F R O N T I E R N U R S I N G U N I V E R S I T Y | V O L . 9 6 , N U M B E R 3 | FA L L 2 0 2 1
QUARTERLY BULLETIN
Commencement 2021 Goes Virtual for Second Straight Year
Also Inside: The Value of Giving and How to Give
President’s Cabinet Susan Stone, DNSc, CNM, FAAN, FACNM President Shelley Aldridge, BA Chief Operations Officer Angela Bailey, MA, CFRE Chief Advancement Officer Joan Slager, CNM, DNP, FACNM, FAAN Dean of Nursing
Download it today at frontier.edu/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.
US ISSN 0016-2116 Statement of Ownership Frontier Nursing Service Quarterly Bulletin, publication #835-740 is published four times per year. Mailing address: 2050 Lexington Road, Versailles, Kentucky 40383. Contact person: Angela Bailey (859) 251-4573. The publisher, editor, and managing editor of the Frontier Nursing Service Quarterly Bulletin is FNU, Inc., 2050 Lexington Road, Versailles, Kentucky 40383. The owner is Frontier Nursing University, 2050 Lexington Road, Versailles, Kentucky 40383. There are no other bondholders, mortgagees, or other security holders. The tax status has not changed in the last 12 months.
Average No. Copies
No. Copies of Single \
Each Issue During
Issue Published Nearest
Previous 12 Months
To Filing Date
Outside county copies 11,000 In-county copies
11,000 50
10,600 50
Free or nominal rate copies mailed at other classes 0
0
Free or nominal rate distribution outside the mail
0
0
Total Distribution Copies Not Distributed Total Sum Percent paid Paid Electronic Copies
11,000 50 11,050 0 0
10,600 50 10,650 0 0
Michael Steinmetz, CPA, CMA, CSCA Executive Vice President for Finance and Facilities Geraldine Young, DNP, APRN, FNPBC, CDE, FAANP Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Academic Administration Jess Calohan, DNP, PMHNP-BC FAAN Department Chair of PsychiatricMental Health Lisa Chappell, Ph.D., FNP-BC Department Chair of Family Nursing Khara’ Jefferson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C DNP Director Rachel Mack, Ph.D., DNP, APRN, C-FNP, CNE Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Eileen Thrower, Ph.D., APRN, CNM, CNE, FACNM Interim Department Chair of Midwifery and Women’s Health
From the President
Contents From the President
Dear Friends,
1
Commencement 2-5 The Value of Giving and How to Give
6-7
Student Spotlight
8-9
News and Notes
10-15
Faculty & Staff Accomplishments
16-17
Alumni Notes
18-19
Courier Program
20-21
Memorial 22-23 Trustees
23
Board of Directors
24
In any academic year, there are so many highlights and special moments, but year after year, my favorite is always commencement. It is a day filled with emotion. There is so much joy and happiness as we celebrate our graduates and honor their amazing accomplishments. Commencement is the highlight of the year for all of us, but particularly for our graduates and their families who have made their own sacrifices to support their loved ones on this journey. Unfortunately, the pandemic forced us to hold the event virtually for the second consecutive year, but that did not dampen the spirit of our graduates, their families, our faculty, or our staff. We were honored to welcome the wonderful Dr. LaTonya Trotter, who delivered an incredible, inspiring message to our graduates. We are so thankful for her time and for her insightful, thoughtprovoking words. It is fitting that the issue of the Quarterly Bulletin that celebrates our most recent graduates also focuses on giving because so many of those students received essential aid from our generous donors. A great many of our students are working full-time jobs and raising families while they attend FNU. Simply finding the time to complete their coursework is stressful enough, without the added worry of how to pay for their advanced nursing education. While the majority of our students do graduate with some debt, the impact of donations of all kinds and amounts plays a significant role in helping to minimize that financial burden. It is for that reason that we dedicate a portion of this issue of the Quarterly Bulletin to honoring and thanking our donors, while also sharing some important information about the many ways you can support our students. As the holiday season approaches, I wish you all health and happiness. As we continue to face the pandemic and ongoing social and political unrest, let us all find the time to embrace the peace and joy of the season with our family and friends. Sincerely,
2050 Lexington Road Versailles, KY 40383 FNU@frontier.edu - Frontier.edu
Susan Stone, CNM, DNSc., FACNM, FAA
Susan Stone, CNM, DNSc, FAAN, FACNM
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 1
Commencement
Dr. LaTonya Trotter Delivers FNU Commencement Keynote Address to Over 900 Graduates The past two years have been incredibly difficult for so many people. I am very proud of the determination and desire you displayed in earning your degree, and urge you to take a moment to reflect on all that you have accomplished, the hurdles you have overcome, the sacrifices you have made, and take great pride in it. I also want to express appreciation too, for your friends and family who have supported you on this journey. It takes a team effort, and we extend our gratitude to your supporters as well.
Frontier Nursing University celebrated the graduation of over 900 students during the 2021 commencement ceremony held on Saturday, September 25. Dr. LaTonya J. Trotter, Associate Professor of Bioethics and Humanities at the University of Washington, gave a poignant keynote address, encouraging the attendees to continue the good work in their communities and chosen professions. A medical sociologist, ethnographer, and author, Dr. Trotter is the author of “More than Medicine: Nurse Practitioners and the Problems they Solve for Patients, Health Care Organizations, and the State.” The book, which was published in 2020, chronicles a group of nurse practitioners and the care they provide for four hundred Black older adults living with poor health and limited means.
Dr. LaTonya Trotter
Dr. Trotter was awarded a Bachelor of Arts from Williams College, majoring in Sociology and American Studies. She earned a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Washington, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology from Princeton University. Prior to her position at the University of Washington, Dr. Trotter was an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Vanderbilt University. FNU President Dr. Susan Stone also addressed the attendees with words of congratulations and encouragement during her opening address: “Good afternoon everyone, and welcome to the 2021 Frontier Nursing University Commencement Ceremony! Welcome to our distinguished guest speakers, faculty colleagues, family members, friends, and, of course, our 2021 graduating class. We are so proud of you and your dedication to completing your degree at FNU. We regret that we were not able to hold this year’s commencement in person, but we’re so happy that you were able to attend and enjoy the virtual ceremony. What you have achieved is an amazing accomplishment deserving of recognition and celebration, and we hope that you are able to share the special moment with your family, friends, and classmates.
2 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
You have come so far, but I don’t have to remind you that your journey is not over. In many ways, it is just beginning. As you are well aware, our country and our world are facing not only a pandemic, but also a host of other healthcare concerns including drastic healthcare shortages, healthcare disparities, the maternal mortality crisis, and psychiatric-mental health concerns. No one person has the answer to these problems, but rest assured, you are part of the solution. You have all the tools, all the training, and certainly the demonstrated drive and intellect to make a significant difference and contribution to your community. That is what Frontier Nursing University expects from all members of the FNU community. We make a difference by answering the call to serve. Much like your life-long commitment to serve your community, FNU makes a life-long commitment to serve you. You are now and forever part of the FNU community. We will always be here to support you in any way we can. We love to hear from you and to share your stories of the great work you are doing in your community. Please remain in touch and never hesitate to contact us. We will answer your call. Again, congratulations on your wonderful achievements -- past, present, and future. I know you will do great things in service to others. Thank you for representing Frontier Nursing University and continuing to make us proud.”
Annual Leadership Awards Presented During Commencement One of the annual traditions of FNU commencement is the honoring of students who provided exceptional leadership to their peers. Here are the 2021 FNU Leadership Awards winners:
Nurse-Midwifery Student Leadership Award:
Family Nurse Practitioner Student Leadership Award:
Cheryl Appleton
Vanessa Shields-Haas
MSN, CNM, WHNP Washington, D.C.
MSN, APRN, FNP-BC Rockland, Maine
What are your career goals? My
What are your career goals? My career
short term goal is simply to hone my skills and practice midwifery! I would like to spend some time becoming comfortable in my new role. Ultimately, I would like to expand my midwifery work to include health legislation and advocacy. I strongly believe that healthcare is a basic human right, and I want to work towards ensuring that all people have the same access.
goals are to complete my DNP and participate in policy planning work around universal healthcare at the local and state level. I also just began a gender clinic at my practice that I hope will become a safe space for transgender and non-binary patients to access affordable and competent gender-affirming care in my rural coastal community.
What inspired you to become a nurse? I come from a family
as a second career after working for the federal government in Washington, DC doing counterterrorism analysis. I was concerned at the disproportionate amount of money being spent fighting foreign wars when the more likely cause of death in the U.S. is due to heart disease, not terrorism. I chose nursing because I was inspired by the history of disruptors such as M. Elizabeth Carnegie, Emma Goldman, Lilian Wald, and Lavinia Lloyd Dock, who got into, as the late-great John Lewis would call, “good trouble” and spoke truth to power. I believe that nurses can be change agents and that engaging in “political” work, like advocating for universal healthcare access, is a way to actualize the Nursing Code of Ethics. I vow to get into “good trouble” as long as I live.
of nurses, so I feel like I was steeped in nursing from an early age. What really inspired me to become a nurse was my mom. She has been a nurse for nearly 40 years now! I watched her go from geriatrics to ICU nursing to the OR to teaching nursing, and I’ve seen the many ways she has been able to touch the lives of her patients. This inspired me to pursue nursing myself.
Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself ? I am excited to be embarking on this next chapter in my life!
What inspired you to become a nurse? I came to nursing
Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself ? I live in Maine with my wife, daughter, and various rescue animals.
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 3
Commencement
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Student Leadership Award:
Doctor of Nursing Practice Exemplary Project Award:
Jaime Henson
Dr. Francis Aho
MSN, CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Gettysburg, PA
DNP, CNM Masai Mara, Kenya for the past 11 years (previously from Tennessee)
What are your career goals? I do not have
specific goals as I am content in my current position; however, I am currently pursuing my DNP in order to have more teaching opportunities. I do find myself championing for the “underdogs” and I steer more towards those experiences.
What inspired you to become a nurse? In all honesty, I fell
into nursing having no clue what I was doing! As a senior in high school, I won a two-year scholarship and chose nursing based on a whim. While this is not the conventional nursing dream, I have been beyond blessed with what nursing has provided and cannot imagine any other route.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Student Leadership Award:
Dr. Karen Tepper DNP, ANP-BC, HHCNS-BC Duxbury, Massachusetts
What are your career goals? To make an impact on health in the community.
What inspired you to become a nurse?
My best friend Christine’s mother, Judith Moreau, was a Director of Nursing for an adult and pediatric skilled nursing facility. We would join Ms. Moreau for volunteer activities at the nursing home. I had the opportunity to observe holistic rehabilitative nursing care results and what nursing leadership could accomplish. I felt connected to make a difference for patients, especially the underserved.
Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself ? I am a lifelong sports enthusiast. I played division 1 tennis in college and continue to enjoy participating and watching sporting events.
4 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
What are your career goals? To establish
a thriving women’s health and birth center in the local Maasai community - a place where Maasai women can receive evidencebased care while being treated with respect and dignity with their cultural values embraced. I am the director of the AMS Birth Center and would love to teach midwifery at FNU someday!
What inspired you to become a nurse? From a young age, I knew
I wanted to be a nurse and care for people. However, after my first week working in Kenya in 2008 when I delivered my first baby by the light of a flashlight, I became inspired about midwifery. After having my own children my eyes were opened in a new way to the gap in women’s healthcare in my Kenya community. That’s when I decided to renovate an area of the clinic -- I held a fundraiser -- into a delivery room and go to CNM school at FNU.
Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself ? I would like to share a little bit more about the clinic/birth center I am the director of by sharing this website: https://africamissionservices. com/ams-projects/ams-birth-center/
Excellence in Teaching Awards Presented During Commencement Each year in conjunction with commencement, the Student Council leads the student body in selecting faculty members to receive two Excellence in Teaching awards in the following categories: • Academic Faculty Award • Regional Clinical Faculty Award These awards are given annually to faculty members who inspired and impacted their students. For 2021, the students chose to honor two FNU faculty members who passed away earlier this year.
Academic Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award:
Regional Clinical Faculty (RCF) Excellence in Teaching Award:
Dr. Ruth Elsasser
Dr. Jan Weingrad Smith
It is with great sadness that the family of Ruth Ellen Elsasser-Kolberg shared her unexpected passing on May 24, 2021, in Husum, Washington, at the age of 42.
Dr. Jan Weingrad Smith, beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and loyal friend passed away at Norwalk Hospital Saturday, May 22.
Ruth was born at Morristown Memorial Hospital in Morristown, New Jersey on March 7, 1979. Ruth attended both Mansfield Jr.-Sr. High School and the Mansfield University of Pennsylvania and achieved high honors at both. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing from Oregon Health Sciences University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University and was a lifelong learner in her field. She was a compassionate and dedicated educator for the Frontier Nursing program and loved teaching and sharing her gifts with her
A faculty member at FNU since 2015, Jan was born in Stamford, Connecticut on January 23, 1950. She is the daughter of Stamford’s Murray Weingrad and Louise Reback Weingrad (deceased) and Genevieve Weingrad (deceased). She graduated from Rippowam High School and began a noted career as a nurse, midwife, and maternal and child health educator. She was a resident of Norwalk, Connecticut, for many years.
students. Most recently, she was in pursuit of a certification in Ayurvedic Medicine as she believed that health and wellness depend on achieving a balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ruth left an indelible mark on all those lucky enough to have known her. She will be remembered for her zest for life and contagious smile. She will be deeply loved forever and will never be forgotten. Editor’s Note: Dr. Elsasser’s full obituary was published in the Summer 2021 issue of the Quarterly Bulletin
Jan was an ardent and vocal advocate for women’s and children’s health with a special interest in promoting and supporting breastfeeding education and policy development in the United States and internationally, and improving access to midwifery services in the U.S. She served in many capacities in the American Public Health Association, including chairperson of the maternal and child health section. Most notably, she will be remembered for her caring bedside manner, her love of everything purple and lavender, and always being there for family and friends to help them navigate the health care and hospital systems. Editor’s Note: Dr. Smith’s full obituary was published in the Summer 2021 issue of the Quarterly Bulletin
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 5
The Value of Giving and How to Give
FNU Scholarships Reduce Financial Burden
Farewell and Thank You
In these pages and other communications from Frontier, you often hear about the incredible generosity of our donors and the amazing accomplishments of our graduates. The reason that they are both included in the stories of Frontier is that, quite simply, neither story is complete without the other.
85% of all FNU students received federal student loans. FNU continually seeks to reduce this financial burden via donations, bequests, grants, and other funding sources. Additionally, FNU donors have helped establish more than 25 scholarships available for students based on varying criteria.
True, our graduates would still do great things in their careers, but removing the weight of a long-lasting financial burden is a freeing gift that enables them to soar to even greater heights. The majority of FNU students are working adults with families, making the cost of higher education and the subsequent loan payments a potential financial strain. Tragically, In some cases, our students might not even be able to complete their Frontier journey without this financial support.
The amount of the financial burden with which students leave Frontier can be greatly reduced or even eliminated by the generosity of our donors. This is the reason why, in addition to sharing the inspiring stories of our graduates, we take time to recognize and thank all those who support our students on their journey. Our students rely on the support of their friends and family, Frontier faculty and staff, and, yes, the generosity of others. As we see time and time again, all of these individual stories intersect to tell one amazing tale.
Even though FNU’s low tuition rates compare favorably to other institutions and the university places a priority on affordability, most FNU students still accrue an average loan debt of $60,000. In 2020,
If you are interested in donating to a scholarship fund or even establishing a scholarship, please go to https://frontier. edu/give-to-fnu/.
Year
Donor Funded Scholarships
Federal Grants & Scholarships
Total Scholarships & Grants
Average Loan Debt of Graduates
Percentage of Students Using Loans
2016
$82,650
$350,000
$432,650
$57,161
82%
2017
$189,925
$115,000
$304,925
$62,618
80%
2018
$122,225
$227,508
$349,733
$66,448
85%
2019
$386,310
$772,000
$1,158,310
$67,851
82%
Dear Frontier Community, It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you all that as of the end of January I will be leaving Frontier Nursing University for new adventures. It has been such a pleasure to get to know and build lasting relationships with all of you, donors, faculty, staff, board members, committee members, and alumni. You each bring so many gifts to the University and I am blessed to have worked with you. Thank you! As Frontier moves forward with new leadership in Advancement, I know that you all will give them the same support and kindness shown to me because you understand that now more than ever the mission of Frontier Nursing University is essential to improving health outcomes across our nation. Meanwhile, I will hold in my heart the fondest of memories and warm wishes for Frontier and all of you! With much love, respect, and thanks,
2020
$530,930
$150,000
$680,930
6 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
$68,829
85%
Planned Giving Overview
TYPE OF GIFT
DESCRIPTION
ADVANTAGES
Bequest
Include a gift in your will.
• Allows you to make a gift at no immediate cost to you.
Retained Life Insurance
Contribute your residence, vacation home, farm, etc. while retaining the right to occupy the poperty for life.
• Current income tax deduction.
Life Insurance
You can name FNU as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy.
Retirement Plan
You can name FNU as a beneficiary of your retirement account
• Charitable deduction for taxable estates
Future Gifts
• Potential estate savings
• Allows you to make a gift at little cost to you. • Avoids double taxation of assets. • FNU receives the full amount of the plan assets. • Current income tax deduction.
Charitable Gift Annuity
Gifts That Pay You Back
• Portion of payments may be tax free. • Payments never change. • At death, remaining assets benefit the university. • Current income tax deduction.
Charitable Remainder Trust
Gifts That Help The University Now
In exchange for a gift of cash, stocks, or bonds, FNU will pay you and/or another a fixed income for life.
You contribue assets to the trust and FNU manages the trust for your benefit. You receive income annually for life or a term of years.
• No capital gain recognition on gifts of appreciated assets. • Diversification of investments • At death, remaining assets benefit the university.
Outright
Includes gifts of real estate, securities and closely held stock, a paid lifeinsurance policy, or other property of value.
• Current income tax deduction.
Personal Property
Gifts such artworks, books, manuscripts, boats, or airplanes.
• Current income tax deduction.
Bargain Sale
You can sell an asset such as real estate to FNU for less than its current fair market value.
• Current income tax deduction.
Charitable Lead Trust
A lead trust makes payments to FNU for a designated period of time. When the trust ends, the remaining assets are paid to you orother beneficiaries.
• Potential gift tax savings on transfer of assets to family members. • FNU reserves income during the trust’s term.
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 7
Student Spotlight
Frontier Family: Sisters Take the FNU Journey Together serious trauma as young men in war and were subsequently living on the margins of society. It was clear to me that the relationship she had built with these men was a part of what kept them engaged in care. I know now that what I was witnessing was the therapeutic relationship in action, and throughout my own career, I have come to value just how significant that relationship is to both client and clinician. With the rising number of mental health conditions and a nationwide substance use disorder crisis, I wanted additional training to be better serve my current patient population.”
Teresa Vlahovich (left) and Emily Hagy The last time sisters Emily Hagy and Teresa Vlahovich were in the same class was more than 20 years ago when they were in high school. “The last time we took a class together it was geometry. She was a high school freshman and I was a junior,” said Teresa, who is 20 months older than Emily. “I am pretty certain that Emily got an A and I had dropped out by October. As kids, Emily was much more studious than me.” Teresa’s modesty aside, both sisters have gone on to successful careers, taking vastly different routes to the same destination as they are both currently enrolled in Class 198 of Frontier’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). When they took their first PMHNP course together in October, it was the first time they were classmates since high school. The sisters, who are the middle two out of four children, grew up in Tacoma, Washington. Their father was a nationally known wooden boat builder and his work took them to the east coast periodically. Now, most of the family, including Teresa and Emily, lives in Maryland. Their older sister is a graphic designer and their younger brother fishes salmon in Alaska.
Despite the close proximity -- Teresa and Emily live about two hours apart -- their careers have vastly differed until now. They were both inspired to some degree by their parents, with Teresa being drawn to their mother’s career as a nurse. Teresa, MSN, CNM, graduated from FNU’s CNEP program in 2013 (Class 78), after earning her BSN from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and has worked for most of her career in the FQHC setting. “I did not grow up thinking that I wanted to go into psych/mental health,” said Teresa, who now lives in Baltimore, Maryland. “I was drawn to pregnancy and childbirth early on. However, my mother’s nursing career did plant a seed. She worked most of her career in an outpatient day program at the VA hospital. The program primarily served Vietnam veterans with schizophrenia. She would bring us to work for holidays and I have fond memories of cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the guys and helping with games and gifts. I still remember how touched I was by the supportive way that the patients related to one another in the group setting. I had never seen men relate that way before. My mother had years-long relationships with many of these men who had experienced
8 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
While a health care profession always appealed to Teresa, little sister Emily was inspired more by her father’s line of work and she graduated with bachelor’s degrees in marine biology and invertebrate zoology and a master’s degree in marine ecology. “I worked with oysters for approximately ten years, conducting research and restoration in the Chesapeake Bay,” said Emily, who lives in Cambridge, Maryland. “People think that jumping from oysters to people is strange, but I view the careers as similar. Caring for non-human animals is not that
Emily Hagy (center) with older sister Laura Vlahovich (left) and Teresa Vlahovich (right), and their mother Paula Clark.
little we could do for them, considering the shortages. That was what I needed to push me into pursuing PMHNP.” Though they both had a similar interest in psychiatric mental health, the sisters were both quite busy with their established careers and lives. Emily and her husband William have a son who was born in April 2020. Teresa and her wife Crimson have four children -- a 14-year-old son, an 8-year-old daughter, and twin four-year-olds (one boy, one girl).
Teresa Vlahovich (left) and Emily Hagy different from caring for humans. The skills and knowledge are different, but both are service-oriented and fulfill my desire to use my heart at work.”
Despite their busy schedules, they are both high achievers driven to serve. Separately, they have each noticed the shortage of mental health providers in their respective communities, and, jointly, they decided to do their part to address the issue.
Emily, too, remembers her mother’s work at the VA and enjoyed volunteering there.
“In my community, access to care is the biggest concern,” Emily said. “Working through the stigma of mental health care doesn’t matter if there are no providers to see the clients.’
“I have vivid memories of interacting with the participants,” Emily said. “This was a unique experience for a teen, and I’m sure it piqued some interest in me.”
As their interest in psychiatric mental health piqued, Teresa leaned on her previous experience at Frontier to guide their joint decision.
While that interest took a back seat to marine biology for a period of time, it resurfaced recently when she was working as a nurse at a federally qualified health center (FQHC).
“When investigating nurse-midwifery programs, I was initially drawn to Frontier for the community health focus. I had a great experience at Frontier obtaining my midwifery education and honestly did not consider looking anywhere else for the psych mental health program,” Teresa said. “I used my influence as an older sister to influence my sister to join me.”
“I knew our patients well, and it was disheartening that there was simply so little we could do for them, considering the shortages. That was what I needed to push me into pursuing PMHNP.” - Emily Hagy “I saw the extreme shortage of mental health care available in our area,” said Emily, who earned her BSN from Salisbury University. “I knew our patients well, and it was disheartening that there was simply so
“One person doesn’t solve the problem, but it is significant for the people we can serve,” said Emily, who hopes to work with patients of all ages, with a focus on children and adolescents. “In mental health, treatment for one client can make a world of difference for that client, but also for their children, siblings, parents, friends, and community.” Teresa intends to continue to work as a nurse-midwife in addition to starting a psychiatric mental health practice. “I hope to start a part-time mental health practice with a focus on mental and emotional health needs during pregnancy and postpartum,” she said. Even as they consider what lies ahead, Emily and Teresa are enjoying their journey together. “It is a great motivator to have my sister in the program with me and I doubt that I would have taken on a post-graduate certificate program without her partnership,” Teresa said.
“Teresa has been singing the praises of FNU for some time,” Emily said. “Also, I’ve had several providers who are Frontier graduates, and they had nothing but good things to say. I wanted an online program, and I was most comfortable choosing one with a long successful history.” One of FNU’s areas of focus is helping to reduce healthcare disparities. While Emily and Teresa recognize that they alone will not fill the significant voids, they are eager to play a role in the overall care of their communities. They have even considered opening a practice together someday.
Teresa Vlahovich (left) and Emily Hagy
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 9
News and Notes diversity of certified nurse-midwives who serve in rural and underserved areas of the country in an effort to prevent and reduce maternal mortality.
FNU Receives INSIGHT Into Diversity 2021 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for Fourth Consecutive Year Frontier Nursing University received the 2021 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. As a recipient of the annual Health Professions HEED Award — a national honor recognizing U.S. health colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion — FNU was featured, along with 50 other recipients, in the December 2021 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. This is the fourth consecutive year FNU has been named as a Health Professions HEED Award recipient. “We are incredibly honored to be selected for the prestigious HEED Award for the fourth year in a row,” said FNU President Dr. Susan Stone. “We recognized the need for more diversity in our nation’s healthcare system over a decade ago. Culturally concordant care improves health outcomes, which is in direct alignment with our mission to provide accessible nursemidwifery and nurse practitioner education to prepare competent, entrepreneurial,
ethical, and compassionate leaders in primary care to serve all individuals with an emphasis on women and families in diverse, rural, and underserved populations. While we know that we have much work to do, this award recognizes our progress and reaffirms our commitment to be a leader for change and to continue towards our goal of becoming an antiracist university.” Earlier this year, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded FNU two grants totaling $4,140,000. The HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) grant totals $1,920,000 and the Nursing Workforce Diversity (NWD) grant totals $2,220,000. HRSA, which is an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will award the funding for both grants in annual installments over the next four years. The goal of the BHWET program is to increase the number of psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners who are diverse in race, ethnicity, and other underrepresented populations serving in rural and medically underserved communities. The goal of the NWD program is to increase the number and
10 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
To help direct the university’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and incorporate perspectives from all corners of the university, FNU has created several task forces and committees composed of faculty, staff, students, and volunteers. Created in 2015, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee develops, promotes, and provides programs and resources to enhance diversity throughout the university and healthcare workforce. The President’s DEI Task Force was formed in January 2021 to further FNU’s mission to become an antiracist university. The recently formed Antiracism and Bias Advisory Council (ABAC), derived by the FNU’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, is a diverse group of Frontier employees who will serve as an advisory board for any employee and student bias reporting. In January 2021, the FNU Board of Directors (BOD) created a BOD Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee that is responsible for working with the Board of Directors and the administration to ensure that Frontier strives to be an antiracist university. In April 2021, the Board of Directors approved the endowment of a new scholarship to support African American, Black, Native American, and Alaskan Native students. The scholarship will support 10 students per year. “At Frontier, we challenge our students, faculty, and staff to be the agents of change we need to dismantle racism and discrimination in healthcare,” said FNU Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Dr. Geraldine Young. “Collectively, we have the power to reduce health disparities and inequities and improve health outcomes. Receiving the HEED Award is not only a great honor, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for us to continue to have important conversations and to advance both the internal and external diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts of our university.” FNU’s commitment to emphasizing and valuing diversity and inclusion was formally instituted with the creation of the Diversity Impact Program in 2010, with particular
emphasis on increasing the enrollment of students of color. Since then, the focus has expanded to include all facets of the university, including increasing diversity within the faculty and staff, emphasis on student retention, and diversity and inclusion training for all members of the FNU community. Led by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, mentoring, tutoring, coaching, counseling, writing programs, and scholarships have been implemented to support students. The office also offers community-wide education including the Diversity Impact Conference held in 2021, “Dismantling Systemic Racism and Discrimination in Healthcare: Our Roles and Responsibilities.” “The Health Professions HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees — and best practices for both — continued leadership support for diversity, and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We take a detailed approach to reviewing each application in deciding who will be named a Health Professions HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for schools where diversity and inclusion are woven into the work being done every day across their campus.”
AACN Recognizes Frontier Nursing University for Advancing Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability in Academic Nursing
Frontier Nursing University was announced as one of three recipients of the Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability
in Nursing Education Leadership Awards presented annually by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). FNU joined Augusta University (Georgia) and the University of Illinois Chicago in being recognized this year for their strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, health equity, cultural humility, and community outreach. “I applaud the 2021 award winners for being intentional about making diversity, equity, and inclusion a cornerstone of their programs’ success,” said Dr. Deborah Trautman, AACN President and Chief Executive Officer. “With a focus on adapting systems and changing culture, these programs serve as exemplars for other nursing schools moving to create academic environments that welcome and respect students, faculty, and staff of color.” Following a competitive process that was open to all 840 AACN member institutions, the winning schools were cited for their success in recruiting diverse students and faculty to their programs as well as creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. FNU received the Private Colleges and Universities Award. In the award announcement, AACN noted that “FNU is at the forefront as a leading activist for diversity in the nursing and midwifery professions. FNU has made diversity and inclusion a primary focus of the university’s mission and a measurable element of its progress.” “This is a tremendous honor for Frontier,” said FNU President Dr. Susan Stone, CNM, DNSc, FAAN, FACNM. “While we are incredibly proud of the progress we have made to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of our university, we recognize that we have much work still to do. We are fully committed to being an antiracist university and are grateful to be acknowledged as an example for others to follow.” FNU Chief Diversity Officer Dr. Geraldine Young, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CDCES, FAANP, presented at AACN’s 2021 Diversity Symposium, which was held on November 9 and 10 as a virtual event. Dr. Young also served as a Lectureship Award Panel member at the AACN 2021 Diversity Symposium presenting on
“Integrating Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing Education” to Mobilize and Strategize: Implementing DEI in Academic Nursing. “The AACN has long been an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, so to be recognized by their Board of Directors in this manner is a tremendous accomplishment for Frontier,” said Dr. Young, who accepted the award on behalf of the university. “This recognition of our progress only strengthens our resolve to continue our meaningful work.”
Frontier Nursing University Receives United States Distance Learning Association International Distance Learning Award
Frontier Nursing University received an International Distance Learning Award, presented by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). The USDLA revealed the International Distance Learning Award winners during a virtual announcement on November 12, 2021. Each year, USDLA recognizes innovators and leaders within the distance/ digital learning industry as part of our International Award program. These highly coveted awards are presented annually to organizations and individuals who compete across several categories of excellence. The USDLA International Distance Learning Awards are created to acknowledge major accomplishments in distance learning and to highlight those distance learning instructors, programs, and professionals who have achieved and demonstrated extraordinary
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 11
News and Notes achievements through the use of online, videoconferencing, and satellite/video delivery technologies globally. “The International Award program has provided prestigious recognition for educational influencers around the globe for many years,” says Dr. Arletha McSwain, President of USDLA. “These award winners are truly leaders in the distance/ digital learning industry, and their work in support of pedagogy is unsurpassed.” This year, FNU was chosen by the selection committee as the runner-up to the University of Cincinnati for the 21st Century Award. According to the USDLA, “this award is given to an agency, institution, or company that has shown outstanding leadership in the field of distance learning. The award recognizes pioneering organizations in the field that have changed distance learning, challenged existing practice, or developed new and effective solutions.” Founded in 1939 in rural southeastern Kentucky, Frontier incorporated distance learning more than 30 years ago to broaden its reach and allow students from all over the country to attend. Since then, FNU’s enrollment has increased from 200 to more than 2,500. Most FNU students, who are all seeking advanced nurse-midwifery or nurse practitioner degrees, come to campus at least twice during their academic program but are otherwise able to attend the university while continuing to work in the communities in which they live. “Frontier Nursing was on the leading edge of distance learning even before the wide use of the internet,” said FNU President Dr. Susan Stone, CNM, DNSc, FAAN, FACNM. “It has been essential not only to our growth, but to our mission to prepare our students to care for women and families, particularly serving diverse, rural, and underserved populations. To be recognized as a leader in distance learning by the USDLA is a tremendous honor. We are grateful for USDLA’s impactful and essential leadership and advocacy for distance learning.” Each year, the annual award winners are recognized by the Association at the USDLA National Conference Awards Dinner and presented with a physical award. However, due to the continued pandemic
concerns in 2021, USDLA decided to virtually recognize the award winners during National Distance Learning Week (NDLW). All award winners will also be invited to the USDLA 2022 National Conference in Nashville, Tenn., to be recognized in person.
Frontier Nursing University Named Gold “COVID Stops Here” Workplace
Frontier Nursing University has been recognized as a Gold COVID Stops Here workplace for achieving over a 90% vaccination rate. The COVID Stops Here campaign recognizes Kentucky workplaces that have achieved widespread vaccination against COVID-19. Organizations that have achieved at least a 70% vaccination rate are eligible to receive a designation.
“I am very pleased to report that currently 92% of our 88 Kentucky-based employees have been vaccinated against COVID,” FNU President Dr. Susan Stone said. “We are very proud of the leadership that our faculty, staff, students, and alumni have displayed in their communities all across the country during the pandemic. Locally, we were honored to partner with the Woodford County Health Department and serve as a vaccination site last spring. We hope that our example inspires others in the community to get vaccinated as well.” The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce developed the COVID Stops Here campaign as a way to celebrate workplaces that are leading the fight to stop COVID-19 — and to encourage more organizations to join their ranks. “The COVID-19 vaccine is Kentucky’s pathway to recovery. Frontier Nursing University is helping set the bar for vaccination in Kentucky by achieving Gold COVID Stops Here status — meaning at least 90% of their employees are now vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a great achievement and we thank them for helping our state stop this dangerous virus,” said Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts. “Employers are playing a very important role as we work to encourage vaccination in Kentucky. In order to finally put this virus behind us, we need Kentuckians to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Together we can stop this virus, let’s make sure that COVID stops here!”
Frontier Launches “All-Access Podcast” Frontier Nursing has launched its own podcast! The first few episodes of The Frontier All-Access Podcast are now available on the Frontier.edu website or wherever you find your podcasts. The All-Access Podcast provides a closer look at the university through lively and entertaining discussions with a wide variety of guests and topics. Fittingly, Episode 1 features a casual conversation with Dr. Susan Stone, whose history with Frontier dates back to 1991 when she earned a Post-Master’s Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery from what was then the Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing. Dr. Stone, who was inducted into the prestigious National Academy of Medicine in 2019, has served as Frontier’s president since 2001. We hope that every episode of the Frontier Nursing University All-Access Podcast will make you laugh, cry, learn something new, or give you perspective and food for thought.
12 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
FNU Announces 2021 Award Winners The Distinguished Service to Society Award recognizes a graduate who goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service in their communities. The Distinguished Service to Alma Mater Award honors a graduate who has supported Frontier through volunteer efforts and/or donor support.
Midwifery Service to Alma Mater:
Midwifery Service to Society:
Elsie Maier Wilson
Sister Christine Schenk
CNM, ARNP, BC, MSN
CSJ, PNRCRT, FNM
Elsie Maier Wilson received her RN from Queens’s Hospital Center in Jamaica, New York in 1956. She worked at the Hyden Hospital in 1962 and then, in 1963, began the nurse-midwifery program at the Frontier Graduate School of Midwifery, graduating in July of that same year. She then stayed at Frontier for the next 10 years as a nursemidwife caring for more than 350 families in the Red Bird District. She took a leave in 1972 to take a mission trip to Zaire. Wilson earned her master’s degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University before returning to what had become the Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing. She held the position of Family Nurse Education Coordinator and later became Dean (1977-78). During her time as Dean, she implemented several significant changes, including recruiting Master’s degree faculty. She also helped secure ACNM accreditation, federal funding, and contracts with the University of Kentucky and Case Western for students to obtain graduate degrees. “Listen to the patient, hear her, don’t assume,” Wilson said in advice to students. “Help her buy into her care. Empower her to be in charge of her own health. Help her have hope and faith.” Wilson left Frontier in 1979 to provide prenatal care through the St. Petersburg Free Clinic. For her work with the Free Clinic, she was awarded the Susan B. Anthony Award from the National Organization of Women in 1981. She went on to become a faculty member at the University of Florida. She received the Florida Healthy Mothers/Healthy Babies Special Achievement Award in 1986. In recognition of her lifelong support of midwifery and Frontier Nursing University, we are proud to present Elsie Maier Wilson the 2021 Distinguished Service to Alma Mater Award.
Sister Christine Schenk CSJ attended the Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing in preparation to take the National Midwifery examination. She graduated in 1976 as a family nurse midwife, having completed the course and clinical work to be a family nurse practitioner as well as a nurse-midwife. She was part of the first group to take the national certification exams ever offered to become a nurse practitioner. She came to Frontier having already obtained a Master’s Degree in Nursing. She left after finishing her degree but returned a year later to teach. During this time she successfully worked to get a law passed that permitted nurse practitioners to write prescriptions for antibiotics and low-dose painkillers. In 1980 she helped to organize a statewide coalition to expand Medicaid coverage to include pregnant low-income women and their children. In the book Unruly Catholic Nuns: Sisters Stories, she speaks about her work getting the Nurse Practice Act passed in Kentucky. She also details her efforts in Ohio, where she worked in Cleveland as a nurse-midwife for 20 years and helped obtain Medicaid coverage for low-income women through the Prenatal Investment Program. Sister Christine has a Master’s degree in theology with distinction from St. Mary’s Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland, a Master’s from Boston College, and a BSN Magna Cum Laude from Georgetown University. From 1990-2013 she served as the Executive Director of FutureChurch, a national coalition of parish-centered Catholics working for full participation of all Catholics in the life of the Church. Sister Christine is one of three nuns whose work was featured in the award-winning documentary “Radical Grace” (2015). Her 2017 book Crispina and Her Sisters: Women and Authority in
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 13
News and Notes
FNU Announces 2021 Award Winners Early Christianity was awarded first place in History by the Catholic Press Association. Sister Christine has been interviewed by major media outlets including the PBS Newshour, World News with Diane Sawyer, CBS Sunday Morning, National Public Radio, CNN, MSNBC, and Fox cable channels, and quoted in major feature stories on Mary of Magdala and women in the Bible by both Time and Newsweek. Because of her remarkable contributions to nurse-midwifery and inspiring leadership and influence, we are honored to present Sister Christine Schenk with the 2021 Distinguished Service to Society Award.
NP Service to Alma Mater:
Cathy Cook MSN, CNM, CNM Class 17 and DNP, Class 34 Course faculty and Regional Clinical Faculty (RCF) Cathy Cook, DNP, APRN, CNM, Class 17 has served as an RCF since 2016. Cook earned her MSN from Case Western Reserve. She earned her CNM from FNU in 1998 and DNP from FNU in 2020. She has worked as a certified nurse-midwife in Galesburg, Illinois, since 2016. She specializes in natural childbirth and provides individualized education and prenatal care to expectant mothers. Throughout her career, Cook has graciously shared her time and expertise with others and has precepted more than 260 students. “Students teach us as much as we teach them,” Cook said of precepting. “They help us see things through new eyes. Some of us that have been practicing for a long time may not know the newest items in healthcare. Students can teach us those things if we are open and willing to learn from them.” Because of her long and history of service to others as a caregiver, teacher, and preceptor, we are thrilled to present Cathy Cook the 2021 Award for Distinguished Service to Alma Mater.
14 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
NP Service to Society:
Rhoda Ojwang DNP, APRN, FNP-C Dr. Rhoda Ojwang, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, Class 17, is the president and founder of Healthcare Access International Group (HAIG), a nonprofit organization in San Diego dedicated to making healthcare accessible worldwide. Dr. Ojwang earned her DNP from FNU in 2016. The mission of HAIG is: “To make healthcare accessible among the underserved in Kenya, across Africa, and eventually globally.” HAIG strives to connect people with sustainable healthcare systems to help individuals manage their diseases and stay connected with their health care providers. “I decided to start HAIG because I am originally from Kenya,” Ojwang said. “Growing up I was privileged to be brought up in a family where I went to the best schools and received top quality health care services when I was ill. Throughout my nursing career here in the United States, I constantly thought of ways to give back to my own people, particularly those who were not as privileged as I was. I had a burning desire to make healthcare accessible to those in need. Lack of access to healthcare and the increasing rate of poverty is a growing global public health problem. Although the same is true for developed nations, the developing nations are in dire need of basic healthcare.” HAIG achieves its mission through medical mission trips to underserved areas. These missions are 100% dependent on donations. All financial donations received go towards the purchase of medications and supplies. An example of the impact of the mission trips is a five-day trip to Kenya. On that trip, over 900 patients were served through free health screenings for cervical and breast cancer, diabetes and hypertension, wound care, HIV testing and counseling, ENT and vision screenings. Dr. Rhoda Ojwang’s inspiration, entrepreneurship, and dedication to serving others make her a very deserving recipient of the 2021 Distinguished Service to Society Award.
FNU Announces 2021 Award Winners Courier Program Unbridled Spirit Award:
Nancy Reinhart The Courier Program Unbridled Spirit Award is given annually to a former Courier who has carried the torch of Mary Breckinridge beyond the mountains, perpetuating the mission and spirit of Frontier in their own lives. The criteria for this award include a dedication to serving others; ongoing, longstanding stewardship of Frontier; and demonstration of personal conviction, courage, and a zest for adventure. Today, Frontier Nursing University graduate Nancy Reinhart, MPH, CNM, Class 155, is a certified nurse-midwife in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Her relationship with Frontier, however, began before she ever became a student. Between her junior and senior years of college, she participated in Frontier’s Courier program. “My family has always been committed to helping people and giving service,” she said. “But the rural healthcare piece was inspired by my experience in the Courier program. I saw my first birth and it made a tremendous impact on me. I actually chose my master’s program because of that history.” After her Courier experience, Reinhart earned a master’s degree in public health and began a job in social justice. Soon thereafter she was contacted by Frontier and offered the opportunity to run the Courier program. She became interested in midwifery and began taking classes at FNU while running the Courier program. After graduating, Reinhart joined WellSpan OB/GYN in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, as a full-scope nurse-midwife in July 2020. The practice, which consists of four nurse-midwives and four physicians, is the only one in the area that offers 24/7 nursemidwifery care. Because of her commitment to Frontier, the Courier program, and nurse-midwifery, we are very proud to name Nancy Reinhart as the recipient of the 2021 Courier Program Unbridled Spirit Award.
Lifetime Service Award:
Peter Coffin The Lifetime Service Award recognizes an individual or organization providing longstanding support and commitment to the mission and work of Frontier Nursing Service and Frontier Nursing University. Peter Coffin is the founder and president at Breckinridge Capital Advisors, a Boston-based fixed income investment manager with over $40 billion in assets under management. Coffin has over 35 years of experience in the investment industry. Before founding Breckinridge in 1993, Coffin was a Senior Vice President with Massachusetts Financial Services (MFS), where he managed municipal bond portfolios and served on the MFS Fixed Income Policy Committee. As a committee member, he shared oversight for all the firm’s fixed income strategies. Coffin began his career as an analyst, first in the Bond and Money Market group of the Connecticut National Bank, and then in Aetna’s Bond Investment division. Coffin received a B.A. with honors in classical studies from Hamilton College in 1982 and served on the college’s Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2018. He is chair of The Trustees of Reservations, the nation’s oldest preservation and conservation organization. Peter is active in the field of sustainable investing, serving on the Investor Advisory Group for the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the President’s Council for Ceres. Peter was previously on the board of the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment (US SIF) and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB). He speaks regularly at conferences on topics related to the management of fixed income portfolios and sustainable investing, and his commentary on those subjects is often reported in the press. A long-time supporter of Frontier Nursing University, Coffin serves as the Chair of Frontier’s Foundation Board. Breckinridge Capital Advisors also provides funding for FNU’s Courier program. Because of his loyal support and dedicated service to Frontier Nursing University, we are honored to present Peter Coffin with the 2021 Lifetime Service Award.
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 15
Faculty & Staff Accomplishments
Faculty Published Articles and Chapters: Following is a list of articles and chapters recently published by FNU faculty members:
Clinical Faculty Diana Jolles, Ph.D., CNM, FACNM Jolles, D., HoehnVelasco, L. (2021). Breastfeeding as a Quality Measure. Journal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing. Volume 35 Number 3, 221–227. DOI: 10.1097/ JPN.0000000000000577
Instructor Carla Bray, DNP, FNP-C Bray, C., & Kennedy, C. (2020). Improving timely sepsis care using the surviving sepsis campaign one-hour bundle in a rural emergency department. Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. 33 (3). 246-253. doi: 10.1097/ JXX.0000000000000436
1. Reviews the findings of the peer evaluators on the site visit team, available materials (e.g., SelfStudy Report, team report, Nurse Administrator Response Form, additional information, etc.);
Rachel Mack Appointed to ACEN Evaluation Review Panel and ACEN Appeal Committee
3. Makes a recommendation for accreditation status to the ACEN Board of Commissioners; and
Clinical Faculty Diana Jolles, Ph.D., CNM, FACNM Emeis, C. L. , Jolles, D. R. , Perdion, K. & Collins-Fulea, C. (2021). The American College of Nurse- Midwives’ Benchmarking Project. The Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing, 35 (3), 210-220. Doi: 10.1097/ JPN.0000000000000576
Instructor Sybilla Myers, DNP, APRN, FNP-C Myers, S., & Kennedy, C. (2021). Improving the Perception of Patient-Centered Wellness in a Virtual Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Journal of doctoral nursing practice, JDNP-D-20-00078. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1891/ JDNP-D-20-00078
For each program, the Evaluation Review Panel (ERP):
FNU Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Rachel Mack, Ph.D., DNP, APRN, C-FNP, CNE, has been appointed by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Board of Commissioners to be a member of the ACEN Evaluation Review Panel and the ACEN Appeal Committee. The ACEN process for the evaluation of nursing programs is a comprehensive four-step process with the program self-review and Self-Study Report as the first step. The second step is the site visit conducted by peer evaluators resulting in the Site Visit Report. In the third step, an Evaluation Review Panel examines the reports written by and about the program. The final step is a review of the process and the accreditation status decision determined by the ACEN Board of Commissioners.
16 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
2. Makes professional judgments based on its own independent analysis for compliance with the Standards and Criteria;
4. Ensures the consistent application of the Standards and Criteria.
Eileen Thrower Inducted into Georgia Baptist College of Nursing Hall of Honor FNU Interim Department Chair of Midwifery and Women’s Health Eileen Thrower, Ph.D., APRN, CNM, CNE, FACNM, was recently inducted into the Georgia Baptist College of Nursing Hall of Honor. Her induction was based on her accomplishments in nursing research. Induction into the Georgia Baptist College of Nursing Hall of Honor recognizes both alumni and friends (non-alumni) of the College for their accomplishments in one of the following areas: clinical nursing practice, community health service,
excellence in mentoring, health care administration, leadership in health policy/ethics/law, nursing education, entrepreneurial leadership, excellence in student leadership development, excellence in volunteer leadership, leadership in clinical development and nursing research.
Vicky Stone-Gale Receives Multiple Honors FNU Associate Professor Dr. Vicky Stone-Gale, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP has received the 2022 American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Advocate State Award for Excellence. The Advocate State Award for Excellence is given to an individual in each state who has made a significant contribution toward increasing awareness and recognition of nurse practitioners. The award is given annually to a dedicated advocate in each state who has made a significant contribution toward increasing awareness and recognition of nurse practitioners. In addition to her work with Frontier, Dr. Stone-Gale is the Vice President of the Florida Nurse Practitioner Network. She will be honored for her achievement during the 2022 AANP National Conference in Orlando, June 21-26, 2022. Dr. Stone-gale has also been selected as a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice (NAP) in Nursing. Distinguished Fellows are U.S. citizens who have an exemplary career of ten years or more and who have made significant contributions to interprofessional healthcare. The induction ceremony will be held in San Diego on March 3rd, 2022.
Dean of Nursing Joan Slager Published in ACEN’s Bridges An article written by FNU Dean of Nursing Dr. Joan Slager, CNM, DNP, FACNM, FAAN, was published in Bridges, the quarterly newsletter of the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Dr. Slager’s article, “Innovative Faculty Adjust to Students’ Needs During the Crisis” examined the quick actions taken by FNU faculty during the pandemic.
Diana Jolles Participates in Best Hospitals for Maternity Assessment U.S. News & World Report recently introduced its assessment of the “Best Hospitals for Maternity.” The stated goal of the assessment was “to inform patients and families who are expecting a baby and help them, in consultation with a healthcare professional, make choices about where to receive care for an uncomplicated pregnancy.” Nine experts in maternal and perinatal quality measurement, including FNU DNP Clinical Faculty Diana Jolles, Ph.D., CNM, were asked for their input on the proposed methodology.
FNU Student Receives Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. Scholarship FNU nursemidwifery student Nicole Knight, MSN, Nicole Knight has been named the recipient of the Liesel M. Hiemenz Scholarship. She was among the scholarship recipients recognized at the Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. virtual event on November 17, which was also attended by FNU Dean of Nursing Dr. Joan Slager. Knight began her nursing career at Tucson Medical Center (TMC) in the Emergency Department where she was a member of the Hazmat Team. Knight continued her nursing career as an Emergency Department travel nurse working at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles and then John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, California. At John Muir Medical Center, Nicole earned certification as a Certified Emergency Nurse, Mobile Intensive Care Nurse, TNCC, ENPC, and Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse and excelled at the role of charge nurse for nine years, in a 45-bed ER for the trauma center of Contra Costa County. She took on peer instruction in emergency pediatric care, through lectures and hands-on skills demonstrations. She was nominated for Magnet Nurse Instructor of the Year through John Muir and the Pediatric Readiness Improvement Award through the Emergency Nurses Association. Upon graduation from FNU, Knight hopes to offer evidence-based, compassionate, women-centered care to mothers and their newborns. After traveling throughout Eastern Africa in 2010, she also plans outreach on medical mission trips for international birth work, to not only hone the skills of cultural sensitivity to those families in her care but to provide care and education to the women of these rural and underserved communities.
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 17
Alumni Notes Georgianna Ainslie Joins Faculty at Northwest Nazarene University
Graduation Has Its Rewards! The support you enjoyed as a student doesn’t end with graduation -- it’s only the beginning. Now that you are a member of the Frontier Nursing University Association, the Office of Alumni Relations is here to find meaningful ways to support you — from graduation and beyond. Because you demonstrate the excellence of FNU in everyday practice, you are an integral part of FNU. Alumni are also our most effective recruiters and most loyal donors. We appreciate your commitment to FNU, and we hope our alumni programs will be of help wherever life takes you.
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) in Nampa, Idaho, recently welcomed Georgianna Ainslie, DNP, Class 11 as an Associate Professor of Nursing. She worked as a full-scope clinical midwifery practice until 2018. In 2020, she began teaching as adjunct faculty for NNU.
Upper Great Lakes Hancock Family Center Welcomes Ashley Chamberlain
Listed below are just a few of the resources you will find on the Banyan Tree Portal, which is accessible using your Frontier email account. • Access to many of the FNU Library publications and reference sites • Free Continuing Education courses • Access to FNU’s Job Board as well as those of the American College of Nurse-Midwives, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and the Health Resources and Services Administration
Ashley Chamberlain, MSN, CNM, Class 181, has joined the team of women’s health providers at Upper Great Lakes Hancock Family Health Center in Hancock, Michigan. She has special interests in gynecology, prenatal care, labor support, birth, and breastfeeding promotion.
Promise Community Health Center Welcomes Audra De Groot
• Quickly request a transcript • Monthly e-newsletter with the latest news from FNU • Quarterly Bulletin with stories about FNU programs, faculty, and graduates • Easy access to share your news The Office of Alumni Relations stands ready to answer your questions and provide assistance. Contact Linda Barnes, Senior Development and Alumni Relations Officer at Linda.Barnes@Frontier.edu and (859) 251-4592.
Audra De Groot, ARNP, MSN, CNM, Class 69, recently joined Promise Community Health Center in Sioux Center, Iowa. One of three midwives at Promise, De Groot provides well-woman care, prenatal care, home birth assistance, and postpartum care.
18 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
Emily Fox Joins Providence Medical Center Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, recently added Emily Fox, MSN, APRN, CNM, Class 93, to its healthcare team. Fox’s specialties and professional concentrations include perinatal mood disorders, the neurobiology of trauma, health disparities of vulnerable families, and gender affirmation.
BellaNova Women’s Health Welcomes Betsy Fuzi Betsy Fuzi, MSN, CNM, Class 167, recently joined BellaNova Women’s Health, which is part of Spectrum Health Lakeland, in St. Joseph, Michigan. Prior to joining BellaNova Women’s Health, Fuzi spent over15 years as a labor and delivery nurse at Munson Healthcare in Michigan.
Maggie Gardner Joins Olympic Medical Center Olympic Medical Center in Port Angeles, Washington, has hired Maggie Gardner, MSN, CNM, Class 85. Gardner will see patients at Olympic Medical Physicians’ Women’s Health clinics in Port Angeles and Sequim.
Photo credit: Jeff Frey
Essentia HealthHibbing Clinic Welcomes Bridget Johnson Bridget Johnson, MSN, FNP, Bridge 165, recently joined the Essentia Health-Hibbing Clinic in Hibbing, Minnesota, as an advanced practice registered nurse and certified nurse practitioner specializing in family medicine.
Sherri Lynn Joins Baptist Health Medical Group OB/GYN Sherri Lynn, APRN, CNM, DNP, Class 36, has joined Baptist Health Medical Group OB/GYN in Paducah, Kentucky. Lynn has more than 24 years of nursing experience, including working in the emergency department, ICU, PCU, labor and delivery, newborn care, pediatrics, and gynecology. She provides annual wellness visits, preconception care, complete pregnancy/postpartum care, and menopause management.
Barbara BennettWolcott Presents at ACMN Webinar Barbara BennettWolcott, DNP, CNM, Class 25, presented “Implementing Universal Intimate Partner Violence Screening Utilizing a Patient-Centered, Shared Decision-Making Approach” during a live webinar held by the American College of Nurse-Midwives in October. She currently is faculty at Washington State University’s College of Nursing.
Minyon Outlaw Presents at DNP Conference Minyon Outlaw, DNP, CNM, Class 33, was accepted for a podium presentation at the annual National Doctors of Nursing Practice Conference in Chicago earlier this year. Her presentation was entitled, “Safely Reducing Primary Cesarean Section Utilizing the PROVIDE Toolbox in a Faith-Based Hospital.”
Kate Scott Presents at Nebraska Nurses Association Annual Convention Kate Scott, DNP, CNM, Class 33, was accepted for a poster presentation at that Nebraska Nurses Association annual conference. She presented her DNP project, “Implementing Effective Perinatal Depression Screening and Treatment in an Academic Outpatient Setting.”
Take A Moment to Stay in the Know FNU alumni, we know you want to stay informed about all that is happening at FNU. To make sure you don’t miss communications such as the Quarterly Bulletin or our monthly e-newsletters, please take a moment to make sure we have your updated contact information. Please send your updated contact information, including preferred email address, phone number, and mailing address to alumniservises@frontier.edu. Thank you!
FNU Alumni Association The Frontier Nursing University Office of Alumni Relations is here to support YOU! Our purpose is to find new and meaningful ways to engage and support Alumni — from graduation throughout your career. Alumni are an integral part of FNU’s development because you demonstrate the excellence of FNU in everyday practice and because you are our primary recruiters and most loyal donors. We appreciate your commitment to FNU, and we plan to offer additional rewarding programs in return soon. Services are open to all graduates of FNU. We currently have more 6,000 alumni in all 50 states and many countries around the world. We encourage you to explore the services, programs, and activities offered and to become involved. There are several wonderful ways to stay in touch with friends and connected to FNU including; reunions, conference receptions, case days, eNews, and our very active Facebook Group. To take advantage of all member services, please make sure we have your updated contact information by emailing us at alumniservices@frontier.edu.
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 19
Courier Program
The Courier Program is Accepting 2022 Applications Now FNU is now accepting applications for the 2022 Courier Program. The deadline to apply is February 18, 2022. Anyone interested in the program can email the Courier Program Coordinator at courier. program@frontier.edu. The Courier Program is an eight-week rural and public health service-learning program with a rich and adventuresome history that targets college students with an interest in public health, healthcare, or a related field. The Courier Program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain insight into the challenges and opportunities of providing healthcare in rural and underserved areas. Throughout this eight-week program, Couriers become immersed and engaged through their Courier Clinic Site. These sites will be in rural areas and/or in areas with mental health or primary care shortage areas serving medically underserved areas/ populations. Couriers will also complete an online learning component during their internship, and serve the local community.
Breckinridge Capital Advisors Celebrates 5 Years of Supporting FNU Courier Program While the restart of the Courier program brings with it some inherent changes due to Frontier’s new location in Versailles, the core purpose and structure of the program remain the same. So too does the support of the Courier program by Breckinridge Capital Advisors. As part of their own Ambassador Program, Breckinridge Capital Advisors began its support of the Courier program in 2017. The Ambassador Program is a charitable effort that includes five focused relationships, each led by a team of Breckinridge employees. When Breckinridge chose to begin sponsoring the Courier program in 2017, the company sent two employees to FNU’s former campus in Hyden, Kentucky, to get first-hand experience of the Courier program.
“One of the objectives of the employee ambassadors is to educate the Breckinridge staff on the mission and goals of their respective organization,” said Breckinridge Capital Advisors Found and President Peter Coffin, who is a descendant of the Breckinridge family. Mr. Coffin is also the current Chair of the Frontier Foundation Board. “Our Frontier ambassadors have done this by inviting Dr. Susan Stone and colleagues to our offices to give updates on the school and current initiatives.” In non-pandemic times, Courier program alumni and Boston-area FNU graduates have also been invited to come to the Breckinridge offices to share their information and experiences with the staff to create a deeper connection to the program. In 2019, the Breckinridge staff engaged in an outreach effort, asking the alma maters of their employees to spread the word about the Courier Program and to help the recruitment process. Through these engagement efforts, the connection between Breckinridge and Frontier has grown to include significant financial support. In addition to their financial support of the Courier program, Breckinridge endowed a need-based scholarship to offset tuition costs. To date, the scholarship has aided 12 students. Additionally, in 2020, Breckinridge donated $10,000 to FNU’s student emergency fund, which provides financial assistance to students who are impacted by unforeseen circumstances such as the pandemic, hurricanes, or floods. “We are so grateful for the amazing support provided by Breckinridge Capital Advisors,” said FNU Courier program director Kayla White. “It is incredible how they have embraced the program, not only supporting it financially but also becoming actively involved in learning about the program and helping it grow.”
Breckinridge Capital Advisor Founder and President Peter Coffin
20 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
Former Courier and Entrepreneur Carlyle Carter Maintains Strong Ties to Frontier The restart of the Frontier Courier Program offers promise to the future couriers and the people whom they will serve. It also offers an ongoing connection to the university and program for past couriers. That is why former courier and current member of the FNU Board of Directors Carlyle Carter is happy to see the continuation of the courier program in Frontier’s new community of Versailles.
in the 1980s and 1990s. She also became a trustee and served on the Courier Advisory Council. Carter’s professional career took her to Needham, Massachusetts, where she cofounded and co-owned Global Child from 1992-2002. The company, which was sold in 2002, offered world language instruction for children ages 5-11, including teacher training, teacher curricula, and languagelearning materials for students. Carter continued to work in education, including writing and editorial roles with educational publishers, including Follett, Rand-McNally, Heinle & Heinle, and McGraw-Hill. She also taught French in the Watertown Public Schools in Watertown, Massachusetts. Carter’s history with Frontier and her remarkable career accomplishments made her an ideal candidate for the FNU Board of Directors, which she joined in July 2018. In 2019, Carter was presented with the Courier Program Unbridled Spirit Award, which is given annually to a former courier who has perpetuated the mission and spirit of Frontier in their own lives. The criteria for this award include a dedication to serving others; ongoing, longstanding stewardship of Frontier; and demonstration of personal conviction, courage, and a zest for adventure.
“My affiliation with Frontier dates back to 1954 when I was eleven years old, and Mary Breckinridge, my grandmother’s first cousin, invited me to visit her in Wendover,” Carter said. “This was a life-changing experience. I had heard stories about the Frontier Nursing Service from my father, Joe Carter, who had been one of the first, and more rambunctious, couriers. I was excited to get to know Mary Breckinridge, the nurses, the staff, the couriers, the mountain people, and the horses. In those days, nurses were still doing home visits on horseback.” Carter went on to serve as a courier in 1962 and in 1965. She maintained her relationship with Frontier, serving as an active member of the Boston Committee
Because, as the award criteria state, the mission and spirit of Frontier extend beyond the campus, Carter is eager to see the courier program continue to flourish in Versailles and the surrounding communities and inspire young people to serve others throughout the world. “As the co-owner with my brothers of one of the oldest houses in Versailles, Kentucky, we have painstakingly restored and modernized it over the years,” she said. “As a resident of Evanston, Illinois, the first city in the United State to have a reparations restorative housing program, and a member of Lake Street Church of Evanston founded before the Civil War, I am committed to racial justice. I believe in preserving the best of the past while improving the present and the future.” The Frontier Courier Program represents the best of Frontier’s past, and in its new location, its mission and spirit will continue to evolve to meet the changing times and needs.
About The Frontier Courier Program The Courier Program is an eightweek rural and public health servicelearning program with a rich and adventuresome history that targets college students with an interest in public health, healthcare, or a related field. The Courier Program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain insight into the challenges and opportunities of providing healthcare in rural and underserved areas. Throughout this eight-week program, Couriers become immersed and engaged through their Courier Clinic Site. These sites will be in rural areas and/or in areas with mental health or primary care shortage areas serving medically underserved areas/populations. Couriers will also complete an online learning component during their internship, and serve the local community. During their time on-site, Couriers will shadow a variety of clinicians and provide leadership on special projects, as well as other avenues of community participation. Courier’s experiences help them to fully comprehend the complexities of rural and underserved communities and healthcare, as well as grasp the compassionate and caring legacy established by our founder, Mary Breckinridge, which is carried on by FNU students, alumni, Couriers, and faculty.
Learn more at https://portal.frontier.edu/web/ fnu/courier-program
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 21
Frontier Mourns the Passing of Charlotte “Cherry” Wunderlich Charlotte (Cherry) Forbes Wunderlich served as a Courier for the Frontier Nursing Service in winter and spring 1965, during her semester away from Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, where she was a junior. Raised on a Wyoming ranch, Cherry was familiar with rural life and took to her Courier role quickly. At Wendover, she helped care each day for the horses, did varied projects in the Big House and outdoors, and drove a jeep for errands into Hyden and to the outpost nursing centers. Cherry’s time with FNS strongly influenced her life. She taught classes for expectant parents for several years. Her professional career and volunteer life have centered around writing and editing, including health education materials. She co-authored and edited handbooks for expectant and new parents; training manuals for youth educators; and handbooks for patients being tested or treated for all types of thyroid cancer. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree at Mount Holyoke College and a Master’s in Economics at George Washington University. She served on the board of the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. She lived in Bethesda, Maryland, with her husband John, a cancer researcher. Together they had two sons. She remained involved in the work of FNU through her work with the Washington, D.C. Committee and her annual donations to support the mission. Ms. Wunderlich was presented a Mary Breckinridge Society “Continuing the Vision” pin at the 2014 Washington, D.C. Luncheon in recognition of her commitment to building the FNU Endowment. In 2017, she was presented with the Courier Program Unbridled Spirit Award, which is given annually to a former Courier who has carried the torch of Mary Breckinridge beyond the mountains, perpetuating the mission and spirit of Frontier in their own lives. The criteria for this award include a dedication to serving others; ongoing, longstanding stewardship of Frontier; and demonstration of personal conviction, courage, and a zest for adventure.
22 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
Frontier Mourns the Passing of Sandra Mae Perkins Sandra M. Perkins, CNM, passed away on August 31, 2021. Ms. Perkins was born in 1944 in Newport, Rhode Island, to the late William H. Perkins and Artemus M. Perkins. Ms. Perkins, who was a registered nurse and certified nursemidwife for 50 years, was presented with the Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa, by the FNU Board of Directors in 2015 in recognition of her “dedicated service in the name of the mothers, babies, and families who care for them.” Her father left the United States and the family to serve in the Second World War, and she and her seven brothers and sisters struggled to survive in poverty. Despite these circumstances, Sandra received a scholarship as the first black nurse enrolled in her nursing school, graduated as class valedictorian from the Zion Bible Institute, and excelled in the federally funded nurse-midwifery program at the University of Mississippi. Sandra graduated from the Newport Hospital School of Nursing in 1966 and earned a Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery from the University of Mississippi in 1974. In 2003 she earned a Certificate in Pharmacy Technician from Western Career College in California. For over 25 years, she dedicated her life to advancing the field of nurse-midwifery across the country. Working in the trenches of the healthcare delivery system, Sandra dedicated her career to working tirelessly for the betterment of maternal and newborn care and for the recognition of nurse-midwives and freestanding birth centers. She was responsible for the development and collection of measurable data documenting nurse-midwifery care and freestanding birth centers as safe choices for all women.
Trustees In the 1970s, she made several trips to Africa to conduct classes and lectures with teens and breastfeeding women. Along with her colleagues Myra Farr, Esther Mack, and Robert McTammany, Sandra helped open the McTammany Nurse-Midwifery Center in Reading, Pennsylvania, and worked to develop the original standards for Accreditation for Free Standing Birth Centers with licensing regulations for the state of PA. She later moved to California and worked at Sutter Memorial Hospital, Newport Hospital, and the University of California Davis Medical Center, OB/GYN Clinic.
Mrs. Tia Andrew, Hamilton Parish, Bermuda
In addition to her clinical work, Sandra also wrote short midwife stories “Babies Alive” and “Mid-Wives Memoirs” and was a member of the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC). Sandra’s colleagues described her as gentle, caring, a friend, a role model, an inspiration, and a pioneer.
Miss Anna Carey, Hyden, KY
Ms. Perkins is survived by seven sisters, Cynthia L. Smothers of Middletown, Pauline A. Moye of Newport, Marsha G. Mitchell of Sacramento, California, Hope Perkins of Newport, Marjorie L. Wingate of Trenton, New Jersey, and Roselyn L. Tynes of Hampton, Virginia, as well as step-sister Yolette Barnes of Sacramento, California.
Ms. Sarah Bacon, Brooklyn, NY Mrs. Andrea Begley, Hyden, KY Dr. Heather Bernard, Hamilton, NY Gov. Steven Beshear, Lexington, KY Mrs. Betty Brown, Louisville, KY Mrs. Amy Pennington Brudnicki, Richmond, KY Dr. Timothy Bukowski, Chapel Hill, NC Dr. Wallace Campbell, Berea, KY Mrs. Jean Chapin, Oldwick, NJ Mrs. Lois Cheston, Topsfield, MA Bill Corley, Indianapolis, IN Mrs. Julia Breckinridge Davis, Winston-Salem, NC Mrs. John Dete, West Liberty, OH Mrs. Selby Ehrlich, Bedford, NY Mrs. Robert Estill, Raleigh, NC Mrs. Noel Smith Fernandez, Pomona, NY Ms. Mary Ann Gill, Versailles, KY Mr. John Grandin, Chestnut Hill, MA Dr. Joyce Fortney Hamberg, Southgate, KY Dr. Horace Henriques, Lyme, NH Mr. & Mrs. John Hodge, Berwyn, PA
Memorial Donations
Mrs. Robin Frentz Isaacs, Lincoln, MA
The following people gave contributions to Frontier in memory of their friends or loved ones. The names in bold are the deceased.
Mrs. Mary Carol Joseph, Hyden, KY
Mrs. Rosemary Johnson, Versailles, KY Ms. Deborah M. King, Westport, MA Mrs. Patricia Lawrence, Westwood, MA Mrs. Marian Leibold, Cincinnati, OH Dr. Ruth Lubic, Washington, DC
Lynne Herdrich
Jane Cheever Talbot
Ms. Jessica J. Jordan
Mr. Peter H. Talbot
Jane H. Hope
Charlotte Wunderlich
Mr. Stephen R. Spanyer
Ms. Lorraine J. Bell
Mr. William Lubic, Washington DC Mr. Robert Montague, JD, Urbanna, VA Mr. Wade Mountz, Louisville, KY Dr. Judy Myers, Ph.D., RN, New Albany, IN
James Tyrrell
Ms. Barbara Napier, Irvine, KY Ms. Sandra Napier, Stinnett, KY Dr. Spencer Noe, Lexington, KY Mr. Dean Osborne, Hyden, KY Mrs. Helen Rentch, Midway, KY
Jan Weingrad Smith Dr. Mary Gillmor-Kahn CNM Dr. Lisa P. Huckaby On Behalf Of Cynthia Ladds
Mrs. John Richardson, Washington, DC Mrs. Linda Roach, Lexington, KY Mrs. Georgia Rodes, Lexington, KY Mrs. Sandra Schreiber, Louisville, KY Maria Small, MD, MPH, Durham, NC Mrs. Sherrie Rice Smith, Franklin, WI Mrs. Austin Smithers, Lyme, NH Mrs. Robert Steck, Arlington, MA
Mr. and Mrs. Pat and Maryellen McGrath
Mrs. Mary Clay Stites, Louisville, KY
Dr. Maria Socorro Valentin-Welch
Ms. Mary Frazier Vaughan, Lexington, KY
Nina Zwolinski
Mr. Richard Sturgill, Paris, KY Mrs. LouAnne Roberts Verrier, Austin, TX Dr. Patience White, Bethesda, MD Mr. Harvie Wilkinson, Lexington, KY Ms. Vaughda Wooten, Hyden, KY
Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 23
Board of Directors
Frontier Nursing University
CHAIR Michael Carter, DNSc, DNP New Orleans, LA VICE CHAIR Michael T. Rust Louisville, KY SECRETARY Wallace Campbell, Ph.D. Berea, KY TREASURER Emma Metcalf, RN, MSN, CPHQ Louisville, KY
Board Members Carlyle Carter, Evanston, IL William (Bill) Corley, MHA, Carmel, IN Nancy Hines, Shepherdsville, KY Jean Johnson, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, Cabin John, MD Marcus Osborne, MBA, Bentonville, AR Kerri Schuiling, Ph.D., CNM, FAAN, FACNM, Marquette, MI Peter Schwartz, MD, Port St. Lucie, FL Maria Small, MD, MPH, Durham, NC Nancy Fugate Woods, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, Seattle, WA May Wykle, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, FGSA, Cleveland, OH Foundation Board Members Peter Coffin, Chair, Frontier Nursing Service, Inc Foundation, Chestnut Hill, MA Derek Bonifer, Louisville, KY Peter Schwartz, MD, Port St. Lucie, FL Board Members Emeritus John Foley, Lexington, KY Marion McCartney, CNM, FACNM, Washington, DC Kenneth J. Tuggle, JD, Louisville, KY
24 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
What is a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) and a Certified Midwife (CM)? Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are educated in two disciplines: midwifery and nursing. They earn graduate degrees, complete a midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), and pass a national certification examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) to receive the professional designation of CNM. Certified Midwives (CMs) are educated in the discipline of midwifery. They earn graduate degrees, meet health and science education requirements, complete a midwifery education program accredited by ACME, and pass the same national certification examination as CNMs to receive the professional designation of CM.
Special Knit Items Needed! Homemade blankets and scarves continue to be very needed for our FNU Students. Frontier nurse-midwifery students present a baby cap to the family of a baby whose birth they attend, and our nurse practitioner students present lap quilts or scarves to their patients. We have plenty of baby caps at this time but desperately need more blankets and scarves. The size needed for lap quilts is approximately 40 by 42 inches. Yarn should be a worsted weight. We greatly appreciate the many knitting groups and friends
Please send your donated items to:
who send items to us. These items circle the globe as our
Frontier Nursing University Attn: Dr. Joan Slager, Dean of Nursing 2050 Lexington Road Versailles, KY 40383
students pass them on to women and families and share the story of the Frontier Nursing Service. It’s such a special way to pass on the vision and mission of Frontier.
Alumni Collection Added to the Online Gift Shop! Great news, FNU alumni and students: our online gift shop is now officially open! We’re excited to finally have a virtual storefront offering a variety of apparel and accessories from t-shirts to cotton masks for you to show your FNU pride. Frontier.edu/FNUalumnigear
frontier.edu/FNUgear Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin 25
Do you have a new mailing or email address? Please let us know. Simply email us at FNUnews@frontier.edu.
26 Frontier Nursing University • Quarterly Bulletin
2050 Lexington Road Versailles, KY 40383 FNU@frontier.edu • 859.251.4700
Frontier.edu Our mission is to provide accessible nurse-midwifery and nurse practitioner education to prepare competent, entrepreneurial, ethical, and compassionate leaders in primary care to serve all individuals with an emphasis on women and families in diverse, rural, and underserved populations.
