From student and athlete to health coach and registered dietitian, Haley brings her passion for wellness back to the community that helped shape her.

Coming Home: A Heartfelt Decision Rooted in Faith, Gratitude & Connection

For Haley Hittner, coming home to work in Saunders County wasn’t just a career move — it was a heartfelt decision rooted in faith, gratitude, and connection.

“I desired a new opportunity to work more with patients and clients of all ages and backgrounds,” she shared. “I also wanted to connect more of my own personal background, hobbies, passions, and nutrition expertise with my patients. In a smaller, familiar community setting, that became much more possible.”

Haley grew up surrounded by the values that define Saunders County — faith, family, and helping neighbors. When she stepped into Saunders Medical Center for her interview, she immediately knew it was the right fit.

“Everyone I met at SMC was so positive, welcoming, friendly, and relatable,” she said. “An inviting work environment allows a person to feel valued, connected, and supported — and I really appreciated that about SMC.”

Now, as a Health Coach and Registered Dietitian, Haley combines her professional expertise with a personal touch that only comes from understanding the people she serves.

“It’s fulfilling and rewarding to give back to a community that gave me so much growing up.”

She loves that in a close-knit community, care goes deeper. “There’s a strong sense of faith and family values here,” Haley explained. “People trust and care for one another. It’s an ideal environment to practice healthcare — where professionals feel valued, supported, and empowered to walk alongside their patients on their health journeys.”

Returning home has also shaped Haley’s view of patient care. “Healthcare is — and should be — very personal and patient-centered,” she said. “It’s about connecting with people, not just diagnosing or treating problems.”

At Saunders Medical Center, Haley is excited to continue growing the nutrition program while collaborating with other departments to enhance the level of care across the organization. “What excites me most is helping lead and expand our nutrition and health coaching programs, while working with excellent providers and staff,” she said.

Her advice to others considering a return to their roots?

“There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve made a positive difference in someone’s life — especially in your hometown.”

With her passion, education, and community spirit, Haley Hittner is helping Saunders County thrive — one healthy connection at a time.