Growing Through Opportunity and Support
Originally from California, Brooke Knudson moved to North Carolina in 1999 and quickly made it home. A big part of her personal life includes her French Bulldog, Ren, who will soon celebrate her second birthday. Ren came into Brooke’s life through a fellow Tryon team member, making the connection even more special.
“This is my first time having a Frenchie,” she says. “She keeps me busy and gets me outside more.”
Staying active and walking with Ren along local greenways is one way Brooke reduces her screen time and focuses on meaningful connections with others.
What was your journey to Tryon like?
Before joining Tryon Medical Partners, Brooke worked in customer service throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. That experience proved meaningful but exhausting, ultimately leading her to look for a fresh start.
“I worked all through COVID and saw how it took a toll on everybody,” she recalls. “I loved the people I worked with, but the behind-the-scenes part just wasn’t for me anymore.”
Her connection to Tryon Medical Partners began long before she became an employee. She has been a patient since 2018 and always felt comfortable and cared for.
“I’ve always felt accepted and safe as a patient,” she says. “Now I feel the same way as an employee.”
Healthcare was also a familiar field in her family. Her mother served as a nurse for 50 years before retiring, and many people had encouraged Brooke to consider a similar path.
“Looking back, they were probably right,” she laughs. “I really do love working with people and helping make their day better.”
She has witnessed the organization grow over time, but believes Tryon has successfully kept its focus on people: from the team partners and clinical staff, to patients and their families.
“There’s been a lot of growth, but we’ve stayed true to our values,” she says proudly.
What is different about Tryon as an employer?
Brooke joined Tryon in September 2022 as a Patient Service Specialist (PSS) at the Uptown location.
“My interview wasn’t the best,” she admits. “But my manager, Kelsey Fennie, saw something and took a chance on me. That meant everything.”
Drawing on her strong customer service background, she quickly found fulfillment in working directly with patients. After working diligently for more than two years, she was given opportunities to grow into leadership roles.
She became a PSS Lead, helping train new team members and supporting onboarding efforts. Later, she transitioned into a Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) role, coordinating care and communicating with patients daily.
In April 2025, Brooke accepted an Office Coordinator role, supporting multiple locations, including Pineville, Matthews, and Waverly. Though moving between teams was bittersweet, she embraced the challenge and opportunity to expand her skills.
“I won’t let self-doubt stop me,” she says. “Danielle Laffitte, Erik Rice, and the other leaders here took time to guide me and set me up for success.”
How has Tryon helped you grow professionally?
Professional growth at Tryon Medical Partners has strengthened Brooke’s confidence as both a team partner and a mentor. She values patience in training and believes every person deserves the time they need to succeed.
“If someone takes longer to learn something, I’m there to help,” she remarks. “I’d rather them feel confident than rushed.”
Her experience as both a patient and an employee has reinforced her belief in the organization’s mission and culture of care.
“I try to stay humble every day and treat people with kindness,” Brooke says. “If I can make someone’s day better, that’s what matters.”