Tonya Fox
Director of nursing—Adult Patient Care Services, Clear Lake Campus
When did you start working at UTMB and in what capacity?
1999 as a new RN graduate
What positions have you held at UTMB since then?
I have held nurse positions in oncology, infusion services, nurse manager in ambulatory clinics, nurse manager in intensive care and medical-surgical units.
What attracted you to UTMB in the first place?
I grew up in Galveston and went to nursing school on the island. Working at UTMB after graduation was a dream for all of us young nursing students!
Why have you stayed at UTMB for over 20 years?
The culture of UTMB is amazing. The value of care, respect and collaboration is truly woven into the fabric of this culture, making it a unique and meaningful place to be a part of.
What has being a part of the UTMB family for so long meant to you personally?
I have established lifelong friendships with so many of the people that I have worked with over the years.
What would you say to someone starting out in a career at UTMB?
My advice would be to embrace every opportunity to learn, both from your colleagues and the experiences you’ll have. Everyone started where you are now, and the more you ask questions, seek guidance and observe, the faster you’ll grow.
Any special stories or experiences about your time at UTMB you would like to share?
I don’t have a special story, but I would like to share that UTMB has fully supported me in my educational and career path. I started out as a new graduate here, and UTMB has provided me many opportunities to advance professionally. I am forever grateful for that.
What does the concept of Best Care mean to you and how do you participate in providing Best Care?
Best Care’s meaning to me is providing the highest quality and safest care possible to our patients. As a nurse leader, I participate in providing Best Care every day. I work with our UTMB nursing team to establish best practices to prevent hospital-acquired infections and promote safety to prevent falls and injury to our patients.