Story 11 - Laura Williams Nielsen: Mentorship in Medicine
When Laura (Williams) Nielsen left for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1981, she had a six-year-old brother back home in Fremont, Nebraska. Although she missed daily contact with her brother, Laura found a meaningful connection through her NHRI mentee, Kelly Bare. Through NHRI, Laura learned that she thrives in one-on-one relationships and discovered that true leadership could flourish in intimate, individualized settings. Laura and Kelly were members of Child’s project, and they developed a strong relationship—so much so that Kelly was Laura’s flower girl at her wedding two weeks after her college graduation.
Kelly provided Laura with a young person to connect with during her college years, which aligned perfectly with her goal of becoming a pediatrician.
Laura first told her mother that she wanted to become a pediatrician in second grade, and she never wavered in her commitment to her career goal. Laura graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in 1989, and she completed the Minnesota Pediatric Residency Program in 1992.
Laura’s dedication to mentorship extends well beyond her years in NHRI. In her current role as the Medical Director of the Down Syndrome Clinic at Children’s Nebraska, she invests in medical students and pediatric residents, guiding them to develop their leadership skills as they embark on their careers. Amid a growing pediatric practice, she has found time to teach the next generation of doctors.
“I have found new energy and enjoyment in working with medical students and pediatric residents in developing their leadership skills and encouraging them to find ways to invest in others”
Reflecting on her NHRI experience, Laura emphasized the importance of empathy, a cornerstone of both her NHRI lessons and her professional journey in healthcare. She encourages future healthcare providers to practice empathy, as it fosters deeper patient relationships and compassionate care. “It is with this quality that you will make meaningful relationships with your patients and help them in setting positive goals for their health and their relationships.”
Laura’s story is a testament to NHRI’s lasting impact, as the lessons she learned have become an integral part of her life’s work. Laura was the recipient of the 1985 Stuart Award.
