Jessica Peck
Jessica Peck
- DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE, CNLCredentials: DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE, CNL
Place of Employment: Texas A&M Corpus Christi
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: American Association of Nurse Practitioners, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, Sigma Theta Tau International, Texas Nurse Practitioners
Board(s) currently serving on: AANP- State Representative, NAPNAP Partners for Vulnerable Youth
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
I began serving on the Board for the Alumni Association for the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing, my first board experience. One of my former faculty members, who had been the director of my PNP program, encouraged me to run for a board position for NAPNAP. I had very little confidence in my qualifications or ability to make an impact at that time, but I had confidence in my faculty member and trusted her advice. To my surprise, I won the election! I was quickly surrounded by articulate, accomplished, and inspiring nursing leaders. I sought acceptance into the NLN LEAD program, which further honed my leadership skills and ability to lead and influence others. That first experience has led to other multiple national placements and the wonderful opportunity to serve the nursing profession in a multitude of ways.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
Both AANP and NAPNAP have been instrumental in providing continuing education and professional development education opportunities to always ensure we have the most current and relevant information to make the most significant impact possible.
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
I was instrumental at NAPNAP in beginning the formation of NAPNAP Partners for Vulnerable Youth and was appointed by the Board to serve as chair for the Alliance for Care Coordination of Children in Human Trafficking. I have helped to create national alliances and provide advocacy and education to our membership as well as other pediatric providers. I have worked with the Office of Trafficking in Persons in addition to other groups.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Don’t underestimate the potential contributions you have to give. Do a lot of listening. Keep the discussion robust but respectful.
What are a few resources you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into becoming a better leader and eventually obtaining a board position?
Look into the professional organization of which you are a member and inquire about mentorship programs, which are excellent education and networking opportunities.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nurses are underrepresented as a group and have valuable experience to contribute to improving patient care delivery and healthcare improvements.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Simply not volunteering, underestimating personal qualifications, and diminishing the value of contributing personal experiences. Education and mentorship can help to eliminate this barrier.
Boards: AANP- State Representative, NAPNAP Partners for Vulnerable YouthContinue Reading
The Nurses on Boards Coalition (NOBC) represents national nursing and other organizations working to build healthier communities in America by increasing nurses’ presence on corporate, health-related, and other boards, panels, and commissions.