Meet our Nurse Midwives
At Chapel Hill OBGYN, we are thankful for all members of our wonderful care team. Our physicians, nurse practitioners and others are dedicated to providing only the highest level of compassionate care. More importantly, we take time to know you to determine how we can best assist you.
We’d like to take this time to focus on our nurse midwives. In addition to helping patients during labor and delivery, midwives may also perform exams, provide gynecological care and provide health education and counseling.
While details vary from state to state, in general, most midwifery education involves graduate education and often, these schools require a bachelor’s degree for admission. (American College of Nurse Midwives)
We’re pleased to have this wonderful team working with us and wanted you to have a chance to learn more about them and why they chose this profession.
Amy Ellis Dixon, CNM, MSN 
Where are you from originally?
I’m from Monroe, North Carolina.
Where did you receive your training?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and my master’s degree in midwifery at East Carolina University.
Why did you become a nurse midwife?
After many years of being a bedside labor nurse, I knew I wanted to further my career in women’s health. There were many pathways I could have pursued but leaving birth was not an option! Becoming a nurse midwife allowed me to continue being a part of one of the most special moments during a family’s life, all while being able to provide continuity of care outside of the hospital!
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Pregnancy and birth are such powerful experiences that truly show how strong women are. I love forming connections with my families, and I value the relationships that I build with women. I wholeheartedly believe that midwifery is the best job in the world!
Tell us about your family.
My husband, John, and I have two dogs, Grady-White and Skylar.
What do you like to do when you’re not at Chapel Hill OBGYN?
I love the outdoors, spending time with my family, Pilates, yoga, DIY projects and going to the movies.
Leigh Ann Joel, BSN, CNM 
Where are you from originally?
I grew up in Massachusetts. I don’t miss the winters.
Where did you receive your training/education?
I have a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. I obtained a post-graduate certificate in Midwifery from Bay State Medical Center’s Nurse Midwifery Education Program in 1999.
Why did you become a nurse midwife?
I knew when I was 9 years old that I wanted to deliver babies when I grew up. I believe being a midwife is much more than a career—it’s a calling.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is connecting with women and their families and guiding them through the process of pregnancy and birth. I love to see the strength that comes from education and taking time to answer questions and address concerns. If you listen, women tell you what they need.
Tell us about your family.
My husband, Gregg, and I have two nearly grown children and two cats.
What do you like to do when you’re not at Chapel Hill OBGYN?
I enjoy hiking, baking, dance, coffee, and Broadway.
Bringing the resources of an experienced health care team to you
We’re proud of all of our employees who reflect our dedication to our patients daily. Nurse midwives play a special role in educating our patients and caring for them throughout their entire journey. They are one part of our comprehensive health care team that provides the individual care you deserve with the state-of-the-art technology you expect.
Are you interested in scheduling an appointment with one of our nurse midwives? Please contact us at 919-525-3971.
For more than 40 years, Chapel Hill OBGYN has served patients in the Triangle area, sharing the joy of little miracles and supporting them during challenges. Our board-certified physicians and certified nurse midwives bring together the personal experience and convenience of a private practice with the state-of-the-art resources found at larger organizations. To schedule an appointment, please contact us for more information.
