For Cheryl, a public health nurse at the Fishers Health Department (FHD), community health is more than a job—it’s a calling that found her during one of the most challenging times in recent history. A longtime Fishers resident, Cheryl began her career in nursing at St. Vincent Hospital after graduating from Ball State, but it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic that she discovered her passion for public health.
“I never saw myself in public health,” Cheryl admits. “But when COVID hit, and my husband was out of work, I joined the mass vaccination clinic at FHD. That experience opened my eyes to the impact you can make in such a short amount of time.”
Now, Cheryl is a key player in the FHD team, working four days a week with patients and handling administrative tasks like case management and vaccine inventory on the fifth. As Fishers continues to grow, so does the diversity of people Cheryl gets to meet and help.
“I love that we serve everyone,” she says. “Whether it’s a child getting back-to-school immunizations, an adult needing a flu vaccine, or someone new to the country catching up on required vaccines, we’re here for the whole community.”
One of Cheryl’s biggest surprises was the strong sense of connection she’s developed with the people of Fishers. “Even if I only see someone for 10 minutes, I can still make an impact. That’s what I love most—those brief interactions can be so meaningful.”
Cheryl’s work goes beyond routine immunizations. FHD also provides essential services like lead testing, TB testing, and adult flu and COVID vaccines. This fall, they’re preparing for an influx of school-aged children needing vaccinations, but they offer vaccines year-round. And with evening hours, FHD ensures parents can fit these critical health services into their busy schedules.
Looking ahead, Cheryl is excited about the department’s plans to expand services, including travel vaccines and more maternal and child health initiatives.
“We hope to offer even more ways to support our community’s health as we continue to grow and adapt to new challenges.”
When asked what she loves most about working at FHD, Cheryl doesn’t hesitate. “It’s the team. We’re adaptable—we pivot as needed to solve problems and provide the best care possible. I’m so proud of the impact we’re making on individual and community health.”
With Cheryl and the FHD team at the helm, the Fishers community is in good hands. Whether it’s immunization records, preventive care, or new services on the horizon, Cheryl’s commitment to her neighbors is clear:
“Vaccines save lives. We’re here to make sure you and your family are protected.”
