Christine Economos
Christine Economos is currently Interim Advanced Divisional Nursing Director, Paediatric Medicine, Women’s and Children’s Hospital Network.
Christine graduated from the University of Adelaide in 1999 with a Graduate Diploma Intensive Care Nursing and is an Adjunct Senior Fellow, Adelaide Nursing School, The University of Adelaide and remains connected as a valued member of Adelaide Nursing School Alumni Network (ANSAN) Committee since 2023. With over 25 years in nursing including executive positions, and on multiple strategic projects, Christine enjoys a healthy work life balance through travel, baking and spending quality time with family and pet rabbit Hazel.
When and how did you know you wanted to study your chosen degree?
During high school, my grandmother became unwell and in my holidays, I would be involved in her care. Whilst watching the RDNS Nurse attend to her wound dressings, I was in awe of the care and compassion shown, which was humbling and inspiring. It was during these moments, that I knew I wanted to connect deeply with making a difference in people’s lives when they were at their most vulnerable.
How was your time at the University?
While I was studying at the University of Adelaide undertaking my Graduate Diploma in Intensive Care Nursing, my fondest memories were the collaboration and connection with my fellow students and lecturers. The tutorials were a great opportunity to learn and embed physiological theory of the critically ill patient and understand how this would translate to practice in my clinical role as a Critical Care Nurse and the care delivered to my patients.
What have you been up to since graduating from the University?
Since graduating from the University of Adelaide, I have been in a variety of senior roles across SA Health, ranging from Director Strategic Projects to Nursing Director, Corporate Strategy and Workforce and now as the Interim Advanced Divisional Nursing Director at the Women’s and Childrens Health Network. Further, over the past 10 years I have acted intermittently in Executive Director of Nursing positions and been seconded to various projects and reviews along my career journey.
Tell us about your career highlights to date
My career highlight to date would have to be my lead in the movement of staff and patients from the old Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) to the new RAH for the Acute Medicine division. The knowledge, skills and experience gained, as well as the opportunity to be part of a once in a lifetime transition to a new hospital was a privilege.
Did you participate in any sports or clubs while a student? What else do you do now, outside of work?
In my early days, I was a state tennis player and continued playing at club level until shift work made this difficult. I am a passionate cook and ran my own kids cooking classes. I love baking with my two teenage children and have a veggie patch, which is constantly consumed by our pet rabbit Hazel.
I love travelling and exploring new places. Being part of a team, whether in my personal or professional life is what makes one’s life experiences the richer.
Do you have any advice to current students?
Always say yes to an opportunity, even if it is outside your comfort zone, as it can lead to a wonderful path of exciting experiences and lifelong learnings, which you may reflect on in years to come.
What is your favourite inspirational quote?
"I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination”. - Jimmy Dean