Stacey Grunewald graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1987 with a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN). Many of you may remember her positive attitude, smiling face, and the genuine care she has for students at UMN Crookston. She has been the Nursing Professional RN on campus for 25 years.
When this position opened, she was employed in acute care at RiverView Health in Crookston. The full-time day job aspect of this position was appealing from a nurse’s perspective. She is grateful for that part of her job but has come to love one thing even more: the students. Nurse Stacey, as she’s commonly referred to, says the most rewarding part of her job is watching the growth and transformation of students as they progress through their academic career at UMN Crookston. She states, “the high level of excitement and the opportunistic mindset the students bring to campus every day is contagious,” which she says enhances her own level of positivity and excitement to be at work
Grunewald has many fond memories of students who have graduated from UMN Crookston. Although it can be sad to watch students graduate knowing they won’t be returning to campus in the fall, one of her favorite things is to read about former students and see what they’ve accomplished. “It’s always exciting to see what they’re up to, whether they’re going on a new adventure, starting a family, moving somewhere, or starting a new job,” Grunewald stated, while sharing she finds a lot of these updates through the Torch and stays connected on Facebook.
Stacey Grunewald and Rose Ulseth participate in the photo booth during Homecoming
One of the students she mentioned was Brandy Chaffee 2000. That’s right, the chief development officer and director of University and Alumni Relations! Nurse Stacey was in the early stages of her career while Brandy was a student at UMN Crookston. She mentioned how fun it is to see Brandy back on campus, fulfilling her role, and continuing to make UMN Crookston a great place to be.
Grunewald loves living in a small town and her favorite restaurant in Crookston is the Irishman’s Shanty, owned by UMN Crookston alum, Paul Gregg 1977. When looking back on old traditions, she enjoyed campus holiday and spring fling events, being part of the UMC Women’s Association, and -- she also has quite a few funny student stories, but as a nurse she was compelled not to share. We can respect that, Stacey! She also enjoys the holiday potlucks with her friends in Student Affairs as well as coffee on Fridays. Most of all, Nurse Stacey loves working with students and thrives on the refreshing perspective young people continue to bring into the workplace.
Written for the Spring 2020 Torchlight e-Newsletter.
