College of Nursing Grad Uses Army Medic Training to Earn Nursing Degree

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 2, 2018) – Shannon Beebe knew from a young age she wanted to help people. Inspired by her mother who was a nurse, Shannon grew up watching her work in a clinic, interacting with doctors and patients.

"I just saw the rewards that were in that field," said Shannon. "There's a joy in giving and that's where I'm at. I just love to give to people."

In 2002, Shannon explored ways to make that dream a reality. As a mother, she knew she would need assistance to finance her nursing education. Under the GI Bill, members of the military can get financial help with college. So Shannon joined the army.

After completing basic training in January 2003, Shannon was stationed in Ft. Sam Houston where she received her medic training. She honed her skills at Brooke Army Medical Center, which is the military's largest and busiest medical center, and at Dwight D. Eisenhower Medical Center at Ft. Gordon. She also spent time at Madigan Army Medical Center at Ft. Lewis where she worked with soldiers deploying to and returning from assignments, educating them on vaccinations and immunizations. During her service, Shannon was recognized with numerous accolades including the War on Terrorism medal. She officially separated from service on August 10, 2010.

While researching colleges, Shannon discovered the MedVet-BSN program at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing. In the program, veterans can use their military medical training towards their Bachelor of Nursing Science degree. Qualifying students can complete the BSN in five semesters.

Shannon's six years in the army prepared her for the rigors of the program.

"As a medic in the army, it teaches you a lot of discipline, which is definitely  something you need going into a program as fast and furious as the nursing program," said Shannon.

What's more remarkable than Shannon's devotion to serving her country and helping others is that she earned her degree while working full time and raising five children.

"I've made many sacrifices to get to where I'm at and so has my family," said Shannon. "It's not just about me. It's about setting my family up for their future as well."

"The day I met Shannon, I knew she would be successful in our program," said Frances Hardin-Fanning, assistant professor in the College of Nursing and MedVet-BSN Track Coordinator. "The example she has set for her children was first and foremost in her mind from the very beginning. I know her children are proud of her!"

“On behalf of the entire College, we are extraordinarily proud of Shannon and her accomplishments as a student and a veteran of the United States Military," said Janie Heath, dean of the UK College of Nursing. "She has been an asset to the MedVet-BSN Program, and we look forward to seeing where she takes her experiences.”

After graduation, Shannon will work at UK's Chandler Hospital in the progressive medicine unit while earning her master's degree in nurse executive leadership.

Her family is inspired by her hard work. Shannon's 18-year-old son talks about joining the military, and her 16-year-old daughter wants to explore medical career options. Regardless of the paths they choose, Shannon has worked hard to set an example and to teach them to help others.

"I don't really feel like a hero," said Shannon. "The things I do on a daily basis are not because I'm looking for recognition, but I want to leave a legacy. If nothing else, I've raised children that have a mindset that they want to help people as well. It's just important to me that we all give a little more."