Jennifer Passanise

As a family nurse practitioner with St. John’s Pediatric Neurosurgery, Passanise assists pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Sami Khoshyomn in pre- and post-operative education and occasional surgical procedures. Many of the pediatric patients have special neurological needs or have been in an accident.

Passanise holds undergraduate degrees in nursing and psychology, and she earned her master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner from Missouri State University.

Passanise said God, her husband and entire family have been influential in her career. Her grandmother, who had a bachelor’s degree in nursing in the 1940s, specifically set a good example to follow.

“My grandmother remembers when penicillin was first introduced, when syringes were made of glass, needles were re-sharpened for reuse, and nurses were to stand when a doctor walked into the room,” Passanise said. “She gave me insight about the history on the profession of nursing and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.”

Passanise is actively involved in the community through several organizations, including the Junior League of Springfield, Villages in Progress, American Cancer Society. She is a supporter of the Breast Cancer Awareness program, American Heart Disease Association, Ronald McDonald House, The Kitchen Clinic, Parents as Teachers, American Dental Society and Children’s Miracle Network.

Passanise said she wants to educate others about the needs of underprivileged children in the community and hopes to grow in her role with Dr. Khoshyomn.

Born: 1972

If you were faced with a difficult business decision, from whom would you seek advice, and why? I would seek advice from my husband, Joe, because he has an objective view on life and has an excellent business mind.

What book do you currently have open? This is going to sound awfully boring, but actually I am reading a book titled, “Pediatric Neurosurgery.”

Quote to live by: “… Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path …”[[In-content Ad]]