Haiyan Mao began her nursing journey at Duke in January 2014 when she enrolled in the Duke University School of Nursing’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. After a decade-long career as a general practitioner in China, Haiyan was seeking a new path in healthcare—one that would allow her to continue making a meaningful impact while adapting to life in a new country.

“I’ve always believed in making a positive impact in people’s lives,” said Haiyan, clinical Nurse III, BSN, RN, CMSRN. “Nursing gave me that opportunity in a new country and a new culture.”

After graduating from nursing school, Haiyan accepted her first nursing role at Duke Regional Hospital, joining Unit 6-3 as a new graduate nurse in July 2015. She quickly grew into her role, becoming a charge nurse within months and earning her Clinical Nurse III designation just two years later with the help of the career ladder program. Along the way, she obtained her ACLS certification, became a certified medical-surgical nurse (CMSRN), and embraced leadership and mentorship roles throughout the unit. Today, she serves not only as a bedside nurse but also as unit scheduler, Duke Moves coach, chair of the scheduling committee, member of the Geriatric Resource Nurse team, and dementia care consultant.

“My nursing journey has been rewarding—seeing patients well enough to be discharged is the highlight of my day,” Haiyan said. “As an RN, we support patients with their medical treatments but also encourage them when they feel sick, weak, or depressed. By sharing hope, positivity, warm words, and a reassuring smile, I help patients stay motivated and envision a healthier future.”

It is this approach to compassionate care that earned Haiyan the Friends of Nursing Community Service Award in Memory of Dan S. Blalock Jr. this spring.
Though surprised by the recognition, her contributions made her a natural choice. She has supported her community through volunteer work at the Raleigh Chinese Christian Church, organizing pandemic mask donations from the local Chinese community to Duke Health, and staying actively involved in her children’s school and scouting activities.

Haiyan said the award was a full-circle moment for her when she reconnected with Dr. Kathleen Turner, her advisor from nursing school. Years earlier, when Haiyan struggled with language barriers and cultural adjustment, Dr. Turner offered reassurance and guidance. Seeing her again, and receiving the award, felt like a meaningful validation of her journey.

“In the special moment, I was happily surprised to see Dr. Kathleen Turner during the ceremony,” Haiyan said. “Receiving the FON award was especially meaningful because it validated Dr. Turner’s faith in me. In my nearly ten years as a nurse, I’ve drawn on her example by encouraging young nurses and nursing students, passing along the same guidance and reassurance that she once gave me.”

Now approaching her tenth year at Duke Health, Haiyan reflects on what has kept her here: the people. Many of her colleagues have been at Duke Regional for decades and are a testament to the supportive environment, strong teamwork, and shared passion for patient care.

“What I enjoy most is Duke’s culture and environment” she says. “Our shared and continued passions for our patients ties us together.”

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