From Wahoo to large hospitals and back again — Chelsea brings her leadership and experience home to strengthen healthcare in Saunders County.
Chelsea Russell — Coming Home to Care for Her Community
RN, BSN, CEN
Hospital Director of Nursing
For Chelsea Russell, returning to Wahoo was always part of the plan.
“Initially, my husband and I wanted to return to Wahoo to raise our growing family,” Chelsea shared. “Over time, I wanted to contribute to the community with the skills and knowledge I’ve learned in my career.”
After gaining valuable experience in larger hospitals, Chelsea realized how much her hometown meant to her — and how much of an impact she could make here. “I knew I wanted to bring that knowledge and leadership back home to make a difference where it matters most — in my own community.”
Now serving as Director of Nursing at Saunders Medical Center, Chelsea leads with compassion, connection, and a deep sense of pride in the people she serves. “It’s incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I don’t just see patients — I see teachers, parents of my kids’ friends, neighbors, and members of my church. There’s a trust and accountability that comes with caring for people who I already have a personal connection with.”
For Chelsea, what makes working at Saunders Medical Center special is the culture — one that values both high-quality care and close-knit relationships. “SMC truly cares about its people and the community,” she said. “I saw the opportunity to blend my leadership and clinical experience with an organization that shares my values.”
Returning home has shaped Chelsea’s approach to care in meaningful ways. “It’s made me more intentional about listening and meeting people where they are,” she said. “I see the bigger picture — not just their health, but their role in the community. It’s deepened my empathy and my commitment to holistic care.”
Her advice to other healthcare professionals?
“Don’t underestimate the impact you can have by returning home. Every effort directly benefits people you know and care about. There’s something special about working in a place where connections run deep — where patients aren’t just names on a chart but people whose lives intersect with yours in meaningful ways.”
Chelsea’s leadership helps ensure that Saunders County families can count on excellent healthcare close to home — care built on trust, compassion, and a legacy of service.
