Credentials: DNP, RN, NE-BC, CCNS
Place of Employment: Indiana University/Eskenazi Health
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: AONE, IONE, ANA, ISNA, NACNS, CIOCNS, AACN, ILN, NLN
Board(s) currently serving on: Indiana State Nurses Association, Centerstone of Indiana, Indiana Nurses Foundation, The Indiana League for Nursing
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
I first became involved in board leadership to learn more about the state political process. I was first appointed and then elected to a board position. I excel at strategy and knew that I could help move organizations and associations forward.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I continue to serve where I can. I am a proponent of life-long learning. I enable and empower others through leadership and education.
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
My board leadership has resulted in increased leadership education for Indiana nurses, increased membership for the organizations, and increased support for mental health services in Indiana.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Identify your strengths and serve where your heart is. Finding your passion helps you be assured that you are making the difference where it matters most.
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 for educational opportunities that prepare you to serve at the strategic level of an organization. It is critical to serve strategically.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nurse knowledge, excellence, and presence on boards helps the board keep the community at the center of all of their work.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Nurses work many hours and must have work-life balance to support them giving even more to organizations and associations.
