Dear Colleagues,
I recently had the privilege of visiting the Missouri University Psychiatric Center (MUPC) huddle, joined by Shanon Fucik, our chief nursing executive, and Lori Popejoy, dean of the Sinclair School of Nursing. We were welcomed by Theresa Issacs, director of nursing and clinical operations for MUPC.
What stood out most to me was the remarkable range of experience in the room. On one end, three team members who all joined MUPC nearly 30 years ago! Clinical Supervisor for Therapy Services David McSpadden, House Supervisor Missy Jost and Business Support Coordinator Karla Wiseman. As Missy put it, “1994 was a good year!”
On the other end of the room, four new team members who had just completed orientation were invited to observe the huddle. That group included mental health technicians Aaron Tebbe, Pascal Rugenerwa, Violet Mogoi and registered nurse Ogonna Ugochukwu. It was inspiring to see both seasoned veterans and new talent contributing to the same mission.
The huddle, led by Clinical Educator Jessica Patten, was a model of structure, efficiency and camaraderie. The team addressed safety issues, shared celebrations — including recognition from Dr. Sarah Swofford, MUHC Chief of Staff, and even an MU football victory — and then worked through patient flow, unit updates, referrals, discharges, and operational needs. Manager of Patient and Family Support Services Liz Watkins shared updates and even unusual challenges (a drone sighting outside the facility) with professionalism and clarity.
It was also heartening to see leaders set an example beyond the hospital walls. Theresa and Shanon wrapped up the morning by heading out to volunteer at the food bank. The huddle closed with Jessica’s energetic call: “This concludes Tier 2 MUPC huddle. Go team!”
What I witnessed was a team that is highly organized, purposeful, and committed to their patients and each other. The balance of experience, teamwork, and spirit of service at MUPC is exactly what makes our health system strong. It was a joy to see employees with more than 30 years of service standing alongside those just three days into their careers all united in advancing care for patients.
Sincerely,
Rick Barohn, MD
Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs and Hugh E. and Sarah D. Stephenson Dean, School of Medicine
rbarohn@health.missouri.edu
