Avery graduated from Catawba College with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, completing her degree in just three years with a 4.0 GPA and receiving the Academic Excellence Award for the highest GPA in her nursing class. She currently works as a vascular ICU nurse at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, caring for critically ill patients, including those recovering from complex and invasive vascular surgeries. During nursing school, she gained diverse clinical experience in emergency care, neurology, mental health, labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, and pediatrics.

A lifelong learner, Avery participated in a healthcare history trip to London and Edinburgh, exploring the evolution of surgery, infection control, early antibiotics, and Florence Nightingale’s contributions to nursing. A former NCAA dual-sport volleyball athlete, she developed strong leadership and teamwork skills through nine years of competitive volleyball. Avery’s passion for nursing was inspired by caring for her younger brother with complex medical needs and has shaped her commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.