For Britni Kalbfleisch, nursing wasn’t always part of the plan. A California native who moved to the Park Hill area during high school, Britni initially pursued a different path. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Missouri Southern State University in 2014, she envisioned a career rooted in justice and advocacy. Little did she know, life would steer her toward a profession that would allow her to embody those values in a completely different way: nursing.
Britni recently graduated as a non-traditional student from William Jewell College with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). her journey was aided by an incredible partnership between Liberty Hospital and the college. She attributes her success to the scholarship support she received from the Liberty Hospital Foundation, and unwavering encouragement of her family and mentors. “This opportunity secured my future,” Britni says, her gratitude palpable. “Without the partnership between Liberty Hospital and William Jewell, this dream would have been so much harder to achieve.”
Liberty Hospital: A Place of Comfort and Care
For Britni, Liberty Hospital is more than just a workplace—it’s a semblance of home and comfort. “Liberty gives me a level of comfort,” Britni shares. “I’ve been to other hospitals, I’ve been around other nursing units, and there is nothing like this one.” From the supportive team she is on, to the welcoming environment, Liberty Hospital has been a cornerstone of Britni’s journey, offering her a sense of belonging and stability.
The hospital’s dedication to patient-centered care and fostering a nurturing environment for its staff has left a lasting impression on Britni. “It’s a place where everyone genuinely cares—about the patients, about each other, and about making a difference,” she says. This unique culture has inspired Britni to give her best every day, knowing she is part of something truly special.
A Hero Close to Home
Britni’s journey into nursing was inspired by someone very close to her heart—her mother-in-law, Carolyn Cordle. Carolyn serves as the Executive Director of SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) Solutions, a nonprofit organization providing critical resources and support to individuals impacted by sexual violence. SANE partners with over 20 hospitals to ensure survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence receive compassionate and comprehensive care.
“Carolyn is my hero,” Britni shares with a warm smile. “She’s shown me how nursing isn’t just about medical care; it’s about being a beacon of hope for people during their darkest moments.” Carolyn’s dedication to advocacy and healing opened Britni’s eyes to the profound impact nurses can have on their communities, and Britni decided to follow in her footsteps.
Lessons in Light and Laughter
Throughout her nursing education, two nurses stood out as pivotal figures in shaping Britni’s approach to the profession: Heather Wilkie and Venita Deavers.
“Heather made me realize I don’t have to be a beaver to be a nurse,” Britni jokes, referencing an inside joke from her training days. During her onboarding at Liberty Hospital, Heather encouraged Britni to embrace her fun and quirky personality, reminding her that nursing is about connection as much as clinical skill. “She taught me that we can bring our whole selves to the job—our humor, our kindness, our humanity—and still be incredible nurses. That confidence has stayed with me.”
And then there’s Venita Deavers, whom Britni describes as “human sunshine.” With a glow of admiration, Britni elaborates, “Venita is all the light and love you can imagine. She showed me the true essence of nursing: finding light and happiness in everyone, even when the circumstances are hard. She’s the kind of nurse who makes you believe in the goodness of people.” Venita’s example has been a guiding star for Britni as she prepares to step into her own nursing career.
Anchored by Family
At the center of Britni’s life is her husband, Tyler Kalbfleisch, and their two children, Kodi and Cordle. “Tyler is my rock,” Britni says. “He’s been my biggest cheerleader through the late nights of studying and the early mornings of clinicals. And Kodi and Cordle—they’re my lights. Everything I do is for them.” Her family’s unwavering support has been the foundation of her success, and Britni looks forward to showing her children the value of perseverance and following their dreams.
The Road Ahead
Britni’s next challenge is just around the corner: the NCLEX nursing licensure exam at the end of the month. It’s a milestone she’s ready to tackle, armed with determination, knowledge, and the support of her Liberty Hospital family. The Foundation and the entire Liberty Hospital community are cheering her on, knowing she will shine just as brightly in her nursing career as she has throughout her journey.
As Britni prepares to enter the Float Pool, where she will provide care across multiple departments, her story is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and community support. She is a nurse who brings light, laughter, and love to every patient she meets, and her future is as bright as the sunshine Venita Deavers embodies.
Good luck, Britni—you’ve got this!
