Trust, training, and timing

Nurses expect to save lives. 

But Amanda Howard, Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice, didn’t expect to save one at her graduation dinner.

Just hours after earning her doctorate, Amanda was celebrating with family when a waitress suddenly asked, "Is there a doctor present?"

“I initially thought she was joining in the celebration of my graduation,” Amanda said. “Once I realized she was serious, I didn't hesitate. I immediately stood up and followed her without asking any questions.”

In the kitchen, she found a line chef lying on the floor—no pulse. Her years of training immediately kicked in. 

“My focus shifted entirely to assessing the situation and providing lifesaving care,” Amanda said. “There was no time to think about anything other than helping him.”

Thanks to Amanda's quick actions, the chef survived.

Amanda's story quickly spread across social media and news outlets, shining a spotlight on the skill, compassion, and readiness nurses bring wherever they go. Amanda is humbled by the response she’s received. 

“I never expected that simply responding the way I was trained would resonate with so many people,” she said. “It reminded me that nurses are trusted members of their communities, both inside and outside of the workplace.”

While Amanda certainly didn’t expect or plan for this to happen on her graduation day, the experience reinforced why she chose the profession in the first place. 

“It reminded me that being a nurse—and soon to be a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist—isn't simply a job; it's a lifelong commitment to serving others,” she said. “Our knowledge and skills don't stay within the walls of a hospital or operating room. They have the potential to save lives anywhere, at any time.”

Amanda made an impression that day, much like the nurses who first inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare. 

As a child, Amanda experienced a serious illness and witnessed firsthand the compassion and expertise of the nurses who cared for her and her family. From that moment on, she knew: when she grew up, she wanted a career where she could make a difference. 

Amanda looks forward to beginning her career as a certified registered nurse anesthetist, providing expert, compassionate care to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. Her Sigma membership reflects that same commitment to leadership, lifelong learning, and service.

“As I begin this next chapter as a CRNA, I am proud to be part of an organization that encourages professional growth and service to others,” she said.  “Sigma reminds me that nursing is more than clinical expertise—it is about leading with integrity, advancing the profession through evidence-based practice, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, colleagues, and the communities we serve.”

Looking ahead, the story of saving a life on her graduation day will become just one of many stories of excellence, service, and decisive action that will define her legacy.

But regardless of where her journey takes her next, Amanda is honored to have shared her story.

“If my experience encouraged even one person to learn CPR or inspired someone to pursue a career in nursing, then sharing my story was worthwhile.”

Amanda Howard, Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice, began her career in a skilled nursing facility, before transitioning to the emergency department where she spent three years caring for patients in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment. Seeking to further expand her critical care knowledge and skills, Amanda then went on to work in both the Heart and Vascular ICU (HVICU) and Medical ICU (MICU). These experiences challenged her—and strengthened her—and ultimately inspired her to pursue a career in nurse anesthesia. Amanda received her Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia from Cedar Crest College in May 2026.