Manisa (Phophairat ’99, ’05 M.S.N.) Baker

Manisa (Phophairat ’99, ’05 M.S.N.) Baker is a clinical practitioner in the Comprehensive Cardiac Care Unit at Evanston Hospital in Evanston, Ill. Baker recently received the Leadership Award from Evanston Northwestern Healthcare for her contributions to the new graduate nurse internship program, which consists of a 12-week orientation period with protected learning time. She also helps develop curriculum for “classroom days,” when the graduate nurse refines his or her skills without the added pressure of a live patient. Baker also has served as a clinical instructor for the Loyola University School of Nursing.

Residence: Homewood, Ill.

Education: B.S.N., Valparaiso University, 1999; M.S.N. with an adult health clinical nurse specialist track, Valparaiso University, 2005

On her career: “My career has provided me with many opportunities, from being a medical renal nurse, a critical care nurse, to a clinical nurse specialist. It has challenged me and humbled me. I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to touch the lives of others, whether it’s through healing, comforting or educating them.”

On her Valpo education: “The challenges I faced when I was at Valpo only prepared me for bigger challenges I face today. I am grateful that my professors pushed me to be my best. Because of them, I am a better nurse. Valpo has given me the tools and the confidence that made me the nurse I am today.”