Expert Family Nurse Practitioner Returns for DNP

I have always enjoyed learning and striving for excellence. I had looked at a few programs to obtain my doctoral degree and decided that I wanted a clinical focus such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree that Indiana State University offers. I have been a Family Nurse Practitioner for 20 years and knew that I wanted to focus 

on how I could make a difference in my community by utilizing my clinical background. Through the DNP program, I learned how to evaluate research for evidence based practice, became more knowledgeable in the benefits of informatics, and learned that I could influence health care policy. The courses offered through the DNP program at Indiana State University changed the way I looked at my practice and made me realize that I could make a difference in my community.

I chose to focus on Healthy Lifestyle Behavioral Changes in elementary students for my capstone project. I implemented the 5210 Let's Go! behavioral modification program in an elementary school in my community. I was able to involve many community members and school officials. The program has encouraged other organizations to offer more programs for student education regarding healthy lifestyle choices and has increased school involvement and knowledge regarding this important issue.

The faculty of the DNP program at Indiana State University was a big support and guided me from the development of my research statement to the completion of an article describing my project that I will submit for publication to a nursing journal. I felt such a sense of pride when I received my DNP degree on May 3, 2014. This accomplishment has fostered a sense of responsibility in me to promote the professional growth of Advanced Practice Nurses to ensure excellence of care for our communities.