Our internationally recognized faculty are the cornerstone of our online Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP-AC) programs. Dedicated to fostering a nurturing and empowering online learning environment, they are committed to your success, both academically and professionally. Bringing a wealth of real-world experience directly from their practice as nurse practitioners, our faculty are uniquely positioned to equip you with the advanced knowledge and critical skills necessary to excel in the specialized field of pediatric acute care. Learn from the best and prepare to become a leader in pediatric healthcare.
Tonia Poteat, PhD, MPH, PA-C, AAHIVS, DFAAPA
Professor
Dr. Poteat, a distinguished Professor, brings extensive expertise in public health and epidemiology to our Online Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs. Her background as a Physician Assistant and her advanced certifications highlight her commitment to comprehensive patient care and interdisciplinary approaches, valuable assets for students pursuing advanced practice nursing. Explore Dr. Poteat’s scholarly work further on Scholars@Duke.
Maryellen Kelly, DNP, CPNP, MHSc
Assistant Professor
As an Assistant Professor and a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Kelly’s practical experience directly informs her teaching within our online PNP-AC programs. Her Master of Health Science further enriches her perspective, providing students with a well-rounded education grounded in both clinical expertise and a broader understanding of healthcare systems. Learn more about Dr. Kelly’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Benjamin Smallheer, PhD, ACNP-BC, FNP-BC, CCRN, CNE, FAANP
Associate Professor
Dr. Smallheer, an Associate Professor, holds dual board certifications as both an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, showcasing his broad and deep clinical knowledge. His certifications in critical care nursing and nursing education, along with his Fellowship in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, underscore his dedication to excellence in both practice and teaching within online nurse practitioner programs. Discover more about Dr. Smallheer’s work at Scholars@Duke.
Michael Cary, PhD, RN
Associate Professor
Dr. Cary, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse, contributes significantly to our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs with his research focus and clinical insights. His doctoral preparation and RN licensure provide a strong foundation for guiding future nurse practitioners in evidence-based practice and patient-centered care. Explore Dr. Cary’s publications and research at Scholars@Duke.
Jamison (Jamie) Lord, DNP, MSN, RNC, PMHNP-BC
Assistant Professor
Dr. Lord, an Assistant Professor, brings a unique perspective to our online PNP-AC programs with her dual expertise as a Registered Nurse and a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Her background in mental health nursing is invaluable for pediatric acute care, where understanding the holistic needs of children and families is paramount. Learn more about Dr. Lord’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Margaret (Peggy) Bush, PhD, MBA, RPh
Professor
Professor Bush, holding a PhD, MBA, and licensure as a Registered Pharmacist, provides a unique interdisciplinary perspective crucial for students in online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Her expertise in pharmacology and business administration enriches the curriculum, preparing students for the complexities of healthcare management and medication optimization in pediatric acute care settings. Discover more about Professor Bush’s diverse background at Scholars@Duke.
Christina Leonard, APRN, DNP, FNP-C, CNL
Assistant Professor
Dr. Leonard, an Assistant Professor and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, is also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Leader. Her diverse certifications and DNP degree demonstrate her commitment to advanced nursing practice and leadership, essential qualities she imparts to students in our online NP programs. Explore Dr. Leonard’s professional profile at Scholars@Duke.
Staci Reynolds, PhD, RN, ACNS-BC, CCRN, CNRN, CPHQ, FAAN
Professor
Professor Reynolds, a highly accomplished Professor and Registered Nurse, is board-certified as an Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist in critical care and neuroscience nursing. Her extensive certifications in critical care, neuroscience, and healthcare quality, along with her Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing, highlight her exceptional expertise and leadership in advanced nursing, benefiting students in online acute care NP programs. Learn more about Professor Reynolds’ distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Kara McGee, DMS, MSPH, PA-C, AAHIVS
Associate Professor
Associate Professor McGee, holding a DMS and MSPH and certified as a Physician Assistant, brings a valuable interprofessional perspective to our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Her expertise in public health and HIV care enriches the curriculum, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive and preventative care in pediatric populations. Discover more about Professor McGee’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Rémi Hueckel, DNP, CPNP-AC, CHSE, FAANP
Associate Professor
Dr. Hueckel, an Associate Professor, is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in acute care and holds the Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator credential. His expertise in simulation education and acute pediatric care is directly relevant to the practical skill development crucial in online PNP-AC programs. His Fellowship in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners further distinguishes his contributions to the field. Explore Dr. Hueckel’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Elaine Kauschinger, PhD, ARNP, FNP-BC, FAANP
Assistant Professor
Dr. Kauschinger, an Assistant Professor and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Her expertise in family practice provides a strong foundation in primary care principles, which are integral to comprehensive pediatric acute care. Learn more about Dr. Kauschinger’s work at Scholars@Duke.
Anne Derouin, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, PMHS, FAANP, ANEF
Professor
Professor Derouin, a Professor and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in primary care and holds the Pediatric Mental Health Specialist certification. Her expertise in both primary and mental health care for children provides a broad perspective essential for students in online pediatric NP programs. Her Fellowships in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the Academy of Nursing Education further highlight her leadership in nursing education. Discover more about Professor Derouin’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Margaret (Midge) Bowers, DNP, FNP-BC, CHSE, FAANP, FAAN, FACC
Professor
Professor Bowers, a Professor holding a DNP and board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, is also a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and a Fellow of multiple prestigious academies, including the American Academy of Nursing and the American College of Cardiology. Her extensive credentials and diverse expertise, spanning simulation, family practice, and cardiology, are invaluable to students in advanced online nursing programs. Explore Professor Bowers’ distinguished profile at Scholars@Duke.
Schenita Randolph, PhD, MPH, RN
Associate Professor
Dr. Randolph, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse, brings her expertise in public health and epidemiology, demonstrated by her PhD and MPH, to our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Her research and experience in public health are crucial for understanding the broader determinants of child health and developing preventative strategies in acute care settings. Learn more about Dr. Randolph’s research at Scholars@Duke.
Carolina Tennyson, DNP, ACNP-BC, AACC
Assistant Professor
Dr. Tennyson, an Assistant Professor, is board-certified as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and holds credentials with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. Her focused expertise in acute care is directly applicable to the curriculum of online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs, providing students with specialized knowledge in this critical area. Discover more about Dr. Tennyson’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Thomas Blodgett, PhD, RN, AGACNP-BC
Assistant Professor
Dr. Blodgett, an Assistant Professor and Registered Nurse, is board-certified as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. His expertise in acute care across the lifespan, including gerontology, broadens the perspective for students in online pediatric acute care NP programs, highlighting the continuum of acute care principles. Explore Dr. Blodgett’s scholarly work at Scholars@Duke.
Tara Albrecht, PhD, ACNP-BC, ACHPN, RN
Associate Professor
Dr. Albrecht, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse, is board-certified as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and in Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing. Her dual certifications offer a comprehensive approach to acute care, encompassing both curative and palliative strategies, which is highly relevant to the complex needs of pediatric acute care patients. Learn more about Dr. Albrecht’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Sophia Smith, PhD, MSW, FAOSW
Associate Professor
Dr. Smith, an Associate Professor holding a PhD and MSW, and a Fellow of the Association of Oncology Social Work, brings expertise in social work and psychosocial oncology to our faculty. Her background emphasizes the importance of family-centered care and the psychosocial aspects of illness, crucial components within pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Discover more about Dr. Smith’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Mitchell Knisely, PhD, RN-BC, ACNS-BC, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Knisely, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse, is board-certified in Nursing Professional Development and as an Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist. His expertise in professional development and advanced clinical practice, along with his Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing, enhances the educational rigor of our online NP programs. Explore Dr. Knisely’s distinguished profile at Scholars@Duke.
Kais Gadhoumi, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dr. Gadhoumi, an Assistant Professor holding a PhD, contributes to our faculty with his advanced research skills and scholarly focus. His expertise in research methodologies and data analysis strengthens the academic foundation of our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Learn more about Dr. Gadhoumi’s research at Scholars@Duke.
Cristina Hendrix, DNS, GNP-BC, FNP, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Hendrix, an Associate Professor, holds a DNS and is board-certified as a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, with a Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing. Her broad expertise across gerontology and family practice provides a holistic perspective valuable for students in online NP programs. Explore Dr. Hendrix’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Mary Lou Affronti, DNP, MHSc, RN, ANP, FAAN
Professor
Professor Affronti, a Professor holding a DNP and MHSc, is a Registered Nurse and Adult Nurse Practitioner, with a Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing. Her expertise in adult health and advanced nursing practice leadership enriches the faculty for our online NP programs. Discover more about Professor Affronti’s work at Scholars@Duke.
Michael Zychowicz, DNP, ANP, ONP, FAAN, FAANP, FNAON
Professor
Professor Zychowicz, a Professor holding a DNP, and certifications as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner, is a Fellow of multiple prestigious academies including the American Academy of Nursing, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and the National Association of Orthopedic Nurses. His extensive credentials and specialized expertise in orthopedics and advanced practice nursing are valuable assets to our faculty. Explore Professor Zychowicz’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Devon Noonan, PhD, MPH, FNP-BC, CARN, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Noonan, an Associate Professor holding a PhD and MPH, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and in Addictions Nursing, with a Fellowship in the American Academy of Nursing. Her expertise in family practice and addictions provides a comprehensive understanding of patient health, relevant to the holistic approach in pediatric acute care. Learn more about Dr. Noonan’s research at Scholars@Duke.
Kathleen Turner, DNP, RN
Associate Professor
Dr. Turner, an Associate Professor holding a DNP and Registered Nurse licensure, contributes her clinical expertise and doctoral preparation to our faculty. Her advanced nursing knowledge is essential for guiding students in online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs toward evidence-based practice. Discover more about Dr. Turner’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Ragan Johnson, DNP, FNP-BC, CNE, FAANP
Associate Professor
Dr. Johnson, an Associate Professor, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Nurse Educator, and a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Her expertise in nursing education and family practice directly enhances the learning experience in our online NP programs, ensuring high-quality instruction and curriculum development. Explore Dr. Johnson’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Desi Newberry, DNP, NNP-BC
Associate Professor
Dr. Newberry, an Associate Professor, is board-certified as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Her specialized expertise in neonatal care, a critical area within pediatrics, is highly valuable for students pursuing advanced practice in pediatric acute care through online programs. Learn more about Dr. Newberry’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Blanca Iris Padilla, PhD, MBA, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Associate Professor
Dr. Padilla, an Associate Professor holding a PhD, MBA, and MSN, is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Her diverse background in nursing, business, and advanced practice provides a comprehensive perspective beneficial for students in online NP programs. Discover more about Dr. Padilla’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Shari Rushton, DNP, MS, RN, CCM, CNE
Associate Professor
Dr. Rushton, an Associate Professor, holds a DNP and MS, and is a Registered Nurse, Certified Case Manager, and Certified Nurse Educator. Her combined expertise in case management and nursing education strengthens the practical and pedagogical aspects of our online nurse practitioner programs. Explore Dr. Rushton’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Allison Stafford, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor
Dr. Stafford, an Assistant Professor and Registered Nurse holding a PhD, contributes her research expertise and advanced nursing knowledge to our faculty. Her scholarly work and clinical background are valuable resources for students in online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs, fostering evidence-based practice.
Marilyn Oermann, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN
Thelma M. Ingles Distinguished Professor of Nursing
Dr. Oermann, a Distinguished Professor of Nursing, is a Fellow of both the Academy of Nursing Education and the American Academy of Nursing. Her extensive expertise in nursing education, curriculum development, and scholarship provides exceptional leadership and guidance for our online nursing programs. Learn more about Dr. Oermann’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Deirdre Thornlow, PhD, RN, CPHQ, CNE
Associate Professor
Dr. Thornlow, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse, is certified in Healthcare Quality and as a Nurse Educator. Her expertise in quality improvement in healthcare and nursing education enhances the rigor and relevance of our online nurse practitioner programs, ensuring graduates are prepared to lead in quality care initiatives. Discover more about Dr. Thornlow’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Casey Brown, DNP, RN, AGPCNP-BC, AOCNP
Assistant Professor
Dr. Brown, an Assistant Professor and Registered Nurse, is board-certified as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner. Her dual certifications provide a broad base of knowledge in adult health and oncology, offering valuable perspectives for students in advanced online nursing programs. Explore Dr. Brown’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Amie Koch, DNP, FNP-C, RN, ACHPN
Associate Professor
Dr. Koch, an Associate Professor, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and in Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing. Her expertise in palliative care and family practice is highly relevant to the holistic and compassionate care approach emphasized in pediatric acute care. Learn more about Dr. Koch’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Malinda Teague, DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC/PC
Assistant Professor
Dr. Teague, an Assistant Professor and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, is certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in both acute and primary care. Her direct specialization in pediatric nurse practitioner practice, encompassing both acute and primary care, makes her an invaluable asset to our online PNP-AC programs. Discover more about Dr. Teague’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Debra (Debbie) Travers, PhD, MSN, RN, FAEN, FAMIA
Associate Consulting Professor
Dr. Travers, an Associate Consulting Professor, holds a PhD and MSN, and is a Registered Nurse, a Fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Nursing, and a Fellow of the American Medical Informatics Association. Her expertise in emergency nursing and medical informatics brings a critical technology and acute care perspective to our faculty. Explore Dr. Travers’ distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Brandon Knettel, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dr. Knettel, an Assistant Professor holding a PhD, contributes his advanced research skills and scholarly focus to our faculty. His expertise in research methodologies and data analysis strengthens the evidence-based curriculum of our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs. Learn more about Dr. Knettel’s research at Scholars@Duke.
Lisa Lewis, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE
Associate Professor
Dr. Lewis, an Associate Professor holding an EdD and MSN, is a Registered Nurse and Certified Nurse Educator. Her expertise in nursing education and curriculum development ensures the high quality and effective pedagogical approaches used in our online NP programs. Discover more about Dr. Lewis’ contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Jennie De Gagne, PhD, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, CNE, ANEF, FAAN
Professor
Professor De Gagne, a Professor holding both a PhD and DNP, is a Registered Nurse, board-certified in Nursing Professional Development, and a Certified Nurse Educator. She is also a Fellow of both the Academy of Nursing Education and the American Academy of Nursing. Her extensive expertise in nursing education, professional development, and advanced practice leadership makes her an exceptional leader within our online nursing programs. Explore Professor De Gagne’s distinguished profile at Scholars@Duke.
Ryan Shaw, PhD, RN, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Shaw, an Associate Professor and Registered Nurse holding a PhD, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. His expertise in nursing research and health outcomes contributes to the scholarly environment of our online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs, emphasizing evidence-based practice. Learn more about Dr. Shaw’s research at Scholars@Duke.
Karin Reuter-Rice, PhD, CPNP-AC, FCCM, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Reuter-Rice, an Associate Professor, is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in acute care, a Fellow of the American College of Critical Care Medicine, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. Her focused expertise in pediatric acute care and critical care medicine makes her a leading expert in our online PNP-AC programs. Discover more about Dr. Reuter-Rice’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Michelle Webb, DNP, RN, CHPCA
Assistant Professor
Dr. Webb, an Assistant Professor holding a DNP and Registered Nurse licensure, is also a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Administrator. Her expertise in palliative care and healthcare administration provides a valuable perspective on comprehensive patient care, relevant to the holistic approach in pediatric acute care. Explore Dr. Webb’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Valerie Sabol, PhD, MBA, ACNP, GNP, CHSE, CNE, ANEF, FAANP, FAAN
Professor
Professor Sabol, a Professor holding a PhD and MBA, is certified as both an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. She is also a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator, a Certified Nurse Educator, a Fellow of the Academy of Nursing Education, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and the American Academy of Nursing. Her extraordinary breadth of expertise across acute care, gerontology, simulation, and nursing education makes her an unparalleled leader in our online NP programs. Learn more about Professor Sabol’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Alison Edie, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Associate Professor
Dr. Edie, an Associate Professor and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Her expertise in family practice provides a strong foundation in primary care principles, essential for the comprehensive approach in pediatric acute care. Discover more about Dr. Edie’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Jacquelyn McMillian-Bohler, PhD, CNM, CNE
Assistant Professor
Dr. McMillian-Bohler, an Assistant Professor holding a PhD, is a Certified Nurse Midwife and a Certified Nurse Educator. Her expertise in midwifery and nursing education brings a unique perspective to our faculty, emphasizing holistic patient care and educational excellence in online nursing programs. Explore Dr. McMillian-Bohler’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Kathryn Trotter, DNP, CNM, FNP-C, CHSE, FAANP, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Trotter, an Associate Professor holding a DNP, is certified as a Nurse Midwife, a Family Nurse Practitioner, and a Healthcare Simulation Educator. She is also a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nursing. Her diverse expertise in midwifery, family practice, and simulation education enriches our online NP programs, offering students a broad and innovative learning environment. Learn more about Dr. Trotter’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Stephanie Ibemere, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor
Dr. Ibemere, an Assistant Professor and Registered Nurse holding a PhD, contributes her research expertise and scholarly focus to our faculty. Her advanced nursing knowledge and research skills are valuable resources for students in online pediatric acute care nurse practitioner programs, promoting evidence-based and innovative practice. Discover more about Dr. Ibemere’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Marissa Abram, PhD, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, FIAAN
Assistant Professor
Dr. Abram, an Assistant Professor, is board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and in Addictions Nursing, and a Fellow of the International Academy of Addictions Nursing. Her expertise in mental health and addictions nursing provides a crucial perspective for students in pediatric acute care, where co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use are significant considerations. Explore Dr. Abram’s expertise at Scholars@Duke.
Kathryn Kreider, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Professor
Professor Kreider, a Professor and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, is board-certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Her expertise in family practice and advanced nursing leadership enhances the faculty for our online NP programs, providing strong mentorship and curriculum direction. Learn more about Professor Kreider’s distinguished career at Scholars@Duke.
Sean Convoy, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Associate Professor
Dr. Convoy, an Associate Professor, is board-certified as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. His specialization in mental health nursing is increasingly important in pediatric acute care, where addressing the psychological and emotional needs of children and families is integral to comprehensive care. Discover more about Dr. Convoy’s contributions at Scholars@Duke.
AnnMarie Walton, PhD, RN, MPH, OCN, CHES, FAAN
Term Chair for the Dorothy L. Powell Professorship, Associate Professor
Dr. Walton, an Associate Professor and Term Chair, holds a PhD, MPH, and is a Registered Nurse, Oncology Certified Nurse, and Certified Health Education Specialist, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. Her diverse expertise in oncology, public health, and health education brings a broad perspective to our faculty, beneficial for students in online advanced nursing programs. Explore Dr. Walton’s distinguished profile at Scholars@Duke.
