University of Indianapolis School of Nursing Faculty
UIndy's School of Nursing faculty are active in their field and bring decades of clinical experience in a wide range of specialties. Many are doctorally prepared and have excellent reputations for their leadership roles in health care communities locally, nationally and internationally. But as diverse as their experience may be, they are unified in their mission to provide you with a first-rate nursing education and to demonstrating the leadership skills needed for the future of patient care. You will be exposed to current issues and the latest technological advances in nursing. And because our faculty love teaching and truly care about your success, they will take time to meet with you outside of the classroom to help you with your coursework and encourage you.
Nicole J. Davis, PhD, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, GNP-BC
Associate Dean & Chief Nurse Administrator
School of Nursing
Background
Dr. Nicole Davis’s nursing career spans 27 years—including 22 years as a Board-Certified Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. She has held various clinical and leadership positions at leading institutions across the country. Her most recent position was as Director of Graduate Programs and tenured Associate Professor at Clemson University School of Nursing. She also held long community and professional appointments as a Governor-appointed member of the South Carolina Department on Aging Alzheimer’s Resource Coordination Center Advisory Council, Board member of the Upstate Area Health Education Consortium (AHEC), and as a National Institute on Aging Carolina Center on Alzheimer’s Disease and Minority Research (CCADMR) RCMAR scientist. Dr. Davis has served as an expert consultant for global health companies and the AARP Public Policy Institute.
She holds national recognition as a Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing by the National Hartford Centers of Gerontological Nursing Excellence (NHCGNE), signifying her expertise and contributions to nursing education. Her program of research focuses on improving the quality of life and health- related outcomes of family caregivers, and the older adults to which they provide care. She has published and presented extensively and has been funded by multi-disciplinary, NIH, university and Foundation grants.
Research Interests
Developing innovative ways to reach chronically ill, care-dependent elders, with a particular focus on caregiver support in the management of chronic illnesses (e.g., ADRD, urinary incontinence) and addressing health disparities in dementia care
Education
- PhD, Georgia State University
- Patricia G. Archbold Pre-Doctoral Scholar, National Hartford Centers of Gerontological Nursing Excellence
- Post-Master’s Professional Certificate, Teaching in Nursing, Indiana University
- MSN, Duke University
- BSN, New York University
Fun Fact
I was part of the first program in the country at Yale that formally trained new graduates in ICU nursing.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love that service and community are at the core of all that we do. I also love our passion for teaching and scholarship; and our commitment to the student experience.
BSN/ABSN Faculty
Dr. Sarah Holmes
Undergraduate Program Director
Assistant Professor
School of Nursing
Areas of Expertise
Burn ICU; academic nursing education, nursing research and survey methods
Background
Dr. Holmes has been a nurse since 2011. Her practice background is in adult burn critical care at a level 1 trauma county hospital. She has been nursing faculty at the University of Indianapolis since 2017, teaching in the clinical, lab, and didactic settings. She currently serves as the Interim Undergraduate Program Director and has most recently taught in undergraduate nursing fundamentals and research courses.
Research Interests
Dr. Holmes enjoys both quantitative and qualitative research methods and has expertise in survey development. Her main research foci are on gun violence prevention education in nursing programs, social issues education in nursing programs, and clinical reasoning teaching strategies. She has been an Honors advisor for several undergraduate nursing students, helping them to explore topics such as African Americans level of trust of healthcare providers, relationships between social media and body-esteem, and nursing student knowledge and comfort caring for patients in the LGBTQ+ community. Publications include:
- Holmes, S. M., Moorman, M., Draucker, C., & Perkins, S. (2025). Teaching gun violence prevention in undergraduate nursing programs. Nurse Educator, 50(1), 1-6.
- Eukel, H. N., Morrell, B., Holmes, S. M., & Kelsch, M. P. (2021). Managing difficult patient encounters: Simulation design, findings, and call to action. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 85(7), 552-563.
Education & Credentials
- PhD, Indiana University
- MSN Education, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
- I am avid reader, 90’s music and true crime listener, and hiker.
- I enjoy working with her hands and practicing crafty skills like stained glass making and wood burning.
- Growing up with a menagerie of cats and dogs has instilled in me a deep love for all creatures great and small.
- I come from a family of fantastic cooks and storytellers.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
Its collective focus on student learning that emphasizes the importance of service to others. I greatly value the smaller class sizes which allow genuine student-faculty interactions that foster empathy, elevate learning experiences, and provide the necessary support required for students to meet high educational standards. As a whole, I believe that UIndy faculty and staff do an excellent job of thinking globally to act locally in meaningful ways.
Areas of Expertise
Health promotion and population health; oncology; health equity and medical literacy
Background
Worked as a family nurse practitioner (FNP) for 10 years in the field of radiation oncology and 1 year in a retail health clinic. As a registered nurse (RN), worked in outpatient cardiology and managed a warfarin clinic. Has also worked inpatient in progressive cardiac care and cardiothoracic post-surgical care.
Education
- DNP, Purdue University
- FNP, Purdue University
- MSN, UCLA
- BS, Central Michigan University
Fun Facts
I am a dual British-American citizen and love spending down time in the UK with my husband and two children. When I am not traveling, I am cheering my kids on from the sidelines, reading or spending time outdoors.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love the sense of community and collaboration embraced by students, faculty, and staff.
Areas of Expertise
Ambulatory care; cardiac; leadership; end of life; hospice and gerontology
Background
Franciscan Health Cardiac PCU I8 years (1998-2016); Clinical Team Lead Diabetes & Endocrinology Office (2016-2018); Adjunct Faculty UIndy School of Nursing (2015-2018)
Education
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, University of Evansville
Fun Facts
- I love the beach, reading, and sleeping.
- I love to watch true crime.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
Feeling like a part of the community with students and fellow faculty
Education
- MSN, Western Governors University
- BSN, Indiana University
Areas of Expertise
Perioperative services (pre-operative and post-operative units); medical-surgical; oncology; interprofessional education; innovative teaching strategies
Background
Dr. Carmack has worked as a nurse in many different areas, spanning various departments including post-anesthesia care units and adult medical-surgical care (gastrointestinal, oncology, pancreas, post-operative, neurosurgery, geriatrics, and ear/neck/throat). Dr. Carmack also served in a nurse educator role in the peri-operative units, which included pre-operative surgical unit, post-anesthesia care units, and pre-operative medical clinic.
Research Interests
Interprofessional education; teaching strategies; and student success
Education
- DNP, Purdue University
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Fun Fact
I enjoy reading books from all genres, gardening, and baking.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
The devotion and support of the faculty for the students is tremendous on this campus. I am so proud to be part of this team and to help cultivate successful nurses for our future.
Areas of Expertise
CMSRN (Certified Medical Surgical Registered Nurse); CNE (Certified Nurse Educator); BLS Instructor
Background
Anthony Cory taught elementary school for 4 years—3 years in 5th grade for Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation and 1 year in 6th New Castle Community School Corporation. He worked on a Medical Surgical floor for 5 years within the Community Health Network—2 as a RN Care Manager and 3 as a Patient Care Coordinator (Charge Nurse). He was a Clinical Instructor for Anderson University for 3 years (Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors). He has 2 years experience as the Director of Nursing at the Henry County Health Department and 1 year as a Public Health Nurse at the same location.
Education
- MSN, Nursing Education, Anderson University
- BSN, Indiana Wesleyan University
- BA, Elementary Education, Ball State University (minored in Spanish)
Fun Facts
- I play Pickleball somewhat competitively, play the trumpet since middle school and I enjoy jogging.
- I have run several mini marathons, 5Ks and soon to be a Triathlon Sprint (500 Yard Swim, 12.1 mile Cycling and 3.1 Mile Jog).
- Both of my parents served in the United States Military (the Air Force and Army).
- My hair started to fall out when I was 16, but my wife has told me that bald is beautiful!
Favorite thing about UIndy
UIndy’s commitment to education through service is my favorite thing about this University. I love the fact that I have the opportunity to impact the future of healthcare by helping to mold and influence our students within the School of Nursing. In this capacity I aspire to live up to the legacy of Col. Robert A Smith MD, United States Army: “His life and work set forth the devotion to an ideal—that service to humanity is service to God.” I look forward to what the future holds for me at UIndy.
Areas of Expertise
Simulation; cardiac; critical care; Leadership & Transition to Practice
Background
Amy Dant has held several nursing roles throughout her career. She has been working in Critical Care for the past 20 years, specializing in cardiovascular patients. She has served as an in-patient clinical educator for 5 years and home care nurse for 3 years. She started her academia journey serving as adjunct faculty for 3 years before becoming full-time faculty.
Education
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Favorite thing about UIndy
The close knit community and the engaged students
Areas of Expertise
Mental health nursing; primarily geriatric mental health
Background
Worked as an RN 8 years in mainly mental health nursing. Has also worked in medical-surgical care, cardiac critical care, rehabilitation, and correctional care. Before nursing, worked in residence life as a Residence Hall Director.
Education
- EdD, Adult and Community Education, Ball State University (Anticipated Dec. 2025)
- MS, Gerontology, University of Indianapolis
- MA, Adult and Community Education, Ball State University
- Certificate, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Ball State University
- Certificate, Gerontology, Ball State University
- MSN, Ball State University
- BSN, Ball State University
- MA, Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education, Ball State University
- BS, Communication Science and Disorders, Western Illinois University
Fun Facts
- I love to be create things with my hands and am involved with crafts and even do a few craft shows a year.
- I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and family.
- I have 3 fur babies, and my husband and I love to travel as much as we can.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love the quest for discovery and excellence that the students, faculty, and staff all aspire.
Areas of Expertise
Emergency and critical care
Background
I worked almost 9 years in the Emergency Department and 6 years as the Clinical Educator in Adult Intensive Care. I worked as an adjunct Clinical Instructor for UIndy before becoming full time faculty.
Education
- MSN, Ball State University
- BSN, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Favorite thing about UIndy
The engagement of the students and how passionate faculty is about providing their students with the best learning experiences and opportunities.
Areas of Expertise
Pharmacology; critical care nursing
Education
- MSN, University of Phoenix
- MBA, University of Phoenix
- RN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
I love to write and hope to one day publish a novel.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
Small class sizes and getting to know the students.
Areas of Expertise
Emergency room nursing; leadership/administration; progressive care nursing; pediatrics
Background
Graduated with her ASN in December 2006 and has been working at the bedside ever since. She has done just about every type of nursing there is: progressive care units, pediatric PACU, school nursing, nursing house supervisor, and emergency room nursing. She is still currently working PRN in the emergency department. She has worked in very large hospitals and at critical access hospitals that have less than 25 beds in the whole hospital. It is all this different experience that has made her a well-rounded RN. In 2017, she went back to obtain her MSN in Nursing Education, completing the degree in December of 2019. She has worked in academia since 2021.
Education
- MSN, Aspen University
- ASN, Ivy Tech Community College
Fun Facts
- My husband and I have two sons and we love to be outside and active.
- I also enjoy gardening and growing food for my family.
- My ideal day would be spent lounging by the creek on my family farm reading a good book!
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love seeing my students grow and to watch the changes that happen in a semester as they deepen their understanding of nursing. And I love seeing and interacting with them as they move through the program. The students know my office is always open!
Areas of Expertise
Obstetrics; substance use; mental health; and nursing research
Background
Dr. MacPherson has been a Registered Nurse since 2006. She began as a Student Nurse Intern on the Mother/Baby unit at IU Health Methodist Hospital. Upon graduation, she continued on as a Registered Nurse until earning her Masters Degree in Nursing Education and becoming the unit's Clinical Educator. After three years working as an Adjunct Faculty for the University of Indianapolis and gaining expertise also working with patients receiving care for Substance Use Disorders, she became full-time at the university in August of 2014 teaching primarily obstetrics and nursing research for traditional and accelerated students.
Research Interests
Perinatal substance use and trauma informed care
Education & Credentials
- Compact Registered Nurse License
- PhD, The Catholic University of America
- MSW Expected Graduation May 2026, University of Indianapolis
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University
Fun Fact
I love yoga, gaming, and volunteering.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
The ability to work with amazing colleagues and students who support each other to follow their dreams.
Marissa Malenkos
Associate Adjunct Professor
School of Nursing – Undergraduate Program
Areas of Expertise
Critical care nursing; primary care; certified family nurse practitioner
Background
After graduating from Purdue University with a bachelor's degree in psychology, Marissa was accepted to Ball State University’s accelerated nursing program. As a new nurse, she worked at St. Vincent Indianapolis in their critical care units since 2005. She worked for 5 years in their medical, surgical, and neurological intensive care units and then another 4 and a half years in the medical intensive care units. After going back to school for her master's in nursing, she works part-time as a nurse practitioner in private practice and part-time as an associate adjunct at UIndy.
Research Interests
Breast cancer
Education & Credentials
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN Ball State University
- BS, Purdue University
Fun Facts
Loves to read and travel.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
The students and faculty I get work with to help shape the future of nursing.
Areas of Expertise
Interprofessional education; innovative teaching strategies; cardiac critical-care; nursing student success and retention
Background
Dr. Morrell has been a nurse since 2008. She has a background in Cardiovascular Intensive Care, Progressive Care, and hospital-based clinical education. She has served at the University of Indianapolis since 2011. She founded a guided study (group tutoring) program for our students, which is now housed under our unique Nursing Success Program. Undergraduate students benefit from free guided studying, one-on-one faculty-student coaching, peer mentoring, and learning about academic and professional development through “Boot Camp” events. Her teaching, scholarship, and service have been recognized through the University Outstanding Faculty award, the Indiana League for Nursing Horizon Teaching Award, and the Dr. Janet Rexrode Southby Prize in Nursing Research.
Education
- Certified Nurse Educator
- PhD, Catholic University of America
- MSN in Nursing Education, Texas Woman’s University
- BSN, Texas Christian University
Fun Facts
- I love to have fun when I teach with a variety of props and creative teaching strategies!
- I've presented and published on the topic of educational escape rooms with people across the country and world.
- I enjoy running, especially marathons and half-marathons.
Favorite Thing about UIndy
UIndy faculty and staff are all focused on a caring and supportive community for everyone. Our students are welcoming to one another, and our staff and faculty desire to see our students succeed.
Education
- DNP, Indiana State University
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University
Areas of Expertise
Pediatric nursing and simulation education. Certified Pediatric Nurse through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Background
Worked as an RN on pediatrics units in two major hospitals in the Indianapolis area. Taught Pediatric Advanced Life Support in the hospital system before gaining a Master's degree in nursing education and a certificate in Healthcare Simulation.
Education & Credentials
- MSN, Nursing Education, Western Governors University
- BA, English Literature, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
I love to read and crochet or craft when I have time.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love the smaller campus atmosphere that allows students and faculty to build relationships through their time here.
Areas of Expertise
Acute care of the pediatric patient; labor and delivery; excellence in teaching and learning; health coaching and leadership development
Background
Cassie has served in the Acute care setting for Adult, Pediatric and Obstetric patients. Her passion for education and learning outcomes in the acute care setting allowed her to serve in a large academic teaching hospital supporting clinical education of post-licensure nurses and other healthcare professionals. She has taught in baccalaureate nursing programs for over 5 years and loves connecting with students and supporting them as they get ready to become the next generation of healthcare professionals in a changing healthcare climate. Her favorite thing about nursing is taking the wisdom she has gained and using it in order to give back to the community. She serves as a volunteer on advisory boards as well as serving as a camp nurse in the summer.
Research Interests
Program evaluation; teaching and learning in nursing education
Education
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University School of Nursing
Fun Fact
I love animals and enjoy spending time raising Alpacas.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love our student-centered philosophy and small student-to-faculty ratio! Our faculty care deeply about the growth and success of our students, both personally and professionally, and it shows in the caring practices.
Areas of Expertise
Obstetrics; maternal/newborn; newborn resuscitation
Background
Worked for 2 years in OBGYN office; St. Francis since 1996; Staff Nurse in Postpartum & Newborn Nursery since 1995; 10 years as the Clinical Educator for Postpartum and Newborn Nursery; 5 years as a Staff Development Coordinator for the entire Women and Children's service line; 1 year as the Clinical Educator for Labor & Delivery, Recover, and Postpartum as well as Special Care Nursery in Mooresville Franciscan Health. Managed NRP program at Franciscan Health for several years and started using high-fidelity simulation in the NRP environments. Participated in development of Nurse Shared Residency program for new graduate nurses at Franciscan Health. BLS and NRP instructor
Education
- MSN, Leadership Administration, Ball State University
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
- I live on a farm with several horses that are used for barrel racing and pole bending. My children are ranked in the top ten in the state with both.
- I love traveling and married my high school sweetheart.
- I enjoy weekends in Brown County hiking, fishing, and paddle boarding.
Favorite thing about UIndy
I love the family type environment and how welcoming all staff and students are to others. I like the small class sizes so that individual attention can be given to students.
Areas of Expertise
Medical-surgical and critical care nursing
Background
Served as a staff nurse in the Community Health Network in Indianapolis for 20 years, specializing in medical-surgical, critical care, dialysis and outpatient surgery. Began teaching full time in the Accelerated BSN Program at UIndy in 2009.
Research Interests
New graduate and new faculty mentoring; interprofessional education
Education
- DNP, University of Southern Indiana
- MSN, Indiana University
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
I enjoy outdoor activities, music, and trying new and unique restaurants.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I like that UIndy is a small academic community that is committed to getting to know students personally and participating in their personal and professional development. It is very rewarding to be a part of the UIndy family!
Areas of Expertise
Adult critical care; cardiac coronary care unit; cardiovascular/surgical intensive care and stepdown unit; emergency room; cardiac telemetry; and bone marrow transplant; adjunct clinical instructor; bone marrow transplant bedside registered nurse; chemotherapy and biotherapy certified
Background
Clinical nurse; nurse educator; unit manager; patient care coordinator
Currently works as a Bone Marrow Transplant nurse at Franciscan Health, where she has worked since 1983. Mrs. Wellington serves as a Nursing Success Coach at the University of Indianapolis and is a faculty sponsor for the Umoja Living-Learning Community (LLC).
Research Interests
Nursing education & simulation training; patient safety & quality improvement; healthcare disparities & social determinants of health; advanced clinical practices & evidence-based care
Education
- Chemotherapy certified
- Biotherapy certified
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
Fun Facts
- I enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends.
- I have been married since 2002; we have one son, and I have an amazing little miniature Bernedoodle boy dog named "Kinsley."
- I love most volunteer work, especially those that provide fulfillment in giving back to the community through health education, free clinics, mentorship programs, and global medical missions.
- I enjoy singing on the worship team at my church, and flower gardening.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
As a nursing professor, I love seeing the nursing students grow in confidence and competence, helping them bridge the gap between theory and practice, and inspiring the next generation of compassionate, skilled nurses. I enjoy mentoring students, witnessing their "aha" moments, and making a lasting impact on their careers and patient care. I also enjoy that the mission and actions of the university support community and student engagement and diversity, and provide students with support systems.
Dr. Julianne Wright
Associate Adjunct Professor
School of Nursing – Undergraduate Program
Area of Expertise
Critical care nursing for 24 years (1995-2017); medical-surgical & critical care nursing education for over 20 years (2004-present); non-concurrent with a total of 3 years off while completing advanced nursing degrees); course lead for all courses taught, including: critical care, medical-surgical, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and gerontology, including critical care, medical-surgical, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and gerontology; certified Legal Nurse Consultant
Background
After graduating from Ball State University with a degree in Health Sciences & Patient Education, Dr. Wright started her healthcare career in cardiovascular research, education, and testing at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Indianapolis in 1994, she worked as a patient care coordinator in critical care at Community Hospital South in Indianapolis for 24 years (1995-2017). While continuing to work for Community Hospital in the critical care units until 2018, Dr. Wright completed her MSN and DNP from the University of Southern Indiana, proceeding to work as a nursing professor for IV Tech in Bloomington Indiana for 2 years, Harrison College in Indianapolis for 2 years, and now working for the University of Indianapolis going on 14 years (2011-2025).
Research Interests
Thorough, regular, and accurate patient assessments by bedside nurses, including identifying and reporting abnormal findings efficiently to healthcare providers for early intervention and best outcomes
Education
- DNP, University of Southern Indiana
- MSN, University Southern Indiana
- BSN, University of Indianapolis
- BS, Ball State University
Fun Facts
Had the distinct privilege of helping with the pre-testing ‘work-up’ in 1982 for Indiana’s first heart transplant recipient. She lived 15 years and received a second heart in 1997 lasting another 10 years. She was a delightful woman who supported many transplant patients.
MSN/DNP Faculty
Areas of Expertise
Leadership and management; critical care and progressive care nursing; certified Nurse Manager Leader (CNML) through American Organization for Nursing Leadership; certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) & Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) through American Association of Critical Care Nurses; certified Nurse Educator (CNE) through National League for Nursing
Background
Dr. Smith had been in the same healthcare system in Arkansas for 33 years. She started as a new graduate RN and promoted through education and management roles within the organization. In 2008, she was instrumental in opening one of the system hospitals where she served as the Chief Nursing Officer for 10 years. After finishing her DNP, Dr. Smith relocated to Indianapolis where she accepted a position teaching leadership in the graduate nursing program.
Research Interests
Leadership development; nurse retention; critical thinking skills in nurses
Education
- DNP, University of Central Arkansas
- MSN, University of Central Arkansas
- BSN, University of Central Arkansas
Fun Fact
Loves muscle cars, especially Corvettes and Mustangs.
Favorite thing about UIndy
I love how service is infused throughout the UIndy experience. The higher you climb in leadership positions, the more people you serve.
Dr. Wendy Stoelting-Gettelfinger
Clinical Program Director
Associate Professor
School of Nursing
Areas of Expertise
Acute care; primary care; internal medicine; gerontology; malpractice law; contract law
Background
Indiana Internal Medicine Consultants 2017-Present; Indiana University Health Physicians 2008-2021; Indiana University 2004-2011; University of Indianapolis 2011-present
Dr. Stoelting-Gettelfinger began her career as a nurse in 1984 as an associate degree RN and then continued her education to earn a BSN and MSN. She continued on to earn a JD from Indiana University Law, Bloomington in 1993, and PhD in Health Policy/Public Health Nursing from Indiana University in 1999. She has been a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) since 2008 and have maintained an active clinical practice since that time. She believes that maintaining expertise in current clinical practice as well as current expertise in teaching with a focus on continuous improvement in nursing education and continuous curriculum development is an essential component of being a successful faculty for a clinical program.
She has a long history in nursing education and taught at the Indiana University School of Nursing as undergraduate faculty from 2005 until 2011 when she was hired by UIndy in January 2011 as an Associate Professor in the Family Nurse Practitioner program and FNP Track Coordinator. She successfully completed the Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program (AGACNP) at Indiana University in May 2023 and developed the Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner track that admitted its first cohort in August 2025.
Education
- Post-MSN, Nursing/AGACNP, Indiana University
- Post-MSN, Nursing/FNP, Indiana University
- PhD, Nursing/Public Health, Indiana University
- JD, Law/Nursing, Indiana University
- MSN, Nursing/Community Health, Indiana State University
- BSN, Indiana State University
- ASN, Vincennes University
Fun Facts
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, dog and cat.
Education
- DNP, University of Cincinnati
- MSN, Villanova University
- BSN, University of Pittsburgh
Areas of Expertise
Leadership; project management; system organization; curriculum development; quality assurance; evidence-based practice; student/patient advocacy; mentorship, intra/interprofessional collaboration; new building construction
Background
More than 15 years of academic experience in undergraduate and graduate education including expertise in nursing leadership, project management, curriculum development, in-person and online/distance education, Quality Matters and accreditation processes. Proven record as an evidence-based change agent providing quality assurance, collaborative learning experiences, and student/patient advocacy. Prior to academia, enjoyed a diverse background in nursing beginning with neonatal intensive care serving critically ill neonates and their families for over 10 years. Then was recruited to work in new hospital construction as the Operational Manager collaborating with architects, contractors, organizational leaders, physicians, and nurses.
Have experience leading Magnet redesignation and Joint Commission review. Actively maintains certification as a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE). Serves as a national accreditation site-evaluator for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Awards include Outstanding Faculty, Spotlight on Nursing, and three-time Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty.
Education
- DNP, University of Southern Indiana
- MSN, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University
- Certified Nurse Educator
Fun Fact
I am not on Facebook.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
Progressive education with utilization of evidenced-based practice.
Area of Expertise
Rehabilitation with an emphasis on spinal cord injuries; progressed in leadership positions in Indianapolis healthcare facilities from manager to CNO at the Rehabilitation Hospital and Community Health Network; became the first CEO of the Indiana Organization for Nursing Leadership retiring in 2023
Background
Dr. Browning has been in leadership positions at Methodist Hospital, Community Hospital, and the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana. She was instrumental in opening the Rehabilitation where she served as the Chief Nursing Officer for 7 years.
Research Interests
Leadership; health policy; and program development
Education
-
DNP, Purdue University
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MSN, Ball State University
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BSN, Ball State University
-
Diploma in Nursing, United Hospital School of Nursing
Fun Fact
Active in Job’s Daughters organization and enjoy providing mentorship for the members.
Area of Expertise
Critical care; general surgery; acute care surgery; trauma
Background
Dr. Buckingham has a broad background in critical care having worked in medical, cardiac, and surgical ICUs as a bedside nurse, and is a former board member of the local AACN Board. As a nurse practitioner, Dr. Buckingham works in acute care surgery (ACS), Trauma, and Ortho-trauma surgery
Research Interests
Shortening time from discovery to implementation of evidence-based practice; burnout; critical care/trauma
Education
- DNP, Vanderbilt University
- MSN AG-ACNP, Indiana University School of Nursing
- BSN, Indiana University School of Nursing
- ASN, Ivy Tech Community College
Fun Fact
I live on a small hobby farm and raises donkeys.
Favorite thing about UIndy
I just love how the faculty/staff all deeply care about the students and the creativity faculty/staff show toward making students successful.
Areas of Expertise
Family Nurse Practitioner, specializing in Internal Medicine and Urgent Care
Background
Professor Fuss began her nursing career in 1995, she spent 20 years with the same health care organization with a primary focus on pediatrics and emergency medicine. During her nursing tenure she was instrumental in educating new nurses on caring for pediatric patients, was an active member of the Emergency Nurses Association and taught trauma and pediatric care for patients to nurses across the state, and completed the Forensic Nurse training course to provide specialized care to patients who experienced physical or sexual assault. She transitioned into her Advanced Practice Provider role in 2015 after graduating from the University of Indianapolis Family Nurse Practitioner program. Since graduation she has been practicing in the inpatient and outpatient setting and sharing her experiences and expertise with students in the graduate nursing program at the University, helping them transition into the advanced practice role.
Education
- MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Indianapolis
- BSN, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Fun Facts
I love music, traveling and being with family.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
I love the UIndy culture, everyone is invested in their job and truly want to see the students’ progress and be successful. Faculty also invest in each other to make sure the staff are mentored and supported.
Dr. Karen Hirsch
Assistant Professor
Nurse Educator Track Coordinator
School of Nursing
khirsch@uindy.edu
Areas of Expertise
Critical care; ER; community health; professional development of nurse educators
Background
I have numerous years of teaching in undergraduate and graduate nursing education.
Education
- EdD, Ball State University
- MSN, Ball State University
- ASN, University of Indianapolis
- BA, Accounting, Anderson University
Fun Facts
I love dachshunds, namely Otto. I volunteer at a soup kitchen, local library and I am an assistant leader of a Brownie troop. My hobbies are bike riding, classic movies, and historical facts.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
The warmth and friendliness of the UIndy community.
Areas of Expertise
Designing and analyzing clinical trials; statistical programming and software; statistical consulting; teaching and mentoring in statistics; and statistical process control and quality improvement
Background
Extensive experience across academia, consulting, pharmaceuticals, animal health, and manufacturing.
Research Interests
Predictive modeling and advanced analytics; quality control and process improvement; survey development and analysis; and artificial intelligence
Education
- MS, Applied Statistics, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
- BS, Applied Mathematics, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Fun Facts
I raise sheep and chickens.
Favorite Thing About UIndy
Working with awesome colleagues and students!
Areas of Expertise
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Background
Neonatal Nursing (7 years prior to completion of NNP degree)
Education
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- DNP, University of South Alabama
- MSN, University of South Alabama
- BSN, University of Texas
Fun facts
Loves dogs, ice stating, and cross-country skiing
Favorite thing about UIndy
PEOPLE – my colleagues!!!