K. GrantK. Grant

Springfield native K. Grant RN (Kelsey Grant) is a paramedic-trained registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, and NREMT. Grant has been an active volunteer since his teens. “I fell in love with volunteering; I enjoy being able to step into different roles, learn new skills, and do a good thing in the process.” We asked Grant about why he chose nursing as a profession. “Honestly, it is the best job ever if you truly care about helping people. It is honest work. There is a reason why nurses are considered the most trusted professionals, and it goes back to our core training to be patient advocates and fiduciaries in our service to others.” Grant’s path into healthcare was no clear-cut path. Grant spent his teens completing an apprenticeship in culinary arts. In his early twenties, he found himself attending the famous Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, where he graduated with honors and perfect attendance. What led you into healthcare after a twenty-plus-year career as a professional chef? “I had a personal tragedy in my life that caused me to refocus my priorities on the things I valued most, and the things I wanted to get out of my life. As much as I loved cooking, standing in a kitchen sixteen hours a day or more at times does take a toll, and time is the most valuable thing on earth. After twenty-plus years, I was ready to move on.” What led you to decide to run for state office? “As a nurse, you see people at their best and at their worst, and you see the struggles that they're facing in their daily lives. It's pretty hard to ignore those issues. I had no master plan to become a politician or to get involved in politics. But I answered the call as a volunteer to serve my community, and it led me to this role. I am a moderate, middle-of-the-road guy. I find that politics have become very polarizing, hostile, and there's a great divide in our country that I have never seen at any time in my life. Division is not good. I feel like it's time for someone to actually do the job of representative, for what the job really is.” Grant wants to be a representative for the people, to do the right thing, and not to take advantage of the position to enrich oneself. I view this role as an extension of the nursing profession, being a true advocate for hardworking families in Missouri.