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The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh College of Nursing is known nationally for its  unmatched student success and cutting-edge simulation technology. Paramount to these achievements are the highly skilled faculty who not only develop caring and scholarly nurses at baccalaureate and graduate levels but also demonstrate a commitment to providing direct patient care in area clinics and hospitals.

More than 67 percent of the College of Nursing (CON) faculty serve as registered nurses (RNs) or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in addition to their roles as professors at the University, according to a recent evaluation of outside activity reports conducted by Bonnie Schmidt, CON assistant dean and director of evaluation and projects.

Bridging the gap between theory and practice

Kathy Elertson is an associate professor of nursing at UW Oshkosh, holds two certifications in advanced practice as a family nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner, and also works as a family nurse practitioner for ThedaCare in Shawano.

She feels that faculty are living out CON’s core mission, vision and values by actively practicing in the field.

“CON prides itself on having faculty members who are practicing clinicians,” Elertson said. “This academic-practice partnership link is something that makes our program stand out.”

Nursing students are fortunate to learn from clinical experts who have direct experience in the nursing field. This level of expertise ensures both the relevance and applicability of instruction that takes place within CON.

“Working within our profession keeps our clinical skills up to date and allows us to bring real-world expertise into the classroom to help students bridge theory and practice.” Elertson said. “It also enhances our implementation of evidence-based practice with our patients and in the classroom.”

Maintaining clinical competency

Kathy Wren serves as director of the nurse anesthesia emphasis in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at UW Oshkosh. She also is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) at Ascension Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh.

Wren’s practice is of personal importance to her, apart from the benefit it provides students. Moreover, it helps to address the nursing shortage Wisconsin currently faces.

“I’ve always wanted to be a CRNA, just as my mother was. I’ve maintained a practice for 15 years,” Wren said. “I also feel it helps establish credibility among students.”

There are many occasions where Wren finds herself working alongside nursing students going through clinical rotations at Mercy Medical Center. Her involvement in the organization is valuable in maintaining strong ties between CON and its clinical partners and preceptors.

Contributing to nursing knowledge in area clinics and hospitals

One of the most important outcomes of UW Oshkosh nursing faculty working in hospitals and clinics is the level of knowledge they bring to local healthcare. All CON professors have a doctorate in the nursing field and a wealth of clinical experience in addition to their education.

Shelly Lancaster ’99, is an assistant dean of the college and director of the pre-licensure program. She is a U.S. Air Force veteran and also has a doctorate in nursing from UW-Milwaukee.

“With each level of post-secondary education achieved, nurses acquire even greater critical-thinking skills—facilitating the ability to think through the most difficult situations,” she said.

Lancaster has been an instructor for CON since 2005, concurrently functioning in a variety of clinical practice and leadership roles as a nurse. She currently works in wound care and hyperbaric medicine as well as IV therapy at Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh.

“The most extraordinary nurses are those with a solid base in liberal education,” Lancaster said. “Having this strong foundation leads to well-rounded professionals who think creatively and critically, communicate clearly and are ready for the challenges they face in practice.”

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