Melanie Summerour

Associate Teaching Professor

After graduating from PLU as an RN, I worked in inpatient pediatrics for three years before returning to graduate school. I have been practicing as a pediatric nurse practitioner in primary care since 1992. I provide healthcare for patients from birth to 18 years, treating a variety of acute and chronic conditions in addition to providing health maintenance. For several years, I was also involved in the Nutrition and Growth Problems Clinic, which used a team approach for children with Failure to Thrive.

I have always loved working with kids and enjoy the opportunity to be involved with my patients and their loved ones throughout their young lives. Preventive care is important to me, including good nutrition, exercise, immunizations, and emotional support. I became an educator to help prepare others for this rewarding opportunity in their own lives. My goals for teaching are to help students learn to provide the best possible care for their patients, enjoy the children and families they work with, and advocate for the needs of their families.