LETTER FROM THE DEAN
Dear Alumni and Friends,
It has been another busy and productive year at the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing! We continue to review new accreditation standards and competencies to update our programs of study to best prepare our students for contemporary practice. Our faculty continue to be productive scholars and researchers. We were very proud of our 2023 RN graduates who achieved a 100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam—higher than the national average!!! In addition to celebrating our students at our spring graduation ceremonies, we also celebrated the commencement speaker—Dr. Gaurdia Banister, one of our alumni who was selected to be the graduation speaker. You can see her presentation at the Live Stream link here on the commencement page: https:// www.uwyo.edu/commencement/index.html. And, we welcome one of our own nurse practitioner graduates, Mary Behrens, for Homecoming this fall—Mary will be honored as a UW Distinguished Alumni. Congratulations to Mary!
We also are starting the new academic year with three new faculty teaching across our programs. Dr. Jesse Morse-Brady, FNP, has joined us as our first DNP Clinical Coordinator. Dr. Samantha Reed, PMHNP, will serve as our new Chair in Mental Health and Integrative Care, helping us engage with stakeholders across the state to affect mental health. And, Jennifer Browne has joined us as an Assistant Lecturer and has already hit the ground running working with a new cohort of BRAND students who started this past summer. See more about these new faculty inside.
And, we also so excited to highlight our hardworking and dedicated staff who serve our students and faculty here in the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. Read more in this edition about how our staff are making a difference every day in this edition.
Finally, I would like to honor our former faculty member and namesake, Dr. Fay W. Whitney, who passed away this past summer. Fay was a strong advocate of nursing and health, including nursing and health sciences here at the University of Wyoming. Dr. Whitney will be sadly missed by all of us at the school and across the state.
As I enter my 6th academic year at the University of Wyoming, I cannot express enough how proud I am to lead this extraordinary school preparing our future nurses. I know our school’s success could not happen without the support from you, our alumni and friends. We are indebted to all who help contribute in your own unique way to help us achieve our goals. We would love to have you stop by if you are ever in Laramie. Until them, our best to you and Go Pokes!
Regards,
Sherrill J. Smith, RN, PhD, CNL, CN E
Dean and Professor
Sherrill J. Smith RN, PhD, CNL, CNE Colonel, USAFR, NC (Ret)
Remembering Fay W. Whitney 2024
The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing proudly recognizes the accomplishments of our former faculty and namesake, Dr. Fay W. Whitney. Dr. Whitney’s nursing career started in 1961 when she graduated from the University of Rochester with her Bachelor of Science Degree. A master’s degree in nursing was earned from Syracuse University in 1974, a certificate as a nurse practitioner from Brigham Young University in 1974, a master’s degree in public health from Syracuse University in 1982, and a PhD from Syracuse University in 1983 in public administration. Whitney was a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Nurse Scholar at the University of Pennsylvania from 1983-85.
Fay Whitney’s journey to Wyoming began in 1992 when her husband decided that life on a ranch would be an adventure. The stipulation that Fay placed on this dream was that the ranch had to be close enough to a university so she could continue her career.
Fay’s nursing career centered around clinical practice and teaching. In these roles she received numerous awards for excellence in nursing and leadership. Dr. Whitney held many offices in national organizations and started the Whitney Wellness Center in Laramie. She served on many important committees including the Wyoming Governor’s Steering Committee on Telemedicine, the Wyoming Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging, and
the Wyoming Higher Education Assistance Authority. She was an active scholar with achievements that included receiving one million dollars in research grants, editing two books, publishing 42 refereed articles, and presenting internationally and nationally at 72 meetings.
The School of Nursing was renamed to “Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing” in 2003 as a result of Roy Whitney’s three-million-dollar gift to the university. The funds were used to help in the renovation of the Old Biochemistry Building for the College of Health Sciences. The renovated building, now named “Health Sciences Center” is home to nursing and other college programs and divisions except the Division of Kinesiology and Health, which remains in the expanded and remodeled Corbett Building.
Dr. Whitney will be remembered for her many accomplishments and her friendship to the school of nursing.
Meet Ashlee Bradshaw:
Credentials Analyst and Academic Advisor
Credentials Analyst and Academic Advisor for undergraduate post-licensure programs. Ashlee joined our team in November 2023, bringing her passion for education and student support to the ReNEW and RN/BSN programs.
Dedicated to Student Success
Wyoming Roots and UW Pride
A proud University of Wyoming alumna and Wyoming native, Ashlee embodies the spirit of the Cowboy State. Her enthusiastic “Go Pokes!” is a testament to her enduring connection with UW. Ashlee has made Laramie her home, where she resides with her husband and their beloved “fur babies.”
Embracing Wyoming’s Great Outdoors
When not assisting students, Ashlee can be found enjoying Wyoming’s natural beauty. Her diverse interests include:
• Gardening
• Reading
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Skiing
• Hiking
These activities reflect her love for the outdoors and her adventurous spirit.
In her role, Ashlee works closely with students in the ReNEW and RN/BSN programs. Her commitment to student success extends beyond the campus, as she regularly visits community colleges across Wyoming to connect with current and prospective students.
Ashlee’s dedication to professional growth is evident in her frequent attendance at conferences and training sessions. These experiences enhance her skills in working with distance, transfer, and non-traditional students, ensuring that she can provide the best possible support to our diverse student body.
A Passion for Nursing Education
“My work with nursing students and faculty is something I greatly enjoy, and I look forward to every day,” Ashlee shares. Her enthusiasm for her role and her genuine interest in student success make her an invaluable asset to the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing.
We’re thrilled to have Ashlee Bradshaw as part of our team, bringing her Wyoming spirit, diverse experiences, and passion for education to support the next generation of nursing professionals.
Meet Phebe Pavelka:
Guiding Future Nurses at UW
The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing is proud to spotlight Phebe Pavelka, one of our dedicated academic advisors who has been making a significant impact on our students’ lives for the past two years.
A First-Generation Success Story
As a first-generation college graduate, Phebe brings a unique perspective to her role. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and family sciences from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, embodying the transformative power of higher education.
Expertise in Nursing Programs
Phebe specializes in advising for two crucial programs in our school:
1. Basic BSN Program: This traditional 4-year nursing program includes:
• 3 semesters of prerequisite coursework
• 5 semesters of hands-on clinical work
2 . BRAND Program: Our accelerated nursing program designed for career-changers:
• For individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field
• Intensive 15-month curriculum, running summer-to-summer
• Results in a BSN upon completion
Beyond the Office
When not meeting with students or assisting with campus events, Phebe is committed to professional growth. She regularly attends advising conferences, expanding her network and gathering resources to enhance her ability to support our students.
A Passion for Student Success
Phebe’s background as a first-generation college graduate, combined with her expertise in our nursing programs, makes her an invaluable asset to the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. Her dedication to staying current in the field of academic advising ensures that our students receive the best possible guidance as they navigate their nursing education journey.
We’re fortunate to have Phebe Pavelka as part of our team, helping to shape the next generation of nursing professionals at the University of Wyoming.
Behind the Scenes: A
Year in the Life of an Associate Dean
LARAMIE, WY - In an exclusive interview, Karen Gorton, the Associate Dean of the School of Nursing at the University of Wyoming revealed the intricate workings of her role, shedding light on her numerous responsibilities and achievements over the past 13 months.
Since taking office in July 2023, Karen has been a driving force behind several key initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of education and support for students, faculty, and staff alike.
“My role involves a lot of behindthe-scenes work that many might not be aware of,” Karen explained.
“From curriculum development to faculty mentoring, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to improve our nursing programs.”
One of the Associate Dean’s primary focuses has been the modernization of the BSN completion courses. This
comprehensive overhaul included creating standardized templates, updating learning materials, and developing new grading rubrics. “We’ve streamlined four BSN completion courses and created a common course for all our BSN students, eliminating redundancies and enhancing the overall learning experience,” she stated.
Karen’s efforts extend beyond curriculum development. She has been instrumental in:
• Applying to various State Boards of Nursing for approval of educational experiences
• Seeking grant funding opportunities to support faculty development and school initiatives
• Assisting with the revision of the BSNc curriculum
• Reviewing faculty narratives for annual evaluations
• Mentoring faculty members
• Facilitating the creation of a syllabus template now used across undergraduate programs
A significant part of the role involves supporting new faculty members. “I work closely with those new to teaching, offering guidance on increasing student engagement, addressing student concerns, and providing resources to enhance their teaching skills,” Karen shared.
Her commitment to educational excellence is further demonstrated by her involvement in multiple committees within the School of Nursing and at the university level. “I serve as an ex-officio member on several committees, providing insights into national trends in Nursing Education,” she added.
Karen’s influence extends beyond the university. She presented at the Wyoming Nurses Association annual meeting in Fall 2023 and had an abstract accepted for presentation at the upcoming Quality Matters conference.
As the School of Nursing looks to the future, the Associate Dean’s role continues to evolve. “I’m excited to be facilitating the new faculty orientation for the 2024-2025 academic year,” she concluded. “It’s all about continually improving our programs and supporting our faculty to provide the best possible education for our nursing students.”
This behind-the-scenes look at the Associate Dean’s role highlights the complex and vital work being done to shape the future of nursing education at the University of Wyoming.
Karen with Maria Kidner, the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing 2024 Distinguished Alumni
Karen’spuppiesMolly andBroghan
Karen on a hike
Karen playing pickleball
FACULTY RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS
Karen Gorton, PhD, RN, FNP, MS
Rebecca Carron, PhD, RN, NP-C
Ann Marie Hart, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP
Nancy McGee, DNP, PMHNP-BC
PUBLICATIONS
Gorton, K, (2023). Acute bronchitis. Mosby’s Evidence-Based Nursing Monograph. ClinicalKey for Nursing. Gorton, K.L., (2023). Cancer Pain. ClinicalKey for Nursing. Mosby’s Evidence-Based Monograph. Clinical Key for Nursing.
Valluri, J, Gorton, K, Chesnut, S. (2023). Nurses Chronic Pain, a Brief Survey Report. Journal of Radiology Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jradnu.2023.03.003
Valluri, J, Gorton, K (2024). Global Meditation Practices: A literature Review. Holistic Nursing Practice.
PRESENTATIONS
Gorton, K.L. (2023, May). 6th international Symposium of Nursing – Innovation in the future of Health. Mexico City, Mexico.
PRESENTATIONS
Carron, R. (2023). 49th Annual Conference Transcultural Nursing Society Charleston, SC, Oct. 11-14, 2023 (Accepted), Using Leininger’s Culture Care Theory to Improve Global Health for Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PRESENTATIONS:
Hart, A.M., Kidd, V.D., & Seagriff, N. (2023, July 24). Panel research presentation: Research on APP postgraduate training and the long-term impacts of NP/PA postgraduate training. Panel presentation at the 6th Annual Conference of the Consortium for Advanced Practice Providers in Washington, D.C.
Gamboe, R. & Hart, A.M. (2023, July 23) Measuring outcomes and data management within the program. Symposium presentation at the 6th Annual Conference of the Consortium for Advanced Practice Providers in Washington, D.C.
GRANTS AND FUNDING
Received, as Program Director/PI: HRSA grant Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention Interprofessional Collaborative Practice (NEPQR: Behavioral Health Integration Program). Award amount $1,500,000 over three years. Funding 7/1/2020 – 6/30/23
Received, as Program Director/PI: HRSA grant Project Title: Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program (ISTP). Award amount $2,500,000 over five years. Funding 7/1/2023 – 6/30/2028.
PRESENTATIONS
McGee, N., & Proctor, J. (2023). Behavioral health integration: Increasing access to care in rural communities. 2023 Western Institute of Nursing: Leveraging Technology to Advance Nursing and Equity in Research, Practice, and Education. April 21. Poster Presentation.
McGee, N. & Proctor, J. (2023). Behavioral Health Integration: Increasing Access to Care for Individuals with Opioid Use Disorders in Rural Communities. 2023 Power of Rural Healthcare Conference. April 19. Podium Presentation.
J’Laine Proctor, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
GRANTS AND FUNDING
McGee, N., & Proctor, J. (2023). Behavioral health integration: Increasing access to care in rural communities. 2023 Western Institute of Nursing: Leveraging Technology to Advance Nursing and Equity in Research, Practice, and Education. April 21. Poster Presentation.
McGee, N. & Proctor, J. (2023). Behavioral Health Integration: Increasing Access to Care for Individuals with Opioid Use Disorders in Rural Communities. 2023 Power of Rural Healthcare Conference. April 19. Podium Presentation.
PRESENTATIONS (INVITED)
Proctor, J. & McGee, N. (2023). Behavioral Health Integration: Increasing Access to Care in Rural Communities. 2023 Western Institute of Nursing: Leveraging Technology to Advance Nursing and Equity in Research, Practice, and Education, Tuscan, AZ. April 21. Poster Presentation.
Proctor, J. & McGee, N. (2023). Behavioral Health Integration: Increasing Access to Care for Individuals with Opioid Use Disorders in Rural Communities. 2023 Power of Rural Healthcare Conference. April 19. Podium Presentation.
Jenifer Thomas, PhD
TEXTBOOK CHAPTERS
Farra, S., & Smith, S. (in press). Disaster case studies—Disaster Planning and Management. Case Studies in Community/Public Health Nursing (2nd edition). St. Louis: Elsevier.
PROFESSIONAL AWARDS AND HONORS
2023, Presidential Scholarly Achievement Award (tenured faculty), University of Wyoming
GRANTS AND FUNDING
Investigator Subcontract: Research, National Institutes of Health (NIGMS), 2U54GM104944-06, Clinical and translational research infrastructure network IDeA-CTR. Community engagement and outreach core site director: J. Thomas (PI/Project Director: F. Sy, University of Nevada Las Vegas, 9/15/18-6/30/24).
PUBLICATIONS
Thomas, J., Moring, J., Bowen, A., Rings, J., Emerson, T., & Lindt, A. (2023). The influence of stress and coping on diabetes self-care activities among college students. Journal of American College Health,
PRESENTATIONS
Thomas, J., Das, B., Mistica, A., Soske, G., Hankenson, A., King, A., Olin, H., Schiewe, M., Stout, C., Switzer, M., & Wade, M. (2023). Examining the feasibility and acceptability of student-led type 2 diabetes prevention interventions. Society of Behavioral Medicine Annual Meeting, Phoenix AZ, April 26-29. Poster Presentation.
GRANTS AND FUNDING:
University of Wyoming NIH INBRE Pilot Project grant. Proposal title: The Experience of Cancer for Rural and Frontier Wyoming Adult Oncology Patients: A Two-Phase Mixed Methods Study. PI: Jennifer Stephens. Source of Funding: National Institutes for Health National Institute for General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) Institutional Development, Awards IDeA Networks for Biomedical Excellence program. Amount: $70,000 USD over 2 years, July 2023 to April 30, 2025.
University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing Wald Grant. Attendance at the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Congress 2023 (San Antonio, Texas–April 26–30, 2023). Source of Funding: University of Wyoming, Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. Amount: $2,500 USD. January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
Sherrill Smith, RN, PhD, CNL, CNE
Jennifer M.L. Stephens, MA, PhD, RN, OCN, CCNE
FACULTY RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS
University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing Humenick Grant. Proposal title: The Experience of Secondary Cancers for Survivors of Ocular Melanomas: A Qualitative Patient-Collaborative study. Source of Funding: University of Wyoming, Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. Amount: $5,000 USD. January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
University of Wyoming College of Health Sciences Faculty start-up grant. Source of Funding: University of Wyoming, College of Health Sciences. Amount: $10,000 USD. 2022 to 2024
PUBLICATIONS:
Bryan, V., Stephens, J., Shippey-Heilman, A., & Rempel, G. R. (2023). Who is caring for nurses? A qualitative description of psychological influence of COVID-19 pandemic on RNs’ self-efficacy and job satisfaction. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice Research, 13(9), 38-46. https://doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v13n9p38
Thiessen, N., Leslie, K., & Stephens, J. (2023). An examination of self-employed nursing regulation in three Canadian provinces. Policy, Politics, & Nursing Practice. https://doi.org/10.1177/15271544231175472
Lane, A. & Stephens, J. (accepted). What it is and is not: Pedagogy underlying online nursing education. International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning.
Stephens, J. & Leslie, K. (accepted). The status of climate change and environmental sustainability materials in Canadian BN Programs. Journal of Nursing Education.
Stephens, J. (2023, March 14). Transhumanism and posthumanism in nursing. Nursology. https://nursology. net/2023/03/14/transhumanism-and-posthumanism-in-nursing/
Stephens, J. (2023). Exploring the history of nursing in Wyoming. Wyoming Nurse, 36(1), 6.
Stephens, J. (2023). Exploring the history of nursing in Wyoming. The Paintbrush: Wyoming State Board of Nursing Newsletter, 3(3), 2.
Leslie, K., Myles, S., Stahlke, S., Shelley, J. J., Cook, K., Stephens, J., & Nelson, S. (2023). Regulating during crisis: A qualitative comparative case study of nursing regulatory responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 14(1). https://www.journalofnursingregulation.com/action/showPdf?pii=S2155-8256%2823%2900066-2
PRESENTATIONS
Stephens, J. (2023, 3 November). Patient advocacy in the face of cancer: Nursing reflections. [Keynote Speaker]. Rocky Mountain Region, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Annual Meeting. Casper, Wyoming.
Stephens, J. (2023, 28-29 September). Early history of nursing in Wyoming. [POSTER]. Wyoming Nurses Association (WNA) Annual Convention, Cheyenne Wyoming.
Stephens, J. (2023, 28-29 September). The Wyoming oncology patient experience: Nursing research. [POSTER]. Wyoming Nurses Association (WNA) Annual Convention, Cheyenne Wyoming.
Stephens, J. (2023, 28-29 September). Nursing schism: The humanism and post-humanism dividing lines. [Oral Presentation, virtual]. 26th International Nursing Philosophy Conference, Syndey, Australia.
Stephens, J. (2023, 5 September). Wyoming rural oncology patient update. [Oral presentation, virtual]. Rocky Mountain Region, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Monthly On-line Meeting.
Stephens, J. (2023, 12 May). Exploring the early history of nursing in Wyoming. [Keynote Speaker]. Sigma Theta Tau Induction Ceremony, Ivinson Hospital, Laramie, Wyoming.
Stephens, J. (2023, 18 April). Nursing schism: The humanism and posthumanism dividing lines. Student Conference for the Center for Nursing Philosophy, University of California-Irvine. [virtual]
Stephens, J. & Jones, S. (2023, 18 April). Cancer in Wyoming- the current landscape of needs and what’s on the horizon. [Oral presentation]. Wyoming Primary Care Association 2023 Power of Rural Healthcare Conference, Laramie, Wyoming, USA.
Stephens, J. (2023, 12 April). Exploring the early history of nursing in Wyoming. [Oral presentation]. University of Wyoming Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing Scholarship Day, Laramie, Wyoming, USA.
Leslie, K., Nelson, S., Myles, S., Stephens, J., Cook, K., & Schiller, C. (2023, 1-5 July). Regulating during crisis: Examining nursing regulatory responses. [Oral presentation]. International Council of Nurses Conference, Montreal, QC, Canada.
SCHOOL UPDATE: NEW FACULTY
Jen Browne
Hello, my name is Jen Browne. I am excited to be part of the School of Nursing here at the University of Wyoming. I am originally from Southern California, and I have been a nurse for seventeen years. While in California, I had the opportunity to work as an Educator in the Emergency Department and I was also an adjunct clinical educator for a licensed vocational nurse program.
I moved to Laramie in 2022, and I love it here. I have been married for twentythree years to my best friend, and we have three children. We all enjoy being outdoors. Snowboarding in the Snowies has been one of our favorite things to do. We also recently hiked up to Medicine Bow Peak, which was amazing!
I am grateful to have received a warm welcome from my colleagues at the School of Nursing, and the Health Sciences Department. I hope to meet many more of you in the future. Best wishes to you all in this new school year.
Samantha Reed
Samantha is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Clinical Assistant Professor. Samantha additionally serves as the Chair of Mental Health and Integrated Care where she works to support the quality and quantity of mental health services within the state of Wyoming. Clinically, she practices one day a week at the Albany Community Health Clinic, a Federally Qualified Health Center in Laramie, Wyoming. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutrition as well as nursing and earned her terminal degree, Doctor of Nursing Practice, at the University of Wyoming. With a background in Public Health and nutrition, Samantha has a passion for providing population-based, comprehensive, and holistic care with an emphasis on lifestyle factors that impact both physical and mental health. Samantha enjoys outdoor adventures, yoga, cooking, reading, and spending time with her husband and puppy.
Jesse Morse-Brady
Jesse Morse-Brady grew up in a small town in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. She began her healthcare career in 2008, after completing her undergraduate studies in Anthropology and Philosophy at Boston University. Her interests in public and global health led her to complete a master’s degree with a focus in international medicine through Montana State University. She lived and conducted rural healthcare implementation research in the Achham region of Nepal, before returning to the United States to complete her nursing education. Jesse then worked in perioperative and primary care settings in Fremont County, Wyoming, for several years before pursuing her doctorate in nursing practice at the University of Wyoming. She has worked in an orthopaedic clinic for more than five years, and holds board certifications in both orthopaedics and family practice. When she is not teaching or caring for patients, Jesse spends most of her free time rock climbing, bicycling, skiing, fishing, gardening, and exploring the mountains. She and her husband live in Lander, along with their dogs, cat, turkeys, geese, and honeybees.
Presidential Leadership Institute
Dawn Carver, Project Coordinator, Senior here in the School of Nursing, was recently competitively chosen to participate in the University of Wyoming’s first Presidential Leadership Institute for staff.
Dawn has served as a staff member in the School of Nursing since September 2016. Previously, she was an Credentials Analyst/Academic Advisor in the university Registrar’s office for 16 years. As a key member of the department, Dawn not only supervises 4 staff, she also helps to maintain the school’s accreditation documentation, provides advising to graduate students, and supports graduate clinical placements.
As a leader in the school, Dawn is an excellent candidate for this inaugural leadership development program. It’s great to see opportunities made available to our staff to develop their leadership skills as key members of our academic departments. I am excited to see how Dawn will use her new knowledge and skills to help make our department even better for our students,” states Sherrill Smith, Dean of the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing.
The mission of the University of Wyoming Presidential Leadership Institute (PLI) is to empower talented staff to become exceptional leaders. PLI supports UW’s strategic plan, particularly objective 3 (Provide a Supportive Community). As part of the training program, participants will take part in monthly sessions focusing on five key competency areas: 1) understanding your strengths, 2) diversity, equity, and inclusion, 3) leadership & relationships, 4) communication, and 5) stress & conflict management.
Congratulations Dawn!!
2024 PRECEPTOR AWARD: Aaron Utton, RN
Annually we present an award to recognize those preceptors who go above and beyond. Students from the Basic program nominated their preceptors for this honor this past spring.
The preceptor selected by our Basic students is Aaron Utton. Aaron’s nominator had the following to say: “Aaron has gone above and beyond this semester to ensure I had the best capstone experience. It is evident that he is passionate about his job and teaching others. He gave me multiple opportunities to try new experiences and encouraged me to learn new things. He understood there were moments when he would need to step in and assist me and other times when he encouraged me to complete someone on my own that I was capable of doing, even if it made me nervous. It was all about his encouragement and how it made me feel more confident in my abilities. Each week, without fail, he would remind me that I was doing a good job, and those small words make a world of difference in being a student nurse. Along with being an excellent preceptor, Aaron was a fantastic nurse overall. His compassion and love for the job were easy to recognize, and he was a tremendous nurse to look up to. He is the type of nurse I aspire to be one day, and I can only hope to be as close to as good as he is. Overall, Aaron was an amazing mentor, and I was beyond lucky to have him as my preceptor.”
Aaron Utton, RN
Dawn Carver, Project Coordinator, Senior
2024 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA Dr.
Maria Kinder, Nursing
Maria Kidner’s nursing educational path included ASN (1987), BSN (1998), MSN FNP (2001), and DNP (2008). Although she started in labor and delivery, the majority of her years as a Nurse Practitioner was in cardiology. Along her career path she got involved in international work with 6 months in Guyana, SA and then 12 months in Rwanda, Africa. That year led to her developing the LEAP leadership program, followed by the development and implementation of Rwanda’s first post master’s cardiac nursing course. In 2024, Dr. Kidner (through Rotary International) designed and implemented the first nurse led Rheumatic Heart Disease program providing knowledge skills and the tools for remote nurses to assess, diagnosis, ad treat Streptococcus pyogenes infection, acute rheumatic fever and RHD. Dr. Kidner was the Wyoming State liaison to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners for thirteen years, the Region 8 director to AANP for four years, the co-chair of the Research subgroup to the International Council of Nurses NP/APN, and avid participant in legislative activities. Dr. Kidner was Wyoming’s second AANP Fellow and has been instrumental in increasing Wyoming NP Fellows. She is a published author with her book on APN Role transition for ICN and she speaks nationally and internationally on leadership, cardiology, and the APN role.
COMMUNITY PARTNER AWARD 2024:
Edgewood Spring Wind Assisted Living and Memory Care
Edgewood prides itself on being a big, small company deeply rooted in the upper Midwest and Northern Great Plains. They are large enough to provide all the benefits of a fullservice senior healthcare company, yet small enough for each community team to be involved in each resident’s day-to-day life. The Edgewood difference is about improving lives and being there when you need us.
Kaitlyn Reed-Mercer says “Here at Spring Wind we have always prided ourselves in being a teaching facility. We love having the students from the University of Wyoming and from Laramie County Community College. We look forward to all upcoming students that will make exceptional nurses!”
Congratulations to our 2024 Community Partner
Right-left: Rosa Edgar, RN
Kaitlyn Reed-Mercer, Assistant Executive Director
2024 AWARDEES CONVOCATION
Kindall Bellon, Ansley Hessler, Isabel Lyons, Rachel Petersburg, Marie Ramier, Megan Weidler, Tori Starkebaum, Julie Corson, Brittany Fertig, Mary Ryan & Patricia Holmes
Amelia Leino Memorial Award for demonstrating academic excellence
Abigail Preston
Gertrude Gould Memorial Award for demonstrating excellence in public health nursing practice
Elizabeth Lewis
Rudolph “Rudy” & Louise Anselmi & Jeri Kirk Family Trust Nursing Scholarship for demonstrating leadership and responsibility
Jessica Carlson & Kai Wentz
Dr. Patsy Hesen Haslam Leadership Award for demonstrating leadership & grace
Teddi Jones
School of Nursing Spirit Award for demonstrating exceptional spirit and enthusiasm
Catherine Elfland
Professional Nurse Award for demonstrating excellence in practice, community, and professional service
Kimberly Denningmann
Susan McCabe Psychiatric Mental Health Graduate Award for demonstrating academic excellence, passion for knowledge, and superior clinical practice
Raymond Burger
Lina Kennedy White Memorial Award for demonstrating interest and aptitude for geriatric nursing
Kathryn Oswald
Beverly McDermott Award for demonstrating leadership and political activism
Reese Knapp, Charity Rudolph & Cody Chancellor
Dorothy Tupper Senior Award for demonstrating caring, compassion, and interpersonal communication
Jessica Carlson
“Change Agent” Award for a graduating DNP student who has demonstrated a commitment to improving and changing health.
Jessica Van Valkenburg & Chenoa Williams
Carol Macnee Scholarship Award for demonstrating excellence in scholarship and/or research.
Tommi Olson
Passion for Nursing Award for demonstrating passion in nursing.
Sarah Schindler
Courage to Teach Award for the personification of a critically reflective attitude about learning and teaching.
Landon George
Mary Burman Primary Care Award
Congratulations
Abigail Preston
Chenoa Williams
Jessica Van Valkenburg
Landon George
Raymond Burger
Not Pictured: Brittany Fertig, Catherine Elfland, Charity Rudolph, Julie Corson, Patricia Holmes, Sarah Schindler
Elizabeth Lewis
Kathryn Oswald
Mary Ryan
Teddi Jones
Ansley Hessler
Cody Chancellor
Kai Wentz
Marie Ramier
Reese Knapp
Isabel Lyons
Kimbery Denningmann
Megan Weilder
Tommi Olson
Jessica Carlson
Kindall Bellon
Rachel Petersburg
Tori Starkebaum
Purpose:
Provide and support opportunities for mentoring, networking, and communicating with current students and alumni from the Fay W Whitney School of Nursing (FWWSON) and establish connections with the FWWSON, UW, UWAA, and alumni across the nation and the world. Being involved in the UW Alumni Association Nursing Chapter (UWAANC) allow us to give back for an education for which we are tremendously grateful. Below are some reasons to get involved:
Mentoring Opportunities:
Support transition from student nurse to profssional nurse by connecting with senior students during their capstone practicum
Assist in resume writing and job placements by reviewing student resumes in our Resume Blitz
Expose students to various areas of nursing in Speed Mentoring sessions
Offer suggestions for our NCLEX Tips Flyer
Nominate an outsting mentor for the Memorable Mentor Award
Enhance students’ interviewing skills in mock interviews
Networking Opportunities:
Attend the UW Nursing Alumni Meet and Greet on Homecoming weekend
Interact with students and agency representatives at the annual Career Fair
Attend FWWSON or Alumni Association events
Connect with other nursing alumni via nursing chapter activities, events, and on-line communications
Annual Membership in UW Alumni Association = Membership in UW Alumni Association Nursing Chapter
$50 per year for single annual membership
$600 for single lifetime membership (Annual payment of $120 for 5 years or a one-time payment of $600)
$300 for single lifetime membership if senior 65+ (annual payment of $60 for 5 year or a one-time payment of $300)
Joint annual and lifetime memberships also available
Membership includes:
UWyo magazine, limited UW football and basketball ticket discounts, and discounts to stores/organizations such as Brown & Gold Outlets, Hilton Garden Inn Laramie, North American Van Lines, University Store, UW Fine Arts Ticket Office, and UW
Half Acre Recreation and Wellness Center
More Information - email uwnursingalumni@uwyo.edu or a board member!
CO-PRESIDENTS
CO-VICE PRESIDENTS
CO-SECRETARIES
Colleen Lang Johnna French Barb James Henry Ferriera Sami Mizokami Lauren Munsell
2024-2025 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
The following donors make nursing education more manageable financially for some students, and make nursing education actually possible for others.
A big Thank You for encouraging hard-working students with your gift of support.
Rudolph “Rudy” & Louise Anselmi & Jeri Kirk Family Trust Scholarship
Jay Robinson
Babson & Associates Primary Care Nursing Scholarship
Beatriz Mattingly-Borjas
Blue Cross Blue Shield Wyoming BSN Completion Scholarships & Basic
Janaeh Brown
London Hultman
Maria Kennah
Kody Palmer
Blue Cross Blue Shield Wyoming DNP Scholars Program Scholarships
Bailey Bishop
Julia Brady
Amy Farstad
Robbalee Oleson
Sara Petree
Kathleen Buckingham Bohmont Nursing Scholarship
Cody Tarr
BRAND Loan
Madison Gillum
Jessica Litsheim
Sierra Olesinski
Greg Smith
Polly Chase Memorial Scholarship
Mary Harris
Cara Kleven
Dejaya Quiroz
Marcia L. & William G. Dale Nursing Scholarship
Olivia Covarrubio
Teagan Marsh
Bobbie Schreiner
Dowell Infectious Nursing Scholarship
Laura Morrison
Frank R. & Dorothy M. Gruden Scholarship in Nursing
Beth Jukkala-Jr
Ryker Tysver-So
Elaina Adkinson-Sr
Elizabeth Holland Scholarship in Nursing
Laura Morrison
Maxine S. Chisholm Pioneer Nurse Practitioner Fund
Tabitha Paull
Laura Morrison
Kimberly Lindeman
John & Lois Malmquist Nursing Scholarship
Aspen Bell
Katelyn Lahnert
Carolyn Bennett Miknis ’59 ReNEW and BRAND Nursing Scholarship
Elizabeth Senior
Dalton Stoddard
Carolyn Bennett Miknis, Nursing Scholar
Finley O’Connor
Gordon S. and Charlott Myers (CHS)
Steven Aragon
Lauren Menter
Bonnie M. and George E. Nugent Nursing Scholarship
Teagan Marsh
Jessi Schroeder
Mildred Agnes Kimball and Adele Colling Memorial Scholarship
Gabrielle Lundberg
Joseph F. & Susan H. Steiner ReNEW Nursing Scholarship
Jessica Hopkins
Rita Bragg Nursing Scholarship
Emma Karhu
Dorothy Tupper Nursing Scholarship
Ripp Sandberg
Clayton Unger Endowed Nursing Scholarship
Ella Erickson
Alexandra Smith
Wiest Nursing Scholarship
Caleb Nathan
Sharon K. West Nursing Scholarship for Needy Students Institutional Fund
Elizabeth Mainini
Jeanne Mogard Emerson Scholarship
Tyus Cornia
Diane Burns Memorial Nursing Scholarships
Sara Cannistraci
Susan K McMurry Strategic Partnership for the Advancement of Nursing in Wyoming BRAND
Jessica Litsheim
Madison Gillum
Grace Barlet
Rachel Dela Cruz
Diana Slaugh
Gregory Smith
*Jennie Enger Scholarship
Ashley Lewis
Ashley Mathews
Rosalie Fields Nursing Scholarship
Jesus Ramos
Gertrude Gould Lindsay Scholarship
Kaitlyn Tasher
Art & Bev Lockman Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Sage Barlow
Ella Bifulco
Garry E. & Rose Mary Melvin Family Nursing Scholarship Fund
Halle Barrett
Aspen Dobby
Marissa Mallett
Kieran Murray
Caleb Nathan
Kody Palmer
Jessi Schroeder
Kaitlyn Tasher
Charles & Ruth Rile Scholarship (CHS)
Samuel Garcia
Cindy McDonald
LIST OF DONORS TO SCHOOL (JUNE
Ann C. Enlow
Preceptors & Friends of the Nurse Practitioner Program
Edward & Ann Marie Hart
Art & Bev Lockman Memorial Nursing Scholarship
David Johnson
Babson & Associates
Primary Care Nursing Scholarship
Babson & Associates Primary Care PC
Douglas Edgren
Best Day Possible Fund for Older Adult Palliative Care
Bradley & Kay McKim
Blue Cross Blue Shield Wyoming DNP Scholars Program Scholarships and BSN Completion Scholarships
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming Caring Foundation
Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing Fund
Willard & Cynthia Woods
Denise Ramp
Michael & Catherine Purcell
Eric Plummer
Briggin & Heidi Palmer
Pamela Smith
Robert & Jeanine Niemoller
Elizabeth Nichols
Tom Hall & Shannon Mosness
Kathy Moore
David & Holly Miller
Patrick & Maurita Meehan
Everett Davis & Robin Wilcoxen Davis
Carl & Donna Lindberg
Michael & L. Susan White
Jerrod & Kristine Isaak
Carol Holland
Gary & Terry Hathaway
Thomas Hall
Gerald & Mary Jo Garvin
Jack and Christina Warren
Thorm & Jean Forseth
James & Dawn Evans
James & Karen Esten
Michael Enright
Greg Dyekman
James & Ronda Dunn
Joyce Dewey Billings
Stanley & Janice Denoo
Jacob Wagner
Alexander & Elizabeth Chumpitaz
Richard & Sandra Browne
Steven Broman
Tyler & Dana Brickell
William & Sharrese Bishop
Jacob Wagner & Audry Van Houweling
Paul Smith & Gaurdia Banister
Darrell & Susan Asbell
Brett & Marcy Argeris
Joelle Appel
Emmajean Amrhein
Thomas & Jean Tonoli
John & Twyla Thalken
Payton Stavely
Taiten Tuell
Angela Cook
Elia Millsap
Calixa Helphingstine
Joy McGowan
Donnis Broman
Frank & Veronica Taylor
James Sutherland
Leland & Sheri Stinson
Catherine Soberekon
Jeffrey & Sherrill Smith
Therese Comella
Garry E. & Rose Mary
Melvin Family Nursing Scholarship Fund
Rose Melvin
2023-JUNE 2024)
Gaurdie & Barbara
Shannon Banister
Scholarship for Doctor of Nurse Practice
Students
Gaurdie Banister & Barbara Shannon-Banister
Joseph F. & Susan H. Steiner ReNEW
Nursing Scholarship
Joseph & Susan Steiner
Marcia Dale Aspire Scholars Program Fund
Ann Strenger
United Health Care Group
Mary E. Burman Fund for Student Experiential Opportunities in Nursing
Joan Ryan
Mary Anne Purtzer
Tina O’Connor
David & Holly Miller
Phillip & Kathryn Luzmoor
Maria Kidner
Edward & Ann Marie Hart
Mary Gullikson
Laurie Floy
Anne Fitzgerald
Mary Cox
Kay Calloway
Mary Benson
Jerry & Mary Behrens
A. & Jane Barghothi
Guthmann Revocable Trust
Steve & Jeane Stratton
Jeffrey & Sherrill Smith
Daniel Shinn
Maxine S. Chisholm Pioneer Nurse Practitioner Fund
David & Holly Miller
Brandon Johnson
Edward & Ann Marie Hart
Frances Forsch
Thank you
Kathleen Bertoncelj
Lawrence H Averill Jr.
Margaret Larson
Greg Larson
Vince Siren
Keith & Corrine Seebart
Rod & Maxine S. Chisholm
Nursing Alumni Scholarship
Robert & Nancy Butcher
Sue Steiner Excellence Fund for Innovation in Clinical Nursing
Education
Robert & Jeanine Niemoller
David & Holly Miller
Nicole Becker
Ross & Nancy McGee
Phillip & Kathryn Luzmoor
Michelle Hilaire
Edward & Ann Marie Hart
Charles DeWolf
Stephen & Suzey Delger
Jerry & Mary Behrens
Brooke Ford
Karen Gorton
Joseph & Susan Steiner
Jeffrey & Sherrill Smith
Graham Smith
The Dowell Infectious Nursing Scholarship
Active Scholarship
Mark E. Dowell, MD
Caryn Dowell
Transition Practicum Scholarship in Nursing
Mrs. Carolyn M. Carollo & Mr. Al Carollo, Jr
Nancy C. Brazelton
UW-Cheyenne Regional Medical Center (CRMC) Faculty
Partnership
Brian & Sara Bauman
Cheyenne Regional Medical Center
Preferred e-mail address
Please accept my/our gift to UW Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing in the amount of:
This gift is designated for: (please specify)
I/we would like to make my/our gift in the form of:
❑ Check: Please make payable to the University of Wyoming Foundation
❑ Telephone: Please call the University of Wyoming Foundation during normal business hours: (307) 766-6300 or (888) 831-7795
❑ Online: www.uwyo.edu/giveonline
❑ Mail: Please mail form to: University of Wyoming Foundation 1200 East University Street, Laramie, WY 82070
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Persons seeking admission, employment, or access to programs of the University of Wyoming shall be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or political belief.
FAY W. WHITNEY SCHOOL OF NURSING
College of Health Sciences
Dept. 3065
1000 E. University Avenue
Laramie, WY 82071
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Diverse experiences, common goal: BRAND Class of 2025 pursues nursing excellence
Bottom Row, Left to Right: Madison Gillum, Rachel Dela Cruz, Tyus Cornia, Grace Barlet
Top Row, Left to Right: Greg Smith, Diana Slaugh, Maddie Terry, Elizabeth Sullivan, Jessica Litsheim, Sierra Olesinski