NATCHITOCHES – Dr. Sharonda Johnson of Lafayette, a passionate nurse and nurse educator, believes in making a meaningful impact on patient care and healthcare systems, and that continuous learning and advanced education are essential in meeting that goal. To that end, she earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) through Northwestern State University’s College of Nursing.
Johnson is simulation coordinator, senior nursing instructor/graduate faculty, a certified online instructor and course designer at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Johnson earned an undergraduate in biology at Louisiana Tech, followed by a undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing from University of Louisiana-Monroe. She completed her doctoral degree last August.
Johnson pursued the Organizational Systems Leadership track, one of two tracks offered through NSU’s DNP program. Both are rigorous and highly selective. Graduates are prepared to become organizational leaders who impact healthcare through advanced clinical skills, translating evidence into practice and establishing policies to improve outcomes. In completing the doctoral degree, students develop strong leadership and communication skills and are required to research, develop and implement a healthcare improvement project.
NSU visited with Johnson to learn about her experience earning a doctoral degree and how it has impacted her career.
NSU: What motivated you to enroll in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program and where were you in your career at the time?
Johnson: When I decided to enroll in the DNP program, I was at a point in my career where I wanted to take my expertise to the next level. At the time, I was a nurse educator at UL-Lafayette. I felt that it was important to achieve a terminal degree to be a role model for students and lead by example. The OSL program offered a unique opportunity to enhance my clinical skills, leadership abilities and evidence-based practice knowledge.
NSU: What were some challenges and rewards of completing the track in Organizational Service Leadership?
Johnson: Some challenges included balancing coursework with work responsibilities and managing time effectively. However, the rewards were immense. I gained a deeper understanding of healthcare systems, quality improvement and organizational leadership. I had the opportunity to interact with faculty and fellow students. The program honed my leadership skills, allowing me to drive positive change within my organization and professional affiliations.
NSU: Did you learn anything surprising about yourself?
Johnson: It surprised me how much I enjoyed analyzing healthcare data and using it to improve patient outcomes.
NSU: Do you have any special areas of study and/or research? What was your community impact project?
Johnson: For my community impact project, I collaborated with local hospital to implement TeamSTEPPS program to improve patient safety and enhanced communication.
NSU: How did the DNP program impact you as a person and a professional?
Johnson: Personally, the DNP program boosted my confidence and resilience. Professionally, it positioned me for leadership roles and allowed me to contribute more effectively to my organization. Since the program, I have written several publications, grants and research projects. I have been promoted to assistant professor and have also received an endowed professorship.
NSU: What would you say to someone who might be a good candidate for the program?
Johnson: To aspiring DNP candidates, I’d say stay committed. The journey can sometimes be intense, but the rewards are worth it. The DNP program transformed me into a more knowledgeable, compassionate and effective nurse leader. I’m grateful for the experience.
Information on the Doctor of Nursing Practice and other degree programs offered through NSU’s College of Nursing and School of Allied Health is available at https://www.nsula.edu/nursing/.
