Linda Jane Knodel, MSN, MHA, NE-BC, CPQH, FACHE

Linda Knodel first realized she wanted to become a nurse when she was in the fourth grade—that's when she had an opportunity to be a candy striper in her hometown hospital, and where she also discovered her inspiration and passion for nursing.One of the reasons she enjoyed working in the hospital was the opportunity to observe the caring and compassionate work of the nurses. They intrigued and inspired her, and she eagerly took every opportunity to assist. One day, Linda was able to convince a 103-year-old patient to eat for her. The elderly woman was a challenging patient and ate for very few of the nursing staff. Linda counted this as a blessing and an opportunity. Day after day, she returned, visiting the woman and other patients to serve as she was able. That passion to serve stayed with her throughout her formative years.Following the advice of her high school guidance counselor, Linda enrolled in a nursing school in Fargo, North Dakota. This local school gave her many patient care experiences, which validated her early passion for and commitment to nursing as a career choice. She has never looked back.Linda's career path has led her into the highest echelons of leadership. Along that path, she was fortunate to have many nursing mentors and leaders who inspired her also to lead, not only at the local, state, and regional levels, but now at the national level. This brings us to this brief interview with Linda Knodel, now at the forefront of her profession as she assumes the presidency of the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE). As Linda prepares to be sworn in at this year's annual meeting, we asked her to share how nursing has brought her to this place in her career.