‘In a Word’: Shavogne Morgan on learning to say yes more often, being kind to yourself and more

Shavogne Morgan

This column spotlights the kinds of people you think about when you think about Mayo Clinic. They've answered questions, serious and otherwise, so you can know them better.


You see them at bedsides. Behind desks. You may spot them walking down a hall or sprinting across a lobby, making every effort to look like they're walking. You see them talking quietly with a patient and family, or sitting down with you at a meeting. They may be friends, teammates or someone you know only by sight. But you're glad they're here. And it's reassuring to know that the health of our patients, our colleagues and the institution itself rests in their capable, friendly, earnest, caring and compassionate hands.


Shavogne Morgan was a medical transcriptionist for several years before Mayo's reputation for treating patients and staff with high regard drew her to the organization.

Morgan has been at Mayo Clinic for eight years, and she is now a supervisor in the Appointment Office at Mayo Clinic in Arizona. She says one of her favorite things about Mayo Clinic is being able to participate in the growth of the organization through its "Bold. Forward." strategic plan.

Favorite part about working here: The gift shop at the Scottsdale Concourse. Those delicious chocolates got me through many a long day.

The single most important thing I did at work yesterday (or expect to do tomorrow): I agreed to become a mentor. I had declined the opportunity to be one for some time due to low bandwidth. But I had to take a step back and consider all of the people who helped cultivate me into the leader I am today. It's important to pay it forward. This is my way of doing so.

A book I would recommend, or one I want to read: "Year of Yes" by Shonda Rhimes. This book taught me to be more open-minded and stop saying no to things that made me uncomfortable, like public speaking. This book truly changed my life. Once I stopped saying no and started pushing myself, I began to see a lot of opportunities open up for me.

Mayo Clinic has taught me: How to be a Zoom expert.

Most treasured or best advice from a colleague at Mayo: You are on a steep learning curve. Be kind to yourself. I fall back on this advice any time I find myself in a new venture. The pressure to know everything at the onset can be overwhelming. It's important to allow yourself the opportunity to learn and grow.

Most memorable Mayo moment: I was flown to Rochester when I first became a supervisor. I had never been to Rochester before this. I was completely overwhelmed by how much of an impact Mayo has on the community there. After the first day of orientation, I walked the subway slowly and took in every sound, smell and conversation. I spent the entire walk filled with immense gratitude, hope and inspiration. It was truly one of the best moments of my life.

If I could choose the "on hold" music for Mayo Clinic: "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield. It is impossible not to smile and tap your toes when this song is on.

Favorite space on campus this month: The new drop-in centers for remote workers. My colleague and I traveled on-site to work in one of them, and we had the best time. This is such an amazing concept. I hope Mayo can implement more of these in the future.

People who inspire me: Janina Hogans. She is the epitome of poise, wisdom and fearlessness. I consider her a vital key to my success as a leader here at Mayo. And all of the founding members of the Kern Center's Equity, Inclusion and Diversity group. They have worked tirelessly to implement the "Get Real" platform, which is a tool for eradicating racism at Mayo Clinic. It has been inspiring to witness their vision come to fruition and receive the much-needed recognition that it deserves.

The most fun I've had at work this year: I participated in filming a segment for the Asynchronous Access Training Program in partnership with Arizona State University. I had never been a part of any type of professional video production in my life. It was really fun to get a behind-the-scenes look at all the activities that go into creating these productions. We did hundreds of takes until we got the perfect one. It was exhausting but super fun.

Team Dr. Charlie or Team Dr. Will? Or Team Mother Alfred or Team Dr. W.W. Why? Team everyone on this list. Their mission and values continue to hold true today and set Mayo apart from any other health care organization.

When patients recall their visit to Mayo Clinic, I hope they remember: Our kindness. Sometimes it is something so small as seeing a patient lost in the hall and personally delivering them to their intended destination. These types of kind gestures really make a lasting impact on our patients.


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