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The Pinecone
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November 2015
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A L I F E T I M E O F G I V I N G B A C K
Joan
Dodson
Ground-breaking career - strong professional credentials - one
of Kirby Pines’ go-to talented volunteers…in a nutshell, Joan
Dodson, our friend and colleague.
Joan was born in Sparta, TN. She grew into adulthood with a
strong desire to be a nurse – education was the key. In 1958, U.T
Memphis awarded her a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Degree; in 1969 Memphis State University awarded her a Masters
Degree in Education; and in 1979, U.T. Health Sciences Center
awarded her a Masters Degree in Nursing. These credentials
paved her way to a health care career that was ground-breaking
for the times. She worked at the Methodist Hospital School of
Nursing; and as Head Nurse in Cardiology at the Memphis VA
Hospital. Beginning in 1967, Joan started the Nursing Program at
Memphis State University and continued as faculty; established
two off-campus nursing programs, changed the status of the MSU
Nursing Program to the MSU Department of Nursing, and served
as Interim Dean of the Department until a permanent Dean was
appointed. She retired in 1989.
Joan is a member of the Germantown Church of Christ. She has
served as President of theAltrusa Club of Memphis (Philanthropic
Women’s Professional Organization), and as President of the
Tennessee Nurses Association, District #1. Since moving to Kirby
Pines in 2011, she has volunteered as Director of The Entertainers,
performed in the Rhythm Band, done stand-up comedy for the
Ham-ateur Club, and plays the piano for residents in the medical
areas. She also is the Health Representative on the Kirby Pines
Residents’ Advisory Committee, takes her turn in managing the
cash register in the Blossom Shop, and collects residents’ paper
products in F1 corridor in support of the Kirby Pines recycle push.
Before and subsequent to retirement, Joan was the care-giver to
her aged parents – all told, a full schedule indeed.
Think on this - segue from the importance of professional
competence and achievements to a third vital component, namely
“presentation of self.” The healthcare field relies on caring
individuals who routinely meet the needs of strangers (no one
prefers an indifferent or “cold” health care provider). Joan’s
public persona is warm, encouraging friend and stranger alike to
approach her with ease. Concern for others has been the bedrock
of her professional career, and she continues to extend herself to
opportunities to make a difference in our community. Thank you,
Joan for all you do and have done.
- Jacqueline Besteman, Resident
Joan during her time at University of Tennessee, Memphis