A nurse spends 60 years nursing at St. Vincent

For Ann Andersen, nursing has always been more than a job. At Ascension St. Vincent Evansville, her nursing career has been shaped by a lifelong calling to care for others.

Her journey began in 1956, when she entered St. Mary’s School of Nursing. Inspired from a young age to care for others, Ann followed that calling with purpose and determination, graduating in 1959 and beginning a career that continues to this day.

Over the years, Ann has cared for patients in nearly every corner of the hospital, including the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Emergency Department, Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), Dialysis, Surgery, Med-Surg, and now Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). Each role shaped her skills and perspective, but she found her greatest connection in the ER, PACU, and now in ECT, where she continues to serve patients with compassion and consistency.

One of her favorite memories reflects her commitment beyond daily work.

“One of the moments that stands out most to me was a mission trip to Jamaica around 2000 with coworkers and physicians. Being able to care for others was incredibly meaningful and something I’ll always remember,” she said.

Ann has remained at Ascension St. Vincent for most of her career because it feels like home. “I feel like I grew up here. It’s where I built my career and raised my family. I had my three daughters during my time here, and two of them followed me into nursing.”

To Ann, the people she works with are more than colleagues. They are family.

“Working with Ann has been such a gift. She brings so much knowledge and heart to everything she does. She has supported and mentored so many of us, and you can see the impact she’s had on both patients and staff every single day," Dana Hansen, Ascension St. Vincent Evansville ECT Coordinator. 

When asked what advice she would offer to new nurses, her answer is heartfelt and direct.

“Stay with it, even on the hard days. It’s worth it. Nursing is a deeply rewarding career, and you’ll make lifelong friends along the way.”

Ann Andersen’s story is one of dedication, compassion, and purpose. She continues to show what it means to build a career rooted in caring for others and staying committed through every stage of the journey.

During National Nurses Week, we celebrate the impact of nurses everywhere, and Ann’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one nurse can make over a lifetime.