APP of the Quarter

Department of Anesthesiology — APP of the Quarter: December 2025

Katie Myler, an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, joined the Department of Anesthesiology in April 2022. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University, awarded in December 2021. Before embarking on her role as a Nurse Practitioner, Katie has accumulated valuable experience as a Cardiovascular ICU Nurse since 2016. This background inspired her to further her expertise in critical care and cardiac surgery. Currently, she serves in the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Units at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Missouri Baptist.

Katie was named the APP of the Quarter in Dec. 2025! Here is what her nominator has to say about her:

“Katie consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical expertise while also serving as a dedicated preceptor and mentor to new APPs and cross-trainees. She is highly regarded by CTI attendings for the knowledge she brings to rounds and her ability to teach complex concepts in a clear, supportive, and nonjudgmental way. Katie also contributes to our social and wellbeing committee and is always willing to lend a hand. Her positive attitude, professionalism, and commitment to others create a welcoming, high-performing team environment and truly reflect WashU values.”

Congratulations, Katie!

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter:
February 2022
September 2025

Shawn was named the APP of the Quarter in Feb. 2022 and Sept. 2025! Here is what his nominators have to say about him:

“Shawn consistently works to improve our APP group, advocate for our group, and enhance our knowledge base. Recently he has been putting in a tremendous amount of effort with the APP US courses and deserves special recognition for his steadfast daily efforts and also this large project he has taken on.”

“Shawn is an incredible leader and educator who sets the tone for our entire team through his openness, support, and dedication. He is genuinely invested in both strengthening our group as a whole and helping each of us grow individually. Whether he’s teaching, mentoring, problem-solving, or simply lending a hand, Shawn consistently goes above and beyond. His ability to balance patient care, leadership, and education is remarkable, and his humility and generosity—like personally supporting our mentorship program—speak volumes about the kind of person he is. We are truly fortunate to have Shawn, not only for the excellent patient care he provides, but for the way he lifts up and inspires every member of the team.”

Congratulations, Shawn!

Department of Anesthesiology — APP of the Quarter: June 2025

Michelle Rutter, AGACNP-BC, began her nursing career in 2012 in the Emergency Department (ED) at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. During her time in the ED, she served as a charge nurse and nurse educator. She earned her degree from Goldfarb School of Nursing in 2020. It was during her student rotation through the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) that she discovered her passion for critical care medicine, inspired by the supportive and collaborative environment created by the Advanced Practice Provider (APP) team.

In December 2020, Michelle joined the Critical Care APP team at WashU Medicine as a new APP. Since then, she has continued to grow as a provider and has taken on the role of preceptor and mentor for incoming APPs. She finds great fulfillment in guiding new team members as they evolve from novice clinicians into confident, proficient providers.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys life on a small farm with her husband, Drew, and their two daughters, Isabelle and Ellie. Their family includes several chickens, ducks, and two dogs. Her hobbies include running, gardening, reading, baking, traveling, and spending time with her family. She is also currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Goldfarb School of Nursing, with plans to complete the program in 2026.

Michelle has been named the June 2025 APP of the Quarter!

Known for her humility, compassion, and team spirit, Michelle has grown into a trusted and knowledgeable provider who consistently goes above and beyond for both patients and colleagues. Her nominator praised her empathy, dedication, and ability to handle even the most challenging situations with grace. A true team player and patient advocate, Michelle is deeply valued by all who work with her.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: March 2025

Originally from Sullivan, MO, Paige earned her undergraduate degree in biology from Columbia College. She began her healthcare journey in 2017 as a patient care technician to gain experience for physician assistant school. During her clinical training as a PA, she rotated through the SICU and later joined the WashU Medicine Critical Care APP team after graduating from SLU in December 2022.

Paige Cardoza, PA-C, has been nominated as the March 2025 APP of the Quarter!

Paige’s nominator highlighted her incredible dedication, sharing how she went above and beyond to plan a wedding for a patient’s daughter—ensuring the patient could be present for the special moment, complete with photos.

Beyond her clinical excellence, Paige is deeply involved in supporting PA students, mentoring colleagues, and serving on the Social & Well-Being Committee. Her colleagues consistently praise her willingness to help, even on the busiest shifts.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: December 2024

Holly Brooks, ACNP, has been nominated as the Q4 2024 APP of the Quarter for her outstanding dedication, compassion, and leadership. Holly’s unwavering commitment to her team, patients, and their families is truly inspiring. Holly’s nominator says that she goes above and beyond in every aspect of her work, creating a supportive and collaborative environment while consistently demonstrating excellence in patient care. Her positive energy, advocacy, and ability to connect with others make her an invaluable asset to the team and a shining example of what it means to lead with both heart and skill. Congratulations, Holly!

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: September 2024

Alex graduated from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) in December 2015. Shortly after, she relocated from Texas to Nashville, TN, to begin her nursing career at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in the Neuro ICU. She completed the intensivist track of the Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) program at Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing, with a focus on care within various ICU populations.

In October 2018, Alex joined the team as an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) within the Surgical and Trauma ICUs. Having grown up in a military family and moved frequently, transitioning to St. Louis, MO, presented unique challenges, fostering both personal and professional growth. Over the past two years, she has taken pride in leading the Social and Well-Being Committee, helping to create a supportive community within the group.

Since August 2023, Alex has been part of the SICU leadership team, where she initiated a mentorship program alongside co-director Teresa Hammann. Their goal is to provide new APPs with the guidance and resources needed to succeed in their roles. This summer, she had the opportunity to cross-train in the CTICUs, learning from the expertise of the providers there.

Outside of work, Alex and her spouse, Christian, live in a Victorian home with two rescue basset hounds, Pippi Longstocking and Willow Pill, as well as two cats, Kitty Purry and Elizabeth Taylor (affectionately known as Itty Bitty). Alex is also committed to maintaining hobbies such as running, yoga, sewing, and more recently, painting and ceramics.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: June 2024

Emily Ferrara Mandernach is an acute care nurse practitioner who joined the Department of Anesthesiology in July 2022. She graduated from Saint Louis University with her Master of Science in Nursing in December of 2021 where she was awarded the Leadership in Nursing award and Summa Cum Laude for her academic achievements. Prior to starting at Washington University, Emily worked as a critical care nurse in the Surgical, Trauma, and Burn ICU at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Her clinical time in the ICU has fueled her passion for critical care and continues to mold her into a strong and compassionate advanced practice provider. Working for Washington University has provided her with the opportunity to engage in various learning environments, participate in high-intensity interventions, and make vigilant decisions that impact a patient’s hospital journey.

Emily’s contribution to the profession extends beyond the ICU. She is also a clinical instructor at Saint Louis University and teaches nursing students hands-on training and provides real-world guidance. Additionally, Emily works as a contributing author and editor of various nursing exam review books and materials for Springer Publishing Company. She continues to write on topics related to her current cardiovascular expertise. Her dissemination of knowledge to others will continue to impact evidence-based care for cardiovascular patients and exemplifies the role of the nurse practitioner as an expert clinician and educator.

Outside of the hospital, Emily enjoys hiking adventures and traveling with her husband, Josh, visiting her family on the East Coast, cooking, and spending time with her dog, Louie, a Yorkshire Terrier mix.

Emily was named Q2 2024 APP of the Quarter!

Her nominator says, “Emily consistently demonstrates exceptional qualities that make her a standout member of the team. Her kindness, helpfulness, and extensive knowledge base have significantly energized and uplifted our group. She approaches every interaction with genuine warmth and empathy, creating a positive and welcoming environment for both colleagues and patients. Her ability to make everyone feel valued and heard is a testament to her compassionate nature.”

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: March 2024

Adam Sampson, DMSc, PA-C, is a physician assistant who joined the Department of Anesthesiology in 2017 as a new graduate. Prior to becoming a PA, Adam was a respiratory therapist and shift coordinator at Barnes-Jewish Hospital (BJH), and then a respiratory therapy supervisor at St. Louis Children’s Hospital working in the NICU on high risk neonatal transport. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy in 2007, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management in 2009, a Master of Physician Assistant Studies in 2017, and a Doctor of Medical Science in 2021.

In his free time, you can find Adam working on his artwork (some of which is displayed in 8200 ICU), birding in places like Costa Rica, or competing in national volleyball tournaments.

Adam was named Q1 2024 APP of the Quarter!

His nominator says that he is an invaluable member of the CTI nightshift, praised for his expertise and supportiveness by both colleagues and leadership. He excels as a mentor, consistently aiding new providers and nurses. Adam’s proactive approach to workflow improvements and dedication to team well-being make him a pleasure to work with, and his presence on the nightshift ensures a smoother experience for all.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: January 2024

Sean Miller has been working in medicine for the past 18 years. He began working as a Paramedic for both rural and suburban EMS districts. He spent two years of his EMS career with a focus on critical care pediatric transport with St. Louis Children’s Hospital. He later entered St. Louis University’s Physician Assistant Program where he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree in 2014.

He first gained experience as a PA in primary care outpatient medicine but later transitioned to the ER. He completed an ER fellowship and remained with the ER for additional training. After completing his ER training, he entered Urgent Care medicine where he has spent the bulk of his career. Most recently, Sean’s drive for professional growth allowed him to begin work at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis in the Cardiothoracic ICU. When not working at WashU he returns to SLU as an Adjunct Faculty member providing lectures in EKG analysis while co-managing the orthopedic, cardiac, and GU/Renal modules. In 2023, he began operating Rapid Med Ed, LLC, which is a St. Louis-based training organization for all AHA courses and much more. He and his wife have 3 growing boys ages 10, 8, and 6. They all enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach for much-needed relaxation. Fun fact, he has enjoyed Martial Arts for over 25 years and currently holds a 4th degree black belt!

Sean was named Q4 2023 APP of the Quarter!

His nominator says, “Sean undeniably deserves the APP of the quarter award for his relentless commitment to personal growth and improvement. He consistently strives to enhance his skills and knowledge, demonstrating a remarkable dedication to self-betterment. Sean’s infectious smile has become a symbol of positivity within the group, uplifting everyone around him. Beyond his professional achievements, it’s his warm and approachable demeanor that sets him apart. In any situation, Sean brings a genuine sense of warmth that fosters a collaborative and supportive environment. His ability to radiate positivity and create a welcoming atmosphere is truly commendable, making him not only an exceptional friend but also a source of inspiration for others.”

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: April 2025

Sean has spent the past 18 years working in medicine. He began as a paramedic, including two years focused on critical care pediatric transport at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. In 2014, he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree from the St. Louis University Physician Assistant Program. After gaining primary care experience, he transitioned to emergency medicine, completed an APP fellowship, and spent most of his PA career in urgent care.

In 2023, Sean joined WashU Medicine, working in the Cardiothoracic ICU. Alongside his clinical work, he serves as an adjunct faculty member at SLU, teaching EKG analysis and other medical topics. He also operates Rapid Med Ed, LLC, a St. Louis-based training organization offering AHA provider courses and CPR/First Aid.

Sean and his wife have three sons (ages 11, 9, and 7), and they enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach. A martial arts enthusiast for over 25 years, Sean holds a 4th-degree black belt.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: October 2023

Nicky is one of the APP Leads for the 56/82 CTICUs. She graduated from Goldfarb School of Nursing AGACNP program in 2017. Before becoming an NP, Nicky worked the previous 12 years as a bedside nurse in 56ICU at BJH. Her passion is heart failure and mechanical life support. Outside of work, Nicky loves spending time with her husband and three children at the lake and family farm in Ste Genevieve.

Nicky was named the Q3 2023 APP of the Quarter!

Her nominator says, “Nicky’s dedication, commitment, and positive influence set a high standard for our group. She’s always there to support her colleagues and works tirelessly to improve our CTICU.”