Committing to lifelong learning with Melissa McCallum

For National Nursing Week, the School of Nursing is highlighting an esteemed alumna member and this year’s Bernice King Lectureship speaker.

Melissa McCallum, executive director of the Greater Hamilton Health Network and McMaster School of Nursing clinical assistant professor, has left a permanent mark on the healthcare community. Possessing over 15 years of experience, she has been involved in health system planning and integration activities across community, hospital, and social sectors.

Her journey with McMaster began with a connection to Hamilton, a city she felt drawn to even as a young girl. “I remember saying I would live in Hamilton,” she reflects, “even though I didn’t grow up here.” Inspired by her father, who also attended McMaster University, she eagerly applied to the nursing program.

How did your experience at McMaster University shape your career path afterwards?

My experience at McMaster University provided me with a strong foundation in nursing and healthcare knowledge. I learned the value of hard work, working within teams and the importance of critical thinking. In my last year, I had two amazing clinical experiences that led to my first nursing role in the ER right out of school. I remain so grateful for this opportunity in my last year, I believe it shaped me into the nurse I am today.

Do you have any favourite memories from your time at McMaster? Whether it be while you were a student or more recently as a clinical assistant professor?

I have so many fond memories of my time as an undergrad in the nursing program. The unique thing about the McMaster nursing program is that the cohort of students really get to know each other. We became a peer support network in a way, supporting and encouraging each other throughout the years. More recently, I have had the chance to come back and teach in the nursing program and I am blown away by the diversity of thought, life experiences and empathy students have. Teaching has really renewed my passion for nursing.

What are some valuable lessons you have learned throughout your career?

I have learned so many valuable lessons throughout my career, too many to count. I will reflect on my top three. Firstly, I learned how important nurses are to the healthcare landscape and how privileged we are to experience people’s best and worst days. I have never taken this for granted, people remember who is with them during trying times. Secondly, I learned the value of connection with humans. This happens on the front line but also in leadership roles. At the heart of nursing work, we are trying to create health and well-being for people, these connections are vital. Lastly, I learned the value of committing to lifelong learning. The beautiful thing about nursing work is that it is never static, there is so much to learn and so much room to grow.

How does it feel to be chosen to speak at the annual Bernice King Lectureship?

I feel beyond honoured and grateful to be chosen. Nursing is a core part of my life, and being asked to speak to it is incredible. I am excited to speak to my own experiences through nursing and how these have shaped me in ways I do not think any other career path could have. Personally, I have known Bernice King for six years now and she exudes what being a passionate nurse is – I have learned so many valuable things from Bernice. I am flattered to be considered for such a distinction.

 Is there someone that has mentored you or that you have looked up to throughout your career?

I have had the privilege to have mentors throughout my nursing career. Due to my varied nursing roles, I have had mentors from a clinical, leadership and educational perspective. I would describe this as “having a mentor for the season of my career” – not just one person, but several who have motivated me to be a better person and nurse. I think it is important to seek out several people for advice and guidance, I feel this has allowed me to have well-rounded perspectives on a variety of topics.

What advice do you have to current nursing students?

You have chosen the best career path out there! The nursing program can be challenging, but my advice would be to see it through. The opportunities for nurses are endless and you can enjoy a career that expands across diverse experiences. Make sure you take care of yourself, nursing can be demanding from an emotional and physical perspective, do not lose sight of listening to your own needs. Lastly, take advantage of the many specialities and areas of nursing throughout your education and career, ask questions, try something new, embrace the beauty of lifelong learning nursing has to offer.

You can register to attend the 2024 Bernice King Lectureship where McCallum will be presenting her lecture titled “My Era’s Tour: Nursing Edition.” She will take a look at each of the “era’s” throughout her career and how each has taught her different lessons.

In partnership with St. Joseph’s Healthcare, the School of Nursing is hosting the hybrid lectureship on June 19th in the lower auditorium at St. Joseph’s Healthcare, West 5th Campus. Registration to attend either in person or virtually is now open and can be found here.

McCallum’s story exemplifies the impact of education, experience, and unwavering dedication. As we celebrate National Nursing Week, let us honour the contributions of remarkable individuals like her who continue to shape the future of healthcare.