Alumni Spotlight – Kathy Wells

Kathy, grew up in Lander, WY, as a member of one of the original pioneer families in the Lander Valley, and she always felt a strong connection to her community. Her childhood was filled with dreams of becoming a nurse, following in her mother’s footsteps, or perhaps a teacher. Little did she know that she would have the immense fortune of living out both of those dreams!

After graduating high school, she was accepted into Central Wyoming College’s (CWC) nursing program and earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in 1991. CWC was close to home, which meant Kathy had the comfort of her family nearby—an important factor during the long study nights and occasional tears. The reputation of CWC’s nursing program was stellar then, as it is today—one of the best in the state and beyond.

From there, she pursued her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Weber State University and later earned a Master’s in Nursing Education from the University of Wyoming in 2004. Eventually, Kathy completed her Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership from American Sentinel University in 2016. Through it all, she remained passionate about learning and nursing, two things that would define her professional path.

Kathy’s nursing career took her through many areas, from Medical Surgical and Labor & Delivery to her favorite roles in the ICU and Emergency Department. She even spent time as a travel nurse, experiencing healthcare in hospitals across Wyoming. Yet, one of the most rewarding moments came when she was asked to design a professional development program for nursing staff. This opportunity opened Kathy’s eyes to her love for teaching and mentoring others.

In 2000, she transitioned into academia, joining CWC as a nursing faculty member—a full-circle moment for her. Seven years later, she became Director of the Nursing Program, leading an exciting initiative that transformed nursing education in Wyoming: The ReNEW curriculum. This groundbreaking program unified nursing education across the state’s community colleges and the University of Wyoming, ensuring a more cohesive and comprehensive learning experience for future nurses.

Since 2016, she has served as Vice President of Academic Affairs at CWC, a role that allows her to blend her passion for education with strategic leadership. While this position keeps Kathy busy, she still finds joy in teaching leadership courses, mentoring future healthcare professionals, and volunteering as an accreditation site visitor.

Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband, their two adult sons, and their granddaughter. She cherishes the simple pleasures—golfing, camping, baking cookies, or reading a good book on her patio. These moments remind her of the values that have shaped her life: family, hard work, and community.

Reflecting on her journey, she is incredibly proud of the education she received at CWC, and is grateful to continue contributing to its legacy. CWC shaped not only her career but her family’s as well, with both of her siblings and sons attending the college. It seems they’ve made CWC a family tradition!