Fall 2020 Academic Newsletter
CALENDAR OF EVENTS | 2020
SEPTEMBER
LUNSA Community Month
SEPT. 1, OCT. 6, NOV. 3, DEC. 8
LUSON Book Study – “The Heart of Racial Justice”
SEPT. 1 NOV. 3 2-3:30 p.m.
Shanna’s Café
NOVEMBER
LUNSA Philanthropy Month
NOV. 7 7 p.m.
LUSON Dedication and Pinning Ceremony
NOV. 12 2-4 p.m.
CFAW and Graduate Open House Thanksgiving/Fall Break
SEPT. 22 3-6 p.m.
Nursing Career Fair
NOV. 26 — DEC. 6
OCTOBER
LUNSA Resilience Month
DEC. 19 — JAN. 17
Winter Break
OCT. 9-10
Homecoming
JAN. 18
Spring Semester Classes Begin
OCT. 23 NOV. 6 2-4:30 p.m.
DNP and Online Nursing Open House
as well as in long-term care facilities and community centers. Just like patient care, nursing education changes based on the evidence of research and the needs of society. Curriculum always remains focused on the nursing process — which is to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate — but the delivery of this knowledge shifted in the previous months from classrooms to remote learning sessions, and from clinicals to virtual simulations. I had the joy of “stepping” into our remote classrooms and virtual clinical sessions and seeing firsthand the creativity and innovation of faculty and the “aha!” moments of students.
A MESS AGE FROM THE
Nurse leaders did what they know — they led. Our national and international leaders worked tirelessly and stepped to the forefront to educate communities, to guide schools of nursing through the transition to remote learning, and to obtain the needed materials to properly care for ill patients. Nurses stepped up to lead.
PREPARING CONFIDENT, COMPETENT,
The following pages will introduce you to some of our amazing faculty and alumni who were in one or more of these nursing roles. You will read how Liberty University School of Nursing (LUSON) created new learning opportunities and excelled at meeting the needs of the current students. You will have a chance to catch up on the news at your School of Nursing. There is a unique connection between nurses, and the bond we at LUSON have with each other is strong, like a three-cord rope. You will always have a home here.
DEAN AND COMPASSIONATE NURSES
As I sit here and reflect on the past several months, I cannot help but realize the impact of our amazing profession of nursing here locally, within our great nation, and across this beautiful world. Nurses walk boldly with courage into the unknown of patient care as has been evident by the countless nurses caring for patients fighting COVID-19. Nurses tread into rooms filled with fear and death, bringing calm reassurance, light, and life. Nurses journey next to patients and families through celebrations and grief. This profession in which we find ourselves is truly a calling to care for individuals created in His Image. The nursing practice has changed tremendously over the past few months. Creativity and innovation have overcome fear and concern. Dedication and resilience have overcome exhaustion. Many of our alumni and faculty stepped into the emotional support gap, being present for patients when family was unable. Faculty created learning tools for alumni as they were challenged to a new, unfamiliar level of care. Advanced practice registered nurses led teams to provide exceptional care in the acute setting
Dr. Shanna W. Akers Dean
OUR MISSION Training Champions for Christ who care with their hearts and their minds, exhibiting both our art and our science, to care for those most in need here and around the world, impacting and investing in the lives of others.
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COMPASSION
Faculty Highlights in the Face of COVID-19 DURING WORLD CHALLENGES, LIFE CONTINUES AND NURSES MOVE F O R WA R D T O T H E I R N E X T L I F E G O A L . H E R E W E W O U L D L I K E T O H I G H L I G H T A F E W G R E AT S T O R I E S T H AT O C C U R R E D D U R I N G T H E PA N D E M I C .
Kristene Diggins, DNP, FAANP, MBA is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner (NP). As a Fellow of the AANP, she has been practicing as an NP for 15 years in outpatient family practice. Kris and her husband, BJ, are full time missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators and have served many years overseas. Currently living in Charlotte, North Carolina, Kris has served as an adjunct faculty member with Liberty for nearly 10 years. She loves to share her passion for Christ in the practice setting as well as the classroom. She loves to write for various nursing journals and currently has a regular column in the Journal of Christian Nursing. During the pandemic, Dr. Diggins continued working in outpatient practice, testing and treating patients with COVID-19. Sara Smith, a clinical adjunct for the BSN program, is a Lynchburg native who has served in the local ICU for over 10 years. She offered the local news channel a little insight into the role of the ICU nurse. My personal favorite line: “It’s what we do. We are nurses. We rise to the occasion.”
Dr. Donna Hudson, a pharmacologist, joined the LUSON faculty this past year to support our online pharm courses. The pandemic changed her plans for her PharmD hooding ceremony as many of our students experienced the same delays and changes. But she looked at the challenges as an opportunity to celebrate with her family in person and her colleagues virtually. Here is what she had to say: This past weekend was a celebration for my family and for me because I was officially hooded as Dr. Hudson by Shenandoah University School of Pharmacy! After earning my B.S. in Pharmacy 28 years ago, I finished the PharmD program at SU early, and this past December I had my PharmD degree conferred at graduation and received my diploma. However, the doctoral hooding ceremony only occurs in May. During the hooding ceremony, I was awarded the Dean’s Award for the highest GPA in my class, and it was such an honor! SU did an amazing job with this virtual doctoral hooding ceremony and graduation, and it even involved live chat cheering by family, faculty, and friends. Fortunately, this virtual graduation allowed me to have a gorgeous beach graduation with my sweet family and seabirds (photo bombers) in the Sunshine State!
These three faculty are examples of the many faculty members who continue to practice clinical as well as those who continue to grow professionally to better support our students. Thank you to each one of the faculty who exemplify the compassion, patience, and love of our Heavenly Father! You are role models and mentors to the next generation of His nurses!
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COMPASSION
DNP Students Respond to COVID-19 S H A R O N KO P I S
Chris Deramo My name is Chris Deramo. I am an emergency department RN and have worked the emergency department setting for 4 years. During the initial peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, I had an opportunity to work for eight weeks in a Washington, D.C., emergency department serving a population more greatly affected by the virus outbreak than the area I live in.
COVID-19 hit and changed our lives, some forever and some for a moment. One thing it did not change was the hearts and spirits of Liberty University DNP students. Liberty University DNP students are nurses who lead by example by having a servant’s heart and being the hands and feet of Christ where He leads them. They are registered nurses and advanced practice nurses serving as clinicians in various areas of clinical practice, nursing leadership roles, and in service to our country and others. This time in history will be marked by our reflections on the impact of the virus, by memoirs of loved ones lost, and by other stories of hardship and compassion that will influence humanity for generations to come. Nursing and nurses will be forever changed by the impact of these historic events. One thing that has remained steadfast is the role of the nurse as we respond to the need to carry out nursing responsibilities while demonstrating the art and science of nursing. Nurses across the world have responded by providing excellence in holistic care for COVID-19 and other patients during this time. Many are at the bedside, not only providing physical care but psychological, emotional, and spiritual care to patients and their loved ones as they say their last goodbyes through electronic devices, which are fast becoming our new normal. Human contact and touch have been diminished. It is the nurse holding the patient’s hand through gloves — the closest they can get to human touch — as they provide care often until death.
On my first day I was worried to find out that many of the medical/surgical and ICU units were becoming full on a daily basis due to the increase in hospitalization of COVID-19 or suspected COVID-19 patients. What this meant for the emergency department was that patients with likely or suspected COVID-19, ranging from stable to critically ill, were having prolonged stays sometimes greater than 24 hours. Prioritization of care became more vital than ever as nurses would have to take care assignments with higher acuity patients than average or a greater number of patients per assignment than typically expected. It often felt as if every patient coming through the doors was being tested for COVID-19. It was also heartbreaking to see patients suffering and sometimes die and not have the ability to have family there by their side. I will never forget hearing family members crying over the phone and asking questions about their critically ill grandmother whom they could not visit. Even through these less than ideal conditions there was purpose, and to me it was to be there for these patients physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The camaraderie felt between the healthcare team of nurses, physicians, techs, and ED staff would really lift the atmosphere and help offload some of the fears and anxieties shared among us. Often nurses and physicians would stay over longer on shifts to help ensure patients were taken care of before they left. Overall, I am thankful for the people and patients I met along the way, and I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to care for those in need and to share the love of Christ.
The following stories are from DNP students — students who have responded to the call to care for those with COVID-19 and others during this time. Their stories demonstrate how the Lord has used each one to provide different services, all equally important and beautifully woven into His tapestry — His plan for His people. We serve a living God who is there and who loves us. Thank you to all our DNP students who care, who are there and share their gifts and talents to do His work. We are so proud of each one and thank the Lord for the opportunity to share their educational journey. 5
Maj. Leonna Ameduite, US Army Reserve Nurse Corps Officer
Elizabeth Campbell
I was mobilized to the Javits Center in New York City with the Army Reserves. I serve in the rank of major as a public health nurse. Over 1,000 COVID-19 patients were treated by the Joint Task Force, which included both active and reserve Army, Navy, Air Force, Public Health Service Corps, American Medical Response, and FEMA. In addition to serving in the Javits Center, urban augmentee groups were created and sent to the local hospital to treat COVID-19 in the community. My role as a public health nurse was to help prevent COVID-19 transmission among the Joint Task Force members. I, along with a fantastic team, conducted contact investigations, monitored COVID-like symptoms, facilitated COVID-19 testing, and provided recommendations for isolation and quarantine. I am proud of the work that we did in New York. To quote Lieutenant General Charles D. Lucky, the Army Reserve Commander, “We lifted the spirits of the country.” We not only treated COVID-19 patients, but we all came together — civilian and military — to assist the country in a time of need. This display of unity exemplifies the core values of our nation.
EXCELLENCE
One particular COVID-19 rule-out patient was very anxious about being in the hospital and was afraid that she was going to die. I was able to hold her hand and reassure her that we were going to give her excellent care as well as pray with her, which eased some of her anxiety. Working as a nurse during a pandemic has presented unique challenges stemming from PPE and hand sanitizer shortages. While PPE shortages seem to have slightly improved, hand sanitizer is still hard to come by, so I keep some with me at all times so that I can maintain the same hand hygiene standards that I practice in a non-pandemic situation.
Faculty and Student Achievements
Mrs. Kim Frietas (OB adjunct) passed the FNP state board licensure exam and is now an FNP-C. Well done! Congratulations to Dr. Heather Humphreys and Dr. Dana Woody on their recent publication, “The Value of Grit and Resilience During a Global Pandemic.” Dr. Brenda Jessee had a devotional published in the midst of COVID-19 entitled “The Love We Have to Give — Mark 14:8,” and had a devotional on racial and social injustice published on the Nurses Christian Fellowship site. Dr. Shanna Akers was successfully board certified as a Nurse Executive Advanced (NEA-BC). Dr. Dana Woody had an article published for the continuing education section of Virginia Nurses Today titled, “Nurses and the Volunteer Role: Feeding the Soul.” Dr. Rachel Joseph’s article has been accepted for publication in Journal of Pediatric Surgical Nursing: Precipitating Factors Related to the Formation of Grandfamilies. Dr. Dottie Murphy will have an additional textbook chapter published this year: Murphy, D.L. & Anderson, K.L. (2020). The Cardiovascular Interview & History. In L’Ecuyer & Young (Eds). Cardiac Vascular Nurse Certification Review. Springer.
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After sitting in numerous meetings regarding COVID-19 as a part of my DNP practicum, I felt compelled to leave my position as a clinical instructor in order to work full time as a nurse and help with the pandemic. I knew that these patients would be isolated from family members and friends due to the advanced droplet precautions and visitor restrictions, and I wanted to be there to take care of them and hold their hand while offering both emotional and spiritual support. While working on the COVID-19 unit at my hospital, I have had the opportunity to do just that.
Dr. Iselande Desyre successfully completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice with a focus in Nursing Education Certificate Studies at The University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She was asked to present her capstone poster virtually along with their online graduation. The title of her capstone presentation: Reducing Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infections through Staff Education and Best Practice Guidelines. Congratulations, Mrs. Dena Todd, for your promotion to Assistant Professor. Jacob Brooks, Senior, BSN Program Jacob noticed facial drooping on the right side of his patient who was intubated and on a ventilator. He reported this to his RN, and they quickly notified the physician and took the patient for a MRI revealing the patient’s stroke. Because of his timely assessment, they were able to start the stroke protocol on his patient early, significantly impacting the patient’s outcomes.
You Don’t Even Know JESSICA CICERCHIA, CLASS OF 2018 RN, BSN YALE NEW HAVEN HOSPITAL | CTICU/COVID ICU
I cannot sleep because I am afraid Knowing that it’s up to me to bring them aid. I push away the nightmares that plague my mind, keeping them locked away and buried inside.
Giving his advice we talk through the door All the time wishing I could have more. So scared by myself, but this I know he will come to my rescue if we lose flow.
Stepping through the doors to see the list of the growing Covid patients, I reminisce of months ago when I didn’t think that our lovely unit would ever sink.
Standing in a room all alone They look through the window, but you’re on your own. With a work phone in hand and my stand of drips Tears fall from my eyes and prayers from my lips.
I get my assignment, oh what a shock I’m in an ECMO/Covid room till seven o’clock. Now I begin by donning my gear Hoping to prevent “it” from coming near.
You Don’t Even Know
Gown, booties, and gloves to start I pause as I feel my heart racing inside because I know I will reuse my N95 for the second day in a row. You Don’t Even Know Into the room I begin my day always making time to pray for my patients and their families all the same For I might be the last one who hears their name Away the night nurse goes Leaving me, my paper, and who else knows to fight this invisible fight with all my strength and all my might.
Later in the day when things get bad, I rely on my nurses when I am sad. Holding this man’s life in my hand How could anyone really understand? My charge nurse comes to my rescue, but she’s had herself a day too. Being pushed and pulled in a million ways I’m thankful for her on these tough days. Seven o’clock comes and I scatter to get the room together and I realize the sweat Down my forehead and down my back. I have yet to leave my room for even a snack. I realized I only left the room at half past two for a thirty minute break, boy was I overdue. There I sat and ate my lunch Who knew this Covid would pack such a punch. You Don’t Even Know
Scanning the room, in my view are Nimbex, Versed, and ECMO too. And there lies before me a very young man Paralyzed, sedated, he knows not the plan. He relies on me to assess. From head to toe, I must address all problems I see, great and small because there is no one else at all.
Realizing I only peed once this shift Who knew the bathroom was such a gift? Yet through it all, my faith stands true To a God who loves me and will get us through. His promises are firm and his faithfulness is tested Just look at my life and prayers requested. While we don’t know how long this will last My God is the same God of today and the past.
You Don’t Even Know Alarms begin to ring and I look at the screen. Low Flow alarms appear on my machine. Yet there I stand in the loud room, praying for someone to come to my rescue. His heart rate starts dropping headed towards stopping. Thankful to see my perfusionist’s face peeking his head in the window, with such grace.
Leaving work, I drive home in shock and FaceTime my fiancé at nine o’clock. I miss him as we’ve been apart for weeks But we know this is smart and is one of our techniques. Now the day is finally done and this may have just begun. But we will make it, this I know for the Bible tells me so! And Yet You Still Don’t Even Know
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EXCELLENCE
Implementation of Virtual Simulation K AT H R Y N M I L L E R Spring Break 2020 will be remembered by Liberty University nursing students as the week that COVID-19 impacted Liberty University, the School of Nursing, healthcare in the United States, and our world. As the number of positive cases soared in our communities, our alumni, nursing students, and faculty saw the impact of a global pandemic realized. Our graduates were now on the front lines as hospitals braced for increased census and acuity. The demands on healthcare professionals were rapidly changing and so was the ability of hospitals across the nation to accommodate the next generation of nurses — our nursing students. Hands-on patient care is the hallmark of the clinical experience for undergraduate nursing students, and at Liberty University, our nursing students pride themselves in the compassionate care provided to patients during clinical experience. Our nursing students also know that patient safety is primary. So as hospitals announced that as a result of the pandemic and patient safety, all student clinical
experiences were canceled until further notice, there was understanding lined with disappointment and concern. How would students be able to complete clinical expectations and continue to progress in their goals and dreams of becoming registered nurses? We know that nurses have to be flexible with ever-changing circumstances. So also do nursing students and nursing faculty. With support from the provost and qualified faculty and staff certified in healthcare simulation, virtual, computerbased simulation was purchased and adopted. The faculty at Liberty University School of Nursing are driven by the desire to equip our students as those called to the profession of nursing and to provide excellent experiences to both engage and develop their critical thinking and skill. With everything changing around us, this remained constant. Shadow Health became our link to the clinical world as it offered our students a virtual patient experience and our faculty the opportunity to engage in this virtual clinical world with students during remote debriefing. Dr. Carol Short, an instructional designer for Shadow Health, stated, “Liberty University was one of the first schools that reached out to us to ask how they could design virtual patient experiences to meet their students’ clinical hour replacement needs. Their many talented faculty members quickly implemented their plan to give students as much time and guidance as possible to achieve their goals. Liberty University’s integration plan was an excellent model for us as we continued to meet with other faculty across the country who needed to integrate our simulations for clinical hour replacement.” Virtual simulation for our undergraduate students provided a creative solution to foster essential skills and meet clinical objectives to continue them on the path toward their goal. The School of Nursing would like to thank the president’s office, Dr. Scott Hicks (provost), and other leaders in the provost office for their support during this complex time of transition.
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EXCELLENCE
Uniform Distinction K AT H R Y N M I L L E R Nursing student uniforms at Liberty University began as white, knee-length dresses with crisp pleats. Today’s LUSON students proudly wear navy blue scrub bottoms and white scrub tops as they enter the rapidly changing clinical environment to meet the increased needs of the patients they serve. Sophomore students, in their uniform for the first time, are dedicated to the profession of nursing during the Candlelight Dedication Ceremony their first semester. Seniors pray over the new class of students as they receive their Nightingale lamps and white Gideon Bibles. Liberty University School of Nursing traditions carry on through academics, ethical virtue, and clinical excellence. The quality of Liberty University nursing graduates remains distinct.
The word “uniform,” when used as an adjective, means to remain the same/consistent. As a noun, a distinctive uniform labels those who wear it as a cohesive member of an organization or group with the same identifying standards, “consistent in conduct” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2019, n.p.). Professional nursing uniforms have not remained the same but have changed dramatically over the decades. While white caps and blue wool capes are no longer worn, donning the nursing uniform still brings with it a sense of pride, integrity, and distinction.
Liberty University nursing students now prominently display the LUSON seal on their stethoscopes as part of the LUSON student uniform. The addition of the red stethoscope with the LUSON seal further identifies our students in the clinical setting. We are proud of our distinction, honored in our calling, and humbled at the opportunity to serve. As students transition to practice, brand salience increases awareness of the quantity and quality of LUSON graduates in the workforce, linking patient experience and outcomes to the identifying standards of confidence, competence, and compassion consistent in Liberty University nursing students and graduates.
M E E T T H E N E W F A C U LT Y & S T A F F
In Fall 2020, Lisa Gazan joined the LUSON residential BSN faculty. Lisa was born and raised in Guatemala where her dad taught at Central America Theological Seminary. She attended both a German and Spanish school until she was 12 years old. She moved to Michigan where she started her first job at the age of 16, working in a hospital cafeteria for the summer. She went on to work various jobs, including cleaning respiratory equipment, oxygen tech, nurse assistant, nurse tech, and eventually a nurse! Lisa attended Eastern Michigan University for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Indiana Wesleyan University for her
Master of Science in Nursing Education. She has since enjoyed a variety of nursing experiences and has lived in Michigan, Kenya, New York, and most recently Georgia. Lisa has worked as a medical surgical nurse, home care public health nurse, department coordinator, program developer of a new nursing program, teacher in a health careers academy, hospice case manager, hospice assistant director, and nursing professor in both associate and bachelor’s programs. She loves connecting with students and walking with them in fulfilling their goals and dreams. Lisa and her husband, Paul, have been married for 30 years and have four children. They have served with Africa Inland Mission for 23 years and for the last 18 months with Operation Mobilization. Lisa loves to be outdoors, photography, birding, plants, baking, travel, and reading international spy thrillers.
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ETHICS
Leaping into Action DA N A WO O DY
Frogs, nursing students, and presentations, oh my! Yes, you read that right, frogs — stay tuned. On Feb. 29, 700 nursing students from around the commonwealth “leaped into action” at the 68th Annual Virginia Nursing Student Association (VNSA) Convention, hosted by LUSON. Each table was adorned with plastic frogs and LUSON lollipops made for a Leap Day like none other. The highest attended convention on record, it was a landmark event in many ways. LUSON won the vote to host the event in early summer of 2019; months of planning and prayer ensued thereafter. The convention offered students a variety of educational breakout sessions with dynamic speakers. Everything from pharmacology to a graduate panel was offered. Several of LUSON’s very own took the podium to offer insight to students and attending faculty in the areas of psych, pain management, classroom hacks, and advanced practice nursing. A poster session and vendors were also part of the event.
Our students also “leaped” into leadership during the event, as several were named to the VNSA Board for 2020-21: • • • • •
Ruben Vigil | President Camryn NeSmith | Public Relations Director Logan Voegele | Breakthrough to Nursing Director Kristina Shurtleff | Torch Editor Cianna Sullivan | Policy and Initiatives Director
They also submitted a resolution on compassion fatigue that was unanimously passed. LUSON had 40+ delegates at the conference, the highest in the state, lending a strong voice for Him and for students around the commonwealth. LUSON’s Nursing Student Association (LUNSA) and faculty took home awards: • • • •
Most active chapter Excellence in nursing instruction | Mrs. Cindy Drohn Most supportive chapter faculty | Dr. Dana Woody Stellar scrapbook
Just three years prior to this event, our LUNSA Chapter was supported by six nursing students who took a “leap” of faith to have a Christian voice in nursing education at the state and national levels. Today, we are 180 active members strong, with over 400 on the VNSA and National Student Nursing Association roster. That “leap” was indeed a landmark, as we Fully Relied On God (FROG) and committed ourselves to changing the future of the healthcare landscape for Him. This was a “leap into action” that will not soon be forgotten. “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” - Romans 8:28
FUTURE
Alumni Updates
Congratulations to Courtney (Johnstone) Bailey, BSN and MSN alumna, and husband, Barrett, on the birth of their son, Milo Asher, born on July 21, weighing 7lbs 6oz! Big sister Josephine Mae is super excited to love on him!
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Congratulations to Jessica Bell (’18) for receiving the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Jessica works at UVA Health in Charlottesville, Virginia, and will begin LUSON’s FNP-DNP program this fall.
RESEARCH
DNP Students Shine at 2020 Liberty University Research Week S H A R O N KO P I S
Three Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) students were recognized at the 2020 Liberty University Research Week. All DNP students complete a scholarly project as part of their program of study. Students traditionally complete an evidence-based practice project using the Iowa Model to make a practice change for nursing, patient care, safety, quality, or outcomes. The following students were recognized for their scholarly projects: Samantha (Wilkins) Copeland, DNP-FNP student, took first place in the graduate oral presentations. Her topic was Preventing Polypharmacy Amongst the Elderly in an Acute Care Setting through the Integration of the Deprescribing Tools START, STOPP, and Beers Criteria. The goal of her project was to educate healthcare providers and pharmacists on the use of deprescribing tools to decrease polypharmacy in the elderly population to decrease adverse medication effects. Samantha also placed second in the Theoretical Graduate Poster Presentation. Continuing our spotlight of winners of Research Week is Cristina Minotti, who won the graduate 3MT (Three Minute Thesis). The title of her project is Walking through Smoke. Cristina, DNP-FNP student, described her project with the following, “My scholarly project intervention involved provider education on utilizing the 5As for structuring of smoking cessation counseling
and documentation, insurance coverage, and billing/coding for smoking cessation counseling at a clinic in rural Virginia. Follow-up data on percentage of smokers and rate of counseling performance outcomes will be collected in July.� To round out the success of our students in Research Week, DNP-FNP student Elisabeth Campbell took first place in the Graduate Poster Presentation competition during Research Week. The title of her project was ASCVD Risk Estimator Integration into an EMR. She presented evidence supporting an evidence-based practice project integrating the American Heart Association Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (AHA-ASCVD) risk estimator into an electronic medical record at a primary care pilot clinic and anticipated outcomes. These students are on target to graduate in Fall 2020 with their Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees and are eligible to become licensed as professional family nurse practitioners qualified to provide primary healthcare to families and individuals across the lifespan. Join us in congratulating these accomplished students for their achievements!
RN TO BSN PROGR AM ELIZABETH WHORLEY Spring 2020 brought new challenges to our world and our RN-BSN students. The COVID-19 pandemic directly impacted many students who also fought as front-line workers. They battled the emerging pandemic and continued with the rigors of their education. The Liberty University School of Nursing is proud of them. Since 2005, the RN-BSN Program has provided opportunities for registered nurses to continue their education and receive their BSN while learning how to integrate their faith into nursing practice. The RN-BSN
program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as two years. Our online environments offer digital textbooks and resources which allow for versatility and an engaging environment. The RN-BSN-MSN accelerated track continues to grow as registered nurses take advantage of the option to complete both a BSN and MSN in an accelerated manner. Students currently have three concentrations to choose from in the RN-BSN-MSN dual degree: education, administration, and informatics.
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DNP PROGR AM S H A R O N KO P I S The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program was created to meet the growing need for advanced practice nurses and skilled leaders. The program continues to expand both in student enrollment and faculty support. The DNP program has welcomed over 25 new faculty members recently to support DNP programs, including the Family Nurse Practitioner Program and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs. Student enrollment has exceeded over 350 students enrolled in the various DNP tracks and postgraduate PMHNP certificate program. Many DNP students are working to support patient care during the COVID pandemic and serve in a variety of roles, including administration, military nursing, and nurses and advanced practice nurses in a variety of roles.
The DNP program has been modified to provide more support to students and chairs during the scholarly project writing process. Students who are enrolled in a DNP program and have not yet enrolled in NURS 839 are eligible to change their program of study. This is optional, and students interested in learning more about the new degree plans starting Fall 2020 and possibly updating their program of study should contact Ms. Shirley Lee sklee@liberty.edu (residential students) or Mr. Jon Gilbert jpgilbert@liberty.edu (online students). We are looking forward to an exciting Fall 2020 semester as many new students and faculty join the program and many graduates go out to share the love of Christ.
P S I D E LT A U P D AT E C I N DY G O O D R I C H What a busy year it was! As most of you have been experiencing the changes in the “usual way of doing,� our creativity as nurses has certainly been put to the test. Sigma Psi Delta Chapter has been no exception. On May 8, the Psi Delta Board and Liberty University School of Nursing Faculty were enthusiastic about holding the first virtual induction ceremony. Over 40 students had the opportunity to participate. Family members and other guests were able to join in through the online format. Despite the distance, the inductees received the full honor and privilege of being a member of such a prestigious organization. The plans for the 2020-21 academic year have been put into place. As a part of the plan, two membership meetings have been set for Fall 2020. The first one is on Sept. 24, 5-6:30 p.m. EST. The Region 13 Coordinator, Dr. Tamatha Arms, will address us briefly and offer her support for the chapter. A second meeting is scheduled for Nov. 3, 5-7 p.m. EST. This will be a joint meeting with the Liberty University Student Nurses Association and will be dedicated to service to the community. Opportunities for involvement, regardless of member
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geographic location, will be profiled. Both meetings will be available via Microsoft Teams Meetings in the event on-site participation is not possible. Be on the lookout for an email with the Teams meeting invite (also be sure to check clutter email). As Psi Delta members, your participation is crucial in supporting our commitment to nursing excellence, knowledge, service, and leadership. We look forward to working with you!
BOARD MEMBERS Cindy Goodrich, President Tonia Kennedy, President-elect Dottie Murphy, Secretary Emilee Harker, Treasurer Sharon Kopis, Governance Chair/Counselor Dana Woody, Succession Committee Chair
PHD PROGRAM ELIZABETH WHORLEY The emerging pandemic impacted the PhD students enrolled in Spring 2020 as many served as front-line workers in multiple capacities. These students continued the rigors of doctoral coursework while balancing the additional work and family responsibilities resulting from the pandemic. The School of Nursing would like to acknowledge the dedication of these students.
The School of Nursing launched the PhD in Nursing program with a focus on Nursing Education in Fall 2019. The program continues to see growth since the launch. The PhD program is 100% online and allows for flexible scheduling and a total of 60 credit hours. It prepares scholars from a biblical worldview with the skills and expertise to educate the next generation of nurses and advance and steward the profession of nursing. 
BSN PROGR AM K AT R I V E R A A N D A I M E E H O U G H T O N Spring 2020 was a semester like no other in the history of LUSON! In March, we were challenged with adjusting from residential to online learning environments. This new format included all aspects of the program, lecture, testing, and clinical. We are so proud of our students and faculty members for rising to the challenge while maintaining not only a professional atmosphere but also a loving environment where everyone was encouraged to grow. Throughout the semester, interactions remained productive, challenging, and powerful. The flipped classroom approach allowed students to use their knowledge to coach their peers and challenge each other to new levels of nursing knowledge. Virtual simulations were the new normal, as clinical groups met with their instructors to delve deeply into pathophysiology, diagnostic tests, assessment opportunities, and treatment plans. Neither the students nor the instructors allowed the pandemic to steal the joy of clinical interactions. Frequent interactions on Microsoft Teams allowed both one-on-one and group time to pray together and continue the learning journey. Taylor Rose was named “Student of the Year.” This award was given for her outstanding service and attitude throughout the program. She is a living representation of the LUSON foundational stones: touching the lives of many students as a both a mentor and tutor, reflecting our values as a student worker who interacted with potential students and their families and creating public
awareness tools explaining the pandemic restrictions our students and faculty were facing. In May, 142 seniors completed their Bachelor of Science in Nursing! They were able to celebrate with the pinning ceremony just before spring break with faculty and family as well as with a virtual uniform burning ceremony. While this was not the traditional end to celebrate the accumulation of all their hard work and sacrifice over the past four years, it was a wonderful time of reflection on God’s continued grace and provision. The faculty greatly enjoyed congratulating and praising them. Everyone is excited to see how God will use the May 2020 graduates in the future. Summer semester continued the theme of ongoing changes at LUSON. Both students and faculty were reminded that God is faithful and He is able to bring light in the midst of any storm. Forty additional seniors completed their courses virtually over the summer. Our simulation team created LUSON totes full of the necessary tools to complete course work over the summer for 28 sophomores. We are grateful for the hard work of the faculty and staff who made the summer possible for these students. As we enter into the Fall 2020 semester, we are continuing to pray for each of you. We know this fall will be full of challenges, successes, highs, and lows. Please know the BSN Program faculty are here for each of you, praying for you, and cheering you on towards success!
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MSN PROGRAM ELIZABETH WHORLEY The COVID-19 pandemic directly impacted our community of MSN students in the Spring 2020 semester. Many students were serving as front-line workers in various capacities including leadership and patient care. Many of our MSN students are military nurses who were deployed to meet the needs of patients around the United States. These students fought the emerging pandemic, continued with the rigors of their education, and excelled in practicum. The Liberty University School of Nursing would like to acknowledge their successful semester.
The MSN program has provided educational opportunities with a biblical perspective for nurses desiring to advance their nursing degrees since 2001. The MSN program offers concentrations in administration, community health, education, health policy, and informatics — 100% online. There are also opportunities for students to pursue dual degrees. These degrees include the MSN in Nursing Administration paired with the Master of Business Administration and the Master of Nursing Administration combined with the Master of Science in Healthcare Administration.
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Ken Thompson SHANNA AKERS Dr. Ken Thompson joined Liberty University School of Nursing in 2015 to lead our undergraduate and graduate pharmacology courses. As our advanced pharmacology registered nurse (APRN) programs launched, Dr. T, as he is known by residential students, stepped in to help create and manage and psychopharmacology courses as well. In addition to leading our team of PharmDs, Dr. Thompson also serves as the HESI Champion, faculty senator, and as a committee chair. Dr. Thompson is originally from Lubbock, Texas, and continues to cheer on the Dallas Cowboys. As the son of an Air Force C5A pilot, he moved frequently, spending most of his formatives years in Omaha, Nebraska. After completing his pre-pharmacy degree at Cedarville University, Dr. T earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) at University of Nebraska College of Pharmacy in 1994. Dr. T’s clinical experience includes a pharmacy practice residency at UVA Health Sciences Center and work as a practice pharmacist for oncology and infectious diseases at Saint Vincent Health Center in Erie, Pennsylvania. He worked with Bristol-Myers Squibb’s oncology department as a liaison for health professionals, managing provider education, facilitating clinical trials, and leading their field medical team.
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In July 2021, he and his wife, Kim, will be celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. They have four children: Kristen (Calen Philbrook), who is a LUSON graduate in NICU; Kathryn, who teaches preschool locally; Karalyn, who is an ASL interpreter in Chesapeake, Virginia; and Kristopher, who is a junior at LU in counseling and carpentry. He has one granddaughter, Lilly, who turned one in July.
FUN FACTS
• Trumpet player in high school and college • Favorite pastimes: traveling, hiking, kayaking, fishing, gardening, bird watching • Raises saltwater tropical fish (stop by his office to see!) • Loves going to Disney World with his family • History buff, specifically Civil War, WWII, and Revolutionary War • Church service: teaching primary children, junior high and senior high groups, small group leader, and currently teaching 2-year-olds with his wife each Sunday
P.S. Dr. T, we cannot express how thankful we are you joined LUSON five years ago! You have made a huge impact in all our pharmacology courses and in the lives of countless students.
LUSON ADVISORY BOARD ROSTER 2020 Shanna Akers, EdD, MSN/MBA-HC, RN, CNE. NEA-BC Dean, LUSON
Andrea Mazzoccoli, PhD, RN, FAAN Senior Vice President/Chief Nurse Executive, Bon Secours Health System
Diane Bridge, EdD, MSN, RN Administrative Dean, Online Nursing Education
Vickie McLean, DNP, RN, CCRN, ACNS-BC CNS, Lynchburg General Hospital
Lindsey Cardwell, MSN, RN-BC Director of Professional Development
Shannon Miles, BSN, RN Coordinator of Community Outreach and Perinatal Navigation, Centra Health
Reba Childress, EdD, MS, RN, FNP-C, CNE VASSA President & Conference Administrator Kristen Crouse, BSN, RN-BC Nursing Onboarding Manager Joan Deal, MSN, RN Community Partner Danielle Englund American Red Cross Misty Flinchum, BS, RRT Director, Center for Simulation, Research & Patient Safety, Carilion Clinic Hospital and Health Care Shelley Harris, Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer, Centra Health Sharon Kopis, EdD, MS, RN, FNP-C, CNE Chair, Doctoral Studies, LUSON
STUDENT ADVISORY BOARDS
Tara Miller Director of Operations, LUSON
Alondra Ramirez, Senior, Dec. Paige Wolford, Senior, Dec. Joelle Schreiber, Senior, Dec. Heather Kubel, Senior, Dec. Sarah Mann, Junior Taylor Rose, Senior, May Madison Bowe, Junior Faith Montgomery, Senior, May Hee Seung “Will” Lee, Junior Lauren Bishop, Sophomore Makayla Reynolds, Junior Mary Adonteng, Junior Ronald “Ronnie” Friedman, Junior
Keith Paulus, MSN, RN LUSON Instructor and Instructional Mentor MSN Program Alumni
G R A D U AT E S T U D E N T S ADVISORY BOARD
Kathryn Miller, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE Executive Director of Clinical Affairs, LUSON
Brandi Rawlins, MSN, RN, CMSRN LUSON Instructor | BSN Program Alumni Meg Scheaffel, BSN, MBA-MHA, RN CNO, Vice President, Carilion Clinic Hospital and Health Care Georgiann Watts, RN CNO, Vice President, Bedford Memorial Hospital
Nina Killian, MSN Summer Hepler, MSN Anika Holmes, RN-BSN-MSN Patricia Day, RN-BSN-MSN Stephen Wright, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Joanna Asselin, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Samantha Wilkins-Copeland, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP Lisa Floyd, Post-MSN to DNP Meredith Parnel, Post-BSN to DNP/FNP
L U S O N F A C U LT Y Shanna Akers, EdD, MSN/MBA-HC, RN, CNE, NEA-BC Dean, School of Nursing
Aimee Houghton, MSN, RN Instructor, Program Director
Ruth Patterson, MSN, RN, CPNP Adjunct Professor
Heather Humphreys, DNP, CNE Associate Professor
Tamra Rasberry, PhD, RN Associate Professor
Rachel Joseph, PhD, CCRN Associate Professor
Katherine Rivera, DNP, RN Associate Professor, Program Director
Tonia Kennedy, EdD, MSN, CCRN-K Associate Professor
Deidra Simpson, Pharm.D Associate Professor
Sharon Kopis, EdD, RN, FNP-C, CNE Chair, DNP Program
Stacy Taylor, MSN, RN Assistant Professor
Debra Maddox, DNP, RN, FNP-C Associate Professor
Ken Thompson, Pharm.D, RPh Associate Professor
Sydney McCraw, MSN, RN Instructor
Dena Todd, MSN, RN Assistant Professor
Linda Gregory, MSN, RN Associate Professor
Kathryn Miller, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE Executive Director of Clinical Affairs, Associate Professor Chair, BSN Program
Tracey Turner, EdD, MSN, RNC-OB Associate Professor
Emilee Harker, MSN, RN Associate Professor
Vickie Moore, DNP, RN, FNP-C Associate Professor
Carol Harvey, MSN, RN Assistant Professor
Dorothy Murphy, DNP, RN, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner Program Director, Professor
Jerry Harvey, EdD, RN Associate Professor
Kristen Oakley, MSN, RN-BC, CMSRN Instructor
Mary Highton, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC Associate Professor
Folashade Odedina, DNP, RN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C Psych-Mental Health NP Program Director, Associate Professor
Diane Bridge, EdD, MSN, RN Administrative Dean, Online Nursing Education Mary Lynn Clarke, EdD, MSN, RN, CCRN Associate Professor Lori Dominie, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Cindy Drohn, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Lisa Gazan, MSN, RN Assistant Professor Cindy Goodrich, EdD, CNE Professor
Tiffany Wells, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CHSE Instructor Elizabeth Whorley, RN-BSN, MSN, PhD Chair Dana Woody, DNP, RN Associate Professor
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