Credentials: DNP, CRNA
Place of Employment: UNC Greensboro Nurse Anesthesia Program
Which Nursing Organizations are you currently a member of: NCNA, NCANA, AANA
Board(s) currently serving on: NCANA Board of Directors: President
Tell us about your journey to the boardroom. What inspired you to seek a leadership position?
I have served on the NC Association of Nurse Anesthetists board of directors for over 4 years and did so because I wanted to give back to my profession. I also believe it is extremely important to advocate for our profession and for our patients and serving in a leadership position is a great way to do this. Another reason I sought a leadership position was to provide an example to the nurse anesthesia students I teach so that they could learn about the importance of professional service and advocacy and may follow in my footsteps one day.
What are you doing to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?
I participated in the NCNA Leadership Academy in 2018 and attend leadership conferences through the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. I also try to increase my leadership skills and knowledge by interacting and networking with other nursing leaders throughout the country.What impact have you had serving on a board? Example?
I have advocated for my profession by meeting with legislators in NC and members of Congress in DC to present real life examples of the impact nurses have on patients and health care. Most recently, I have been very active during this current legislative session in NC to advocate for increased access to care particularly for patients in rural areas. I visit members of Congress annually in April annually to advocate for nurse anesthesia practice, full practice authority, and increased patient access to anesthesia services. By doing this and representing the CRNAs in NC, I am helping to bring about positive changes in nurse anesthesia practice which ultimately improves patient care.
What advice would you give someone going into a board leadership position for the first time?
Be open to new ideas and suggestions and soak up information like a sponge.
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?
*respondent skipped this question*
Why do you feel it is important for nurses to serve on boards?
Nursing is the largest healthcare profession in the world and is the most trusted health care profession in the United States. Who better to serve on a board than someone who represents the largest healthcare profession and one who is highly trusted and respected?
What do you think is the most significant barrier to nurses serving on boards?
Nurses are well qualified to serve on boards but many either aren’t confident in their ability to serve or aren’t seen by others as qualified to serve. I see this as a significant barrier. Nurses have great knowledge about patient care and healthcare in general which would be of great benefit to key administrators in hospitals and in other health care areas.
