Erin Murray, NP, has been named Altru Health System’s provider of the quarter for quarter four of 2021. Here’s a chance to get to know a bit more about Erin.
Why did you choose to work in healthcare?
Pursuing a degree in healthcare just felt right. The environment is constantly evolving to support patient needs with the latest science; this intrigues me. I continue to learn something new every day. Born and raised in Roseau, MN, I am lucky to be able to serve the same community that helped raise me.
What is your educational background and career history?
After working as a certified nursing assistant throughout high school and college, I graduated from Bemidji State University with my Bachelor of Science in nursing. I then pursued a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from The College of St. Scholastica. For the past 5 years, I have worked as a family nurse practitioner atAltru Clinic in Roseau, MN.
What is the best part about your job?
Hands down my patients. They are why I do what I do. Seeing their resilience to challenge is truly inspiring. I am fortunate to assist them in achieving their health goals. My patients drive me to be the best provider and person I can be. Their pre-covid hugs were also a special highlight!
What has been the best day/moment of your career so far?
This is a tough one, there are just too many to count. Each day has a “best part”, I try to focus on that.
What or who do you feel has had the biggest impact on your career so far?
My colleagues and co-workers. I look up to each of them, no matter their role. This team is world-class, and I am proud to be a part of it. They are always ready to conquer the next challenge and to support you when you need them. In the last two years, they have endured countless pandemic-related challenges. The synergy to adapt and overcome has been phenomenal.
How does working at Altru support your lifestyle?
My family of co-workers at Altru have been there for me on some of my happiest, and also darkest days. Without hesitation, they have stepped in to support me in those moments.
Outside of the office, what are your hobbies?
We love family time! Most of my free time is spent with my husband and our 2 kiddos. We love spending time outdoors, and when time allows seeing new places. We spend a lot of time behind the windshield going to see extended family.
What excites you most about Altru’s future?
I am excited to see the constant growth in services that allows our patients access to the latest treatment and technology.
How do you measure success?
I am not certain success can be objectively measured. Success is different for everyone. Success, to me, in part, is recognizing that perfection is not obtainable. It welcomes an environment to constantly refocus our goals and our attitudes to be the best that we can be.
What inspires you?
My community. Have you seen a small community rally behind a family in need? Or work together to tackle a flood? A pandemic? It is inspiring!!
If you had an extra hour every day, what would you spend it doing?
Try something new. A new recipe, game, book; anything. You just never know what activities will bring joy.
Who have been your mentors?
I am blessed to have many strong mentors in my life, it is hard to choose just one. Growing up on a dairy and small grains farm I always looked up to my parents’ hard work. Regardless of weather or situation, the chores still needed to get done, the cows needed to be milked, and, perhaps most importantly, the kittens needed to be snuggled. I took the kitten chore very seriously! After losing my Dad this year, I hope to be a strong role model for others, as he was to me.
