In this WOCN® Society Member Spotlight edition, we’re excited to introduce Mary Harris, BSN, RN, CWON, President of the New England Chapter! Based in Maine, Mary has been a dedicated WOCN Society member for 20+ years. Her passion for ostomy care, commitment to patient education, and leadership in the New England Chapter make her an invaluable part of the WOC community. Learn more about Mary’s career journey, leadership insights, and vision for the chapter—and don’t forget to visit the New England Chapter’s new website for the latest resources and opportunities!
A Lifelong Passion for WOC Nursing
Mary’s journey into WOC nursing began early in her career, sparked by curiosity about wound healing while working as a Nurse’s Aide. As she advanced in her career, moving from the SICU to home healthcare, she became increasingly interested in specialized wound care. However, it wasn’t until she met a CWOCN, Annette, during her time in Washington state that she was truly inspired to take the next step. Encouraged by her mentor, Mary enrolled in the Turnbull School of ET nurses, now known as the Cleveland Clinic – R.B. Turnbull, JR. MD WOC Nursing Education Program Nursing, in 2002. Her mentor told her that she would go to school wanting to know more about wound healing, but she came out wanting to do more ostomy care.
Over the years, Mary has made an impact on countless patients, from helping those with venous leg ulcers regain mobility to giving ostomy patients the confidence to live leak-free. The gratitude she receives from patients and families fuels her passion for nursing every day.
WOCN Society Connections and Chapter Leadership
Her journey with the WOCN Society began during WOC nursing school, where membership was encouraged as a way to continue growing in knowledge, leadership, and networking. Since then, she has found immense value in being part of the Society, especially through the connections she has made. “I have met so many knowledgeable and great people being a part of the Society whom I have used as a resource,” Mary shares. “On the Chapter and National level, I feel a part of something bigger than myself.”
Mary’s chapter involvement started with what she calls a voluntold opportunity when she was in Washington State—helping organize the regional conference. Since then, she has embraced leadership roles, growing both personally and professionally. She describes the New England Chapter as a “big, small area” where patients often travel long distances for care, requiring close coordination among WOC nurses across state lines. “Patients may travel six or more hours for specialized treatment in Boston but need continued support when they return home to rural communities.” This collaboration between WOC nurses ensures that patients receive consistent, high-quality care no matter where they live.
As a Chapter leader, Mary has learned that she is never alone in her role. “So many people within the Chapter and National WOCN Society want to help you succeed,” she says. “I have found help at the National level is just an email away.” She encourages other WOC nurses to get involved, emphasizing that leadership is an opportunity to grow, not a solo endeavor.
If she had to describe the New England Chapter in one word, it would be experience. “The New England Chapter is rich with experienced WOC nurses,” she says. “But never be intimidated by this! They are so willing and able to mentor each one of the WOC nurses in this Chapter and nationwide.”
Looking Ahead
Although Mary hopes to retire in the next five years, she doesn’t plan to step away from WOC nursing entirely. Her goal is to continue sharing her knowledge and experience with patients, caregivers, and fellow nurses, particularly in ostomy care. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her granddaughters, kayaking, snowmobiling, quilting, and exploring the outdoors with her husband.
Visit the New England Chapter’s website today and stay connected with your local WOC community!