Natalie Johnson | The Texas Heart Institute at Baylor College of Medicine

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The Texas Heart Institute at Baylor College of Medicine Faculty have proudly chosen Natalie Johnson as their September student of the month! In response to her nomination, Natalie said:

“Everyone’s journey into perfusion is unique. I was born in Jamaica and immigrated to the United States, where I have built a career grounded in service, resilience, and high-acuity patient care. I bring over 14 years of experience as an operating room nurse and 20 years of service as Air Force Reservist, working in demanding surgical and critical care environments.

My interest in perfusion began during a military deployment to Afghanistan, where I witnessed a critically ill patient placed on ECMO to sustain life for transport to Germany. That moment left a lasting impression and revealed the profound impact of extracorporeal life support in the most austere conditions.

These experiences, combined with years of working closely alongside perfusionists in the operating room, solidified my desire to pursue a career that integrates advanced cardiovascular physiology, clinical autonomy, and direct impact on patient outcomes.”

Natalie will graduate with The Texas Heart Institute at Baylor College of Medicine Class of 2026! Congratulations, Natalie!

Jake Wade | USC Cardiac and Vascular Institute

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The USC Cardiac and Vascular Institute Faculty have proudly chosen Jake Wade as their September student of the month! In response to his nomination, Jake said:

“I chose cardiovascular perfusion because it allows me to combine my background in physiological sciences with my passion for clinical medicine, technology, and critical patient care. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced perfusionists who are equally passionate about education and advancing our field, and I’m excited to continue developing my skills throughout my educational journey as I prepare to serve patients as a compassionate and knowledgeable member of the surgical team.”

Jake will graduate with the USC Cardiac and Vascular Institute Class of 2027! Congratulations, Jake!

Shantel Schoenfelder | Quinnipiac University

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The Quinnipiac University Faculty have proudly chosen Shantel Schoenfelder as their July student of the month! In response to their nomination, Shantel said:

“As a Cardiac ICU nurse, I have had the privilege of caring for high-acuity patients supported with advanced technologies such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs), Impella devices, and Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumps (IABPs). Working closely with these extracorporeal and mechanical circulatory support systems sparked my interest in the science and technology behind them and ultimately led me to the field of cardiovascular perfusion. I wanted to deepen my understanding of how these life-sustaining systems function and play a direct role in supporting patients during complex cardiac procedures.

Attending Quinnipiac University’s Cardiovascular Perfusion Program gave me the opportunity to accomplish my dream of being a Perfusionist. What excites me most about my future career in cardiovascular perfusion is the opportunity to combine my critical care knowledge, advanced technology, and patient advocacy to make a meaningful impact during some of the most challenging moments in a patient’s life. I also hope to inspire others to explore this rewarding profession and contribute to the continued growth and recognition of the cardiovascular perfusion profession for future generations.”

Shantel will graduate with the Quinnipiac University Class of 2027! Congratulations, Shantel!