Dr. Ashley Ollendieck
Allen College Class of 2012 – BSN
Allen College Class of 2016 – MSN

Employment History

2012-2014 - MercyOne Medical Center, Waterloo, Labor & Delivery Nurse
2014-Current - Allen College – UnityPoint Health, Associate Professor, Clinical & Simulation Coordinator

How did Allen College help prepare you for where you are now?

My time at Allen College provided me all of the necessary tools to be a well-rounded nurse with the ability to care for my patients while keeping their safety, concerns, and evidence-based practice at the forefront of my care. I had numerous clinical opportunities to show me all areas of nursing and all of the possibilities out there for nurses. While being a labor and delivery nurse is where I thought I would spend majority of my nursing career, it was the guidance from my mentor at Allen College during undergrad that made me really want to come back and work for the college someday. The guidance and support I received while at Allen College made a lasting impact and I knew that I wanted to do the same for future nursing students. My role in the simulation center has allowed me to help nursing students grow in their nursing knowledge and skills. Ultimately, producing well-rounded nurses to care for others. I know that I would not be where I am today if I would have gone anywhere else for my nursing education!

What was your first job after graduating from Allen College?

My first nursing job after Allen College was working nights in the birthing center at MercyOne Medical Center. One of my favorite things about my job as a floor nurse was being able to teach new parents about caring for their newborn. I also loved knowing that I was making a difference to the families that I cared for. My love for teaching patients directed me to educating our future nursing workforce.

Please share accomplishments, awards, proud moments, or published articles.

Achieving my MSN in Nursing Leadership (2016) and my Doctorate degree in Nursing Practice (2018)
Certified Nurse Educator
Certified Simulation Educator
Presenter for various CEU events held at Allen College
Presenter at the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF)
Allen College Service Awards
Campus Compact: Newman Civic Fellows Award

Hobbies or interests?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, running, traveling to new places, watching my husband (Tyler) dirt track race in the summer, ranger riding, and taking my kids, McCoy (6) and Mila (4), to experience new & fun things.

What piece of advice would you give to current Allen students?

Your time will go fast in nursing school. Soak in every ounce of knowledge you can while you have the guidance. Stay organized, focused and flexible. Know your “why,” – why do you want to become a nurse? Know that every day you will make a difference to someone that you meet.

“They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel”. ~Maya Angelou