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April 2024

FAU College of Nursing Ranked Among Best Graduate Schools in the Nation

The College of Nursing’s Master’s in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs are ranked among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The Master’s program ranked No. 41, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice ranked No. 78 in a competitive listing of colleges and universities across the country. Since 1983, U.S. News has been providing education rankings as a resource for students who are seeking information regarding academic programs and career advancement. The Best Graduate Schools methodologies are based on several factors, including engagement, faculty credentials and training, expert opinion and services and technologies provided.

Congratulations, 2024 College of Nursing White Coat Recipients!

On March 21, Florida Atlantic University's Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing hosted its annual White Coat Ceremony, where more than 100 Freshman Direct Admit and Accelerated BSN students were bestowed with their first white coats, signifying their entry into the nursing profession. The traditional ceremony and acceptance of the white coat confirms each student's commitment to compassion, humanism and professionalism within the field.


The event program included a keynote address delivered by Jodi LoDolce, MBA, BSN, RN,

Chief Nursing Officer at HCA Florida JFK Hospital. LoDolce has over 30 years of experience in emergency nursing and nursing leadership, and she strives to build and lead strong teams. She is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives and the Florida Nurses Association.


LoDolce shared her advice on making a real difference as a nurse, and she stated that being kind and making a real connection with patients and their families is especially important.


After receiving their white coats with the help of the faculty members, the students followed Dr. Joy Longo, Associate Dean of Academic Programs and Associate Professor, in reciting the White Coat ceremony oath.

 

Please consider joining the College of Nursing in supporting our talented and hard-working students. To give, visit fauf.fau.edu/nursing-white-coats.


Thank you to our generous sponsors:

Platinum Sponsor

Christine E. Lynn


Gold Sponsors

Allegiance Home Health – Rosie Inguanzo-Martin

The Charles and Elsie Gols Charitable Foundation

Gene and Susan Folden

The Reiling Family Foundation - Cindy Krebsbach

George Snow Scholarship Fund, Inc. - Tim Snow

Silver Sponsors

Robert and Lynne Arlen

David P. Long and Lucy A. Craske

Kathy Molinet Drum

Hank Drummond

Melissa and Jamey Emerson

Margaret Mary Shuff

Camiccia-Arnautou Charitable Foundation, Inc. - Bill T. Smith, Jr.

Patricia Toppel

Elaine J. Wold

Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing to Host Spring 2024 Commencement and Pinning Ceremony

The College of Nursing will celebrate the accomplishments of its graduating Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students at the Spring 2024 Pinning Ceremony on Thursday, May 2, at 1 p.m., in the Libby and Harry Dodson Auditorium on the Boca Raton campus. This event marks a significant milestone in the journey of Florida Atlantic students as they prepare to enter the nursing profession.

FAU College of Nursing to Celebrate 45 Years of Academic Excellence

The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing will mark its 45th anniversary with a program and reception on Thursday, April 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the college's Atrium on the Boca Raton campus. This gathering will honor the college's distinguished history and the contributions of our leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners. As an academic institution dedicated to training the next generation of compassionate nurses grounded in caring science, the college has grown over the years and continues to excel in nursing education, research, practice and scholarship.

In-Vehicle Sensors to Detect Changes in Cognition of Older Drivers Study 

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are leading the charge in developing innovative solutions to address cognitive decline among older drivers. Spearheaded by Dr. Ruth Tappen, Christine E. Lynn Eminent Scholar and Professor, the interdisciplinary team of nursing, engineering and neuropsychology experts is pioneering the use of unobtrusive in-vehicle sensing technology. This groundbreaking approach, featured in the journal BMC Geriatrics, offers early warnings of cognitive change for millions of older drivers, contributing to road safety and well-being in aging populations. Read More


For more information or to participate in the study, call 954-691-3977, email Drivingproject@health.fau.edu or visit drivingproject.org/info.

CHC

FAU/NCHA Community Health Center Recertified as FQHC Look-Alike 

The Florida Atlantic University/Northwest Community Health Alliance (FAU/NCHA) Community Health Center, operated by the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, was recently recertified by the United States Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), as a “Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike.”


An FQHC is a clinic that provides comprehensive primary, behavioral health and preventive care to patients of all ages in underserved and rural areas. The purpose of FQHCs is to serve communities that may have financial disadvantages, language barriers, geographic barriers, or other specific needs. The college is one of seven nursing colleges in the United States with a nurse-led FQHC.

Student News

Congratulations to Nikkisha Smith for successfully defending her dissertation on March 15!

Raquel Panos and Ashley Noel represented the College of Nursing at the annual AACN Student Policy Summit, in Washington D.C., March 24 and 25. Students who attended the Summit were immersed in didactic program sessions focused on the federal policy process and nursing's role in professional advocacy.

Two College of Nursing students, Sasha Gibbs and Mia Wilburn, were named Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) scholars. They were celebrated at NSNA's 72nd annual convention on April 3. In recognition of their outstanding achievements, Wilburn was awarded $1,000, and Gibbs received $1,200 from the Johnson & Johnson Our Race to Health Equity Diversity Nursing Scholarships.

Brittany Palladino, graduate of the PMHNP BSN-DNP program, was accepted into the UC Davis Advanced NP-Practice Residency Program which is year-long residency through the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing. She will be working with a team on a mobile health unit and with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UC Davis in addition to precepting students.

The RN-BSN track will hold an informational session on Thursday, April 11, 1 to 2 p.m. This track is for applicants who have completed a diploma or associate's degree nursing program at an ACEN-accredited institution, possess an unencumbered RN license in the state of residence, and seek to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Click here to register

All are welcome to attend Science Fest on Friday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Breezeway, Boca Raton campus. Enjoy science-related exhibitions, a student poster competition, interactive games and activities. Science Fest is organized by the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science to celebrate the diversity of our scientific disciplines and the variety of contributions from faculty and students. Learn More

The Sigma Theta Tau IOTA Xi At-Large chapter and the College of Nursing will host a Research and Scholarship Day on Tuesday, April 16, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. This event is open to all nursing students, from BSN to Ph.D./DNP, College of Nursing faculty and Sigma members.

The Graduate College will host a virtual Graduate Information Session on Thursday, April 18, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This session will include information regarding financial aid, test preparation, and graduate admissions. Learn more and register for the event here.

Join the information session on our Accelerated BSN track program on Tuesday, April 23, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. This limited-access four-semester program is a fast track to a professional nursing career. Sign up for the event here.

If you are interested in learning more about our Freshman Direct Admit track, a full-time four-year program for currently enrolled high school seniors preparing to enter Florida Atlantic in the fall, join the Freshman Direct information session on Thursday, April 25, from 3 to 4 p.m. Click here to register

Register early! Summer and Fall 2024 registration is now open! Check the schedule and register early to ensure to get the classes you want. Note: Non-degree-seeking students are only allowed to register just prior to the start of each term.

The FAU Career Center can help you discover the keys to unlocking your professional potential! Their award-winning staff is always ready to share valuable resources, expert insights, success stories and engaging activities to help you navigate your career journey. Make an appointment today or view the latest jobs in Handshake.

Student Spotlight: Scott Harrison

Scott Harrison, a Family Nurse Practitioner program student, says his experience with community health nurses inspired him to pursue a career in nursing. Currently serving as a nurse at the Florida Atlantic Student Health Services clinic, Harrison is eager to make a difference. “I would love to continue working with the patients at the clinic,” he said. “It is a very satisfying job, and we, as nurses, are able to contribute significantly to the students’ academic success by ensuring a healthy mind and body.” Read More

News and Events

Join the Integrative Nurse Coach® Symposium, April 11-13 in Miami. The College of Nursing will proudly sponsor and host a dedicated table. Learn more and register here.

Last call to purchase tickets for the President's Gala on Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m., in the Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena on the Boca Raton campus. This special evening will honor the University's accomplishments and contribute to scholarships and student success. For tickets and sponsorship information, click here.

Join the 4th annual “Share Your Caring Heart” Campaign at the Cove Brewery in Deerfield Beach on Sunday, April 28, from 12 to 5 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Louis and Anne Green Memory and Wellness Center, funding caregiver programs and Day Center Scholarships for those in financial need. The event supports individuals and families affected by memory disorders in our community. Learn More

The College of Nursing's fully online, on-demand telehealth certificate course provides the essential knowledge to deliver skilled telehealth services with competence and care. Registration is now open at a reduced cost of $250.00 until Thursday, May 30.

The Royal Palm Women's Club raised nearly $10,000 at their Spring Fashion Show luncheon on March 6, benefiting Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Dean Safiya George and members of the college’s Advisory Board attended the event. 

Faculty, staff, and students, be sure to keep an eye on your inbox for details about upcoming Wellness Sessions led by Dr. Miriam Ismail, a professional development and self-improvement coach, along with Drs. Laurie Martinez and Dawn Hawthorne. A listing of April sessions can be found on the college's Events Calendar.

Join the Anne Boykin Institute Virtual Summer Academy 2024 on June 20-21, both in-person and virtually. This year's theme, "Earth Caring: Tending our Common Home," focuses on the urgent need for attention to earth care in nursing and beyond. Don't miss this opportunity to develop practical solutions and contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge while enjoying the musical accompaniment of artist-in-residence Kathy Sherman, CSJ. Register now to be part of this transformative event.

Early bird registration is open for the 45th annual IAHC Conference on June 22 and 23, at the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Boca Raton campus. The event will feature keynote speakers Drs. Marilyn “Dee” Ray, Caroline E. Ortiz and Thomas A. Chavez. Don't miss the opening reception on June 21 at 6 p.m., hosted by the Anne Boykin Institute. Register now to secure your spot!

Don't miss out on the Nursing Consortium of Florida (NCOF) conference on June 28-29, of which the College of Nursing is a proud sponsor. Join us at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort for "Caring Connections: Discovering Magic at the Intersection of Technology and Nursing." Register today for this enriching event.

Attend the 2024 ALSN International Conference, September 26-28 in Dallas, Texas, sponsored in part by the College of Nursing. Join leaders in nursing education, administration and research from around the world to discuss current health care challenges. Register Now

Explore the WCSI Caritas Community Conference 2024 on November 13-15, sponsored by the College of Nursing. Secure your spot at the early bird rate until Aug. 14, and join the event for a valuable opportunity to share experiences and expertise while prioritizing self-care. Learn more and register here.

Florida Atlantic University's Division of Public Affairs recently implemented updates to the university's visual and messaging standards. As part of these changes, the College of Nursing is pleased to introduce its refreshed logo. Reflecting the university's new branding approach, the logo now incorporates the distinctive Owl head alongside the college's name.

Faculty and Staff

The FAU Center for Smart Health recently spotlighted the collaborative research efforts of Dr. Laurie Martinez, Dean Safiya George, and Dr. Debarshi Datta from the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Their pioneering work emphasizes the integration of healthcare, technology and data science to drive advancements in patient care. Read More

Dr. Lisa Wiese spoke at the NIH Alzheimer’s conference at Duke University on March 11 and 12.  She joined other researchers and educators for a discussion on “Leveraging Existing Data and Analytic Methods for Health Disparities Research Related to Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.” The panel was sponsored by the National Institutes for Health.

Dr. Terry Eggenberger presented "Leading Interprofessional Practice and Education Through a New Statewide Consortium.” Co-presenters in the photo are Amy Blue, Ph.D., from the University of Florida and Elizabeth Swan, Ph.D., from Nova Southeastern University. The conference was held March 15 and 16 in Jacksonville, FL.  

Associate Professor Dr. Lisa Wiese and Interim Associate Vice President, Division of Research Dr. Cheryl Krause-Parello joined Florida Atlantic leaders for the Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Sunshine Gala” on March 23, at the Broken Sound Country Club in Boca Raton.

Drs. Candy Wilson, Rebecca Koszalinski and Armiel Suriaga attended the National Institute of Health Toolbox Conference held in Bethesda, Maryland, on April 8-9.

After many years of education, service, practice, scholarship and research, Drs. Kay Edwards and Dawn Hawthorne have announced their retirement on April 30 and Aug. 16, respectively. They have been exemplary leaders, educators and providers who have significantly advanced the mission of the college, our community clinics and student achievement.  

Dr. Janell Carroll (at left), Director of Research, Scholarship and Sponsored Programs, and Eva Hashemi, Associate Director for Research Programs and Financial Services, joined the Office of Nursing Research and Scholarship in their new positions on March 11, 2024.

In the Media

South Florida Hospital News

The April issue of South Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report features an article about how the launch of a Dedicated Education Unit (DEU) at HCA Florida JFK Hospital is transforming nursing education for Florida Atlantic's College of Nursing Accelerated BSN students.

Carrier Management (Mar. 12) featured Dr. Ruth Tappen's groundbreaking research alongside Florida Atlantic engineering and neuropsychology experts. Their study explores detecting cognitive impairment in older drivers through an innovative in-vehicle sensing system.

Faculty Publications

BOOKS

Smith, M. J., Liehr, P. R. & Carpenter, R.D. (Eds.). (2024). Middle Range Theory for Nursing. 5th Ed. New York: Springer. AJN Book of the Year (2023), 1st place research category.


PEER-REVIEWED PAPERS/ARTICLES:

 #Alselami, S., Butcher, H.K., & Longo, J. (2024). A unitary caring perspective of uncertainty in family caregivers of persons hospitalized with a stroke in Saudi Arabia. Advances in Nursing Science, 47(1), 104-120.DOI: 10.1097/ANS.0000000000000519


Butcher, H.K. (2024). The role metaphors in hermeneutic research. Nursing Science Quarterly, 37(2), 105-108. DOI: 10.1177/08943184241226683


*Butcher, R. C. G. S., Guandalini, L. S., de Barros, A. L. B. L., Damiani, B. B., & Jones, D. A. (2024). Psychometric evaluation of the functional health pattern assessment screening tool – modified Brazilian version. Revista Latino-americana De Enfermagem, 32, e4119. https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.6755.4119


Elliott, T., Merlano, M. P., Morris, D., Wilson, C., & Pilitsis, J. G. (2024). A scoping review of mechanisms of auricular acupuncture for treatment of pain. Postgraduate Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.2024.2333232


*Iqbal, S. M., Leavitt, M. A., Pedilus, G., Mahgoub, I., & Asghar, W. (2024). A wearable telehealth system for the monitoring of parameters related to heart failure. Heliyon, 10(5), e26841. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26841


*Iqbal, S.M.A.; Leavitt, M.A., Mahgoub, I., Asghar, W. (2024). A wearable Internet of Things device for noninvasive remote monitoring of vital signs related to heart failure. IoT 2024, 5, 155-167. https://doi.org/10.3390/iot5010008


*Nagata, M & Liehr, P. (2024). An evolving structure of nature immersion: Roots in Nightingale’s vital power. Creative Nursing, 30(1), 41-50. https://doi.org/10.1177/10784535241226494


(* = data-based, # = Caring Science)

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FAU/NCHA Community Health Centers

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