Growing a Career — and a Calling — at South County Health
At South County Health, meaningful careers are built through opportunity, mentorship, and shared values. For this Growth & Development feature, we’re highlighting a colleague whose 38-year journey at SCH reflects what long-term growth and engagement can look like when an organization invests in its people—and when people invest in each other.
A Career Built on Growth and Belonging
Nina Laing began her career at South County Health in 1987 as a registered nurse, just two years out of nursing school. She started on the Medical-Surgical floor, building a strong clinical foundation before discovering her true passion in the Intensive Care Unit. Nina spent 20 years in the ICU, where she grew her confidence, sharpened her clinical skills, and learned the importance of strong leadership.
The Power of Mentorship
Throughout her career, mentorship played a defining role in Nina’s development. Her greatest mentor was Bobby Faie, longtime ICU leader with more than 40 years at SCH, whose guidance, trust, and leadership shaped her both professionally and personally.
When Nina transitioned into Case Management, another key mentor emerged: Lynne Driscoll. Driscoll was instrumental in helping her grow in case management, supporting her learning curve and encouraging her to see the broader impact she could have beyond the bedside. Along the way, Nina also learned from many seasoned nurses, providers, and leaders who consistently supported her growth and encouraged her to step into new opportunities.
Expanding Impact Beyond the Bedside
After five years as a Telemetry Case Manager, Nina moved into leadership as a Clinical Leader in Case Management and now serves as Director, with a special emphasis on Utilization Review. As her role evolved, she invested in her professional development, earning certification in Utilization Review and her Certification in Case Management. SCH supported this growth, not only by reimbursing certification costs, but by encouraging continued education and aligning opportunities with her expanding responsibilities.
“What has kept me at SCH is a deep sense of purpose and belonging,” Nina shares. “I don’t just work here—I belong here. My work matters to patients, families, and my colleagues.”
Over nearly four decades, Nina has experienced shared crises, victories, losses, and moments of growth with colleagues who have become her professional family. Today, her role allows her to influence care at a systems level—improving outcomes, access, and the overall patient experience across the organization.
Why Case Management Matters
Nina is passionate about encouraging other nurses to explore case management as a career path.
“Case Management allows you to care for the whole patient, not just the task in front of you,” she explains. “It sharpens your voice as a nurse, gives you influence over outcomes, and helps patients and families navigate complex healthcare decisions. It’s meaningful, impactful work.”
Her advice to colleagues is simple: stay open to growth, seek out mentors, and say yes to opportunities that challenge you. SCH offers many paths—you just have to be willing to explore them.
Life Outside of Work
Outside of work, Nina co-owns an excavation company with her husband, Ken. They spend most of their time with their eight grandchildren, including 16-month-old twins who keep them very busy. In the summer, you’ll often find them out on their boat, Dig Anotha Day, enjoying time on Sandy Point.
