She has a professional objective to provide patient-centered care with a special interest in neuro-psychiatry. She earned both her Master’s and Bachelor’s in Nursing degrees at Illinois State University - Mennonite College of Nursing in Normal, IL. Methodist Medical Center – School of Nursing in Peoria is where she earned her RN nursing diploma. Prior to joining SIU, Ms. Sparks gained experience as an RN in acute care ICU/ER, Med/Surgery, the Home Health/Hospice setting as well as experience with psychiatric and chemical dependency. She has over over 25 years of service in a variety of healthcare experiences in which she appreciates integrating the view of the whole patient – mind, body, and spirit – into her care.