Holly Hofer,Nursing Instructor, Nominated for Faculty Spotlight of April 2025
For Holly Hofer, returning to Gillette College wasn’t just a career move but a full-circle moment. A graduate of the college’s nursing program and a proud Gillette native, Holly now helps shape the next generation of nurses as a valued Nursing faculty member. In recognition of her hard work, efficiency, and contagious positivity, Holly has been named Gillette College’s April 2025 Faculty of the Month.
“Holly is one of the most efficient workers I know,” said Lindsay Wakefield, Dean of Nursing & Health Sciences. “Her good nature is infectious, and she’s the type of person it feels good to be around.”
Holly joined the Gillette College faculty two years ago and has made a lasting impression. Known for her commitment to her students and ability to lead by example, she brings personal experience and academic excellence into the classroom. 
“I went to nursing school as a nontraditional student,” Holly said. “I’ve been through what many of our students experience, and that helps me connect with them.”
In true overachiever fashion, Holly recently completed her Master of Science in Nursing Education, finishing the program in just 15 months, even though she had five years to complete it. “It was important to me to finish quickly and stay focused,” she said. “Now, I’m working toward earning my Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential by fall of 2025.”
Once Holly is certified, the Gillette College nursing department will be staffed entirely by certified and master-prepared educators. This impressive accomplishment speaks to the strength of the program.
Outside the classroom, Holly is a dedicated mother of two. Her pride in the college extends to her family: one of her sons plans to take summer classes at Gillette College and pursue a CDL and a future in the tech program. “I love that I can help him access an education that will be debt-free,” she said. From student to instructor, Holly’s journey with Gillette College exemplifies what it means to give back to the community and uplift others along the way. Her work ethic, positive energy, and dedication to lifelong learning make her a standout educator and a true asset to the college.
