Why I Came, Why I Stayed: NMC sonography program director Becca Bouckaert is inspired by students and dedicated educators

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.

Becca Bouckaert, EdD, RVT, RDCS 
Sonography program director 
Nebraska Methodist College

Tell us more about yourself and your background with Methodist.

I am a proud alumna of Nebraska Methodist College (NMC), graduating from the Cardiovascular Sonography Program in 2007. I spent the first 11 years of my career working as a sonographer in clinical practice. During that time, I had the opportunity to work closely with students, which sparked my passion for sonography education.

In 2018, I returned to NMC as the sonography program director. Since then, I’ve been committed to educating future sonographers. I’ve been with Methodist Health System for over 10 years and was fortunate to receive institutional support while pursuing my doctoral degree – something I’m incredibly grateful for.

Why Methodist? What attracted you to the organization?

As a clinical sonographer, I always enjoyed working with students, which naturally led me to consider teaching. When I interviewed at NMC, I immediately felt it was the right place for me. The college is completely focused on students, and the leadership really supports innovation and teamwork. I love helping shape the next generation of sonographers.

What is it about Methodist that keeps you coming back?

The people. I truly enjoy working with the sonography faculty at NMC – Kristen Moore, Leslie Wehrli-McFarlin, Mandi Tanner and Nikki Schnitzler. They’re some of the most passionate and dedicated educators I’ve ever met. I especially love our brainstorming sessions, where we come up with new ways to support our sonography students.

Our sonography students also inspire me. Watching them go from having little experience to becoming confident, skilled professionals is incredibly rewarding. That growth and the ongoing challenge of improving our program keeps me motivated.

Do you have any favorite Methodist memories?

Graduation each May is always a highlight. Seeing our students complete their journey – from their very first scan to passing boards – is the best part of the job.

One moment that really stands out was when a pregnant volunteer came to the NMC sonography lab for a practice scan. While our lab is not used for diagnostic purposes –  and we always emphasize that volunteers are for student learning and practice only – this particular session took an unexpected turn. The student noticed something unusual, and our registered sonography instructor, Mandi Tanner, followed our incidental finding process and made sure the volunteer received immediate care. The baby was delivered soon after and was healthy. Seeing how both the student and Mandi made such a difference for that family was incredibly moving.

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

Keisha Bosan, an associate professor in the Radiologic Technology Program, has been a great colleague over the years. We went through our doctoral programs and NMC’s Advancement in Rank process at the same time, which gave us the chance to support and encourage each other. Her passion for learning and drive to grow are inspiring. She brings positive energy to the workplace and makes work more enjoyable.

What should people know about Methodist, its mission and its culture?

At NMC, we focus on developing the skill set, mindset, and heart set of every student, faculty member and staff member. That approach shapes how we teach and how we support one another.

Service is also a big part of our culture at NMC. Whether it's through community projects or volunteer work – like offering free heart ultrasounds at the Healing Gift Free Clinic – we encourage students to use their skills to give back. The goal is to build a habit of service that continues throughout their careers.