Peggy Wagner is a unique combination of energy, compassion, intelligence, and patience.  She mentors with a deep understanding of where her students are at, and where they need to be.  She recognizes the skills unique to each student and grows and cultivates those skills through a nurturing teaching style that encourages all to participate.  She introduces complex and sometimes difficult concepts without making her students feel inadequate.  Perhaps this ability is tied to her deeply rooted compassion-which is also on display when she provides nursing care during clinical.  Peggy connects with others on a deeply personal level and provides comfort even in the most difficult situations. 
Recently during a clinical rotation, she made a personal connection with a patient's wife who was not confident in her decision-making regarding her spouse's care.  The wife was confused about the prognosis and felt that she was letting her spouse down and felt like she was killing him.  Peggy, recognizing the emotional needs of the spouse as well as the physical needs of the patient, listened and offered support as appropriate.  She recognized that both individuals needed the support of the other to make it through this difficult time.  She was able to facilitate that relationship by simply listening and being present.  This presence provided strength for the wife, who in turn was able to provide comfort and strength for her spouse.