Books, Nurses, and a God-Sized Dream: My Journey in Servant Leadership

Let’s be honest—if you’re pursuing a doctoral degree, have two master’s degrees, and spent 24 years in nursing leadership, you *must* love reading. And I do! Reading isn’t just a habit for me—it’s practically a personality trait. My grandmother sparked my love for hardback books, curiosity, and even winning spelling bees (words *are* my love language). Now, as a doctoral student in Executive Nursing Leadership, I’m fueled by research, reflection, and the occasional “Nerdy Nurse Nikol” moment where I share my arsenal of resources with patients and colleagues.

But leadership isn’t just about reading or having degrees—it’s about living out values like service and humility. When I first read the mission of the Nurses Honor Guard and began researching as a novice nursing historian, I was deeply moved by its profound impact on honoring nurses’ legacies. As Philippians 2:3-4 reminds us: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

As chapter leader of the Ashley County Chapter of Arkansas Nurses Honor Guard, I’ve had the privilege to honor nurses through ceremonies featuring traditional uniforms, the Florence Nightingale lamp, and heartfelt readings—a reminder of the compassion and service nurses leave behind.

Reflecting on my journey as a nurse leader, I’m grateful for mentors who taught me to lead with integrity, serve through communication, and celebrate legacy. Their godly wisdom helped me align my dreams with every season of nursing care. Being a miracle messenger starts with the heart—and sharing gratitude for those who paved the way is part of that mission.

A few steps I suggest......If you’re inspired to learn more or join this tradition, visit www.anhg.info, or explore the National Nurses Honor Guard Coalition Dive into history through the American Association for History of Nursing, too! Together, we can honor our colleagues and uplift our profession with servant leadership.

-- Nurse Nikol

DNP Executive Leadership Student | Arkansas State University | Class of 2025

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