I always wanted to teach nursing. After spending many years in clinical settings as staff nurse, supervisor and administrator, an opportunity opened and I began my academic career. I thoroughly enjoy the academic environment. Influencing and hopefully inspiring the next generation of nursing professionals has been immensely satisfying for me. I earned my Ph'D while teaching full time. Doctoral education helped me understand the importance of advancing nursing science through research. I learned how critical it is to nurture critical thinking, innovation, and assertiveness in our students and to encourage them to go on to advanced practice, scholarship and life-long learning.
The LLU school of nursing has been graduating nurses for 103 years. I cherish the history of this institution and the nursing program it houses. This is a Christ centered place. I believe it an awesome responsiblity to keep our program alive and well. In an age where youth have may choices of career, and where the costs of obtaining a good education keep rising, there exist huge challenges to keeping programs viable, vibrant, and relevant. It takes the energey and commitment of all faculty and academic leadership to keep a program healthy so there is longevity. Leadership involves recognizing faculty strengths and removing barriers so that inovation and creativtiy can flourish for both faculty and students.
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