When first meeting Goldie Gollihue, one will be immediately impressed by her professionalism, straightforward manner and warm, engaging smile. Her personality draws people in. Upon hearing her story, people discover that she is much tougher than she looks.

As a Nurse Supervisor at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida, Gollihue oversees nurses and certified nursing assistants, assists with care planning and clinical assessments, performs audits and ensures everything runs smoothly. “My goal is to promote high-quality, safe care while supporting my team,” she explains.

Born and raised in Bronson, Florida, Gollihue has deep roots in her hometown. Her parents and grandparents still live there, along with her brother, while her sister is pursuing graduate studies in St. Augustine. Named after her great-grandmother, she takes pride in carrying a family name. Though she didn’t always love her name as a child, she now appreciates how unique it is.

Gollihue’s path wasn’t always easy. She moved out during her senior year of high school and became a mom at 19. Her first son, Chris, now 17, plans to become a welder—a career choice Goldie proudly supports. “I’m so proud he’s following his passion,” she says. During those early years, Gollihue worked hard as a single mother to provide for her son and is grateful she could live with her grandmother during that time.

Today, Gollihue lives in High Springs with her fiancé, Chris Drow, their son, Lincoln, who will turn four in January and her son, Chris. Gollihue and Chris have been together for nine years after meeting on social media through mutual friends. “Once we started talking, we never stopped,” she says with a smile. Chris works as a plumber with Quality Plumbing, and together they’ve built a busy, happy life.

Gollihue’s nursing career began when she earned her CNA license, followed by her LPN in 2013 and RN in 2017. “Life as a single mom was tough,” she reflects, “but it taught me to work hard and stay focused. I’ve always been determined to do something meaningful.”

Gollihue joined Oak Hammock almost two years ago and her work anniversary will be in February. Before that, she spent seven years in the Intensive Care Unit at North Florida Regional Hospital. After welcoming her second child, she sought a better work-life balance and heard glowing reviews of Oak Hammock from former coworkers.

“My friends told me Oak Hammock is a great place to work—supportive, high standards and a really positive environment,” she says. “They were right!”

Gollihue is well respected by Oak Hammock administration and her peers. According to Director of Nursing Michelle Parker, ”

Goldie is a highly skilled and reliable nurse who truly cares about her residents. She advocates for them, ensures their needs are met, and carries out her responsibilities with efficiency and a strong work ethic. Her steady presence and dedication make her an important part of our team.

Recently, Gollihue reflected on her job at Oak Hammock.

What do you enjoy about working at Oak Hammock?

I love working with the elderly. I feel right at home here. We’re caring for one of the most vulnerable populations, and that means a lot to me. I enjoy leading, teaching and connecting with residents and their families.

It’s easy for me to care about people. I try to see things from their perspective and make sure they feel heard and supported. I’ve been in my team’s shoes, and I understand their job. I’m always looking for ways to improve our service and make positive changes.

How do you apply the WeCare values in your work?

I try to embody the WeCare values—welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic—every day.

I always smile and greet everyone I meet. Open communication is very important to me; my teammates know they can come to me anytime. Communication and follow-up are key in nursing, and I make sure to be prompt and reliable.

I love learning and encouraging others to grow. We all share the same goal: providing our residents with the best care possible.

I’m detail-oriented—I like to walk around, check in and make sure everything is running as it should.

One situation that stands out was when a resident with complex health issues was initially denied hospice care. I advocated for a re-evaluation, and the second time, he was accepted and transferred to a hospice center, where he passed peacefully a few days later. It was a difficult experience, but I’m grateful I could help ensure he was comfortable and cared for.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

When I’m not at work, I stay busy at home—I have 22 chickens and love collecting farm-fresh eggs! One quirky thing about me: I can’t whistle. It seems small, but it’s always bugged me!

My fiancé and I love going to concerts and vacationing in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I enjoy baking new desserts, binge-watching TV shows and drinking coffee.

People are often surprised when they get to know me—I’m down to earth, a little sarcastic and love to laugh. I’ve always been honest and direct; you’ll never have to guess where you stand with me.

If you or a family member or friend for whom you have a health care power of attorney ends up in skilled nursing, Goldie Gollihue is someone you should get to know. Goldie is one of the skilled nursing supervisors and can help should you have any nursing needs that are not being adequately met by the nurse and or CNA.  She is also a point person for you to consult to discuss expectations in skilled nursing. In my experience, she has always been kind, friendly and knowledgeable.  At least stop by and say hello to her. – Karen Miller, resident