A career that lasts, a culture that cares
Nearly 30 years ago, Lisa Daniels started an entry-level job at SIU Medicine. She never needed to look anywhere else.
“My mom worked in the surgery department and told me how supportive the culture was and how great the benefits were,” said Lisa. “So, I applied.”
But when Lisa accepted a job as an account technician in the patient billing department, she didn’t realize how much it would shape her future, both professionally and personally.
Lisa immediately realized she was at a place that offered more than a paycheck. She found a supportive environment that helped guide her to the director-level role she holds today.
“From the beginning, I was lucky to have the guidance of an exceptional supervisor who encouraged and believed in me,” she said. That made all the difference. I knew this was where I could grow.”
A place where people grow and stay
Lisa’s journey is proof that SIU Medicine isn’t just a place to work; it’s a place to build a career. She advanced from entry-level roles to leadership positions in finance and administration. Today, she serves as the director of administrative services at the Simmons Cancer Institute.
“Every new role was a step forward, thanks to the people who encouraged me to keep going,” she said. “When I met Dr. Khan at the Simmons Cancer Institute and learned more about its mission, I knew it was where I wanted to spend the rest of my career.”
Lisa’s experiences across departments, from patient billing to the department of neurology where she worked as a grants and contracts accountant and later as a business administrative associate, gave her a deep understanding of the organization and the vital role every employee plays at SIU Medicine.
“Each step gave me more perspective. I got to see how important collaboration is and how every role contributes to the bigger mission. Now I get to bring all of that together in my current role.”
A culture that puts people first
Ask Lisa why she’s stayed at SIU Medicine for nearly three decades, and she doesn’t hesitate: the culture.
“People genuinely care here. There’s a sense of community. You feel seen, supported and valued,” she said. “I’ve had mentors who invested in me and helped me grow, and now I try to do the same for others.”
That sense of connection and purpose extends beyond day-to-day work.
“Everyone here believes what we do matters. Whether you’re working directly with patients or behind the scenes, there’s a shared commitment to service. You feel like you’re part of something bigger.”
Benefits that make a difference for the whole family
For Lisa, SIU Medicine’s benefits have made a significant impact on her career and her family.
“SIU’s tuition reimbursement program allowed me to keep learning and develop my skills while working full time,” she said.
And the tuition benefit for children of employees meant a great deal to Lisa.
“Two of my children used the 50% tuition waiver. That’s huge. It gave them a chance to focus on their educational goals without the burden of major debt. That kind of support isn’t something you find just anywhere.”
Lisa encourages new employees to explore everything SIU Medicine has to offer.
“There’s so much beyond health insurance,” she said. “Take the time to learn about all the benefits available and ask questions. The resources are there, and I recommend every employee take advantage of those opportunities.”
A workplace that feels like home
Reflecting on her career at SIU Medicine, Lisa feels grateful for the stability, relationships and opportunities.
“This is where I want to be. It’s a family. People celebrate your wins and stand by you during tough times. That kind of environment is rare.”
To anyone considering a role at SIU Medicine, she offers a heartfelt endorsement:
“If you’re looking for more than a job, if you want a place that invests in you, supports your goals and treats you like family, this is it.”
Lisa might also suggest it’s sometimes a good idea to take your mother’s advice.
