Grass Valley, CA – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Nevada County native, Polly Conley, was recently recognized by the 2024 University of California, Davis PA program as Preceptor of the Year.
This award celebrates Conley’s commitment to mentoring and educating future healthcare professionals – and acknowledges time and energy spent educating PA and NP students. These students spend five-week rotations shadowing and providing care in many different settings, from the UCD Medical Center Hospital to community clinics like Western Sierra. The students and faculty of the program voted on the providers who gave them the best learning experiences and Polly Conley was this year’s awardee.
Precepting students has been a cornerstone of Conley’s career. “Throughout my training, I had incredible mentors who imparted their wisdom to me, and I strive to do the same for my students,” she said. “There is nothing more rewarding than watching a student grow into a confident and capable provider.”
Conley brings two decades of experience in primary care pediatrics to her role, and students expressed appreciation for Conley’s patience and encouragement, willingness to answer questions, and imparting confidence during exchanges with patients and hospital professionals.
Reflecting on her path, Conley’s exploration of healthcare began early. “As a teenager attending Nevada Union High School, I had the opportunity to shadow various providers at Sierra Family Medical Clinic. This experience shaped my career aspirations and set me on the path to becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner,” said Conley.
After graduating with a BSN from Brigham Young University in 2000, she completed her MSN in Pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco in 2002, and soon returned to Nevada County to focus on improving access to pediatric services in her hometown.
“I feel like I have come full circle, working to improve care for our community,” she remarked.
Conley has spent the last eight years practicing at Western Sierra Medical Clinic, where she collaborates with our local public health department, school nurses, and community organizations. She serves on the Board of Directors for KARE Crisis Nursery and Bright Futures, contributing to numerous initiatives aimed at improving healthcare for children and families.
Conley’s recognition as Preceptor of the Year is a testament to her lasting impact on both her patients and the many students she has guided over the years.
About Western Sierra Medical Clinic
Western Sierra Medical Clinic is a community nonprofit, dedicated to all residents – WSMC offers quality medical, dental, and behavioral health care and continues to expand its specialties to meet the needs of the region’s residents, regardless of their income or insurance coverage. For nearly 50 years, WSMC has been a strong partner in all areas of health and wellness in the region. You can learn more about Western Sierra Medical Clinic at www.wsmcmed.org.