Bess came to Lakeland College in 1990. Her nursing experience includes public health, maternity and surgery. She was also a public health nursing supervisor and executive director of an early intervention program. She says she really enjoys the interaction with students and Lakeland's great nursing staff.

Bess' hobbies are gardening,travel,reading, and looking after and spending time with pets. Although not an alumnae, her daughter did attend Lakeland College.