Jennifer Vo – 20 Under 40
Kerwin Medical Center
Education: Texas Tech University
Jennifer Vo advances Alzheimer’s disease research and care as a senior clinical operations manager at Kerwin Medical Center and outside of work in her charitable endeavors.
Vo, an acute care nurse practitioner of about 15 years, switched career paths to join Kerwin Medical Center, a medical practice focused on brain health, memory care, and movement disorders research.
“I began my career in nursing in a fast-paced environment, caring for those in critical need as an ICU nurse,” Vo said. “I’ve had the honor to work alongside some of the smartest and most caring nurses through my years. After several years at the hospital and after having a family of my own, I decided to take on a new journey of my career. This journey led me unexpectedly to what has grown to be my passion – research. Helping to find a cure and better therapies for Alzheimer’s and other rare dementias.”
Since joining Kerwin Medical Center, Vo has helped it grow into a renowned clinical research site part of organizations including the Global Alzheimer’s Platform, a nonprofit that supports more than 100 clinical research sites around the world through study startup and recruitment activities, promoting diversity in research studies, and recognizing the citizen scientists who make research possible.
Kerwin is also involved with the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which supports the organization’s efforts to provide Alzheimer’s care and support and accelerate research.
What is your biggest business/career success in the past 12 months?
Prior to me assuming the management role, our center was having challenges with staff retention. I would say my biggest success through these past 12 months has been growing the connections with the team, improving the work culture, and retaining happy and satisfied staff.
What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was at a pizza restaurant at the age of 16. I have (been) employed every day of my life since then, (except) for the two months I went on hiatus and was on search for another position (the one that I’ve been at for now the past seven years). With that first job, I learned the importance of good work ethic and dependability. It’s not about how old or smart you are; it’s about your trustworthiness and ability to not only do your job but to do it well.
Who’s your biggest inspiration and why?
My kids – my son (11 years old) and my daughter (8 years old). I want them to understand that we are blessed with an incredible life and that they could achieve anything in life. I want them to never settle for mediocre. We have a saying in the house to “Go into the world and do well, but more importantly go into the world and do good.”
