Mikasia Jacobsen’s Journey to Becoming a “Great Iowa Nurse”

Mikasia Jacobsen

Mikasia Jacobsen

MRHC is proud to celebrate Mikasia Jacobsen, BSN, RN, for being recognized as a “2025 Great Iowa Nurse.” This award recognizes nurses who go above and beyond to ensure safe, compassionate care for their patients, improve the health of their communities, and serve as role models for everyone they work with. With a lifelong passion for healthcare and helping others and an unwavering commitment to her patients, Mikasia has made a significant impact at MRHC.

When asked what makes a “great nurse,” Mikasisa reflected, “I believe all nurses are great nurses. But for this award, I think it means going above and beyond—not just showing up, completing tasks, and clocking out. It’s about helping wherever I am needed, whether at work or home, not just in my designated role.”

Inspired by Family and First Responders

Mikasisa ‘s journey into nursing began at a young age, shaped by the influence of her grandmother, an ER nurse, and her first-responder parents.

“I remember doing a project in school about what I wanted to be when I grew up. My grandmother was a big inspiration. She was an ER nurse, and getting to dress up in her scrubs and play with her equipment is something I remember fondly,” Mikasisa shared. “And growing up with first responder parents definitely changes your perspective when experiencing it firsthand, compared to watching it on TV.”

Following in her family’s footsteps, Mikasisa joined the Carroll County Ambulance Service as a volunteer EMT in 2016. She completed her EMT in 2017 but then realized she wanted more. Her oldest sister, Taya Vonnahme, the director of the Recovery Center and ARNP at MRHC, encouraged her to pursue nursing. So, in 2018, Jacobsen earned her CNA and began working at MRHC.Mikasia in ER

“Mikasia has always been a caring person for others. She talked about the medical field when trying to decide what to do and loves the adrenaline and trauma of the ER, which seems to be a family trait,” said Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “As sisters, we work well together, knowing each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and how we do things, which makes working in critical situations easier for each of us. We are all so proud of the nurse she has become and can’t wait to see what her future brings.”

With the support of her family and MRHC’s tuition assistance program, Mikasisa obtained her LPN in 2020, followed by her RN in 2021. In 2022, she was signed off as a Nurse Exempt Paramedic and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A year later, she stepped into her current role as House Supervisor at MRHC.

Mikasisa credits MRHC for playing a pivotal role in her career development. “MRHC is the only reason I became a nurse. Without their constant support, I don’t think I would have made it through nursing school, or the continuing education required afterward. If I have any doubts or issues, I know that those at MRHC are behind me, and I can fully rely on them when I need it.”

Thriving in Emergency Medicine

Now serving as an RN and House Supervisor, Mikasisa primarily works in the emergency room but also contributes to the Med/Surg unit, Specialty Clinic, and wherever she can help around the hospital. Known among her colleagues as the “ER Queen,” Mikasisa thrives in the fast-paced environment of emergency medicine.

“I love working in the ER because I can use my education and experience outside of the hospital to help my patients when they come in,” said Mikasisa. “Working in an ER can be very scary and unsettling, but I rely on my background, education, and co-workers to make sure we provide the best care in the most unfortunate circumstances. Knowing I am there helping them through these difficult times is more than rewarding.”

A Nurse Who Goes Above and Beyond

Mikasisa’s adaptability, leadership, and dedication to her job and patients make it easy to see why she was chosen as a “Great Iowa Nurse”, and she expresses immense gratitude for the recognition she has received.

“I can’t put into words what this award means to me. I am truly fortunate to work with our patients and my co-workers at MRHC every day,” Mikasisa reflected. “I appreciate more than I can say that I was selected for this award and hope that I continue to make MRHC proud as a great nurse.”

For those considering a career in nursing, Mikasisa offers honest and heartfelt advice: “Nursing is hard, and it requires dedication. It takes time away from family and friends, and you have to put others before yourself. But if you stick with it, one day, everything clicks. The struggles of nursing school, the extra classes, and the challenge of starting a new job all come together, and you’ll understand why nurses stay in this career. It truly is a rewarding profession.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Caring for Family, Friends, and Community: Amber Croghan’s Story

Amber Croghan’s inspiration to enter healthcare started close to home. From working at the Manning Plaza in high school to her current role as a health coach at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), she has continually evolved in her career while staying true to her desire to help others.

 “When growing up, all my grandparents received care at the Manning Plaza,” Amber, RN, shared. “My Grandpa Jahn was in there for a very long time after suffering a stroke, and while visiting him often, the path of wanting to help people started.”  

Seeing the compassion and care her grandfather received motivated Amber to step into the field herself. She began working at the Manning Plaza in 2008 while still in high school, taking on roles as an activity assistant and working in the dietary department. However, Amber soon became motivated to make a greater impact on the patients she worked with.

“I always wanted to be able to do more for the residents, which brought me to obtain my CNA certification and start working as a CNA,” Amber explained.

While Amber initially considered a career in occupational or physical therapy, she discovered a nursing program through the Carroll DMACC and decided to go the nursing route. While earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Registered Nurse (RN) licenses, she remained committed to patient care, working PRN to stay connected to her passion.

In July 2014, Amber achieved her RN license and began working at MRHC as a nurse on the Acute floor, Emergency Room, and Obstetrics. By 2015, Amber returned to the Manning Plaza as a floor nurse and later took on the role of MDS Coordinator. Her journey came full circle in April 2017 when she rejoined MRHC, this time as a float/triage nurse in the family practice clinic. In 2019, she transitioned into her current role as a Health Coach—a position that aligns perfectly with her goals and strengths.

“MRHC has always been supportive of me growing into different areas of nursing to fit the type of nursing I enjoy best,” Amber shared. “They are open to any ideas you may have for process improvement and make you feel heard with each idea. Each department is willing to help wherever it is needed to serve our patients.”

Amber’s dedication to her patients and her team is evident to those who work alongside her. MRHC Clinic Director Shelby Dickson, RN, shared, “Amber is highly reliable and deeply focused on patient care. She is an invaluable member of our clinic team and shows dedication to her work.”

Amber credits MRHC with helping her grow professionally and creating a workplace environment where she feels valued and heard. It is also important for Amber to work close to home and care for the people she knows and loves.

“I love working at MRHC because I get to work where I live, and I enjoy caring for family and friends to give them the best experience,” Amber shared. “MRHC is also very supportive of a work-life balance, which is important to me for my kids and husband.”

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

LEARN MORE ABOUT Amber Croghan

Katie Arp Finds a Rewarding Career Behind the Scenes at MRHC

Katie Arp

Katie ArpKatie Arp’s ambition to become a registered nurse was clear during her high school years. However, life had other plans, steering her towards an unexpected yet enriching path. After graduation, she began working at Wesco Industries in Denison as an office assistant and receptionist. This experience allowed her to combine administrative skills with her passion for helping others, a combination she found deeply fulfilling.

“I absolutely ‘LOVED’ working with every individual there and helping them navigate through their rough waters,” Katie recalls.

Katie later made the difficult decision to leave Wesco and start an in-home daycare. For nearly 12 years, she balanced raising her own children with caring for others. As her daycare kids grew up, Katie felt a renewed call to the healthcare field. When a Patient Services Representative position opened at MRHC, Katie seized the opportunity. Her passion for healthcare, combined with her diverse skills, made her a perfect fit. After a year in that role, she transitioned to her current position as a Revenue Cycle Specialist.

“MRHC is great at having opportunities for employees to further their careers or experience new things,” Katie notes. “LeeAnn Christensen and Amy McLaughlin made my transition to this new position so smooth, they really made me feel welcome and let me jump right in! I have been in this role for a year now, and I am incredibly happy with this decision and love the work I do!”

While Katie’s work may be behind the scenes, its impact on patients is profound. She believes that every role in healthcare, including her own, is crucial to ensuring a positive patient experience. Her dedication to this principle is evident in her daily work.

“When you strive to make sure the patients have a very positive experience, you definitely see that all roles play an important role, including my own,” she explains. “Seeing patients’ faces light up with a simple “good morning” or the relief you see when you help them through questions is incredible, and I think MRHC really goes above and beyond to achieve that! Working in a healthcare setting is just so rewarding in itself, but working at MRHC is a step above rewarding.”

The supportive work environment at MRHC is another aspect Katie deeply appreciates. This collaborative spirit contributes significantly to her positive work experience.

“I think MRHC has a very good balance of work and family,” Katie emphasized. “The amount of people that will step in to help you even if they are unsure of how to do so is incredible.”

Katie’s story is a perfect example of how determination, adaptability, and a passion for helping others can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. Her journey from an aspiring nurse to a thriving Revenue Cycle Specialist showcases the power of resilience and the importance of seizing opportunities.

If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

John Hansen Making a Difference Behind the Scenes at MRHC

John Hansen

John HansenJohn Hansen’s career path is one rooted in family influence and a willingness to embrace a challenge. Despite a background in factory work, John decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and give the maintenance field a try. His decision turned out to be a rewarding one, and he found a true passion for the work at MRHC.

“I never saw myself working in a hospital, but I figured I would give it a try and am really glad I did,” John shared.

Starting as a maintenance tech in February of 2020, John would quickly grow into a leadership role just a year later, becoming the department supervisor in April of 2021. With the work he does and the impact he makes at MRHC, it is no question that non-clinical roles play a vital role in ensuring smooth functioning of healthcare facilities. While a job in maintenance might not be at the forefront of patient care, John emphasizes the importance of his role in keeping everyone comfortable during their stay at MRHC. From ensuring the functionality of facilities to addressing maintenance issues promptly, John’s work contributes significantly to the overall patient experience.

“MRHC is so fortunate to have John. He is knowledgeable in so many different areas, digs into whatever needs fixing, and tries to figure things out on his own,” said Chief Human Resources Officer, Shelli Lorenzen. “John quickly fell into a management role and absolutely owned it. We couldn’t ask for a more dedicated employee. He knows what needs to be done and he does it, even if that means spending the entire weekend at MRHC to move snow so the ambulances can always get to the ER.”

In addition to making a positive impact on patients and helping his coworkers whenever possible, John appreciates the flexibility and support that he has at the hospital. Trust also plays a crucial role in fostering a positive work experience, and John attests that the administrative staff at MRHC trusts him implicitly. Something that is key to a productive and positive workplace.

“MRHC is very family oriented, and I know that when a family issue arises, I can go without question,” he shared. “Dan’s food is just an added bonus to working here.”

John’s journey at MRHC exemplifies the potential for growth and fulfillment in non-clinical roles within the healthcare industry. From his family-inspired career choice to the impact he makes on patient well-being, John’s story is a testament to the diverse and essential roles that contribute to the success of a healthcare institution like MRHC.

To join the MRHC team, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

Jacobsen Sisters Make an Impact in their Community

Jacobsen sisters

Many employees at MRHC have shared that their coworkers feel like family and that the hospital is like a second home. For four employees in particular, it couldn’t be more true. Four of the Jacobsen sisters, Taya Vonnahme, Mikasia, Neeka, and Kamaya Jacobsen work alongside each other in various roles at MRHC.

Taya VonnahmeTaya, the oldest sister, currently serves as the Director of the Recovery Center at MRHC. After becoming a CNA and working at the Plaza throughout high school, Vonnahme received her LPN from Iowa Lakes Community College in 2009. After transitioning to MRHC full time as a discharge planning nurse in 2011, she continued to add jobs to her title until 2015 when she applied to go back to school for her RN. Once she graduated with her associate degree in nursing, she transitioned to a house supervisor at MRHC and obtained her BSN from Walden University in 2018. In 2020, she earned her master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner with support from the MRHC tuition assistance program.

“I knew I wanted to be in healthcare since I was young after watching the impact my family had on people in the community as healthcare providers,” shared Taya, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “Our parents worked for the local EMS, our father worked with the fire department, our uncle works as a paramedic in Carroll County, and our grandmother was a well-known nurse here at Manning Regional. We’ve had a lot of great influences.”Mikasia

A sentiment that Taya’s sister, Mikasia, echoes when she thinks about what encouraged her to pursue a career in the medical field. “My grandmother was a biginspiration,” said Mikasia, BSN, RN. “She was an ER nurse, and getting to dress up in her scrubs and play with her equipment at home is something I remember fondly.”

Mikasia currently works as a House Supervisor at MRHC. After joining the Carroll County Ambulance as a volunteer in 2016 and completing her EMT in 2017, she decided to start nursing school. She completed her CNA in 2018 and started working at MRHC. Through MRHC’s tuition assistance program, Mikasia received her LPN in 2020, her RN in 2021, and finally, her BSN in 2022.

“MRHC has been a blessing with easing the strain of nursing school by offering me tuition assistance,” Mikasia said. “The relief of not having to worry about affording classes, while in the middle of a pandemic, was another huge weight lifted off my shoulders. My co-workers and supervisors at MRHC were also supportive and pushed me to continue my education.”

In addition to their family members and coworkers being an inspiration for their careers and a solid support system, the sisters have always had, and still have, an important impact on each other.

Kamaya Jacobsen“My family is for sure my main support through my career choices, but my sisters are my biggest supporters. They are the ones I go to for any decisions or help I need along the way,” said Kamaya. “It was because of my sisters I got the opportunity to work at MRHC.”

Kamaya works as a CNA on the med/surg floor and a counselor tech in the Recovery Center. Two roles that allow her to frequently work alongside her sisters.

“Being able to work with my sisters is one of my favorite things. We have a unique bond that we get to bring into the hospital that tends to bring a lot of laughter and joy to our patients, clients, and coworkers when they experience us working together,” Kamaya said. “We are very close and do many things in our lives together so why would work be any different? We have a love for our community as well as our jobs, making what we do easier as we get to care for many people that we know in some way or another,” Taya added.

Yet another factor that played a large role in the girls choosing their career paths – knowing they could make a difference in the community they grew up in.

Neeka Jacobsen“I wanted to help my community in a way that would make an impact,” said Neeka, CADC, a CNA, EMT, and counselor tech in the Recovery Center. Mikasia adds, “there are highs and lows when working in a small town. The lows hit a lot harder as these are the people we have grown up with or have watched grow up themselves. I care a lot for my community, and I hurt when we have a loss. But the highs are worth it. Being able to provide great medical care and seeing progress for our patients is very rewarding. I really enjoy that I can share these experiences with my sisters and that when people come in, they know they can count on one of the Jacobsen/Genzen girls.”

Taya goes on to add that, “this community is where I was raised, and I’ve been shown how important community support is. This [career] is how I can continue to support my community.”

The women also share that, in addition to the support they receive from the community, each other, and their family, they would not be where they are without their team at MRHC.

“MRHC has allowed me to get the opportunity of working in different departments which has helped me expand my knowledge and skills over the last few years,” Kamaya shared.

Neeka adds that “they have helped with studying before licensing tests and have supported me through the transition to various roles throughout the hospital. I like the fun working environment as well as how much support we get.”

Taya points out that “the hospital has developed and changed, offering me different opportunities I never anticipated. My co-workers are truly the best reason to work at MRHC. In addition to that, the flexibility for my family and outside duties are always met.”

Mikasia emphasizes that “my co-workers are great and offer support in both my professional and personal life. I like that I am close to home and get to care for patients I know every day. I know I am where I am needed and that I am doing my part as a nurse to help provide excellent care here at MRHC.”

To join the MRHC team or learn more about the tuition assistance program, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

MRHC Healthcare Career Camp to Expand

healthcare career camp

Like many rural areas, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) and local ambulance crews continue to see a shortage in medical staff and EMT volunteers. Both ambulance staffing and provider shortages were listed as top five unmet needs in the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment. At the same time, community leaders recognize that it is much easier to attract people to work here who are from the area rather than trying to draw people completely unfamiliar with the area.

With that in mind, MRHC piloted a Healthcare Career Camp in partnership with IKM-Manning Community Schools to provide a hands-on, immersive experience to showcase careers in a hospital setting. This full day began with an ambulance station and students rotated through the emergency room, laboratory, surgery, therapy, clinic, recovery center, and other departments.

“We wanted to spark an interest among middle and high school-age students,” shared MRHC Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “We collaborated with the IKM-Manning guidance counselors to form a mutually beneficial partnership. MRHC purchased mannequins and supplies to make it as hands-on and immersive as possible.”

The feedback from the 24 participants was positive, and other local schools started reaching out to participate. MRHC explored financial partnerships to expand the program and were recently awarded a Community Grant from the University of Iowa College of Public Health and its Business Leadership Network (BLN) in the amount of $3,000.

This grant is meant “to foster collaboration in Iowa’s smaller communities by addressing areas of identified community health or public health need. The intent is also to begin or strengthen partnerships with business and industry and to link with University of Iowa College of Public Health

experts and resources in community and public health issues,” as stated in the program’s Request for Proposals.

MRHC and IKM-Manning plan to offer an additional camp yet this school year and three other camps to school districts within a 30-mile radius within the next 12 months. The financial assistance of the BLN Grant will help cover the cost of supplies, additional training mannequins, and trainers.

Those interested in learning more about participating in a Healthcare Career Camp can contact their school guidance counselors and schools interested in partnering to offer this experience should contact Michelle Andersen at (712) 655-8220.

Nissen Celebrates Over 50 Years at MRHC

Linnet Nissen

Linnet NissenAfter 51.5 years of dedication to Manning Regional Healthcare Center, Linnet Nissen, a recognizable name and face for many current and past MRHC patients, employees, and providers, has made the decision to retire. Nissen was hired at Manning General Hospital in September of 1971 and she recalls how things were quite different back then.

“When I first started, I did switchboard, admissions, and all other office duties,” Nissen shared. “I was hired to do medical transcription for all the doctors and surgeons which was interesting since I didn’t have any medical background or transcription experience. I took typing in high school which consisted of the first semester on a manual typewriter and the second semester electric. I was told to leave blanks on the words I didn’t know, which ended up being a lot. So, I relied on the nurses quite a bit. I would put the tape back in the Dictaphone, run it up to the nurse’s station, and they would tell me what the word was. They later hired a transcriptionist to do that, and I moved into other shifts.”

Since starting her career at Manning General Hospital in the early 70s, Nissen has held a variety of roles and worn several hats throughout the years.

“I have done billing for all insurances, home health care insurance billing, reconciled Medicare, XIX and BC logs for fiscal year end, admissions with scheduling, transcription, and helped with the control center for fire, ambulance, and police when Manning General Hospital had the control center in their business office. We also did rural water and lifeline for a few years,” Nissen recalled. “I liked working with all the departments, but when we moved into our new building in 2014, I wanted to be up front as I enjoy taking care of and talking with our patients. I have known a lot of them for many, many years.”

Throughout her 50+ years at MRHC, Nissen has seen healthcare change and evolve before her eyes. She recalls that the installation of their first computer system was one of the biggest advancements at the hospital during her career.

“I think that was in the middle 80s, and we have probably gone through at least four or five different systems since then throughout my time at the hospital,” Nissen said. “With the upcoming changes for the new computer system and after working for 51 years, I decided it was time to retire.”

As Nissen looks forward to retirement, she reflects on all the relationships she has built with all the people she has met through MRHC.

“I have had a lot of memorable moments throughout the years. All my supervisors have been great, and I have been through it all with several personnel, weddings, graduations, deaths, and many laughs over the years,” Nissen shared.

“Linnet is the epitome of dedication having worked a majority of her life at MRHC,” said MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “She will be missed by so many of our patients and staff and leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion, and empathy for all those she encounters. We wish her health, happiness, and fun in her retirement.”

It’s no surprise that after 51 years, Nissen has grown close to many patients, employees, and providers and finds retirement somewhat bittersweet.

“I think my longevity with working at MRHC has to do with the people and patients and the fact that I really didn’t want to travel to go to work. I raised my three children from the age of three months until they all graduated from high school while working here,” Nissen shared. “I feel I will leave a lot of my heart and soul at MRHC because they have also been a family to me. I will truly miss the patients, families, and employees who have made my job so complete and fulfilling. This isn’t goodbye, it is see you all later. Thanks for the memories…”

To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.