Tara Demuth Fenton
Allen School of Nursing Class of 1992

Furthered Education –

2017 BSN from Western Governor’s University
MSN completion goal is 2020 from Western Governor’s University

Employment history –

Surgical Services Manager at Livingston HealthCare as of January 2018

Children’s North Surgery Center in Broomfield, CO – January 2011 until November 2017. Held positions as Administrator, Clinic Director, OR Manager, and OR Lead.

Children's Hospital Colorado (CHCO) July 2005 - 2015 as contract and permanent staff member in ASC & Main OR, CVOR, Interventional Radiology, and Procedure Center - Circulate, scrub, prep, and PACU - Denver, Aurora, & Lone Tree, Colorado.

Other Relevant Nursing Experience –
Colorado Orthopedic and Surgical Hospital - Denver, Colorado
Travel Nurse across America at the University Hospital - Denver, Colorado
Yakima Ambulatory Surgical Center - Yakima, Washington
Yakima Memorial Hospital - Yakima, Washington
Providence Yakima Medical Center - Yakima, Washington
St. Mary’s Hospital - Grand Junction, Colorado
First Choice Same Day Surgery Center - Grand Junction, Colorado
Montrose County School District - Montrose, Colorado
Texas Children’s Hospital - Houston, Texas
Allen Memorial Hospital - Waterloo, Iowa
February 1997 to May 1999 – CVOR Team

What led you to pursue your education at Allen College?

Initially I attended Allen School of Nursing as the appeal to diploma program and style of learning fit my needs while being close to home. I am a hands-on learner and the didactic alongside clinical work was key to my success. I initially came back to Allen College to finish my BSN while working in Denver, CO, but being one of the few out of state students it was challenging to meet the needs to come back for orientation and online timed requirements due to position and work hours. I was at the beginning my leadership career and my focus required a more flexible schedule.

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

The school, hospital, and leadership from Allen School of Nursing provided the foundation and principles to move across the country and provide a service of excellence. Many of the instructors from the college I had the opportunity to work alongside for many years prior to my departure from Iowa.

What was your first job out of nursing school?

I went to work at Covenant on the Medical Surgical floor as nursing jobs were not as prevalent as they are in today’s world. I learned so much in the short time before coming back to Allen Hospital in the Operating Room.

What led you to your exact career path?

There was no exact path…. Just dreams, passions, and the willingness to continue to learn and grow! It wasn’t until I was introduced to leadership where I learned I could make a greater impact for my patients through furthering my education and mentoring others to do the same. As a leader my goal is to empower all to provide the best care possible.

Any accomplishments, awards, proud moments, published articles, etc.:

Accomplishments include being able to maneuver the idiosyncrasies of management while continuing to be a leader who provides high quality care for my patients.
Blog post on Successfully Transitioning into an ASC Administrator Role.

Share any hobbies/ interests:

My husband and I enjoy the outdoors, hence Montana. Hiking, camping, canoeing, ATV trails, and visiting places that are unknown.

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

Never stop dreaming…. questioning…. learning.