Morgan Pifer

Project Manager

Department/School/Division:

Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing

Campus:

HSC

Years at Loyola:

What is your favorite thing about working at Loyola?

One of my favorite things about working at Loyola is the incredible support of my fellow employees and the strong culture of excellence. The collaborative environment fosters teamwork and professional growth, where colleagues genuinely uplift and encourage one another. There is a shared commitment to excellence in everything we do, from serving our community to striving for continuous improvement. This culture not only inspires me to do my best but also makes Loyola a truly rewarding and fulfilling place to work.

What is your most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee?

My most memorable achievements as a Loyola employee has been working with participants on an NIH-funded study (RiSE) and having the opportunity to teach a course within the study on communicating in healthcare and healthcare advocacy. It was incredibly rewarding to empower participants with the knowledge and skills to navigate the healthcare system, communicate effectively with providers, and advocate for their own or their loved ones' well-being. Seeing participants gain confidence and apply what they learned in real-world situations is truly inspiring. This experience reinforced my passion for education, evidence-based practice, and Loyola’s mission of service through learning and justice.

What does Loyola's mission mean to you?

Loyola’s mission resonates deeply with me, as it reflects the Jesuit values that shape my interactions with participants every day. The commitment to learning, justice, and faith inspires me to approach each person with empathy, respect, and a dedication to their growth and well-being. "Cura personalis," or care for the whole person, is at the heart of my work, ensuring that I see and support each individual in their unique journey. By seeking God in all things and serving humanity, I strive to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where knowledge and compassion come together to make a meaningful impact.

What motivates you to succeed each and every day?

I am driven each day by the opportunity to serve others and advance meaningful research that improves the health of African American women. The chance to help address health disparities and equip individuals with valuable knowledge and resources inspires me to put forth my best effort in all that I do. I am passionate about making a difference, whether through direct engagement with participants or by contributing to research that leads to positive change. Loyola’s commitment to learning and justice aligns with my dedication to health equity, and I am inspired by the impact our work has on the community..

Tell us how you show your Rambler pride:

I showed my Rambler Pride through my role as a Ramblassador for Loyola’s Rambler Rally for the School of Nursing, where I helped raise funds to support students through scholarship opportunities, student services, and academic programs. Being part of this initiative allowed me to make a meaningful impact by helping students access the resources they needed to thrive, supporting their educational journey, and contributing to their future success in healthcare.

Tell us something most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about you:

Most people at Loyola would be surprised to know that, despite growing up in Texas, I absolutely love cold weather! While many people try to escape the winter chill, I embrace it—whether it’s enjoying a fresh snowfall, bundling up for a brisk walk, or sipping a hot drink on a cold day. My appreciation for colder climates only grew stronger after attending college near Lake Superior, where I truly learned to enjoy the beauty and stillness of winter.