In a world where careers often evolve or change over time, there are few examples as remarkable as that of Phyllis Gant, a healthcare professional who has dedicated nearly five decades to serving the community through her work at DeKalb Regional Medical Center. On October 17, 2024, Phyllis celebrated her 50th anniversary at the hospital, a milestone that speaks to her unwavering commitment, exceptional skills, and deep passion for nursing.

Phyllis’s journey in healthcare began at just 18 years old, when she started as a nursing assistant at DeKalb General Hospital (now DeKalb Regional Medical Center). From that humble beginning and a little push from her brother, Phyllis found her calling in nursing, a profession that has shaped her life and career ever since.

Phyllis’s academic achievements complement her hands-on experience. She earned her Associate’s degree in Nursing from John C. Calhoun Community College in 1978, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville in 1991.

Phyllis’s career is a testament to the power of hard work, leadership, and a continual commitment to improvement. From 1978 to 2006, she worked in post-operative care, honing her skills in patient management and recovery.

In 2006, Phyllis was appointed as the first Chief Quality Officer of DeKalb Regional Medical Center. In this role, she focused on enhancing patient care standards and ensuring the hospital adhered to healthcare regulations. Her contributions during this time laid the groundwork for future quality improvement initiatives. After her tenure as Chief Quality Officer, Phyllis took on the roles of Risk Manager and Facility Compliance Officer. In these roles, she worked tirelessly to improve patient safety and ensure that the hospital operated in compliance with all necessary guidelines.