From the Philippines to Peoria, Holloway has made her mark… in healthcare and beyond.
Jasmine Holloway, RN, MSN is director of the Care Coordination Center at UnityPoint Health – Methodist l Proctor. She graduated with a bachelor of nursing degree in 1975 while living in the Philippines and has worked as a mission nurse and home care nurse; in medical/surgical units, the cardiovascular intensive care unit and nursing staff development; and as a patient educator, preceptor, informatics nurse, manager and director. She first worked in the Philippines and then in New Jersey before coming to Methodist.
In her professional career, Jasmine is most proud of Methodist receiving the first Magnet hospital designation in downstate Illinois. She has also had the opportunity to be an international speaker in the areas of nursing, motivational topics, lead IT, call center and staff development. She earned her graduate degree from Bradley University and was one of Peoria’s 25 Women in Leadership in 2006.
Holloway participates in a range of community activities, from serving as coordinator of Snyder Village Sunday Services for 12 years to volunteering for the United Way and the American Heart Association. She has also developed and leads the Downstate Illinois Magnet Consortium Education Committee for the Magnet national conference.
Her husband, Greg, has been a manager at Caterpillar for the past 39 years. Together, they are the parents of Audrey, head coach of the University of Illinois synchronized skating team, and Justin, who works for a health agency. Holloway has two grandsons: Logan, three, and Lincoln, one.
How would you describe the feeling, being named Leader of the Year?
A humbling experience, but I felt very proud for the recognition.
Did you think of anyone in particular after you received word of this recognition?
I thought about my parents—both are deceased—and my family, but I thought more of my being from the Philippines. I was poor growing up, and never thought I would have the opportunities that I have been blessed with.
In your nursing career, what moment has been the most touching for you?
The opportunity to hold a patient’s or family member’s hand to tell them how much I care.
Is there a particular patient story that you carry with you each day?
Successfully delivering a baby in a car by myself. The baby was born on the way to the hospital.
When mentoring students and/or new nurses, what brings you the most pleasure?
I love seeing them succeed.
Methodist was the first downstate medical center to receive Magnet status. Upon receiving the news, what was that like for you?
It’s a dream come true for nursing and for Methodist.
For anyone thinking about becoming a nurse, what one thing would you share with them?
Nursing is an act of love. If you become a nurse for any other reason, you are in the wrong profession.
In your opinion, what is the most critical quality every great leader must possess?
Excellence: “the result of caring more than others think is wise; risking more than others think is safe; dreaming more than others think is practical, and expecting more than others think is possible.” [Ronnie Oldham]
What was your favorite childhood moment?
Playing outside all year round. Laughing, singing and dancing while growing up in the Philippines.
What has been the highlight of your life so far?
Grandsons! Being a grandmother is a wonderful place to be.
Did you have a favorite “mom” moment while raising your two children?
My daughter was an ice skater and my son was a singer, both by choice. Attending their shows and programs was always one of the highlights of my “mom” life. It validated us as good parents who allowed our children to fly and be the best they can be—enjoying the things they love.
How are you different as a grandmother than you were as a mom?
Grandmothering is wonderful, as it allows you to enjoy the experience to the fullest. It does not have the restrictions and expectations of a mom except maybe to love.
Name a movie that touched you deeply and why?
Alice—I loved the book and the movie. It gives a different perspective of Alzheimer’s from a patient point of view. As a nurse, it gave me a very interesting picture of the disease. As a friend of family or patients with Alzheimer’s, it makes you look at another perspective in understanding behaviors.
Where/what is your dream vacation and why?
My husband and I love to travel. My favorite city is Paris, hands down. I love the ambiance in Paris—a compact city that one can walk around, with lots of beautiful old structures, museums, bridges and gardens. It has lots of history. I can get the best croissants and crepes, and I love the shopping, too! iBi