Director of nursing works with her ‘favorite population’ every day

“In long-term care, we fall in love with your loved one,” said Susan Cross. “We didn’t know them before, but we do know them now and are honored for the opportunity to be a part of their lives and their family.”

Susan joined Wichita Presbyterian Manor in September 2018 as director of nursing. She previously was director of nursing for other senior living communities in the Wichita area. She also has experience as a nurse manager and worked in orthopedic and neurological trauma at Via Christi St. Francis.

Before entering the health care field, Susan worked as an administrative assistant at Brady Nursery for ten years. She completed the registered nursing program at Pratt Community College and received her bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Kansas. She has been married to her husband Rick for 13 years.

Though she once thought she would spend her career in a hospital setting, Susan has found her niche working in senior living communities. She is passionate about the population she serves.

“I’ve found LTC and skilled rehab settings a good fit for working with my favorite population while utilizing nursing skills,” she said.

The best part of her job is seeing residents thrive and knowing she has a part in making someone’s day a little brighter.

She also enjoys it when residents take a direct approach.

“I appreciate when a resident speaks honestly and openly to me and expresses their expectations, because that means they’re comfortable and they trust us,” she said.

“And that means we’re doing it right.”