Dr. Phyllis Justus

Dr. Phyllis Justus is a passionate nurse who has spent her 40+ year career advocating for patients and her fellow nurses. As she prepares to retire in summer 2025, it is with the greatest honor and affection that we recognize her transformational impact.

In a career that spans the oncology, critical care, academic, leadership and nursing professional development specialties, Phyllis has remained a tireless advocate and a catalyst for nursing excellence every step of the way. She has been a trailblazer in developing career advancement opportunities for clinical nurses, championing recognition of the excellent work that nurses do every day. In recognition of her dedication, she was named a Great 100 Nurse in her home state of North Carolina in 2023. She is a proud graduate of Wake Forest University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the University of Alabama (Birmingham).

Phyllis’s influence has touched thousands of past, current, and future nurses. She shows that strength lies in listening, learning, and uplifting others. Never one to seek the spotlight, her influence is deeply felt—through her mentorship, volunteer efforts and her genuine celebration of others’ successes. Beyond her dedication to the nursing profession, Phyllis is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and an active volunteer in her community. She is a role model for civic engagement, serving on local boards and active in her church.

We wish Phyllis safe travels and all the best as she embarks on a new adventure. May it be full of belly rubs for her beloved Golden Retriever, Oliver, and making memories with her family – husband Steven, their four children and grandchildren.

With love,

Your Advocate Health Team