I earned my Bachelor's of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Mississippi in 1984 and my Master's of Science in Nursing as a Clinical Nurse Specialist of Critical Care of Adults in 1991.  I have worked in every type of critical care unit during my 40 years of nursing, 20 years as a clinical nurse specialist in critical care across Mississppi, Georgia, and Florida.  I have also served in the capacity of a Neuroscience Program coordinator in Florida and Georgia, so Stroke Management, remains near and dear to my heart.  I have also served as a clinical field specialist for ZOLL medical with a primary focus in Intravascular Temperature Management (induced hypothermia after cardiac arrest).  I have only been in academics for the past 12 years at St. Petersburg College, in the College of Nursing as a contributing faculty member with the BayCare Health System Nursing cohort.  

I have been CCRN certified for 39 years!   I am an avid believer in nursing cerrtification within your chosen specialty, and lifelong learning.  

My only daughter, Megan, and her husband, Eric have made me a grandmother to two girls:  Audrey Adele & Charlotte Paige, ages 4 & 6 years and I am loving every minute of my time with them. 

I currently have a new "fur baby", Elvis.  He is a Teddy Bear pup (1/2 Maltese and 1/2 Shitzu).  He is a baby, just 9 months old.  I have owned several dogs throughout my life.  I am very partial to Schnauzers, French Bulldogs, and German shepards. I have also had a Shitzu in the past, so I kinda know what I am up against with this little guy!  

My outside interests include: Ballroom and Latin dancing, and I compete whenever possible, cooking, and wine (sort of goes along w/ the cooking part), and traveling.  I am an avid SEC football fan, and rarely miss a game, but being an Ole Miss Rebel fan, it's usually a tough season.  Nonetheless, I support them and enjoy the games.  I always like trying new experiences and embracing opportunities, so any opportunity to enjoy the arts, learn a new skill, or compete in some form or another, I will give it a try.  Newest hobby is Pickleball!  

Teaching philosophy:  I believe my role is to provide each student with the tools and a strong foundation to begin a successful transition to the bedside RN, regardless of the area of interest.  My goal is to enstill within each student the passion I still feel when caring for pataients and famiies, to be there in the moment w/ them and the ability to empathsize with each individual situation.  I believe my role is to be the "coach" for the student, not just the person providing facts; to challenge them to push themselves to be better and to trust that I will be there for them and will work as hard as they do to help them be the best nurse they can be.  I want them to feel their accomplishment and be proud and confident.