Naomi speaks for the University of TX School of Nursing/PARTNERS (photo credit: Kim Coffman)

By: Shelby Hodge/CultureMap Houston

Who knew that country singer Naomi Judd once worked as a registered nurse? Obviously, those organizing the UTHealth PARTNERS luncheon at River Oaks Country Club knew they had an appropriate star when they tapped her as keynote speaker.

“Becoming a nurse was one the smartest decisions in my life,” Judd said as she talked on the importance of setting goals. Subject of her talk was “Eight Characteristics of a Survivor,” during which she shared stories of her upbringing and encouraged audience members to have an open belief system, as she has, in order to be flexible and adapt through life’s various challenges.

Judi McGee chaired the benefit for PARTNERS (Promoting Advancement Resources to Nursing Education, Research and Students) with funds dedicated to supporting students and faculty at the UTHealth School of Nursing. Joining McGee in the spotlight as honorary chairs were three women in the Dr. Denton Cooley family — Louise Cooley, Dr. Susan Cooley and Mary Plumb Senkel, R.N.

Kevin Kline, morning co-host of 93Q, served as master of ceremonies before the gathering of 450.

In the mix were Patricia Starck, dean of the UTHealth School of Nursing, plus Dr. Denton Cooley, Fred Zeidman, Sheri Henriksen, Soraya McClelland, Jan Duncan, Carolyn Moody Drake, Becky Conser, Judy Margolis, Kathy Redden, Cathy Borlenghi, Brad Howell, Sara Howell, Joyce Standish, Diane Trabulsi and Kathy McGovern.