Jody has spent most of her career at UI Hospitals & Clinics and UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital. In their nominations in support of Jody, one colleague described her as "a visionary leader who has led the development of multiple essential programs, services, and resources for women and children based on research and evidence-based practice guidelines."

Another wrote: "Jody has passionately advocated for, developed, and advanced nursing care standards that specifically address the unique needs of children and women. She also and developed and fostered a divisional culture that supports and encourages new and seasoned nurse leaders to learn, grow, and achieve excellence within the Children and Women's Services nursing division, the Department of Nursing, and beyond."