Credentials: MSM, CNM
Place of Employment: PAGNY
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: American College of Nurse Midwives
Board(s) currently serving on: Brooklyn-Queens-Long Island (BQLI) Area Health Education Center (AHEC)
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
I have been a board member since 2011. I began volunteering in this organization in their speakers bureau. I would participate with in SHIP (Summer Health Internship Program) by speaking with the students, and telling them my professional journey to become a nurse-midwife. In 2011, an opening on their board of directors became available and I felt that I could share my knowledge about healthcare and the various health careers with the organization and increase my visibility as a nurse. The Area Health Education Centers are nation-wide and their focus is on exposing students to health careers and the health issues that affect their communities. There are many other programs throughout the year.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I am currently a doctoral student pursuing my DNP.
What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
A nurse-mentorship program was started for students pursuing their BSN at a local university. I was able to share information, participate in mentor training and became a mentor for a nursing student who 5 years later is now a colleague.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Trust that you know professionally what your patients need, and include the community in your definition. Join boards that are important for the future of healthcare. Follow your passion and share it with a organization that compliments your journey.
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?
Find leadership programs, conferences and find a mentor whom you respect.
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nurses are leaders and we need to be at the table where policy is being made, they need our input and our knowledge to see the whole picture. Boards should have interdisciplinary members from different areas of expertise represented.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Fear of rejection, fear of failure.
