Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Methodist Hospital staff development nurse Ashley Hunter enjoys being able to see how far people have come during their time at Methodist

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Ashley Hunter, BSN, RN, PCCN
Staff Development Nurse for Progressive Care
Methodist Hospital

Tell us about yourself.

After high school, I attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha with dreams to have my own nursing home. About a year before graduating, I realized there was still so much more I wanted to learn. Following my sister, I decided to pursue nursing because of my passion for caring for people. I finished my bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration in the spring and went straight into nursing school that fall at Nebraska Methodist College.

I joined Methodist Hospital in 2018 as a new nurse on the Progressive Care Unit when it was on 6 North. After working through COVID, I was ready to grow and take on new challenges, which led me to the transition of Progressive Care Unit opening on 4 North. I stepped into a charge nurse role and spent three years building my leadership skills and helping build the culture of a new unit. I recently transitioned into my current role as a staff development nurse on the same unit, where I focus on education, onboarding and supporting staff as they grow in their roles.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. I met my husband, Coleman, in high school over 20 years ago, and we now have three children – Aaron (16), Cobi (6) and Avi (4) – who keep life busy and fun. We spend a lot of our free time hosting friends and family, and when I get a little extra time, you can usually find me baking a cake.

What brought you to Methodist?

Methodist was an easy decision for me. I spent a lot of clinical time here, and just by being in the environment, I could tell it was different. I remember hearing how much the nurses and CNAs genuinely loved working at Methodist, and that really stood out to me. I wanted to be part of a team that values its staff and the care they provide, and Methodist gave me that feeling as a student, so I knew I wanted to be part of the team.

What’s kept you here?

What keeps me coming back to Methodist is the support and opportunities I’ve experienced throughout my career. During my first year as a nurse, my oldest son was diagnosed with a brain tumor, and the level of support I received from my team was truly heartfelt. It allowed me to see firsthand The Meaning of Care, not only in how we treat our patients but also in how we show up for each other as a team.

Even now, Methodist continues to invest in me and my career growth. I’m someone who enjoys new challenges, and I’ve been given many opportunities to build on my strengths, from creative unit projects to larger initiatives like our Progressive Care Unit vascular project through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurse. I'm also grateful to be supported through the Methodist Health System Academy Program as I pursue my master's degree. It’s more than just clocking in and out for me; it’s the people, the support and the growth I’ve experienced that keep me coming back.

Do you have any favorite Methodist memories?

Some of my favorite memories at Methodist have been seeing how far people come. I enjoy investing in others and being part of that journey, from when someone is brand new to watching them build confidence and thrive in their role. Those, “Wow, look at what they’re doing now!” moments are incredibly rewarding, especially knowing that their development directly enhances the care we provide to our patients.

Have you had a mentor or colleague who has stood out during your time at Methodist?

My time at Methodist has introduced me to so many mentors and colleagues who have shaped different areas of my career. On my first unit, the leaders and team built my foundation and taught me how to be a nurse, think critically and care for patients. In my current role, my service leaders have been incredibly supportive. They’ve taken the time to listen to my endless ideas, encourage my many projects, challenge me and coach me as I continue to push myself. Most recently, having a mentor in my role as a staff development nurse has truly been a game changer. If there’s one piece of advice I’d give, it’s to find a mentor! 

What should people know about Methodist?

People should know that the culture is supportive, team focused and something you can feel as soon as you walk in. The Meaning of Care is not just a statement; it’s reflected in how we treat our patients and one another every day. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to try new things, build confidence and be part of something bigger than yourself, which truly reflects Methodist’s mission.