40 Under 40: Mallory McLeod

Mallory McLeod can't imagine doing anything else.

The executive director of surgical services at Northwest Specialty Hospital, McLeod graduated from North Idaho College with her registered nursing degree. She earned her bachelor's degree through Boise State University and her master's degree in nursing leadership through Western Governors University. 

"Getting my master's in nursing leadership really helped support the role I am in now," McLeod said. "It is more about helping and mentoring your staff and others around you and giving them a work environment that they can safely learn and grow as an individual."

Supportive family and friends have served as a source of encouragement, helping her grow and expand her knowledge. Her husband, Derek, has been there since the beginning and continues to offer support on whatever venture to which she sets her mind. In addition, her parents have instilled in her great work ethic and values to make her the person she is today. 

In the coming years, McLeod sees herself in either her current role or learning a new role within the hospital.

"Northwest Specialty has given me the opportunity to become a nursing leader, and I appreciate everything they have done for me," she added.

Advice to her younger self: "I would tell myself to worry less. Most of the little things I find myself worrying about are not real issues to begin with and almost all problems have a reasonable solution to them. You just need to know where to look."