Mentoring the Next Leaders

Nurses can take a variety of pathways in their professional journey. These paths can be both exciting and intimidating, which is why there is much importance placed on mentorship. The Nurse Leadership Residency Program was created in collaboration between Nursing Administration and Human Resources (HR) as a part of the Management Residency and Business Internship (MRBI) program. The purpose of this program was to provide bedside nurses, who have shown leadership qualities, an opportunity to be mentored by nursing leadership while shadowing them in their daily activities. After completing the program, the residents are placed in a leadership position that best fits their skill set and experience. Two residents are chosen for every cohort after a detailed interview process ensuring that the resident will thrive in this dynamic program in which a wide variety of rotations and education is provided.

Spanning two years, this program offers the residents the opportunity to gain new skills and understanding of healthcare operations. Throughout the two years, the residents rotate through the different parts of the organization and gain an understanding of the processes for each department at the different leadership tiers. This is also an opportunity to build a personal network of resources. Residents are given opportunity to voice any preferences they may have towards a specific rotation, or in lengthening a time with a particular preceptor. The residency program covers their graduate degree course work, whether MSN or DNP. Leadership courses from Staff Development and HR teams are also provided to the residents to enhance skills in communication, delegation, project management and operational programs. The focus of the program is to provide the residents an administrative toolbox and resources that will allow them to become the leaders they envision themselves being.

As a Seventh-day Adventist organization, Loma Linda University Health places Christian themes into the various programs to support the mission and values of the organization, as well as to create a healthy work culture. Through this guidance and support it is hoped that residents will grow and develop into servant leaders that actively support and engage with their teams as they move forward in their leadership career. In 2022, we are beginning our sixth cohort. Though this program is still in its infancy, we have seen success in the careers of the residents. Two residents are currently assistant vice presidents within the organization, two residents are directors, and three residents are nurse managers.

This program is currently supported and guided by the Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Helen Staples-Evans, DNP, RN, NE-BC, and led by Assistant Vice President of Clinical Operations & Space Planning, Allison Ong, DNP, RN, NE-BC, CCRN-K, along with Nursing Projects Manager, Priscilla M. Santos, DNP, BS, RN. Ong and Santos are graduates of the program. It is the sincere hope of Staples-Evans, Ong, and Santos, to see the Nurse Leadership Residency Program grow and continue to provide healthy stepping stones for the next nurse leaders.