Just three years after graduating from Grandview University with a BSN, 3-time LCL Scholar, Alli Hugen Estes, launched her nursing career, got married, welcomed a baby, is in the midst of moving homes, and stepped into a leadership role at Pella Regional Health Center’s Family Birthing Center. Yet, Alli has managed these major life changes with grace, compassion and a dedication to the profession.
“Change is hard, but change is good,” Alli said. That belief guided her through Pella Regional’s residency program, where she did 8-week rotations through med-surg, the ER, and then the birthing center. After two years as a floor nurse in the Family Birthing Center, she moved into her current role as Team Lead Clinical Resource Specialist, supporting education, staff development, and day-to-day clinical operations.
Juggling long work shifts, motherhood, and a new marriage hasn’t been easy. Alli credits patience and a strong support system for making it work. “One step at a time,” she said. “Lots of help from family really is the saving grace.”
Alli once dreamed of working in a large hospital system and the variety of cases she would get to experience. However, during school, Alli discovered her passion in rural healthcare. Caring for friends, neighbors, and familiar faces adds meaning to her work. “There’s something special about taking care of your own community,” she shared. Her caring philosophy is shaped by lived experience where she met both dismissive and deeply compassionate providers. “One pediatrician who truly listened and took the time to find a diagnosis and the best treatment for me, left a lasting impact”, she shared.
In January 2026, Alli’s dedication to compassionate, patient-centered care was recognized with the DAISY Award, a national honor given to nurses who exemplify extraordinary care. Being nominated and selected by her peers was both meaningful and humbling. “I don’t like recognition,” she admitted. “I’m just a doer.” Still, the acknowledgment reinforced that her efforts mattered, that her hard work was making a difference in people’s lives.
When asked what advice she’d give to student nurses, Alli answered simply: “Take every opportunity and learn from it, even the uncomfortable ones.”
Today, Alli is exactly where she’s meant to be. She is serving her community, supporting families through some of their most important moments, and mentoring others within her profession. As rural hospitals across the region face challenges, she feels grateful to work at a place that continues to grow, adapt, and prioritize quality care.
“I like Pella a lot,” she said with a smile—and it’s clear the feeling is mutual.
