Nurse Practitioner, Essentia Health
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: My name is Brooke Zimmerman, and I work as a nurse practitioner specializing in Otolaryngology at Essentia Health in Fargo. With a passion for providing personalized care, I treat patients across the lifespan, addressing acute and chronic conditions relating to the ears, nose, and throat. I pride myself on meeting patients where they are and collaborating with the department to develop evidencebased treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
My medical career began at North Dakota State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I then gained invaluable experience as a solid organ transplant nurse at the Mayo Clinic. Driven to advance my practice, I returned to NDSU to earn a Doctorate of Nursing Practice in 2022. Since then, I transitioned from a role as an emergency department nurse at Essentia to a specialized nurse practitioner, committed to delivering empathetic, high-quality care to the Fargo-Moorhead community. My husband Matt and I, along with our daughter Maeve, call Fargo our home and love getting involved and enjoying all our town has to offer!
Q: What inspired you to get involved in your community at a young age?
A: Growing up in the small, tight-knit community of Grafton, ND, I learned early on that the strength of a community depends on the commitment of its members. I owe much of my inspiration to my parents, who served as primary examples of community and workplace leadership. Whether they were running the youth basketball program or heading church dinners, they taught me by example the importance of giving back and using one’s talents to serve others.
Throughout my school years, I made it a point to remain consistently involved, understanding that showing up is often what matters most. I believe that contributing in any capacity—no matter how small—helps a community remain robust and well-cared for. This foundational belief in the power of dedication and giving back continues to drive my desire to be involved in the community and throughout my work organization, as simply being present and giving of your time and abilities can make a larger difference than you may expect.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: I owe nothing but gratitude to the remarkable village of mentors who have shaped me. I hold my parents in the highest regard; they established the precedent for what it means to be a person of integrity, demonstrating a tireless work ethic and a devoted commitment to family and community. Their example is the cornerstone of my own values in both my personal and professional life.
Beyond my home, I wouldn’t be the professional or individual I am today without the diverse group of coaches, professors, friends, and preceptors who have supported and encouraged me. Each one has played a vital role in my education and growth, offering guidance that has helped me navigate every stage of my journey with confidence.
