Member Spotlight: Ann Bishop

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition?

I became interested in the Southside Wellness Coalition’s work to address the opioid epidemic in 2018 because my job at the time, as Director of the Southside VA Area Health Education Center, included efforts to educate the public and healthcare providers about the impact of opioid abuse. I remained active in the group after I retired in 2019 because of personal interest in reducing the impact of substance abuse, especially for the next generation.

What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest challenges?

One of our biggest challenges is continually adapting to, and taking advantage of, changes in economic opportunities as some industries decline and others emerge throughout the region. I want to see the next generation adapt and thrive.

What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest strengths?

We have a committed core of citizens who are committed to community service in ways that will strengthen our communities’ health and hope for the future.

If you are employed outside your home, what kind of work do you do?

I am working as a nurse educator at the Center of Nursing Excellence, part of the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC) in South Boston, for fall semester 2020. I am a Registered Nurse, and I have worked in multiple settings as a nurse over the past 30 years.

What is your favorite quote?

“The only difference between fiction and reality is that fiction has to be believable.”

– Mark Twain