ACEN Elections

Ms. Sandi Kellogg, MSN, RN is the Dean of Health Sciences at Chemeketa Community College, in Salem, Oregon, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in nursing education within the community college setting. Before joining Chemeketa, she served as Director of Nursing at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Oregon. Throughout her career, Sandi has been committed to advancing nursing education and ensuring program excellence to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and the healthcare industry.

Sandi has actively contributed to the accreditation process through her extensive involvement with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), serving as both a Peer Evaluator and Team Chair on multiple site visits. Her experience with accreditation processes, program evaluation, and curriculum development has provided her with a deep understanding of regulatory compliance and quality improvement in nursing education.

With a clinical background in the operating room, home health, and hospice nursing, Sandi brings a holistic perspective to nursing leadership and education. She is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments, integrating innovative teaching strategies, and promoting evidence-based practice to prepare the next generation of nurses. Her leadership approach emphasizes collaboration, professional development, and student success.

Sandi holds a Master of Science in Nursing. She remains actively engaged in professional organizations and is passionate about mentoring faculty and nursing students.

In her free time, Sandi enjoys painting and camping with her family.

Dr. Nancy Phoenix Bittner, PhD, CNS, RN has held multiple roles in academic nursing settings in associate to doctoral level education for over 30 years. Her progressive leadership roles have led her to the current position as Vice President and Professor at Lawrence Memorial/Regis College. Dr. Bittner has been involved in accreditation with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for over 20 years. She has filled the roles of Program Evaluator, Evaluation Review Panel member, Appeals Panel member and has been a Commissioner on the Board of Commissioners (BOC) twice. Her most recent Commission is on the 2022-2025 BOC. She has been on accreditation evaluation teams for the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), The Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (MA DHE) and the New England Commission for Higher Education (NECHE). As a curriculum and evaluation expert, she has consulted for a wide range of nursing programs nationally and internationally.

Dr. Bittner has participated in several state and regional nursing committees and workgroups including as co-leader for the MA Action Coalition. She is active in a number of professional organizations at the state and national level. Dr. Bittner has held practice-based roles including roles in professional development, critical care CNS and nurse research scientist. She continues to pursue research in nursing education and practice. Her area of research is focused on critical thinking and processing, especially in students and newly licensed nurses as well as issues related to the nursing faculty shortage. She has published several articles and conducted numerous presentations related to her research at the state, regional, national, and international levels. In addition, she has a long history of global initiatives in both South America and Africa which have also been published.

Dr. Karla Ross, DNP, RN, CNEcl is a nursing professional with over two decades of experience in clinical practice, education, and leadership. She has worked in nursing education since 2010, and in 2018, was appointed Director of the Associate Degree Nursing Program at Blinn College in Bryan, Texas. In her role at Blinn College, Dr. Ross has been instrumental in creating new program pathways, such as the Paramedic-to-RN option, and forming partnerships with universities to establish dual-enrollment opportunities, enabling students to seamlessly advance their education. Alongside her teaching and leadership roles, she serves as a PRN staff nurse specializing in oncology.

Since 2018, Dr. Ross has been a Peer Evaluator for the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). She has also served as a Team Chair since 2019 and is a member of the Evaluation Review Panel. She values the accreditation process as vital for strengthening nursing programs and ensuring high education standards. For Dr. Ross, the most rewarding part of her role as a Peer Evaluator is witnessing how the accreditation process enhances the quality of nursing education.

Dr. Ross holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership from American Sentinel University, a Master of Science in Nursing in Clinical Research Management from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas A&M International University. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science from Texas A&M University.

Dr. Ross believes in a professional commitment to nursing and advances nursing at all levels. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Texas Organization of Associate Degree Nursing and is involved at the state and national levels with the Organization of Associate Degree Nursing, Texas Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, National League for Nursing, Texas Association of Deans and Directors for Professional Nursing Programs, and Texas Community College Teachers Association. She also represents Texas Associate Degree Nursing for the Nursing Legislative Agenda Coalition.

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Ross actively volunteers within her community as a camp nurse and teacher at her church. She also participates in charitable activities alongside her daughter through a local charity league. Dr. Ross loves being a wife and mother to three school-age children, and the family enjoys being involved in extracurricular activities, traveling, and attending sporting events.

‍

Dr. Bridget Leonard, DNP, MSN/MBA-HCM, RN, CRRN, NEA-BC is a powerhouse in the nursing world, blending over 25 years of dynamic leadership with an unwavering passion for nursing. From the trenches as a Certified Nursing Assistant to the boardrooms as a Chief Nursing Officer, Bridget has traversed every level of the nursing profession, earning her stripes and inspiring others along the way.

As Immediate Past President of the American Nurses Association-Michigan, a revered Nursing Professor at WCCCD, and an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Program Evaluator/Team Chair, she embodies leadership excellence. Her accolades, including the prestigious Tenet Hero and MI Chronicles Woman of Excellence awards, speak volumes about her dedication and impact.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Bridget is a beacon of motivation and empowerment. Her motivational speaking engagements and best-selling book, "Women Crushing Mediocrity," ignite sparks of inspiration nationwide. Through her TV show, "Dr. B’s Best Life: The Ultimate Leadership Experience," and YouTube series, "Dr. B: Let’s Talk Grown Folks Style," she shares wisdom on leadership, team building, and personal development.

Driven by her mission to help others live their best lives, Bridget founded Bridget Leonard Enterprises LLC, offering life coaching and motivational speaking services. Her resilience and determination, despite facing personal challenges, underscore her belief that anything is achievable with dedication and effort.

Moreover, Bridget's commitment to giving back is exemplified through her non-profit, CNA to CNO, dedicated to nurturing nurses' professional growth and community engagement. Additionally, her advocacy for Lupus awareness, fueled by her own journey as a Lupus warrior and her daughter's, demonstrates her heart for making a difference beyond the healthcare realm.

Dr. Bridget Leonard, DNP, is not just a leader; she is a force of nature, empowering others to reach new heights and inspiring positive change in every life she touches.

Dr. Laila McKenna, DNP, MSN, RN is a dedicated nursing education leader with over 20 years of combined academic and clinical experience. She has a strong track record in accreditation compliance, curriculum development, faculty mentorship, and student success strategies, ensuring high standards in nursing education and regulatory excellence.

Most recently, Dr. McKenna served as the Senior Director of Prelicensure Nursing at Herzing University, where she led multi-campus nursing programs, aligning curriculum and operations with accreditation standards while implementing data-driven strategies to improve NCLEX pass rates and student retention. Throughout her career, she has held key leadership roles, including Area Dean of Nursing at Rasmussen University and Associate Dean of Academic Operations at Chamberlain University, where she spearheaded initiatives to enhance program effectiveness, faculty engagement, and accreditation readiness.

As an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Evaluator, Dr. McKenna has contributed to ensuring nursing programs meet rigorous accreditation standards, positioning her well to serve on the ACEN Board of Commissioners. Her extensive experience in regulatory affairs, accreditation processes, program assessment, and evidence-based curriculum development makes her a strong advocate for quality nursing education at the associate and practical nursing levels.

Dr. McKenna holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership and a Master of Science in Nursing – Education Track from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She is a licensed RN in multiple states, including Florida, Illinois, Georgia, Wisconsin, and Alabama.

Through her leadership and dedication to nursing education, Dr. McKenna remains committed to fostering excellence in nursing programs, ensuring that future nurses receive the highest quality education to meet the evolving demands of healthcare.

Dr. Emily Fink, DNP, RN has been in nursing education for 22 years. She is the Director of Nursing Education Programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in North Carolina. She oversees a practical nursing, associate degree – traditional, and LPN to ADN transition option program. Dr. Fink also serves nursing education as a representative for the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) in the capacity of a Site Visitor and Team Chair since 2019. She is eager to continue to serve ACEN on the Board of Commissioners as a representative for PN and ADN education.

Dr. Fink believes that quality nursing education is necessary to graduate students who can provide safe and effective patient care and who can emulate clinical judgment skills in the clinical setting. Understanding the accreditation process and the value that it brings to the nursing profession is essential for excellence in nursing education.

Emily enjoys spending time with her husband antiquing. She also has a 20-year-old son, Benjamin, who is a sophomore at UNCC majoring in history.

Dr. Danelle Burrows, DNP, BA, RN is a nursing leader, educator, and curriculum specialist with 28 years of nursing experience, including 22 years in nursing education. As the System Curriculum Manager for Nursing at Bryant & Stratton College, she provides strategic leadership for the RN-BSN, BSN, ADN, and PN programs across four states, shaping the next generation of nursing professionals through innovative and evidence-based curriculum development.

Dr. Burrows began her career as a medical-surgical and intensive care unit (ICU) nurse, where she developed strong clinical expertise in managing acutely ill patients, coordinating complex care, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes. Her experience in high-acuity settings fostered a deep understanding of critical thinking, rapid decision-making, and evidence-based practice—skills she now imparts to students and faculty in her educational leadership roles.

Prior to her current role, Dr. Burrows served as a faculty member (didactic, clinical, and lab) and as the Nursing Program Director for the associate degree in nursing (ADN) and practical nursing (PN) programs, where she played a pivotal role in program accreditation, faculty development, and student success initiatives.

Dr. Burrows holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Walsh University (2017), an MSN with an emphasis in education from Ursuline College (2008), and a double major BSN and BA in Psychology from Ursuline College (1997). Her dedication to nursing education and accreditation is evident through her extensive service with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), where she has been a Peer Evaluator since 2013, a Team Chair since 2015, and an Evaluation Review Panel member since 2016. She also contributed to the Ohio Board of Nursing Advisory Board for ADN Education from 2013 to 2015.

A recognized thought leader in nursing education, Dr. Burrows has developed and presented numerous Continuing Education Units (CEUs) on topics such as pharmacology, dermatology, and hypertension. She is a member of several professional organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nurses, the American Nurses Association, and the National League for Nursing.

Dr. Michele Dickens, PhD, MSN, RN brings over four decades of nursing experience, including 17 years in nursing education. Currently, she serves as the Dean of the School of Nursing at Campbellsville University, where she has held various leadership roles, including nursing instructor, RN to BSN Program Director, Associate Dean, and Director of Online Programs.

Dr. Dickens earned her PhD in Education with a specialization in nursing education from Capella University, an MSN from Walden University, a BSN from the University of Kentucky, and an ADN from Eastern Kentucky University. Her extensive academic background has provided her with a deep understanding of nursing education, which she has utilized to improve the quality and delivery of nursing programs.

Her contributions to nursing education are noteworthy, as she has taken on leadership roles and collaborated with fellow nursing leaders to develop innovative programs and integrate technology-enhanced learning strategies. Dr. Dickens's commitment to academic excellence has been recognized through several accolades, including the Distinguished Faculty Award from Campbellsville University and her induction as an OADN Fellow. She actively participates in various professional organizations, such as the National League for Nursing and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Dr. Dickens has a robust clinical background, having worked in diverse roles from intensive care units to educational leadership in hospital settings. Her dedication to community service is reflected in her board memberships and initiatives aimed at improving nursing education and health outcomes within her community. A strong advocate for nursing education, she emphasizes the importance of advanced degrees in promoting career success for nurses.

Since 2016, Dr. Dickens has served as an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Evaluator, collaborating with colleagues to advance excellence in nursing education.

In her leisure time, she enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren, reading, and expressing her creativity through crafting.

‍

Dr. Donna Ingram, DNP, MSN, RN is a Professor and Assistant Dean of the School of Health and Natural Sciences at Middle Georgia State University (MGA). Before assuming the Assistant Dean position, Donna was the Chair of the Department of Nursing at MGA for approximately 12 years. As Chair, she was responsible for the department’s ASN, PL-BSN, online RN-BSN and online MSN programs. Prior to her appointment at MGA, she was an Assistant Professor at Georgia College and State University (GCSU) for approximately 10 years. Her educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from GCSU, a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Administration from GCSU and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Augusta University.

Donna has served the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) as a Peer Evaluator since 2019, conducting visits each fall and spring. She has also had the pleasure of serving on ACEN’s Evaluation Review Panel twice.

With regards to professional memberships and service, Donna has been involved with the following nursing and academic professional organizations during her career:

• Kay Gatins Nursing Honor Society presently Psi Rho Chapter, STTI, charter member
• Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society – past International Nurse Leader Review Committee member
• Georgia Association for Nursing Education – past President, past Treasurer, past Membership Chair, 2016 Program Planning Chair, and Board Member
• Georgia Association of Nursing Deans and Directors – past Treasurer
• University System of Georgia’s Academic Advisory Committee on Nursing – Chair
• Southern Regional Education Board Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing – past Membership Chair

Dr. Carolyn Sipes, PhD, CNS, APRN, PMP, NI-BC, NEA-BC, FAAN as an NIH Fellow, received her PhD from Rush University in Chicago, and her MSN and BSN from Northern Illinois University.

As a CNS, the focus was on neurology/neurosurgery, and cardiac critical care at Loyola University, Chicago. At Rush University, her NIH grant-funded research focused on qualitative hermeneutics and grounded theory including HIV/AIDS for both adults and pediatrics. As a research scientist for Abbott Pharma, she was PI on research and developed the Tolerability of Medication Tool (TOMA), presented at World AIDS, in Barcelona, where she received the International Distinguished Faculty award. As a professor, with more than 40 years of clinical, research, academic, and informatics experience, currently at Walden, she serves PhD core faculty and dissertation mentor.

Other research interests are in executive leadership management and nursing informatics (NI) with the Chamberlain College of Nursing Informatics Research Team (NIRT) where she achieved rank and promotion as a full professor. The primary area of research at Walden is as an SME in qualitative methodology and includes quantitative and mixed methods. As a NI SME, has developed NI, evidence-based project management, and leadership specialty courses, Telehealth Nursing courses, and micro-courses, and as an NI Specialty coordinator, held eight technology certifications in Epic clinical applications. She has implemented numerous enterprise wide EHR projects both nationally and internationally, including living and managing projects in the UK with the NHS as Sr. VP for IBM and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi in the UAE.

In the leadership roles as a consultant, developed proprietary informatics competency skill assessments for organizations’ EHRs, published the Project Management for Advanced Practice Nurses and Application of Informatics and Technology in Nursing Practice – Competencies, Skills, and Decision-Making textbooks; co-authored, The Practice Specialty of Nursing Informatics; Part 4- Informatics Theory and Standards. In Saba, V.K. & McCormick, K. A. Essentials of Nursing Informatics. In 2024, presented and received the research award for Qualitative Research for Nurses Using Interpretative Phenomenology Analysis in New York.

Other publications include peer-reviewed publications, 2 books, 31 book chapters, and manuscript reviews: presentations 27 nationally, and 19 internationally. She was inducted into the American Academy of Nurses as a fellow (FAAN) serving on the International Technology Expert Panel (ITEP), Leadership and Council for Advancing Nursing Science (CANS) and the ANA workgroup, completed revisions of the ANA Nursing Informatics Scope & Standards of Practice 3rd Ed., published in 2022. She received the Faculty Excellence Award and is a two-time DAISY award recipient.

Dr. Amy Hall, PhD, RN, CNE is a Professor of Nursing and the Dean of the School of Nursing at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She currently leads faculty, students and staff in the BSN, MSN-FNP, and DNP Nurse Anesthesia programs.

Dr. Hall earned her BSN and PhD in nursing from Saint Louis University and her MS in nursing from the University of Illinois-Chicago. Dr. Hall has expertise in curriculum design, program evaluation and nursing leadership. She has developed and taught study abroad courses in a variety of countries including England, China, Portugal, and the Dominican Republic. Dr. Hall also consults with other nursing programs in designing and implementing curricular change and designing effective program assessment and evaluation plans.

Dr. Hall has been an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Evaluator since Fall, 2008, became a Team Chair in Fall, 2011, and served as a member on the Evaluation Review Panel (ERP). Currently the Vice Chair of the ACEN Board, Dr. Hall is on the Board of Commissioners representing baccalaureate and master’s programs. She has actively participated in the ACEN Standards Revision Subcommittees starting with the revision of the 2012 standards. She chaired the 2017 ACEN Standards and Criteria Revision Subcommittee for baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral nursing education programs and most recently served on the Steering Committee on the 2023 ACEN Standards and Revision Committee with a special focus on Curriculum and Outcomes. Dr. Hall also was a member of the Board of Commissioners from 2015-2021. In addition, she serves as a visitor for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Dr. Hall is a member of several professional associations including Sigma, the National League for Nursing, the American Nurses Association, the Louisiana State Nurses Association, and the Baton Rouge District Nurses Association. Dr. Hall also is the Secretary for the Louisiana Council of Administrators of Nursing Education (LACANE). Dr. Hall has provided professional presentations nationally on a variety of topics such as evidence-based teaching and learning strategies, designing and evaluating a concept-based curriculum, evaluation of nursing programs, and leading faculty through change. When she is not spreading her passion for nursing and nursing education with others, Dr. Hall co-authors Fundamentals of Nursing and enjoys cooking, baking, pacing races, and running marathons.

Ms. Valerie Shaw, MSN, RN, CMSRN began her journey in nursing in 2008 at UPMC Washington upon graduating from a diploma nursing program. During this time frame she worked on an orthopedic/stroke unit and then later transitioned to a step-down unit where she gained a solid foundation in medical-surgical nursing. Although she was committed to making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives, her compassion switched to wanting to guide and support students in their personal nursing journey.

In 2013, Ms. Shaw decided to advance her nursing career by stepping into nursing education and began her new role as a nurse educator at the same diploma program that she graduated from. She served in various roles at the school of nursing throughout the years, including course coordinator and curriculum coordinator. In 2021, Ms. Shaw accepted the role as Assistant Director of the School of Nursing. She is now able to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nursing education by empowering the next generation of nurses to provide exceptional care to their communities.

Ms. Shaw obtained her BSN and MSN with a concentration in Health Administration and Leadership from California University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a certification in medical-nursing and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society, Academy of Medical-Surgical Nursing, National League for Nurses, American Nurses’ Association, and has been selected as an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Reviewer.

Ms. Shaw enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys watching them at the football fields, baseball fields, or on the wrestling mats.

Dr. Monica Kidder, DNP, MEDSURG-BC, NPD-BC, CNE has an impressive 29 years of nursing experience, including 16 years in nursing education. Currently, she serves as the Curriculum Coordinator at Covenant School of Nursing, overseeing the RN program and LVN-RN Track. Additionally, she directs the Certified Patient Care Technician course, guiding those at the beginning of their nursing journey. Before this role, Dr. Kidder was the Student Retention Coordinator and an instructor for fundamentals and pathophysiology.

Dr. Kidder's educational background is equally notable. She earned her DNP with an emphasis in educational leadership from American Sentinel University in 2016, her MSN with an emphasis in leadership and healthcare organizational management from Regis University in 2005, and her BSN and BGS (Liberal Arts) from the University of Nevada, Reno in 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Recognizing the importance of student retention, Dr. Kidder dedicates much of her time to researching the connections between student and institutional support and resources to predict and promote student retention. She is passionate about helping students think critically and is both a scholar and faculty educator for the Next Generation NCLEX.

Dr. Kidder is completing her first term as a Commissioner on the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Board and has been an ACEN Peer Evaluator since 2017. She thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to review other programs through a collaborative and supportive process. In her free time, she can be found crocheting (often with three cats on her lap) or going for a run.

‍

Dr. Heather Bailey, DNP, RN, C-EFM, CNE is a lifelong resident of Oklahoma but has spent most of her nursing career working in Arkansas. She has worked in both acute care and education settings with most of her bedside career in labor and delivery.

Heather began her nursing career as a bedside nurse in an acute care facility in labor and delivery in 2002. Committed to nursing education, she began as an adjunct instructor for Carl Albert State College in 2004, where she worked in either a full-time or adjunct capacity until 2020. In 2018 she became the Director of Women and Infant Services at Washington Regional Medical Center (WRMC) where she continues her work to ensure equitable care for women throughout Northwest Arkansas. She is a member of the Arkansas Perinatal Quality Collaborative and the POWER workgroup where she collaborates with peer facilities to decrease maternal morbidity and mortality. WRMC has been named a high performing hospital for Maternity Care (Uncomplicated Pregnancy) by the U.S. News and World Report for three years based on quality outcomes.

Heather has served the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) since 2015 as a Peer Evaluator, Team Chair, and a member of the Evaluation Review Panel. She also began service as a Nursing Service representative for the Board of Commissioners in 2024. She continues to work as an adjunct instructor for several schools teaching pre-licensure and RN-to-BSN students. Additionally, she serves as an instructor for the Intermediate Fetal Monitoring Course offered through AWHONN.

Heather graduated with her Associate degree from Carl Albert State College, then received her Baccalaureate and Master’s in Nursing from Northeastern State University, before she earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Samford University in 2015, focusing on improving processes in obstetric care.

Dr. Jennifer Sugg, EdD, MSN, RN, CCRN, CNE currently serves as a Clinical Associate Professor at East Carolina University in the Advanced Nursing Practice and Education Department, where she serves as the MSN Nursing Education Clinical Placement Coordinator and specializes in the nursing education concentration. She also maintains current practice in acute care at UNC Health Wayne through positions in Organizational Learning and Clinical Administration. She is dedicated to nursing education and passionate about developing practice-ready, entry-level nurses and graduate level nurse educators to meet workforce needs. Dr. Sugg is also passionate about the accreditation process and strives to make site visits a positive experience for all involved and encourages faculty members to volunteer as a peer evaluator. She is dedicated to ensuring nursing education programs meet the needs of the communities they serve through appropriate educational objectives, outcomes, and the collaborative peer review accreditation process.

With over 26 years of nursing experience, Dr. Sugg has held previous academic and acute care leadership and education roles including Department Chair of Nursing Education Programs (ADN & PN) within the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS), acute care Clinical Administrator, Progressive Care Unit (Cardiac) Director, Organizational Learning educator, as well as critical care clinical educator and supervisory roles. Dr. Sugg is a member of numerous professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association, North Carolina Nurses Association, North Carolina Organization of Nurse Leaders, National League for Nursing, Association of Critical-Care Nurses, Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) Honor Society of Nursing, and Delta Cappa Gamma to name a few. Dr. Sugg served as the Vice President of the Beta Nu Chapter of STTI from 2018-2021. Her experience with the nursing education accreditation process began in 2007. She has served the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) in the roles of Peer Evaluator, Team Chair, and member of the Evaluation Review Panel. In 2024, she was honored as one of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina. In addition, Dr. Sugg volunteers as a member of Nightingale Farewell within her local community and participates in tribute services to honor the dedication of nurse colleagues at the end of life’s earthly journey.

Dr. Sugg holds the following degrees, three of which are in nursing: Doctor of Education, Master of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Associate in

Applied Science – Associate Degree Nursing. She is nationally certified in critical care (CCRN) and as a nurse educator (CNE). Dr. Sugg has taught at the PN, ADN, BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP levels throughout her career.

When not working, she enjoys reading, outdoor walking, vacationing in the mountains, and spending time with her husband of 38 years (Charles), two adult children (Stephanie and Charlie), son-in-love (Austen), and grandchildren (Liam and Maggie Rose). In addition, her Goldendoodle (Cinnamon Sugar aka Minnie), and Maltese pups (Molly May and Maddy Lynn) are never far from her side.

‍

Dr. LeAnne Wilhite, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC has 13 years of experience in nursing education leadership and has successfully overseen nursing and health sciences programs, focusing on curriculum development, accreditation, and student success. Dr. Wilhite has secured significant funding for program enhancements, led initiatives to improve NCLEX pass rates, and implemented innovative educational models. As Director of Curriculum and Academic Success at South University, she continues to shape nursing education while maintaining a strong commitment to clinical practice and evidence-based care. In addition to her academic role, she continues to serve as a practicing nurse practitioner.

Dr. Barry D. Goldstein, PhD has almost forty years of experiences as a research scientist, educator, administrator, and accreditor in higher education before retiring a second time in 2018 and becoming an independent accreditation consultant for Colleges and Universities in the South. Dr. Goldstein received his BA in Biology from Adelphi University in 1975 and a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 1979 (now Rutgers University). After serving as a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, he joined the faculty at the Medical College of Georgia in 1981. Dr. Goldstein rose to the rank of tenured Professor. In 1991 he became Vice President for Academic Affairs at the Medical College of Georgia and served as Chief Academic Officer until he retired in August of 2010.  At the time of his retirement in 2010, he was Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and had held that title since 2008. He currently holds the title of Provost and Professor emeritus at the Medical College of Georgia (now known as Augusta University). In 2010, Dr. Goldstein became a Vice President at SACSCOC. During his tenure at SACSCOC, Dr. Goldstein was responsible for shepherding numerous institutions through reaffirmation as well as other accreditation activities. He has also facilitated training experiences for committee chairs, CEOs, academic administrators, and others as it relates to accreditation. Dr. Goldstein retired as Vice President in 2018 and started an accreditation consulting service for colleges and universities in the south. Later in 2018, Dr. Goldstein was asked to serve as interim provost at Columbia Southern University. He was appointed Provost in 2019 and continued his outside consulting activities. Dr. Goldstein stepped down as Provost in December of 2020 and served as the Special Assistant to the President and Provost at Columbia Southern University until December 2022. Dr. Goldstein is currently retired and was elected as a public member to ACEN in 2022 and appointed Treasurer in November 2022.

Dr. Vicky Stone-Gale, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP, FNAP is an Associate Professor in the Family Nursing program at Frontier Nursing University where she is the Course Coordinator for the Primary Care I course and serves on various University committees. In addition to her faculty role, she has been actively practicing as a Family Nurse Practitioner in primary care for 33 years and remains in part-time practice in Plantation, Florida.

Dr Stone-Gale’s educational background includes a Diploma in Nursing from Massillon Community Hospital School of Nursing, a BSN and MSN in the FNP track, both from Barry University in Miami, FL, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is double board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and is a Fellow of the National Academies of Practice (FNAP) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP).

Dr. Stone-Gale is active with the Florida Board of Nursing as the Chair of the North Probable Cause Panel and is a past Chair for the Board. She is an expert in licensure regulations and lectures at many universities to nurse practitioner students regarding the legal aspects of their licensure, potential disciplinary concerns, and state scope of practice requirements. She was the first licensed autonomous APRN in Florida.

Dr. Stone-Gale is currently the President of the South Florida Council of Advanced Practice Nurses. She is a Region 4 Director for the Florida Nurse Practitioner Network and previously was the First Vice President of Legislation. She has been a presenter at local and national conferences on various licensure, primary care and education topics, has published a book chapter and article, and is an abstract and scholarship reviewer for three national organizations, National League for Nursing, National Organization of Nurse Practitioners Faculties, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She previously was on the Selection Committee for the Fellows of American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

In 2022 Dr. Stone-Gale received the Outstanding Policy Award from the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties, the AANP State Award of Excellence for Advocacy and the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Faculty from Frontier Nursing University. She has also received local county awards for APRN of the Year and Nurse of the Year. She was chosen and recently completed the prestigious 2023 NLN LEAD program.

Dr. Vickie Ireland, PhD, RN, CNE, CEN, CHSE, AHN-BC, is an Assistant Professor of Nursing at the University of Maine at Augusta. Dr. Ireland joined the University in 2021 after a 29-year career as part of an active-duty military family, holding nursing licenses in seven states. With clinical experience spanning emergency nursing, trauma nursing, intensive care, pediatrics, and school nursing, she transitioned into academia in 2011, teaching across university, community college, and technical college settings.

An advocate for excellence in nursing education, Dr. Ireland has been an Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Evaluator since 2023 and has been privileged to add to her understanding of the ACEN Standards and Criteria through site visits in 2024 and 2025. She is eager to expand her knowledge of ACEN and the accreditation process to further contribute to the advancement of nursing education.

As a candidate for the ACEN Nominating Committee, Dr. Ireland is committed to supporting ACEN’s mission by identifying and engaging nursing education leaders dedicated to excellence through accreditation.

Dr. Tammy Zybell, DNP, MBA, RN is an accomplished academic educator and leader. She has led and directed traditional and accelerated campus-based and online undergraduate and graduate programs. She is highly skilled in improving staff engagement through coaching and mentoring. A passion for student success and nursing excellence leads her to work in partnership with organizational and academic leadership to create an environment to support colleagues, mentor new leaders, develop exceptional faculty and increase student success.

Her research interests include the mentoring of nursing faculty and academic support of culturally diverse students, with a focus on implementation of non-academic support strategies for high-risk students.

She is a 2023 graduate of the American Association of College of Nursing, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Leadership Institute. She is a member of the American Association of College of Nursing, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Leadership Network, American College of Healthcare Executives, Florida Organization of Nursing Leadership, New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders, New York Organization for Nursing Leadership, American Nurses Association, and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society. She serves as a grant reviewer for the State of Florida.

Dr. Zybell holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University, a Master of Science in Nursing Education, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Sharon Gallo, EdS, MSN/Ed, BSN, RN is a Nursing Instructor for the Joseph F. McCloskey School of Nursing in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. She has been involved in nursing education for 30 years, having educated individuals ranging from high school to adult learners. She has a strong interest in developing the nurses of tomorrow and is certified to educate English as a second language to ESL learners. Sharon has been developing and integrating active learning activities in her Medical-Surgical classroom, providing students of all learning styles opportunities to be engaged in their learning. She resides in Northeastern Pennsylvania and enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her children and dog, Ralphie.

‍

Sara Cano, PhD, MSN-Ed, BSN, RN

Retired Nursing Department Chair

Bel Alton, Maryland

Dr. Sara I. Cano, PhD, MSN-Ed, BSN, RN holds a PhD in Nursing Philosophy from the University of Phoenix and has over 35 years of nursing practice experience that includes 22 years in nursing education. Her educational journey started with a BSN from the University of Puerto Rico, continued with a MSN Ed (Nursing Education Specialization) and finalized with a PhD (Doctor of Nursing Philosophy) from the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Cano is very passionate about her beloved profession and enjoys sharing all the knowledge gained over the years with the new generation of nurses. She has taught in a practical nursing certificate program, an associate degree program in a Community College and most recently added teaching in a baccalaureate program at a university. Dr Cano’s main teaching responsibilities included teaching Medical/Surgical concepts, Medical Terminology, LPN to RN Transition courses, and recently Health Assessment and Clinical Judgement. Her teaching philosophy includes the what, how, when, and who of teaching, where she shares her life-long passion for learning.

Dr. Cano served as the Chair of the Nursing programs during her tenure as faculty as well as chaired many committees, including Faculty Support and Curriculum. She is active in the community through patient advisory councils at the local community hospital, is a member of the Maryland State Nursing Association District 9 Board as the Secretary elect and is the Legislative Committee Representative to the State.

Dr. Cano is also a Peer Evaluator with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and was recently nominated/appointed as a Team Chair. Dr. Cano is very passionate about mentoring and will offer mentoring to anyone who wishes to receive it. Recently, she collaborated with KeithRN and developed content for three modules for a new clinical educator training product coming out this spring.

As she continues to offer her expertise as a Peer Evaluator and now a Team Chair, Dr. Cano hopes to expand her efforts as part of the ACEN Nominating Committee.

‍

Dr. Katherine M. Pittman, DNP, MSN-Ed, BSN, RN is a distinguished leader in nursing education with a career devoted to advancing student success and faculty development. As the Nursing Program Chair at Herzing University, she spearheads initiatives to improve NCLEX pass rates, enhance curriculum design, and foster faculty collaboration. Dr. Pittman’s experience spans roles in clinical nursing, academic coaching, and program administration, with a focus on mentoring future nurses.

A four-time graduate of Herzing University, Dr. Pittman embodies lifelong learning and professional excellence. Her innovative approach to education integrates evidence-based strategies and technology to support student achievement. Beyond her academic contributions, she is a certified Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Peer Evaluator, NCLEX coach, and active member of Sigma Theta Tau, advocating for excellence in nursing practice.

With a teaching philosophy that balances the science and art of nursing, Dr. Pittman inspires students and faculty alike, contributing significantly to the future of nursing education.

Dr. Allison Stokes, DNP, MSN, APRN, AGNP-BC is a dedicated nursing instructor at the New England Institute of Technology in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, where she teaches in the associate degree and licensed practical nursing programs. With a strong background in clinical practice and nursing education background, she is committed to developing future nurses through creative teaching strategies, evidence-based practice, and curriculum development.

Dr. Stokes earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island in 2008. She gained extensive experience as a medical-surgical nurse in a large teaching hospital and a small community hospital before returning to the University of Rhode Island to complete her Master of Science in Nursing in 2013. As an adult geriatric nurse practitioner, she has worked in acute and long-term care settings, including currently working as an inpatient neurosurgery nurse practitioner.

Her passion for nursing education led her to begin teaching as an adjunct clinical instructor in 2018 before transitioning to a full-time instructor role in 2022. She has taught various lecture, clinical, and simulation courses in the associate degree and licensed practical nursing programs. In her commitment to advancing nursing education, Dr. Stokes completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Educational Leadership at Post University in 2024. Her DNP studies focused on incorporating civility training into pre-licensure nursing education. In addition to teaching, she is the chair of the associate degree and practical nursing curriculum committee. She enjoys curriculum review and development and mentoring other faculty members.

Her professional memberships include the Nurse Practitioner Alliance of Rhode Island (NPARI), the American Nurses Association (ANA), the American Nurses Association Rhode Island (ANA-RI), the New England League for Nurse Educators, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. In her spare time, Dr. Stokes enjoys spending time with her family, including her two dogs, reading, and cooking.