering individualized education and advanced care planning sessions.
“My degree at ASU-Beebe helped me to know the ‘why’ behind the decisions I make as a nurse. I can educate my patients on what is happening in their body, normal and abnormal, and talk with them about their medications and how they work,” Patterson said. “I have also become passionate about mentoring and developing other nurses and certified nursing assistants to keep growing and learning to be the best they can be for their patients.”
Patterson’s educational journey began as a concurrent student at Beebe High School.
“I chose to attend ASU-Beebe because it was affordable, had a family atmosphere, the staff and faculty were very helpful and welcoming and I was able to stay with my family while going to school,” Patterson said.
While attending ASU-Beebe, Patterson worked on campus in the admissions office.
“My favorite activities were giving tours to prospective students. I loved telling them about what all the college had to offer them,” Patterson said.
Patterson was active on campus, serving as president of Chi Alpha and was also selected as a student representative in student government. She received an award for outstanding student for the math and science division and was named Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.
After earning her associate degree, Patterson transferred to Arkansas State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She served as an intern at Northeast Arkansas Baptist in the bariatric medical surgical unit while completing her senior year of nursing school. After graduation, Patterson took the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for certification as a registered nurse.
Patterson said her most impactful memories from ASU-Beebe were all of the life lessons learned from her teachers.
“Not only were they teaching course information, but they also taught so many valuable life lessons without even knowing it,” Patterson said. “One of my English teachers taught us to write our papers in a way that we allowed for exceptions without using words such as ‘always’ and ‘never.’ This taught me that there are at least two sides to every story.”
Patterson said she had several great teachers during her time at ASU-Beebe and was encouraged by instructors and the staff to further her education in the nursing field.
“Instructors took the time to get to know their students. They weren’t just there to teach their class and leave,” Patterson said. “They taught their classes in a way that the information was clear and easy to understand, as well as made you enjoy their class. They welcomed visits during their office hours and truly cared about student success.”
When asked about what has inspired her through her education and career journey, Patterson said her family and coworkers have kept her motivated.
“I still talk about the impact ASU-Beebe had on me to this day,” Patterson said. “My family has supported me through it all and I couldn’t have done it without them.”
In addition to her husband, Chris, Patterson’s family includes her parents, Ronnica and John Warner, and her sister, Ashton Warner, who also graduated from ASU-Beebe.
Patterson advised other students to utilize all of the resources available.
“Your teachers want to help you, so take the time to get to know them and seek their wisdom,” Patterson said. “Everything you are learning in college is not just to pass the test. It’s to prepare you for your career being a future nurse, accountant, teacher or business owner. Take all of the wisdom, advice and knowledge you can get. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you will be prepared.”
ASU-Beebe Alumni Stories is a project of the alumni association with the goal of sharing and preserving the ASU-Beebe historical and educational experiences of former students.
