Front and Center: Rebecca Winford
Winford moved to Mississippi from Indiana at age 12, an experience she describes as a culture shock. Adjusting to life in the South, she found herself surrounded by a community that would quietly influence her future.
“I found myself helping elders, due to my adopted grandmother being in the presence of senior citizens and disabled neighbors,” she said. “As a teen, I assisted them with many tasks, which gave me an early knowledge of nursing skills.”
That early exposure continued into her teenage years, when she worked as a home health aide.
“Working as a home health aide in my teens influenced me to seek nursing as a career,” she said. “I felt I had a leg up in my journey toward nursing due to all the experience I gained.”
Now, 24 years into her career, Winford reflects on that journey with gratitude.
“I have been a nurse for 24 years, and the pleasure has been mine to give great care,” she said.
Today, Winford serves as head nurse of the new Adolescent Acute Psychiatric Unit at Children’s of Mississippi, where she is helping shape both patient care and the team behind it.
“I got a chance to see nursing up close as a CNA, which prepared me for the medical field,” she said.
Winford began her career in psychiatric care at Mississippi State Hospital, building a strong foundation in the specialty. Driven by a desire to keep learning, she expanded her experience across a variety of nursing areas and worked in all genres of psychiatric care. Now, she is embracing a new challenge in adolescent mental health.
“What inspired me was the need to influence patient care by taking part in positive outcomes and providing an avenue which results in improved staff growth and success,” she said.
“Rebecca’s background across multiple areas of psychiatric care gives her a unique perspective as a leader,” Cowan said. “She understands the complexity of this work and is the right person to build a team focused on compassionate, high-quality care.”
Throughout her journey, mentorship has played a key role in shaping her approach.
“My mentor taught me to look as well as listen,” Winford said. “She fostered in me the ability to challenge myself and always be open to learn new things.”
That mindset carries into her vision for the unit, where she emphasizes communication and connection, especially during difficult moments for patients and families.
“Listening and understanding provides a platform for families to ask questions,” she said.
A strong multidisciplinary approach is central to that vision. Through team-based care and regular rounds, staff collaborate to discuss diagnoses, plan care and set goals for patients and their families.
“Understanding what each discipline does leads to positive outcomes,” she said.
In adolescent psychiatric nursing, she said empathy is essential.
“One of the most important qualities is the ability to be empathetic,” she said. “Empathy allows us to give great care.”
She is intentional about supporting her team through the emotional demands of the work, encouraging balance between home and work life while creating an environment that helps prevent burnout.
“Mental illness is universal, and staff often relate to situations in the workplace,” she said. “It is important to provide a platform that will prevent staff from being overwhelmed.”
Despite the challenges, Winford remains grounded in her commitment to growth and perspective.
“I stay inspired by staying open to learning new and interesting things,” she said, “and often by taking the time to laugh.”