Name: Amy McKenzie
Job Title/Company: Co-owner of BeeHive Gifts & More, Nurse Practitioner, RN First Assist
Years in position: Two years in the boutique, 15 years as a nurse practitioner
Years in field: I have been in the nursing/medical field for 23 years.
Education: I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Southern Mississippi.
Hobbies: I love to read and shop, but my favorite thing to do is play with my grandchildren.
Spouse/Children: I am married to Justin McKenzie. Our oldest son is Cole Bourne, and our daughter-in-law is Doris. We have two grandchildren, Anthony and Travis, and one on the way, Lyndy. Our youngest son is Caleb Bourne.
What do you enjoy about your job? I love working with the public, taking care of people and forming relationships that last a lifetime.
Why did you choose this profession? I became a nurse because I am a caregiver by nature. Nursing is something I always thought I would want to pursue. My husband and his business partner have worked together many years in different businesses. We decided to branch out and open a boutique, which is much more interesting to me. We try to provide the best gifts, prices and service to our community.
Who is your mentor and why? My mentor is Kay Thornhill, NP. She was my Allied Health instructor in high school, and that is when I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, I would apply to nursing school. She then served as my NP preceptor and taught me so much, not just about nursing, but about life in general. She especially taught me to stand up for myself. She will always hold a very special place in my heart.
What is best advice you ever received? Always be kind and show grace. Everyone is going through something, and you can be the reason they smile.
What career advice would you give future women in business? Always follow your dreams. Even when they seem too big or too hard, continue to push yourself. It will all be worth it in the end.