The Research Student Governing Board recently hosted a professional development event featuring Laura McDonald, DNAP, CRNA and Clinical Instructor for the University of Kansas Nurse Anesthesia Program.
During the session, Dr. McDonald discussed the steps required to become a CRNA, offered insight into the responsibilities and rewards of the profession, and provided detailed information about KU’s Nurse Anesthesia Program. She also answered student questions and offered guidance for those considering advanced practice nursing.
RCoN students made a strong impression at Overland Park Regional’s first‑ever Student Night, for an evening of learning, exploration, and professional connection.
The event was only scheduled for an hour, but the enthusiasm of our students quickly extended the night. Twelve RCoN students chose to stay well past the planned end time, as they toured the facility, engaged in conversations with OPR staff, and asked thoughtful questions about clinical practice and career pathways.
Throughout the evening, students explored different areas of the facility, including the emergency department and trauma bay, where they gained a closer look at the tools, workflows, and capabilities that support patient care. They also had the opportunity to speak with team members about nurse extern roles, shadowing opportunities, and residency programs, giving them valuable insight into what their future careers could look like.
The curiosity, professionalism, and genuine excitement our students brought to the event were evident. Their engagement reflected both their commitment to learning and their eagerness to explore the many possibilities within the nursing profession.
March 19, 2026 – Research College of Nursing launched its Women’s History Month programming with a Women in Leadership Panel highlighting accomplished nursing leaders from across HCA Midwest Health. The event offered students a firsthand look at the realities of leadership in modern healthcare, emphasizing professional growth, resilience, and patient advocacy.
Throughout the discussion, panelists shared perspectives on building confidence, navigating career pathways, and supporting both patients and clinical teams. Speakers underscored that effective leadership is shaped through daily actions and consistent professional integrity rather than formal titles alone.
Representatives from multiple HCA Midwest Health facilities participated in the panel, including:
- Amy Townsend, EdD, RN, CNE — Research College of Nursing
- Julie Filbeck, RN, MSN — Research Medical Center
- Ashley Garcia, RN, BSN — Research Medical Center
- Katie Murphy, RN, BSN — HCA Midwest Health
- Lisa Norder, DNP, RN — HCA Midwest Health
- Lindsey Goldammer, RN, MSN — Belton Regional Medical Center
- Ishani Akpovona, RN, MSN — HCA Midwest Health
- Theresa Kading, RN, MSN — Menorah Medical Center
The event served as both an educational opportunity and a celebration of the impact women leaders have within the nursing profession. The panelists’ commitment to mentorship and professional excellence continues to support the development of future nurse leaders within the RCoN community.
March 19, 2024
Research College of Nursing proudly celebrates Certified Nurses Day on March 19th by honoring certified nurses on faculty and within our alumni community.
The following faculty are recognized for their professionalism, leadership, and commitment to excellence:
(not all pictured)
- Margaret Bjelica, Associate Professor, DNP, ACNS-BC, CRRN
- Rebecca Cahill, Professor, DNP, RN, CPHQ, CENP
- Jo Ellen Collette, Assistant Professor, DNP, APRN-BC
- Maithe Enriquez, Professor; Associate Dean for Graduate Education PhD, APRN, FAAN
- Zadi Gillman, Assistant Professor, DNP, FNP-BC
- Terri Kirkland, Assistant Professor, MS, RN, CNE
- Nicole Kreimer, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, APHN-BC
- Alexandra Lee, Assistant Professor, DNP, RN, FNP-BC
- Anne Longhibler, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, RNC-NIC
- Jill Morsbach, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, RNC-MNN
- Erin Newton, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, FNP-BC
- Julia Payne, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, RNC-OB, CNE
- Rebecca Saxton, Provost, PhD, RN, CNE
- Sarah Schlanker, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, CNOR
- Faye Vandendaele, Assistant Professor, MSN, RN, CPNP, FNP-C
- Camille Williams, Assistant Professor, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
- Donna Zimmerman, Assistant Professor, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE
There are many nursing certification specialties that RCoN grads may pursue after earning their degree, including medical-surgical, pediatric, pain management, cardiac vascular, oncology, hospice, case management, emergency nursing, critical care, and many others.
We love watching alumni find their path within the range of specialized nursing care. Maryalice Williams (Accelerated BSN ’15) shared with us her journey of recently becoming a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse.
Hospice was Maryalice’s passion for more than 15 years, since serving as a VITAS Hospice pet therapy volunteer. She was motivated to share the hospice mission and philosophy with as many people as possible. This led to a career as a hospice marketing representative.
Finally, she made the change and earned her nursing degree at RCoN. After four years in St. Luke’s cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU), she decided to pursue her goal of becoming a hospice RN. She reflects on the past three years as highly rewarding and fulfilling working as a bedside RN at the Kansas City Hospice House.
Please join us in honoring RCoN faculty, alumni like Maryalice, and all the Certified Nurses dedicated to excellence in nursing!