Connor Maxon's journey with JPS Health Network began long before he became a SHINE participant. As a teen volunteer, he discovered a passion for helping others and gained his first glimpse into the world of healthcare. That experience inspired him to take the next step by joining JPS’ inaugural cohort of SHINE (Students in Healthcare for Individual Empowerment) in 2025.
Today, Connor continues that journey as a 2026 SHINE Fellow while studying nursing on a pre-hospital administration track at Emporia State University, with plans to ultimately pursue a career in Emergency Medicine.
From earning his Patient Care Technician certification to gaining hands-on clinical experience and professional development skills, SHINE helped strengthen the foundation he first built as a teen volunteer. Now, as a Fellow, Connor is continuing to grow as a future healthcare leader while giving back to the organization that helped launch his career.
Below, Connor reflects on his SHINE journey, the opportunities the program has opened for him, and why he believes serving as a SHINE Fellow is an investment in the future of healthcare.
What was the biggest takeaway you had from being in Cohort 1 of SHINE last summer?
I learned you must listen to your patients. Sometimes, all a patient might need is for someone to notice them and be there for them as many of our patients do not always have a family member with them.
How did SHINE propel you forward in your academic career after high school?
Earning my Patient Care Technician Certification, which is recognized anywhere in the U.S. With this certification, I can work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. The certification helps you advance more quickly, and the experiences on clinical floors help you gain knowledge that helps you be more successful as you progress in your academic career.
Did SHINE give you an edge over your peers once you started your undergraduate degree?
Yes! Not only did I learn about healthcare in my internship, but I learned how to manage my time, how to communicate with others, and I received professional development. I used all of this when I applied to be a Resident Assistant in my dorm at Emporia University, and it helped me get the position! I was the only freshman RA selected on campus. SHINE truly makes a difference when advancing more in your academic life, career pathway, and personal journey.
Why does SHINE deserve support from the philanthropic community?
SHINE interns and Fellows are given the incredible opportunity to gain a valuable healthcare experience while giving back to our community. Our SHINE graduates are future healthcare researchers looking for how to cure diseases, and the program develops future leaders who will lead future teams to provide the best experiences and outcomes for patients. With philanthropic support, we can truly make an even greater difference in our communities.
A Reflection from Connor:
SHINE is more than an experience on a resume; it is the foundation for each participant’s journey in healthcare. We are all so grateful for the faculty, staff, patients, and donors who have been able to help this program succeed, and we cannot thank JPS Health Network and JPS Foundation enough for making this amazing program available.
Programs like SHINE are made possible through the generosity of JPS Foundation donors who believe in investing in tomorrow's healthcare workforce. Their support helps students gain hands-on experience, build meaningful careers, and strengthen the future of patient care in our community.
Learn more about the SHINE programs.