“My hope for the future is that I can positively impact not only fellow veterans, but help address the African American community with lifestyle education that enhances health and wellness," ~ Gina Dunn, DNP, FNP-BC

“Dr. Dunn is a remarkable person and role model doing wonderful things to help those with health disparities to lead a healthy life,” says Lorraine Martin Plank, PhD, FNP-BC, who served as Dr. Dunn’s faculty advisor and project chairperson during her time in the DNP program.

We recently caught up with Dr. Dunn to learn more about her nursing journey, her research passions and what she plans for her bright future.

Why did you choose to pursue the FNP track in the DNP program?

The FNP track covers the life span from infancy to geriatrics.  Health and wellness should and can be introduced at any point on the age continuum, whether you are educating parents, teens, young adults, or older adults.  I wanted the opportunity in my practice to hopefully be a significant influence regardless of the age of who I was treating.  

What makes you passionate about preventive health and lifestyle?

As an African American health care provider, the comorbid health conditions that deeply and adversely affect the African American community are devastating. I worked in a very underserved community in Mississippi when I was in my mid 20’s and that is when I began asking myself a lot of questions as to what role I could play in this massive health concern.  In my own journey, I have realized that health and wellness is primarily driven by nutritional intake. My passion has become to educate, educate, educate -- not only patients, but colleagues, family, friends and my faith community.

How did you choose your DNP project?

My DNP project initially was much more involved and included monitoring BPs on individuals from my church who were going to volunteer to make a very healthy change in their nutritional lifestyle.  I realized this was going to be too involved to refocused my audience and approach while keeping the same theme.  As I was researching, I realized many providers were not aware of the health benefits of whole food plant-based nutrition.

Why is it so important to focus on educating providers to promote plant-based dietary eating for cardiovascular health?

Evidence-based research shows that plant-based nutrition can help prevent and, in some cases, reverse cardiovascular disease.  Research also shows that most medical school training programs traditionally have incorporated very little, if any, nutrition education. The providers are obviously treating and making recommendations to patients for their care. Cardiovascular disease is our number one killer, so it stands to reason that providers should be educated on a treatment modality that is so beneficial.

Tell us more about your community-based work teaching classes about adapting African American cooking to be healthier and plant-based?

This has been a real challenge but a challenge that has been met with a lot fun and support.  I began providing whole food plant-based classes not only at my church but in conjunction with a few local community organizations.  I have utilized resources from others who also have also purposed to adapt African American cooking to more plant based. When people have been willing to incorporate changes, realize that the changes are to their advantage, then begin to see results, their excitement make me even more excited. I personally like my food seasoned well, so engaging others making healthy adaptations is a dual benefit.

Tell us more about NP Fellowship program at the St. Louis, MO Veterans Center.

The NP Fellowship program was a one-year program offered by the St Louis VA Medical center, where four NP Fellows practiced under the supervision of one of the Primary Care NPs.  There were didactic components which included giving a few case studies and completing several educational modules as well as attending a few VA sponsored conferences.  It was a great way to launch into primary care practice always having someone right there as a resource, to answer questions and provide guidance.  As I continue to learn and grow, I realize how much more I need to learn! I would highly recommend this program.

What draws you to the special VA program which supports homeless veterans with medical and addiction problems?

I am drawn to the VA first and foremost because I am a veteran; I also have several family members who are also veterans. The VA provides numerous programs for not only veterans with homelessness and addiction problems, but mental health, obesity, and many chronic disease illnesses. The VA initiative that I am most drawn to is the Whole Health Initiative.  Whole Health has a focus of looking at what matters most to the veteran and what do they live for; Whole Health offers multiple modalities such as coaching, acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness, chiropractic services and massage therapy to name a few.  All of these issues can benefit from veterans being engaged in their care and their care being focused on what is important to them.

What are your hopes for the future?

My hope for the future is that I can positively impact not only fellow veterans, but help address the African American community with lifestyle education that enhances health and wellness.  I know I cannot save the world and I know everyone is not wanting to make certain changes.  However, for those who are willing and eager to listen even make baby steps, I am willing to walk alongside them.  I am contemplating a part-time private practice that will provide consulting, for those who think they might benefit from more individual time. I am open to where God wants to direct me to use the talents and knowledge He has blessed me with.

“Our Tucson-based BSN program is the first academic program offered by the College of Nursing and garners a long-standing record of excellence...I am so proud that nursing leaders across the U.S. recognized the exceptional quality of these two programs and the faculty who are dedicated to preparing the next generation of ‘practice-ready’ graduates," ~ Ki Moore, PhD, RN, FAAN, UArizona Nursing Dean  

The strong ranking is only UArizona Nursing’s latest success with U.S. News & World Report. Earlier this year the College’s online Master of Science in Nursing in Clinical Systems Leadership was ranked No. 32 in the organization’s Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs rankings (39^th overall), and UArizona Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program was ranked 33. The latest ranking for UArizona Nursing’s undergraduate program solidifies the College’s standing as a superior school for a variety of academic disciplines.

“It is gratifying to see the hard work of faculty and students recognized by the College’s recent US News & World Report rankings,” said UArizona Nursing Dean Ki Moore, PhD, RN, FAAN. “Our Tucson-based BSN program is the first academic program offered by the College of Nursing and garners a long-standing record of excellence. The BSN-Integrative Health program is located at the Gilbert campus with doors opening in 2019.  I am so proud that nursing leaders across the U.S. recognized the exceptional quality of these two programs and the faculty who are dedicated to preparing the next generation of ‘practice-ready’ graduates.”

“It is wonderful to get this recognition for our BSN program – both our conventional BSN pathway in Tucson and our newest, and first-of-its kind, integrative health pathway in Gilbert, Arizona,” said Connie Miller, DNP, RNC-OB, CNE, Chair General Nursing and Education Division. “Adding this new pathway allows us to admit an additional 216 students per year to accommodate our ever-growing number of pre-nursing students and help address the nursing shortage in Arizona.  Nursing is a rewarding career, but the pandemic has added many new challenges for nurses and requiring enormous strength and resilience.  We are proud of our programs that offer outstanding instruction, learning resources, clinical experiences, simulations, as well as student-centered faculty and staff to support student success while in the program and best prepare them to enter the workforce resilient and ready to care for individuals, families, and communities through caring/healing relationships.” 

U.S. News & World Report’s BSN nursing program rankings arrive as enrollment in nursing programs has been steadily increasing, and amid widespread concern about COVID-19-fuelled nursing staff shortages. Rankings are determined by the average of scores received from surveys of top academics and administrators at nursing schools or departments. Schools are included and ranked in the standalone peer assessment survey if they have bachelor’s-level accreditation by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Additionally, these regionally accredited institutions must have recently awarded at least 35 BSN degrees.

The surveys for the new rankings were conducted in the spring and summer of 2021. Deans and faculty members were tasked with rating academic quality of peer institutions' BSN programs on the following scale: outstanding (5), strong (4), good (3), adequate (2) or marginal (1).

UArizona Nursing’s nationally renowned and highly ranked BSN degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is also approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and is affiliated with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Western Institute of Nursing. Students graduate prepared for a diverse range of jobs, from bedside nurses in medical settings, nurse educators, health policy nurses, nurse recruiters, nurse informaticists, forensic nurses, clinical research nurses, or nurse health coaches.

UArizona Nursing offers two distinct BSN pathways, a conventional pathway located on the Health Sciences Campus in Tucson, Ariz., and an integrative health pathway located in Gilbert, Ariz. Both programs utilize advanced technology and cutting-edge didactic curriculum to prepare students for the working world.

“The excitement was palpable. The Advanced Practice Registered Nursing students proudly processed across the stage to be ‘coated’ by their specialty coordinator.  At the close of the ceremony, it was impactful when all the students recited the oath together in one strong united voice committing to clinical excellence," ~ DNP Program Director Allen Prettyman, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, FNAP 

“We’re thrilled that you’re all here and that we can celebrate this with you,” Dean Ki Moore told the students at the beginning of the Seventh Annual White Coat ceremony. “It’s a great opportunity for us to participate with you in celebrating this part of your DNP educational journey.”

As Dean Moore pointed out, the education programs and clinical practice of both groups of APRNs have evolved considerably over the years.  Education programs have transitioned from certificate programs to practitioners now obtaining clinical doctorate degrees, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. “These profound educational changes support increased APRN responsibility as APRNs continue to strive for unsurpassed clinical excellence,” she said.  “The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in Arizona and many states is an independent practitioner with full practice authority. For us at the College of Nursing, it is about preparing you as nurse leaders at the highest level of nursing practice to strive to improve patient outcomes and translate research into practice.”

One hundred nineteen Doctor of Nursing Practice students participated in this year’s event, which included remarks from the Dean and senior faculty as well as the recitation of the student oath of responsibility.  The oath is a reiteration of the values students have learned and affirms their commitment to apply their knowledge, experience and skills to assure optimal outcomes for their patients.  

“White Coat Ceremony which marks a milestone in the students’ educational journey,” said DNP Program Director Allen Prettyman, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, FNAP of the event.  “The excitement was palpable. The Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) students proudly processed across the stage to be ‘coated’ by their specialty coordinator.  At the close of the ceremony, it was impactful when all the students recited the oath together in one strong united voice committing to clinical excellence.  I firmly believe that they will all strive for unsurpassed excellence during their professional careers as APRNs!”   

Click here for a detailed photo gallery of this year's ceremony.

“It is important for patients to see health care providers from their own communities because, being members of the same community, providers will relate to their patients in ways that an outside provider cannot," ~ Ana Bustamante, UArizona Nursing BSN Student

What led you to the University of Arizona?

Higher education was always the plan for me. I just always had a passion to do something more with myself while also giving back to others. At first nursing was just an idea, a maybe, but halfway into the nursing program I know I am pursuing the right career path for myself.

Why did you choose UArizona Nursing to pursue your BSN?

I chose this college because of its credibility and the opportunities that I was offered. I had always heard great things about the UArizona nursing program and of the successful nurses that came from it, so naturally I was inspired to become one of those graduated successful nurses someday. One more year and I will be. Additionally, programs such as Arizona Nursing Inclusive Excellence (ANIE) have helped me so much as a student and person.

As a student, who have your biggest role models been?

My biggest role models have been my older cousin Marcela who is a registered nurse, and my mom. Before I decided to study nursing, my older cousin would tell me about her job and experience as a registered nurse. The way she talked about it was inspiring, especially her journey to get there. It was a tough journey for her to make it into and through nursing school. She was faced with adversities and doubt, but in the end came out stronger than ever. Her persistence and determination encourage me to continue trying and believing in myself, that I am exactly where I am meant to be and that I will be the best version of myself. Similarly, my mom faced many challenges on her journey to become the director of engineering she is today. There were ups and downs and setbacks, but one thing she always taught me is to stick through the hard parts, because nothing worth having comes easy. Not only that, but to enjoy the journey and not get too focused on the end goal. My mom has taught me to stay in the fight and appreciate where I am and take time for myself at the same time.

How important it is for patients to see themselves in their healthcare providers and as members of their communities?

It is important for patients to see health care providers from their own communities because, being members of the same community, providers will relate to their patients in ways that an outside provider cannot. They will be more aware of what resources are nearby, what obstacles may exist, and they will be ready to treat the demographic that lives in that area. As a whole, I think it will also be easier to earn the patient’s trust if the provider is from their same community, because they will be more understanding and aware of their situation. The better the patient-provider relationship, the better the care and outcome.

What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat Nurse?

To me, being a Wildcat Nurse means acting with the care, professionalism, and diligence that I was taught and want to represent. I am confident I am being taught the best practices, and I want to reflect that in my own work. I want to live up to the reputation that Wildcat Nurses are successful, and above all, patient centered.

What is the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is important to me as it reminds me of how grateful I am to be Hispanic, and that it really is something to be proud of. I would never want someone to be ashamed of their background or culture for it being different than those around them or be embarrassed of who they are. Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me to fully embrace my culture and history and reach out to encourage others to do the same.

What are your plans for the future?

After graduating with my BSN degree and passing the NCLEX to officially be a registered nurse, I plan to participate in a nurse residency program. I am currently planning on applying to different hospitals, both in and out of state, so depending on where I am accepted and feel is most right for me, is where I will go. At the moment, I think I would like to work in the NICU or somewhere in pediatrics as a registered nurse. Then, as I mentioned before, after working for at least a couple of years, I will apply to a DNP program, and hopefully end up with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice as either a women’s health or family nurse practitioner. I also think that, somewhere on that path, I will eventually come back to Arizona and settle down here to be close to my family.

“During my career I’ve observed the deficit in services that are available for individuals, so that’s a big part of my motivation. I feel that we can do better in rural communities, and maybe I can be part of that," ~ Carrie Langley, PhD, MPH, RN-BC.

“There’s a gap between probation departments and the health care professionals,” Dr. Langley, who also holds a Master’s in Public health, says. “Coming from a perspective of public health, and as a nurse scientist, I hope to inform policy and procedure by sharing either what I learned in my research or what additional research I’m doing to really try to bridge that gap. I’d like to try to help them understand what mental health issues probationers are going through when they transition from jail to probation.”

Dr. Langley’s DNP project focuses on individuals who experience mental illness who are transitioning from jail to the rural community, making her an ideal person for her committee role. With a longstanding passion for improving access to mental health care in rural communities, Dr. Langley plans to develop an educational intervention to improve the support provided through the transition process. She will begin her process by reaching out to both probation officers and nurse practitioners and other health care providers to gauge their awareness of the other professions’ knowledge.

“What do probation officers know about what happens in primary care or mental health?” Dr. Langley says. “And then what do our mental health nurse practitioners know about probation? I’ve seen both sides now in prior work. Coming from a nursing background, I’d like to build that collaboration. My goal is to create a training program to enlighten both sides about the various requirements of both so they can collaborate to better help their patient.”

Dr. Langley’s past position as Director of Health and Social Services for Cochise County prepared her for her current role.  While serving as incident commander for the County’s COVID response efforts in Benson, Bisbee, Douglas, Sierra Vista and Wilcox, she also had the opportunity to learn about the justice system and the interworking of the jail services and how they do and don’t connect with rural communities. “Being in that position opened my eyes to managed care organizations that operate our Medicaid programs, which most individuals who are experiencing these mental health issues are involved with,” she says. “There’s a lot of complexity in those health care plans. How people can access services, and what’s paid for what isn’t, can certainly be a barrier.”

Born and raised in rural West Virginia, Dr. Langley knew she wanted to become a nurse when she was in high school. She began her career as an emergency room nurse in Fayetteville, NC. She later commissioned into the Army Nurse Corps where she served eight years in a variety of positions in clinical areas, and later, leadership roles. Since 2009, she has lived and worked in southeastern Arizona. Langley was drawn to UArizona Nursing because of its rural health focus and its strong mentorship opportunities.

“It was a joy to mentor Carrie Langley during her doctoral program at the UArizona College of Nursing,” says Marylyn Morris McEwen, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dr. Langley's academic advisor, dissertation chair and RWJF Scholars mentor. “Her dissertation research, ‘Transitions from the Rural Jail to the Rural Community for Adults with Mental Illness,’ included examination of the Arizona rural justice system. Dr. Langley will participate in examining current probation procedures, develop policies and procedures to improve quality, and promote standardization, consistency, and coordination of probation procedures statewide. Dr. Langley’s rural nursing and public health leadership has been recognized by state, regional and national organizations.”

Asked about her relentless drive to succeed in both the academic and professional realms, Dr. Langley’s response is simple. “I really enjoy helping others and I really enjoy scholarship” she says. “During my career I’ve observed the deficit in services that are available for individuals, so that’s a big part of my motivation. I feel that we can do better in rural communities, and maybe I can be part of that.” As for her passion for learning, Dr. Langley, who closed the book on her PhD program in January and started the DNP program a week later, is passionate about education’s power to improve the lives of others. 

As a recipient of a Robert Wood Johnson scholarship, which focuses on growing the next generation of nurse leaders, she knows the value of mentorship and leadership. And as an assistant professor of practice with UArizona’s School of Sociology’s Care, Health & Society program, she puts that knowledge into practice, guiding students who are interested in entering the helping professions. “I’m really interested in growing the next generation and making sure they have what they need to be successful,” she says. But beyond that, she’s interested in the health and betterment of the health professions as a whole. It’s a hard-won knowledge. “It’s something we’ve seen coming out of the pandemic,” she says. “You can burn out really easily. We have to take care of each other broadly, not just in nursing or medicine or in the hospital environment, but exclusively throughout the helping professions. That also fuels me, the belief that we have to keep people motivated to want to be in these professions.”

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to relish not just in my ethnic and cultural heritage, but that of all my Hispanic brothers and sisters. The older I become and the more experiences I gain, I growingly appreciate the beauty of sharing and celebrating each other’s worlds," ~ Alejandra Vasquez, UArizona Nursing DNP Student

School in Mexico was tough but also enriching. Overcoming a challenging academic regimen, a lack of resources, and grueling summers bereft of air conditioning, coolers, or fans, Vasquez still has many positive memories. “As hard as it was, I remember every moment with so much love, and would not have it any other way,” she says. “In many ways I did not understand then, these experiences developed resilience in me.”

After completing middle school in Mexico, Vasquez sought out an American education. Thanks to sacrifices from her family, she was able to attend high school in Yuma, Ariz., which she proudly points out was the birthplace of American labor leader and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez.

Can you describe your career as a nurse?

I would describe my career as challenging, exciting, and versatile. Nursing has provided me with abundant opportunities, and it has been nothing short of amazing at every chapter. It regularly teaches me new skills and teaches me to dig deep and build character.

After college graduation, I received a position on the medical and cardiovascular ICU of our local hospital and got to live one of my career dreams of being an intensive care nurse. Three years later, the cardiac catheterization lab adopted me. Cath lab work was exciting and literally electrifying, as I had the opportunity to pioneer the electrophysiology lab of our rural yet developing hometown.

A few years later, I transitioned into the ultimate dream of my nursing career: becoming a flight nurse. After the air medical transport company employing me underwent vast organizational changes, my career path led me to dialysis and oncology nursing. Currently, I work with a very special and vulnerable population as a correctional health nurse. Here I can use all my experiences, knowledge, skills, and expertise to help a grossly underserved and marginalized population in more ways than I could’ve imagined. My role as a correctional nurse has been, by far, one of the most gratifying of career.

What led you to enter the field of higher education?

After an eight-year educational hiatus, I realized I had strayed too long from my educational path. I don’t regret breaking away for the time I did. I delved into meaningful health-related ventures, and it was during that space that I got to know myself better and learn the mental and emotional skills I have now. However, I also realized I was facing the infamous career burn out, it knew was time to approach life and work differently.

It was time to grow. I knew there was much more I could give and do for my community, and I had a responsibility to continue to set an example for my family, my peers, and my community.

What other degrees do you hold?

My bachelor’s in nursing is the highest I achieved so far. During my time away from school, however, I obtained certifications and practiced as CrossFit level I and level II and USA Olympic weightlifting level I coach. In my opinion, these are equally as important and valuable as college education granted the sources and theories behind their disciplines. Physical health, and by extension, mental fortitude is founded in what these modalities teach. To be a better human and clinician, it is important to learn and embrace the aspects on the spectrum of wellness, so that we may incorporate these into the way we practice and promote health, while pushing the needle of wellness towards fitness.

How important it is for patients to see themselves in their healthcare providers and as members of their communities?

If the patient can relate with the provider, he or she is more likely to be dedicated and involved in treatments or lifestyle changes necessary to achieve optimal wellness and improved health.

 The relationship between provider and patient is extremely pivotal for superior health and wellness across the lifespan. If the patients can relate to their providers, they are able to build a bonding connection. In this dynamic, healing goes beyond what the medical treatments and scripts dictate. I believe there is a powerful yet unseen power in a genuine relationship that reflects genuine care and interest, which can transform not just the patients’ health experience but the provider’s as well. While they are not easy to achieve or navigate, it is this type of relationship and connection that is transformative and holds potential for better healthcare beyond numbers and trends. I hope to lead healthcare to where this dynamic becomes more the norm than the pursuit of benchmarks and RVU’s.

What is the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to relish not just in my ethnic and cultural heritage, but that of all my Hispanic brothers and sisters. The older I become and the more experiences I gain, I growingly appreciate the beauty of sharing and celebrating each other’s worlds. It is learning and honoring the sacrifices and successes of our ancestors. It is honoring the sacrifices and multiplying the arduous work of our parents.

It is a time to smile at the beauty of our brothers’ and sisters’ philosophies and ways of life, but also holding space for the darkness and suffering they have endured throughout time. It is a time to show understanding and support, but more importantly, promote that this celebration and respect should continue beyond just this month. It is a time to remember that we can rewrite those stories rooted in limitations and oppression which have too often been feed to us, into a future of successes and love. It is a time to remind each other that we are valuable and magnificent individually, and we are invaluable and marvelous all together.

What are your future plans?

After graduating, I will find a work environment or organization that takes genuine interest in helping me develop my professional skills and abilities to their extend and provide space for me to employ these. I will work with my surrounding rural communities to create partnerships focused on improving the health and health literacy of the underserved.  I will develop and provide opportunities for other individuals with similar backgrounds as mine through creation of a scholarship program and employment opportunities. Eventually, I will specialize in dermatology and aesthetic medicine and open a successful practice that will promote and develop self-esteem and personal development, especially in those who suffer traumas from abusive relationships. 

“Nurses in our pain study were going to incredible lengths to be able to deliver the best care for their patients regardless of the consequences for their own health and life outside of work," ~ Jessica Rainbow, PhD, RN

The two-year study, which started in July, builds on Dr. Rainbow’s prior research, which found that nurses were suffering from significant pain that was impacting their work. That pilot study suggests that nurses, as the largest group of health care providers, care for patients who are using cannabis, and that nurses are using cannabis in conjunction with other substances as treatment for their own pain.

“I hypothesize that nurses are using cannabis and other substances to cope with their work, and that these are often used to recover rather than prior to attending work,” Dr. Rainbow said. “Nurses in our pain study were going to incredible lengths to be able to deliver the best care for their patients regardless of the consequences for their own health and life outside of work.”  
 

Prior studies have found that nurses have similar rates of substance use as the general population and are at risk for substance abuse due to access, stress and attitudes toward substance use. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue and burnout among nurses. These conditions have all been linked to substance use in past studies; however, the impact of the pandemic on nurse cannabis and other substance use is currently unknown. 

The new study will address these gaps by exploring nurse use of cannabis in addition to other substance use. Dr. Rainbow, along with Shawn Gallagher, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, APRN-BC, FNP-BC, a professor in the College of Nursing, and Alicia M. Allen, PhD, MPH, an assistant professor in the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the UArizona Health Sciences Comprehensive Pain and Addiction Center, will examine the potential impact on patient care through both a cross-sectional survey and one-on-one interviews with nurses who self-report using cannabis. 

“This study will involve a large confidential survey and interviews with a subset of survey respondents who use cannabis,” Dr. Rainbow said, adding that questions will include measures of nurse substance use and some free-response questions. “As part of the survey, we will ask participants to complete a schedule of the prior week and include when they worked and when they used substances.”

The findings of this study may provide valuable information about how nurses are currently using cannabis and other substances, and the potential impact of use on patient care. These data can inform the development of cannabis use regulations, and diversion and educational programs for nurses in this changing state and federal landscape.

The study aligns with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Center for Regulatory Excellence’s research priorities of “impact of legalized marijuana” and “substance use disorders in nursing.” 

“The National Council of State Boards of Nursing is interested in nurse cannabis use because of the changes in cannabis legalization across the United States and the implications for state boards of nursing,” Dr. Rainbow said. “Our findings may guide future regulations, and hopefully interventions, to address any work-related issues that are leading to nurse substance use in a way that impacts patient care and is detrimental to their own health.

“For my research,” she added, “this will guide what kind of work system interventions I build to improve the work lives and health of nurses.”

Dr. Rainbow’s research seeks to improve systems, such as hospitals, to improve nurse health and safety, which will ultimately improve the patient care they provide. 

“I was a huge fan of the Wildcats growing up. I would come to the university and compete at their track meets and see myself one day wearing the UA uniform. I always knew I wanted to pursue nursing and when I looked at the UArizona nursing website I was impressed by their programs and how they helped students succeed here," ~ Karla Teran, MEPN Student

Why did you choose UArizona Nursing to pursue your studies?

I was a huge fan of the Wildcats growing up. I would come to the university and compete at their track meets and see myself one day wearing the UA uniform. I always knew I wanted to pursue nursing and when I looked at the UArizona nursing website I was impressed by their programs and how they helped students succeed here.

How have your academic studies been in the context of being an international student?

It was completely a challenge for me, as I grew up in Mexico and didn't know the language. I started learning English approximately six months before I came to study at the University of Arizona. My freshman year was a struggle with the language barrier. Everyone was very supportive and I couldn't have done it without all the people that supported me.

Can you share a bit about your experience as a student athlete? Has that discipline fed into your nursing studies in any form?

Being a student athlete at UArizona was an amazing experience that I would never change. It was certainly hard for me to miss classes sometimes and have to catch up while traveling, but it was all worth it. As an athlete, I got to meet many people who I now consider my family. I also believe being a student athlete helped me grow up as a person and be more confident in who I am outside of school and the track. Being part of the track team has helped me develop my time management, communication, motivation, teamwork, and organizational skills. All which I applied while in nursing school.

What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat Nurse?

Being a Wildcat Nurse means the world to me. I will and will always be a Wildcat in my heart. I learned so much and had so many experiences while studying at UArizona, which I will always appreciate.

What are your plans for the future?

After I graduate, my goal is to pass the NCLEX and start working on and intensive care unit. My dream is to be able to work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and further develop my skills. Later on in the future I plan to go back to school and obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

“The synergistic approach in training psychiatric nurse practitioner doctoral students together with psychology doctoral interns will prepare them to provide integrated care within teams. In doing so, it leverages the expertise of the College of Nursing and the College of Medicine – Tucson in our shared missions,” ~ Sara Edmund, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

“This program will have a tremendous impact on the preparation of mental health professionals working in community clinical settings,” Dr. Edmund said. “The synergistic approach in training psychiatric nurse practitioner doctoral students together with psychology doctoral interns will prepare them to provide integrated care within teams. In doing so, it leverages the expertise of the College of Nursing and the College of Medicine – Tucson in our shared missions."

Each cohort will experience 12-month longitudinal tracks that align with the purpose of the program and the trainee’s professional interests.

“The increased prevalence of mental illness and needs for both prevention and treatment are outpacing the current availability of licensed mental health professionals,” Dr. Karp said. “This award responds to this dual crisis by training mental health professionals from different disciplines to provide effective team-based care. Our unique approach to multidisciplinary education and training puts the University of Arizona Health Sciences in the vanguard for improving access to behavioral health care.”

For each track, trainees will be integrated into the partner site’s care team to learn best practices in multidisciplinary care. Focus areas at the partner sites include child and adolescent mental health, rural and underserved areas, substance use, and late-life mental health. With the current and anticipated effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in mind, training in telehealth will be prioritized.

“There is a great need to respond to the paucity of health care providers prepared to care for those with mental illness in Arizona and nationally,” said UArizona College of Nursing Dean Ki Moore, PhD, RN, FAAN. “The Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training program will serve as a major education and training platform for a cohort of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners and PhD-level psychologists who are committed to training in underserved and culturally diverse areas with high levels of poverty, substance use, adverse childhood experiences and an alarming increase in suicides compared to 2019.”

“I will be among some of the finest nurses. I will always look back at my time as a nursing student fondly. I have made lifelong connections with other amazing Wildcat Nurses, and I am honored to be a part of such a prestigious alumnus,” ~ Emily Franks, UArizona Nursing Class of 2021 

Why did you choose to pursue a career in nursing?

There seemed to be many forces guiding me toward the path of nursing, starting with the birth of my daughter. Almost 10 years ago, when I was pregnant with my first-born, my water broke unexpectedly before my due date. When I was a patient in the hospital, above all else what I remember was the nurse who provided me care. When my situation became more emergent, which I only know to be emergent now, the nurse was so calm yet took swift action. Looking back on that time, I remember feeling cared for and safe. It was at that time that I wanted to be able to provide that feeling to others as well.

Why did you choose UArizona Nursing’s MEPN program to further your education?

The program was ideal for my family situation, as it offered the possibility for be to not only pursue a career in nursing but also remain in Tucson and receive a Master’s degree. My kiddos were settled into a school they loved and moving was not an option. Also, I knew I wanted to take the swiftest route to achieving my goal of becoming a nurse. In 2019, when I left my job at Starbucks, I needed to fulfill numerous prerequisites to even be eligible to apply to the MEPN program, which would take about a year. MEPN offered a Master’s in addition to being able to become an RN. It was really the perfect opportunity for me, and I am so grateful.

As both a mom and a student, have you faced any particular challenges?

As all moms are, I am used to wearing many hats. In fact, because my experience of going to nursing coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, we were all forced to wear even more hats – teacher, coach, etc. However, I would honestly say these challenges were not unique to me, and, like many parents, I have a reinvigorated respect for teachers and the work they do for our kids. Yet, I will say that the greatest challenge for me was recalibrating expectations of myself, knowing this ‘new normal’ was only temporary. I can also say honestly that none of this would have been possible with the support of my husband, friends, and family.

What are your biggest takeaways from your time in the program?

It has taught me just how much I truly can accomplish when I set my mind to it. Also, I have learned the value of prioritization and acceptance of myself doing the best work I can. Additionally, when I look at my kiddos and tell them they can be whatever they want to be, I am proud of the example I have been able to set that it’s never too late to be want you want to be, even it’s hard, even if you’re afraid.

What does it mean to you to be a Wildcat Nurse?

This is a title I will wear proudly. I know I will be among some of the finest nurses. I will always look back at my time as a nursing student fondly. I have made lifelong connections with other amazing Wildcat Nurses, and I am honored to be a part of such a prestigious alumnus.

What are your plans for the future?

I have accepted a position at Northwest Medical Center in the Acute Care Telemetry unit, where I will begin working following graduation. I found a passion for cardiac nursing throughout my experiences in this program, and I hope to one day work in a cardiovascular ICU. In the future, I hope to take on a role that provides me the opportunity to draw on my management experience as well. I also hope to one day pursue an educator pathway, whether it be as a preceptor on my unit or even as a clinical instructor for a program like MEPN.