Following a Family Legacy: Clayton Brock's Journey from Student to Educator
Continuing a Family Tradition
When Clayton Brock decided to pursue nursing, he wasn't just choosing a career – he was continuing a family tradition. Today, as both a bariatric surgery nurse and an Adjunct Nursing Faculty member at Herzing University-Madison, Clayton embodies the full circle journey of a healthcare professional who now helps shape the next generation of nurses.
"I chose nursing to follow in the footsteps of my family," Clayton shares. His path led him to Herzing University, where he would not only earn his BSN but later return for his MSN, inspired by a desire to become a nursing instructor and "cultivate the next generation of nurses."
Excellence in Education
The decision to attend Herzing was influenced by family experience – his brother and sister-in-law were alumni – and the accelerated program structure.
"The fact that I was able to graduate with a Bachelor's degree in less than 3 years is incredible!" Clayton notes.
This efficient path to qualification aligned with his eagerness to make an immediate impact in healthcare.
His academic journey at Herzing was marked by excellence. Clayton graduated Magna Cum Laude with his BSN, earned a place on the President's List, and was selected for both the Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society and Sigma Nursing International Honor Society. His dedication to advancing nursing education continued into his master's studies, where he conducted research on improving new graduate nurses' knowledge in caring for patients with obesity – work he presented at the UW Nursing Poster Fair.
Leadership and Community Impact
Beyond the classroom, Clayton immersed himself in campus life as an active member and leader of the Student Nurses Association, serving as both Secretary and President. Under his leadership, the association organized blood drives with the Red Cross and collaborated with the Goodman Center. He also worked as a peer tutor, helping fellow students excel in their studies.
Today, Clayton's professional life reflects his commitment to both patient care and nursing education. He serves patients directly as a bariatric surgery and general surgery nurse, while his role as Adjunct Nursing Faculty at Herzing allows him to guide the next generation of healthcare professionals through clinical rotations and simulation activities.
Building a Legacy of Support
The relationships formed at Herzing left an indelible mark on Clayton, who was named Distinguished Alumnus in 2024.
"I have made some of the best friends of my life at Herzing!" he reflects, recounting memories of study sessions and post-clinical meetups. He particularly credits Professor Melissa Schaetzka, whom he says he now has the honor of working with and learning from.
To current and future students, Clayton offers heartfelt advice:
"Take a chance on yourself! The bravest thing you can do is believe in yourself and put in the hard work it takes to earn your degree or certificate."
He emphasizes the importance of self-care and time management, encouraging students to utilize all available resources, including their instructors, who he says are always willing to help out.
Clayton's ongoing involvement with Herzing and also within the community – as a volunteer camp nurse and member of various nursing councils– demonstrates his commitment to advancing nursing education and professional development. His journey from student to educator exemplifies Herzing University's mission of preparing graduates for professional success and fostering a spirit of lifelong learning.
