APP of the Quarter

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."

Melissa graduated with a BSN from the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith, in 2011 and obtained her MSN, Adult Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) from the University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, in 2020. She has practiced as an RN in the SICU at Northwest Medical Center, Springdale, Arkansas, from 2011-2013 and the CVICU at Washington Regional Medical Center, Fayetteville, from 2013-2020. While at Washington Regional, Melissa served as Nurse Residency Facilitator and Critical Care Coordinator. Melissa joined the APP group in September 2020 and staff in the CTICUs.

Melissa was named the Q2 2021 APP of the Quarter! Her nominator says, "She is highly motivated and took initiative by looking up patients before her shifts and studying at home with any procedures or devices she wasn’t familiar with. You can tell she cares about her patients and is always advocating for them. She also is a great team player, and I know I can always count on her if I need help."

Shawn is one of the APP Leads for the 44/78 ICUs as well as ACT/Codes for North Tower. He graduated from DeSales University and has been a Physician Assistant for 13.5 years. Shawn has worked in the Emergency Room, Neuro ICU, and is currently in the Trauma/Surgical ICU. Shawn is happily married and has two beautiful daughters. He is currently in the Army National Guard. Outside of work Shawn loves spending time with his wife and children, working out, and renovating their lake house.

Shawn was named the Q4 2021 APP of the Quarter! “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.” Congratulations, Shawn!

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.

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."

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.

Kevin began his career in healthcare in 2005 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital as a Respiratory Therapist, followed by Physician Assistant school at Saint Louis University—graduating in 2015. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my APP career with full-time work in Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and now Critical Care Medicine," says Kevin. "Each area has helped me to grow my knowledge of medicine. I truly love my career and hope to share this passion with my surrounding peers and the community we serve." In his free time, he enjoys camping, hiking, reading, watching re-runs of old TV shows and movies, and most of all: spending time with his family. He has a wonderful family including a beautiful wife, three daughters, three cats, and a wonderfully talented Australian Shepherd.

Kevin was named the Q1 2022 APP of the Quarter! “Kevin has been an excellent addition to our critical care team. Despite having previous experience, he does not hesitate to ask for advice on topics he is not familiar with. He is always willing to help out when needed and provides exemplary bedside manner with not only patients but their family members as well. He somehow manages to stay calm despite any type of situation and has been wonderful to work with.” Congratulations, Kevin!

Clair Visconti is a Physician Assistant from Alton, Illinois. She earned a bachelor's degree in Health Sciences from the University of Missouri in 2016, and then earned a master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri in December of 2019. Clair has been with the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU for two years.

From the first time she stepped foot in an ICU as a student, Clair has been passionate about critical care. She is committed to providing thoughtful and compassionate care for her patients, and is dedicated to her continued education. She loves being able to work together with her colleagues as a team.

Clair was named the Q2 2022 APP of the Quarter!

Her nominators say:

"Clair is exceptional. She consistently shows genuine dedication to caring for patients, being a team member, picking up/changing her schedule to fill staffing gaps, and being an overall exceptional APP! Clair consistently seeks to advance her knowledge and has been instrumental in advocating for the patients at CH. I can always count on Clair and proud to have her as a colleague!"

"Clair is always willing to help the group. She is passionate about making changes at CHNE, and offers solutions. It is exciting to watch her confidence grow in such a challenging environment. I am very proud of her growth as a member of the APP group at CHNE!"

Trish graduated from the ACNP program at Saint Louis University and joined the department in 2012 and is one of the Leadership APP's for 44ICU and 78ICU. In addition to her work in the Department of Anesthesiology, she serves in the Air Force Reserve at Scott Air Force Base. Her dog, Lexi, is certified as a therapy dog and Trish enjoys patient and staff visits with her. For fun, Trish enjoys traveling and hiking and is looking forward to an upcoming vacation to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos.

Trish was named the Q2 2020 APP of the Quarter! She is an involved leader with excellent clinical skills. Trish is a very dependable, dedicated, and valued member of our group. Congratulations, Trish!