2024 NLN Election

Candidate Profiles

Two Governors-at-Large (2024-2027)

Majeda El-Banna, PhD, RN, CNE, ANEF

PERSONAL STATEMENT

My boundary-spanning leadership and service reshaped nursing education and professional standards for education internationally and in the USA. My leadership and unique expertise in organizational building and strategic planning in academic and professional organizations provided a lasting impact at the national and international levels by developing education guidelines, standards, and teaching resources for undergraduate and graduate programs.

My contribution to advancing nursing education has been apparent and sustained over the last two decades as a leader, educator, and researcher across the globe. As an NLN Governor and Ambassador in my school, I adopt, fully embrace, and integrate NLN core values such as caring, diversity, excellence, and integrity, among others, into the workplace. My ultimate objective is to ensure that these qualities are not only transmitted to students to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of the nursing workforce, but also to faculty, who serve as role models for future nurses.

PAST POSITIONS

  • 2013-Present: Vice Dean (2023-present), Chair-Acute and Chronic Care Department (2020-2023), Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (2021-2023), Associate Professor with Tenure (2019-Present), Director of RN to BSN/MSN (2014-2021), Assistant Professor (2013-2019), School of Nursing, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA.
  • 2012-2013: Academic Advisor, Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission to the U.S., Fairfax, Virginia, USA.
  • 2007-2010: Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, The Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, Kuwait.
  • 2004-2007: School of Nursing Dean (2005-2007), Head of Adult Health Nursing Department (2004-2005), Assistant Professor (2004-2007), School of Nursing, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
  • 2004-2007: Adjunct Faculty and Project Director, School of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
  • 2000-2004: Graduate Research Assistant, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
  • 1996-1999: Clinical Instructor, School of Nursing, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
  • 1992-1996: Registered Nurse, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

  • 2021-2024: NLN Governor At-Large.
  • 2021: NLN Research in Nursing Education Grants Program Reviewer.
  • 2020: Selected as a Fellow in the Academy of Nursing Education (ANEF).
  • 2020-2021: NLN- Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) Program Review Committee.
  • 2018-2021: NLN Award Committee.
  • 2018: Home Instead Scholarship Committee.
  • 2017-2021: NLN Summit Abstract Reviewer.
  • 2017: Earned the Certification for Nurse Educators (CNE).
  • 2017-Present: The George Washington School of Nursing NLN Ambassador.
  • 2015-2021: NLN- CNEA Accreditation On-Site Reviewer.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

  • 2014-Present: Eastern Nursing Research Society Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Advisory Group then on the committee (2020-Presnt), Nomination Committee (2017-2020), and Conference Abstract Reviewer (2014-Present).
  • 2018- 2021: American Nurses Foundation as a Grant Reviewer
  • 2017-Present:  Sigma Grant and Abstract Reviewer (2018-Present) and Phi Epsilon Chapter, Chair of Research Committee and Chair of Leadership Succession Committee (2017-2020).
  • 2015-2021: Co-chair Washington Regional Nursing Research Consortium (2018-Present) and Chair of abstract review committee and member of the planning committee of the Annual Doctoral Student Research Conference (2015-2020).
  • 2004-2020; Conference Abstract Writer Mentor, Oncology Nursing Society.
  • 2005-2007: Served on multiple committees for the Jordanian Nursing and Midwives Council e.g. Accreditation and Standards Committee, Admission Criteria, Nursing Specialties Committee, Competencies for the Generalist Nurse, Establishment of Nursing Educational Policies, and Nursing National Strategic Plan.
  • 2005-2007: Secretary General, The Scientific Association of Arab Nursing Colleges, Association of Arab Universities.

EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS

  • 2000-2004: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
  • 1996-1998: Master of Nursing Science (MSN): Nursing Education, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
  • 1988-1992: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BSN), The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
  • 2017: Certification for Nurse Educators (CNE).
  • 2015-Present: Quality Matters Peer Reviewer, USA.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • 2021-Present: American Academy of Nursing Education, National League of Nursing, USA.
  • 2016-Present: American Nurses Association, Member, USA.
  • 2015-Present:  National League of Nursing, USA.
  • 2013-Present: American Association of Colleges of Nursing, USA.
  • 2014-Present:  Eastern Nursing Research Society, USA.
  • 2014-Present: Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, USA.
  • 2005-2007: Jordanian Nursing and Midwives Council, Jordan.
  • 2005-2007: The Scientific Association of Arab Nursing Colleges, Association of Arab Universities.
  • 2003-2005: Oncology Nursing Society, USA.
  • 2001-2004: Midwest Nursing Research Society, USA. 

Rebecca Hill, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, CNE, FAAN

PERSONAL STATEMENT

As a certified nurse educator, I have extensive knowledge and expertise in programmatic requirements and best practices in nursing education. I lead nursing curricula and strategic planning in my role as Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. I am proud that the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion are integrated through our programs of learning. I developed and operationalized a new master’s degree in nursing education, with a novel course titled Culturally Responsive Teaching and a focus on building the science of nursing education with the four core values of the NLN as a guiding framework. As a graduate of the NLN LEAD program, I have grown to be a servant leader, understanding that change is accomplished best when there is an invested team. I would be honored to work with and for NLN members and partners as Governor-at-Large.

PAST POSITIONS

Associate Professor, MGH Institute of Health Professions Boston, MA (2021 - )

Assistant Professor, MGH Institute of Health Professions Boston, MA (2013-2021)
President, Sigma Theta Tau Upsilon Lambda Chapter (2017-2018)

Assistant Professor, MCPHS University Boston, MA (2012-2013)
Clinical Faculty, Duke University Durham, NC (2012)

Assistant Professor, Barton College Wilson, NC (2010-2012)

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

Secretary, Massachusetts/Rhode Island League for Nursing (MARILN) (2024- )

Executive Board Member, MARILN (2024- )

Board Member, MARILN (2021-2024)

Member, Finance Committee, MARILN (2021- )
Member, Program Planning Committee, MARILN (2021- )

Selected Participant, National League for Nursing: LEAD Program (2020-2021)

Member, Massachusetts/Rhode Island League for Nursing (2014- )

Member, National League for Nursing (2014- )

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Elected position, Membership Committee, Eastern Nursing Research Society (ENRS) (2024-2026)

Mentor, Massachusetts/Rhode Island League for Nursing Mentoring Program (2023- )

Review Editor, Frontiers in Public Health, Children and Health (2023- )

Program Administrator, Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing (2022- )

Member, School of Nursing Advisory Council, MGH (2022 - )

Member, Institute of Health Professions (MGH IHP) (2022 - )

Member, School of Nursing Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Collaborative, MGH IHP (2022 - )

Member, Academic Operations Council, MGH IHP (2021 - )                                            

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Doctor of Philosophy, (Nursing), Boston College, Newton, MA (2021)

Doctor of Nursing Practice, (Nursing), Duke University, Durham, NC (2013)

Post-Master’s Certificate, (Nursing Education), Duke University, Durham, NC (2013)
Master of Science, (Nursing), Duke University, Durham, NC (2010)

Bachelor of Science, (Nursing, Magna cum Laude), University of Rhode Island (2006)

Certified Nurse Educator #NLN518431 (2015- )               

Family Nurse Practitioner, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (2010- )

Massachusetts Family Nurse Practitioner (2010- )

Massachusetts Registered Nurse (2006- )

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Breastfeeding Expert Panel, American Academy of Nursing (2023- )

American Academy of Nursing (2023- )

American Nurses Association (2017- )

Eastern Nursing Research Society (2017- )

American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (2008- )

Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (2006- )

Massachusetts Nurses Association (2006- )

Cynthia Purcell, DNP, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I thank the NLN Nominations Committee for their endorsement of me as a candidate for this position. The future of nursing and the health of our nation lies in the hands of nurse educators. It would be a privilege to impact nursing education and practice through service on the Board of Governors.

Working with the NLN has been a goal of mine as my personal and professional values of truth, integrity, faith and understanding align closely with NLN core values of caring, integrity, diversity, and excellence. I look forward to partnering and collaborating with nurse educators from across the country to further the NLN mission of promoting excellence in nursing education, building a strong and diverse nursing workforce, and ultimately advancing the health of our nation and the global community.

PAST POSITIONS

  • None within the NLN
  • Current academic committee positions: Chair, Department Rank and Tenure Advisory Committee; Chair, School Faculty Governance Assembly; Member, University Undergraduate Council

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

  • 2024 NLN Education Summit - Abstract reviewer

OTHER ACTIVITIES

  • Manuscript Reviewer, Journal of Professional Nursing (current)
  • Teal Bio Nurse Advisory Board (Jan. 2022 – Mar. 2023)
  • Alamo Area Council of Boy Scouts, Eagle Projects, and Rank Advancements Boards member (current)

EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS

Education

  • DNP (2014) University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • MSN (1992) University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health Houston)
  • BSN (1988) Texas Tech University Health Science Center

Certifications

  • Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), 2016 – present
  • Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN), 2023 – present

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • Sigma Global (1989 – present)
  • Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (2017 – present)
  • Oncology Nursing Society (1988 – 2018)
  • National League for Nursing (Institutional)
  • American Association of Colleges of Nursing (Institutional)

Paul Smith, PhD, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I am deeply honored by the nomination and enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve on the NLN Board of Governors. Beginning my career as an associate degree nurse, I later pursued further education to advance my skills and knowledge. My first nursing faculty position was in an associate degree program, where I played an instrumental role in shaping the next generation of nurses. Subsequently, I transitioned to a university setting in the Pacific Northwest, where I continued my dedication to nursing education and inclusivity. Throughout my journey, I have actively championed NLN's core values, spearheading diversity initiatives and advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion within nursing education. My unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and inclusivity positions me as a well-prepared candidate for this role. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with esteemed colleagues on the Board to drive positive change and uphold the highest standards of practice.

PAST POSITIONS

Dean and Professor, Linfield University Good-Samaritan School of Nursing, Portland OR; Associate Dean and Associate Professor, Linfield University Good-Samaritan School of Nursing, Portland, OR; Instructor and Training Specialist for Kaplan Nursing; Program Chair and Nursing Faculty, Chemeketa Community College, Salem, OR.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

NLN Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee; NLN Certification Nomination Committee; NLN Board of Commissioners for CNE; NLN Testing Advisory Committee on Fairness and Equity Issues in Testing; NLN Leadership Institute (LEAD) program participant; NLN Virtual Summit (2020) presentation – Integration of the Care of Transgender and Gender Variate Individuals into Nursing Education.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

New American Colleges and Universities (NACU) Emerging Leaders Institute; Editor and  author: Robinson, M., Padgett Coehlo, D. & Smith, P. S. (2022). Family health care nursing:  Theory, practice, and research (7th ed.). F. A. Davis; Jonas Scholar (University of Nevada, Las  Vegas); Linfield University Lacroute Grant to fund “Creating a Culture of Connection Between  Linfield’s Portland and McMinnville Campuses”; Linfield Faculty-Student Collaborative  Research Grant recipient for “Providing Culturally Competent Care for Transgender Clients:  What Nurses Should Know”; Multnomah County Health Reserve Corps; Oregon Action  Coalition; Peer Reviewer for American Journal of Nursing (AJN), Public Health Nursing, Nurse  Education Today, and Journal of Professional Nursing; Podium presentation (1-hour) at the Nurse Educator’s Conference in the Rockies (2017) - Incorporating LGBT Health Concepts into Nursing Curricula: What Nursing Faculty Should Know.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

PhD, University of Nevada, Las Vegas; MN, Washington State University, Vancouver, WA;  BSN, University of Phoenix; ADN, Southern Union State Community College, Opelika, AL.  Certifications include: CNE and CCRN Alumnus.

 

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

National League for Nursing; Western Institute of Nursing Research (WIN); National Student

Nurses’ Association (NSNA) - Faculty Advisor; GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing
LGBTQ+ Equality; Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
Nominations Committee Member (2024-2027)

Mary Kathryn Sanders, DNP, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

As a nurse for over 30 years and faculty member for over 12, I find the National League for Nursing an invaluable asset to the profession, to nursing education and to furthering our efforts through legislation and advocacy. It is with those values in  mind, I seek a position to serve on the Nominating Committee. As an administrator in nursing education, I value the input from all faculty and see service on the NLN board as an opportunity to further the vision and mission through seeking nurse  leaders who can take NLN into the next generation.

PAST POSITIONS

Past positions include serving on the Nominating Committee for TNA District 5 and as secretary for the local chapter of  Sigma Theta Tau. I have also held several administrative positions such as program director and Chair.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

Certified Nurse Educator, presenter at numerous NLN conferences

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Other service activities include the Texas Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

MSN - Walden University, Nursing Education; DNP - Indiana Wesleyan University; National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator; prior certification as Certified Nurse for the Operating Room

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Texas Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, Texas DNP, Sigma Theta Tau International, prior  memberships with the Association for Nurses in Professional Development, the Association of Operating Room Nurses, the Rheumatology Nurse Society.

Barbara Sinacori, PhD, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

As a committed and proactive memeber of the NJLN, I firmly believe that the role of the Nominations Committee is  crucial in shaping the future trajectory of the nursing community. With my experience, dedication and vision, I am  confident in my ability to contribute to this important commitee. I am deeply passionate about fostering diversity, equity and includsion within the organization. This is evident through my dediction to the NJLN. As chair of the NJLN  nominations committee for 6 years, I have recruited over 50 diverse nurses to the NJLN Board of Directors and  nominations commiittees. I have also demonstrated my committment to the community of nursing through my involvement with various initiatives including Practical Nursing Day and the Nightingale Honor Guard.

PAST POSITIONS

NJLN Board of Directors for 3 terms; NJLN Executive Board; Secretary for two terms; NJLN member (membership, program committees); NJLN chair Nominations committee for 6 years. Vice President, Sigma Theta Tau Alpha Tau chapter

 

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

NLN Assessment services division content review committee member; 4/21 - 6/23

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Chair, Entry to Practice Baccalaureate Committee, Rutgers University Senator and Co-chair student affairs committee, School of Nursing Facultly Council Baccalaureate Division Rep Volunteer for Vaccine Corp for Rutgers Vaccine and RWJBH<

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

RN, MSN, PhD, CNE

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

ANA, NJLN, Sigma Theta Tau, Alumnus CNRN

Two Certification Commissioners (2024-2027)

Christopher W. Blackwell, PhD, APRN, ANP-BC, AGACNP-BC, CNE, FAANP, FAAN

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I have always had a passion and appreciation for certification as a measure of quality and competency in nurses. I have devoted much of my professional academic pursuits making significant impacts to nursing education at the undergraduate and graduate levels and on certification for nurse educators. I was one of the first scholars to publish on the value of the CNE credential for nurse practitioner (NP) Faculty. I have advanced the literature and scholarship on educating safe, competent, and skilled advanced practice nurses through use of simulation and other innovative educational strategies. I have published on various topics related to nursing education in premier nursing education and simulation journals dedicated in addition to the Journal for the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. I have also disseminated these contributions on the national stage at multiple conferences, including several expert presentations and workshops with the National Organization for NP Faculties.

PAST POSITIONS

I have worked for over 21 years as a nurse educator. I am a tenured-associate professor and the director of the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and professional certificate programs in the College of Nursing at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where I have worked for 20 years. UCF’s AGACNP program has had a 95% pass rate on the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Board certification examination since its inception in 2016, which majorly eclipses the national average pass rate on this exam (78%). Our DNP program at UCF is ranked by US News and World Report as the #43 DNP program in the United States (out of 141 ranked DNP programs). I have worked as a nursing faculty member at both the undergraduate (ASN and BSN) and graduate (MSN, DNP, and Ph.D.) levels and maintain an active pulmonary/critical care NP practice.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

I have worked in major capacities with the NLN since 2016. My initial involvement included work as an item writer for the CNE examination and participation on the CNE Examination Item Writing Panel. In 2018, I was appointed as a Commissioner to the NLN Certification Board of Commissioners (CBOC) by NLN President Dr. Beverly Malone. In 2022, I won national election to the CBOC. Partnered with incredibly talented and knowledgeable colleagues, I helped to steer the CNE, CNEcl, and CNEn certification programs to success. I also served as Chair of the NLN CBOC's Nominations Committee, providing leadership to the process of steering qualified, high-quality nominees for consideration for election to the Board. I believe the experience and knowledge I have gained as a Commissioner will allow me to continue contributing to the advancement of the NLN CNE programs.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

I am a prominent scholar and expert in LGBTQ+ health. My research has been funded and published in several prestigious academic journals and textbooks, garnering close to 550 citations. I have also been awarded several University, local, state, and national research, and graduate teaching awards. I am a past recipient of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Outstanding Nurse Practitioner Educator Award; and the Point of Care Network has recognized me as one of the Top 10 Nurse Practitioners in the United States. I am board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as both an adult nurse practitioner and AGACNP. I serve on ANCC’s AGACNP Board Certification Examination Item Writing Panel. In addition, I am on the National Practice Committee for the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, a Fellow in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Education:

  • 2013, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Professional Certificate, College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
  • 2005, Ph.D. in Public Affairs (Health), College of Health & Public Affairs, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
  • 2001, MSN (Adult Nurse Practitioner), College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
  • 2000, BSN (with Honors), College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL

Certifications:

  • 2014- Current: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, American Nurses Credentialing Center
  • 2011- Current: Certified Nurse Educator, National League for Nursing
  • 2005- Current: Adult Nurse Practitioner, American Nurses Credentialing Center

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • 2019- Current: Fellow, American Academy of Nursing (FAAN)
  • 2016- Current: Fellow, American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP)
  • 2015- Current: American Association of Nurse Practitioners
  • 2010- Current: National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties
  • 2007-Current: American Nurses Credentialing Center
  • 2003- Current: National League for Nursing

Brenda Morris, EdD, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

My personal mission as an academic nurse educator closely aligns with the NLN’s (2022-2024) mission to promote excellence in nursing education. I strongly believe that nursing education is a specialty area of practice and support the NLN’s work advancing this specialization through their certification program.  Thus, I am seeking re-election to the Certification Commission.

I am currently the Chair of the Commission and oversee its work. I also serve as the Chair of the test development committee for the CNE novice exam. In this role, I co-led the inaugural test development process, resulting in the successful launch of this exam in 2022. Additionally, I have 11 years of experience as an item writer for the certification exams. These experiences give me the essential knowledge to understand the intricacies of the certification exam process, as well as work with teams to advance the goals of the program.

PAST POSITIONS

I have been an academic nurse educator for 30 years, during this time I have taught at the undergraduate and graduate levels of nursing education.  I am currently a Clinical Professor of Nursing at the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation at Arizona State University, where I teach in the Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator) and RN/BSN programs. These experiences have provided me with a broad background to understand the unique needs of different levels of learners as well as the challenges impacting academic nursing educators. Additionally, I bring 14 years of experience as a leader in academic nursing education serving in positions ranging from campus coordinator to program director to associate dean. These leadership positions have provided me with experience leading teams, implementing projects, developing and sustaining academic-practice partnerships, and advocating for faculty and students.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

I have 11 years of experience as an item writer for the CNE, CNEcl, and CNEn certification exams. I also served on the NLN’s task group to revise the Competencies and Related Task Statements for the Novice Nurse Educator.  I currently serve as the test development Chair for the CNEn exam. Through these experiences, I have participated in all aspects of the certification exam process, including competency development, item writing, test development, practice analysis, and standard setting.

I am a member of the Certification Commission, where I was the Vice-Chair for 2 years, and am currently the Chair. Additionally, I have served as an abstract reviewer for the annual education summit, and a scholarship reviewer for the Arizona League for Nursing. These cumulative experiences have been personally and professionally gratifying, preparing me with the knowledge to continue effectively serving on the NLN Certification Committee.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

I have participated in a variety of professional activities throughout my career that have expanded my scope as a nurse educator. I served on the AACN’s Faculty Leadership Network as the Chair (2020), Chair-elect (2019), Education Program Chair (2017 – 2018), and Past-Chair and Education Program Committee Member (2021). I was an award application reviewer for the AACN Faculty Teaching Awards (2014, 2015, 2017) and the AACN-Apple Digital Innovations Bootcamp (2018, 2019). I was a member of the Arizona Board of Nursing’s Educational Advisory Committee (2002 – 2004; 2010- 2016), and their Nursing Education Advisory Opinion for Clinical Faculty Task Force (2016). I also served a Mentor for the Sigma Experienced Nurse Faculty Leadership program (2018 – 2019). Additionally, I currently serve as a manuscript reviewer for Nurse Educator (2014 – present) and Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing (2014 – present).

EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS

I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and my Master of Science degree in Nursing with a clinical focus in Adult Health Nursing and a role focus in Nursing Education from the University of Arizona.  I received my Doctor of Education degree with a focus in Adult/Higher Education from Arizona State University.  I have been certified as academic nurse educator since 2008.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

I am currently a member of the American Nurses Association, the Arizona Nurses Association, the Arizona League for Nursing, the National League for Nursing, and Sigma, Beta Upsilon chapter.

Pamela Sandvig, DNP, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

With a proven record in academic leadership, accreditation, and program enhancement, I am eager to serve as an NLN Certification Commissioner. My expertise in achieving pre-, initial, and continuing accreditation, fostering collaboration, and spearheading innovative initiatives aligns with the Commission's goals. I bring extensive experience in interpreting and implementing rigorous standards, cultivating relationships with accrediting bodies, and guiding policy formulation. As a Certified Nurse Educator and NCLEX specialist, I understand the importance of maintaining high standards in nursing education. I am enthusiastic about leveraging my diverse skill set to ensure the integrity and relevance of certification programs within the NLN. I am dedicated to leveraging my diverse expertise and leadership skills to advance the mission of the National League of Nursing to support and help drive excellence in nursing education and practice.

PAST POSITIONS

Currently, I oversee accreditation and licensure activities for the College of Nursing, managing five programs across three states with physical campuses and an online division. Previously, as Program Dean at WCU, I led and implemented curricular changes for DNP, MSN Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader, and RN to BSN programs, aligning them with evolving nursing responsibilities to enhance relevance and rigor. My educational expertise spans pre- and post-licensure faculty, program administration, faculty development, and NCLEX preparation. I prioritize academic excellence and student success, employing data-driven approaches to predict outcomes. Before entering nursing education, I served as a Facility Advisory Nurse in Missouri, honing skills in regulatory compliance and quality assurance. Additionally, my clinical background includes roles in Intensive Care and rural nursing in Texas, supplemented by volunteer work as an EMT, fostering a comprehensive understanding of healthcare dynamics.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

I have been a member of the National League for Nursing since my career as a nurse began through individual or organizational membership. I recently led a multi-program CNEA accreditation for five programs ranging from ADN to DNP for initial accreditation. This included coordinating over 200 internal and external participants across three states, five campuses, and multiple modalities.

I attended all NLN CNEA webinars and was a frequent user of their website during the accreditation process.

I am a Certified Nurse Educator and advocate for other Nurse Educators to pursue this important certification.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Accreditation Consultant for Wolters Kluwer

Texas Nurses Association Professional Development Committee (past member due to relocation)

Arkansas Nurses Association member

Sigma Theta Tau

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Doctor of Nursing Practice specialty in Healthcare Systems Leadership. My DNP project centered on increasing awareness of research and evidence-based practice in rural areas by implementing TeamSTEPPS® at a small, rural facility in the Texas panhandle.

Master of Science in Nursing degree with a specialty in Nursing Education. My Master’s Project focused on improving the use of and consistency with fall risk assessment tools in long-term care settings to reduce fall rates among older adults with pre-existing neurological disorders.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Associate of Science in Nursing

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Texas Nurses Association Professional Development Committee (past member due to relocation)

Arkansas Nurses Association member

Sigma Theta Tau

Civil Air Patrol Volunteer

4-H Parent Leader

Special Olympics Arkansas Volunteer

Susan A. Seibert, DNP, RN, CNE

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Nursing education is my passion. I have developed my craft with an MSN-NE, focused my DNP project on DEUs, and attained CNE certification. With my CNE, I will bring expertise in evidence-based teaching and education theory to the commission. Students have validated my teaching expertise with nominations for the College Excellence in Teaching Award for seven of my 18 years at USI. In 2022, my colleagues nominated me for the NLN Teacher of the Year and the Indiana State Nurses Association Pillar Award. My research and scholarly endeavors also demonstrate education expertise that would enhance my contributions as certification commissioner. I have published work regarding coaching critical thinking, Socratic questioning, problem-based learning, student clinical activities (including IPE), safety and quality improvement learning activities, and concept-based education teaching tips.

I look forward to applying my knowledge and experience to the Certification Commissioner role and continuing my longstanding involvement with the NLN.

PAST POSITIONS

  • Current Position: Contract Assistant Professor of Nursing. University of Southern Indiana. Evansville, IN. (Employed 2007- present)
  • Substitute School Nurse. North Posey Jr. /Sr. High School. Poseyville, IN.
  • Staff RN, Neuro/ Medical ICU. Deaconess Hospital. Evansville, IN.
  • Staff RN, SICU/ CVICU/Heart Recovery Unit. Methodist Medical Center. Peoria, IL.

NLN/LEAGUE ACTIVITIES

  • NLN Constituent League Leadership Committee Member
    • Appointed by President Patricia Yoder-Wise. (2020-2022)
  • NLN Foundation Scholarship Reviewer. (2017-2022)
    • Review Committee Chair (2018, 2021)
    • Review Committee Vice Chair (2020)
  • NLN Ambassador Representing the University of Southern Indiana
    • Appointed by Dean Ann White (2016-2021)
  • Indiana League for Nursing Member (2010- present)
    • President (2017-2019)
    • Advisory Board Member (2011-2018)
    • Program Committee member (2019- present)
      • Program Committee Chair (2011-2016)
      • NLN Constituent League Award for Innovative Programming (2015)
  • Nominations Committee (2017- 2019)
  • Strategic Planning Committee Chair (2016- 2019)
  • Bylaws Committee (2016- 2019)

OTHER ACTIVITIES

  • Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society Member
    • Governance Committee Chair (2019- present)
    • Chapter Counselor (2016- 2020)
    • Strategic Plan Committee Chair (2019)
    • Recruitment and Engagement Task Force Chair (2019)
  • Indiana Nurses on Boards Coalition (NOBC) Member (2019- present)
    • Get on Board Workshop Planning Committee and Instructor (2017- present)
  • Indiana Center for Nursing Board of Directors ILN Representative (2016- 2018)
    • Education Subcommittee Member (2016- 2021)
  • College Simulation Committee (2019- present)
  • College Interprofessional Education Committee (2014- 2020)
  • Nursing Peer Tutor Supervisor (2021- present)
  • Undergraduate Nursing Admission and Progression Committee (2013- 2021)
  • Orientation Facilitator for Supplemental Nursing Faculty (2016- 2022)
  • Dedicated Education Unit Liaison (2013 -2018)
  • Southwestern Indiana Nursing Honor Guard Member (2022- Present)
  • Healthcare Research Consortium Member (2014- 2021). 
  • St. Vincent Evansville Recruitment, Retention, and Recognition Council Faculty Representative (2016- 2017)
  • Deaconess Health System Nursing Quality & Safety Shared Governance Council Faculty Representative (2013-2014)

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Organizational and Systems Leadership. University of Southern Indiana. DNP Project: Creation, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Curriculum Instructing Dedicated Education Unit Staff Nurses in the Art of Clinical Instruction as a Systems Change.
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Educator. University of Southern Indiana. 
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing. University of Evansville. Magna Cum Laude.
  • Certified Nurse Educator (9/9/2017- 12/31/27)

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

  • National League for Nursing (2011- present)
  • American Nurses Association- Individual Affiliate (2011- present)
  • Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society (1989- present)

Vote Now!

Deadline: July 24

Questions about your membership, contact membership@nln.org.

Questions about the election process, contact opceo@nln.org.