Dena Davis, LPN, is a nurse through and through. Drawn to nursing from an early age, it’s a core part of her identity. For Dena, life — and nursing — is about the people, the relationships, the sharing, the connection. Meet Dena for yourself!

How long have you been a nurse?
8 years 

How long have you worked at RVNA?
3 years this August.

Where did you grow up?
I have lived in Connecticut my entire life. I currently live in New Milford.

When did you decide you wanted to become a nurse?
I was originally a CNA (certified nursing assistant) after high school and started nursing school, but eventually transitioned out of that program. Even so, I still found myself working in physician’s offices and in the medical field. Low and behold, after a couple of years I was drawn to nursing school again.

What is your favorite part of nursing?
People. It will always be the people. The relationships we build, the knowledge or experience someone else is willing to share with you. I receive the greatest joy from meeting people in their own environments.

If you weren’t a nurse, what would you be?
There is nothing else. Being a nurse is part of my identity. I cannot see myself being as satisfied in any other profession. I have many roles in life, but my profession is nursing.  

What do you love to do when you’re not working?
I spend as much time as possible with my family outside of work.  

What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would take my family state by state to try different foods. The greatest question is would we be in search of breakfast, dessert, specifically ice cream, or BBQ? Maybe just a search for the best cup of coffee or most ridiculous food truck. Something silly and fun.