A Kudos from Dean Marla De Jong
Explore the spotlight of achievement our weekly update, "College Kudos," curated by Dean Marla De Jong. Each week, we'll be updating this space to showcase the remarkable strides made by our faculty, staff, and students, showcasing their impactful research, prestigious awards, and inspiring contributions to healthcare. It's your go-to source for staying connected with what's happening in our college.
Want to contribute content? Email your updates and photos to ConStrolls@nurs.utah.edu
Recent Highlights at the CON
EVENTS
See past Kudos below
GRANTS & RECOGNITIONS
March 24 Kudos
Shelli King has been a consistent presence at CON for the past six years. Whether it is reserving conference rooms and classrooms, unlocking office doors, redirecting phone calls, picking up keys, or coordinating projects for work study students, Shelli always has a smile on her face, a cheery countenance, and bowl full of York Peppermint Patties. We would be lost without her.
Patients submitted comments regarding psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners.
Dr. Sheila Deyette: “Dr. Deyette has made a positive impact on my mental health. She truly cares about me and my all around health. She is always informative and knowledgeable about medications. I trust Dr. Deyette completely.”
Dr. John Sensiba:
- “Cares about how I am doing. Because of the numerous meds, he goes over the list of medication. Easy to talk to and I feel he is caring how I am progressing.”
- “John Sensiba is excellent.”
- “Just had no problems.”
- “Dr. Sensiba is great! So is his assistant Lacy.”
The Utah Department of Health & Human Services selected Dr. Deanna Kepka to receive the Utah Silver Syringe Award for her work as an HPV Vaccination Champion. This award is given to an individual, organization, or provider who is dedicated to raising rates of HPV vaccination in Utah and educating patients and/or the community about the HPV vaccine. Dr. Kepka will receive the award next month at the Northern Utah Immunization Coalition Annual Conference in Ogden.
The Natural Hazards Center's Quick Response Award Program, located at University of Colorado Boulder, awarded a $5,000 grant to Principal Investigator Judy Ou, and Co-Investigators Dr. Echo Warner, Nancy Daher, David Freyer, James VanDerslice, and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff for their project titled Impacts of the Los Angeles Wildfires on Children and Adolescents with Cancer: A Pilot Study. The National Science Foundation funds this award program, which promotes social science innovation in hazards and disaster research.
RegisteredNursing.org highly ranked College of Nursing programs. - Online RN-BS Program: #1 in Utah; #6 in the United States
- BS Program: #4 in Utah
- MSN Program: #1 in Utah
- DNP Program: #1 in Utah
March 10 Kudos
Student Recognition:
PhD students Garrett Schwanke and Kari Weiss were selected through an essay application process to attend the annual American Association of Nurse Practitioners Health Policy Conference in Washington D.C. Students wrote personal and inspirational statements about their desire to pursue policy and leadership as new professionals. Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi, Dr. Zoe Robbins, and Dr. Diane Chapman were joined by members of the Utah Nurse Practitioners Association delegation in recognizing and mentoring Garrett and Kari.
Students' Commendation of Faculty
At the end of each semester, students have the opportunity to provide feedback about each course they took, and the faculty who taught the course. The following unedited quotes are from students who took courses during Fall Semester 2024.
Dr. Anna Alder, Dr. Kelly Mansfield, and Dr. Amy Pasmann: NURS 4605 Applications of Evidence in Nursing Practice. "These instructors are so amazing for constantly looking for feedback and actually taking it into account. I always felt safe to speak my mind which hasn't been typical for me in other classes." "The class had several open discussion moments and we established in the beginning of the semester rules to facilitate a healthy and safe environment."
Dr. Nancy Allen: NURS 7702 DNP Scholarly Project II. “Professor Allen was fantastic in helping and supporting me on my DNP project and manuscript. Thank you for all of your time and assistance.”
Dr. Natasha Ansari: NURS 4510 Global Public Health. “Natasha was the MOST wonderful professor. I wish we had gotten to see her more, as she was very engaging and thus, I learned a lot. Moreover, she was very kind and helpful when I had questions.”
Dr. Diane Chapman: NURS 7053 Advanced Pathophysiology for DNP Students I. “Dr. Chapman is by far the best professor I have ever had in both my graduate and undergraduate education. She is kind and devoted to making each of us strong and knowledgeable DNP students. Before this course, I was told by a former student of Dr. Chapman that she is by far the best teacher and truly cares about the time and energy put into this coursework. Throughout my first semester, I recognized this and so much more from Dr. Chapman. I hope to one day be half as incredible as her in my profession and personal knowledge of the pathophysiology behind the disease processes I encounter in my patients.”
Dr. Mollie Cummins: NURS 7104 Applied Informatics for Health Sciences Research. "The depth and breadth of Dr. Cummins was astounding, technical, relevant, and current – so fun to get to learn from them! The prof was incredibly kind, available, and helpful to put the cherry on top!"
Dr. Jenneth Doria: NURS 4140 Leadership and Management for Professional Nurses. "Professor Doria is an absolutely wonderful instructor. She goes above and beyond for her students, I know that I can always reach out to her with my concerns. Her assignment feedback is constructive and inspires me to improve. I would recommend any class she teaches and I would happily be her student again. I cannot express enough how amazing and caring she is. Professor Doria has truly impacted my life and helped me become a better nurse."
Angie Fenton: NURS 5905 Clinical Physiology. “Thank you for teaching this course and structuring it like you have! It makes it easy to learn and everything is consistent with grading and expectations. You are a great educator and learning is made easy from you.”
Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted: GERON 5280 International Dimensions of Lifelong Learning. “Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted creates a supportive and engaging learning environment by providing clear instructions, structured assignments, and meaningful feedback. She incorporates real–world examples, such as analyzing lifelong learning systems in different countries, which helps connect theoretical concepts to practical applications. Her emphasis on reflection and critical thinking encourages students to explore diverse perspectives and apply what they learn to real–life contexts. Additionally, her accessibility and encouragement foster a sense of collaboration and active participation in the course.”
Dr. Linda Hofmann: N7530 Advanced Management in Complex Healthcare Systems. “Linda has a strong executive leadership background and provides unique insight that is enlightening. I love Linda's teaching style. I appreciate that the course does not have much busywork. Linda has so much knowledge and expertise. She is passionate about helping students understand the role of a nurse executive.”
Dr. Amanda Keddington: NURS 4650 Capstone Clinical. "She was such an amazing instructor, was well prepared and put together, and was always willing to help out. She was flexible with all of her students, managing to make ends work just to make our lives a little easier, and for that I commend her and her excellence. She has shown to care about not only her students, but about their well–being and their success as well."
Dr. Brenda Luther: NURS 3107 Nursing and Health Promotion. “Great semester and great teacher – encouraged me to complete my goals and various aspects of personal health.”
Dr. Tom Rowley: NURS 7050 Advanced Pharmacology. “Tom is one of the best instructors I have ever had! He is very clear in his teaching, open to comments and questions, fun, humorous, and gave great learning opportunities! I loved all his examples from clinic experience. I also felt the class environment was friendly and kind and it felt like a family. He is the harshest grader out of them all, but he makes up for it by being such a great instructor. Any time there was an issue, he would take the time to speak to the student one on one and clear the air. I wish Tom could be compelled to teach a lot more classes in this program. My peers echoed this sentiment. Tom would definitely be on my dream team of instructors for additional courses at the CoN.”
Dr. Xiaoming Sheng: NURS 6701, Fundamentals of Epidemiology and Biostatistics. “This instructor effectively utilizes class assignments to enhance my learning experience and solidify my understanding of the course material.”
Alisha Wursten: NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum. “Alisha kept me on my toes in post-clinical with insightful questions about my experiences and did a great job expanding upon them and turning them into teachable moments. Alisha did a great job at recognizing her students' hard work, and I really enjoyed being her student this semester.”
March 3 Kudos
Morgan West, Patient Services Coordinator, compiled the RedMed Employee Clinic Year in Review for CY24. The report highlights remarkable growth in patient visits and expansion of services provided to University of Utah employees. Dr. Jen Clifton commends the entire RedMed team – Dr. Katie Davis, Dr. Sean Erickson, Kati Medel, Dr. Joshua Twitchell, Rachel Sharp, Morgan West, and Lyndsay Wixom – for their outstanding work, writing, “Your dedication and commitment to patient care continue to make a meaningful impact.”
Dr. Sara Hart was selected to serve as the Director of Arts and Humanities Integration in Health Professions Education on the Council of Directors for the University of Utah Center for Health Ethics, Arts, and Humanities. Members of the Council of Directors contribute significantly to the vision of the Center, currently teach at the University, have focused their career on education, and have demonstrated academic excellence in bioethics and health humanities. The Center “produces new teaching, scholarship, and outreach work, bringing insights from the humanities, arts, law, and social sciences into healthcare education and practice.” The team seeks to “prepare tomorrow’s healers to act with compassion and justice,” and “educate health professionals in bioethics, research ethics, and health humanities, and nurture empathy and humanitarian values.” Collaboration with the Center provides opportunities for students to develop connections between healthcare and the arts and humanities.
PRESENTATIONS & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
March 24 Kudos
Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted delivered a presentation titled Mindfulness and Stress Reduction at the 34th Annual Russell B. Clark Gerontology Conference at Brigham Young University (BYU). In addition, she exhibited about a pathway that enables BYU undergraduate students who earn a minor in Gerontology to smoothly transition to the College of Nursing’s Master of Science in Gerontology program.
Dr. Deanna Kepka delivered a webinar titled Expanding Access to Cervical Cancer Screening: The Role of Self-Collection for the Nevada Cancer Coalition-sponsored CELL Series. Offered as Cancer Education Lunch & Learns, the CELL Series features talks from local and national experts on a variety of topics across the cancer continuum.
March 10 Kudos
Presentations:
Dr. Amanda Keddington delivered a presentation titled Beyond the Bedside: Rising to Your Why at the Utah Student Nurses Association conference at Brigham Young University.
Dr. Lynn Reinke hosted Dr. Hailey Bulls, a clinical psychologist from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Bulls presented Palliative Care Grant Rounds titled Opioids, Pain, and Cancer Care: Perspectives Along the Cancer Continuum, and met with PhD students and University of Utah and College of Nursing faculty.
Offered by the Center to Advance Palliative Care, Jeanna Ford, Sherika Newman, Stephanie Chow, and PhD student Sasha Perez will present a webinar titled Best Practices for Providing High-Quality Palliative Care for Diverse Communities on April 8. Click here to register.
The College of Nursing was well represented at the 2025 International Congress on Integrative Medicine & Health in Seattle.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Micaela Besser, Tammy Dunklebarger, Wen Tu, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Dr. Bob Wong, Marge Dalseth, and Anna Camille Moreno delivered a podium presentation titled Feasibility and Acceptability of MENOGAP: Conventional and Integrative Menopause Care with Group Acupuncture.
- Lisa Conboy, Irina Conboy, Michael Conboy and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a poster titled Designing a Decentralized Randomized Controlled Trial of Acupuncture to Capture Whole Person Health.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Jill Johnson, Claudia Citkovitz, Zena Kocher, Kayla Ayn Madsen, Emily Flynn, Ashlee Taft Nelson, Wen Tu,Caroline Sariah Howell, and Kimberly Garcia presented a poster titled Pretest-Posttest with Guatemalan Lay Midwives about Acupressure Use for Preeclampsia.
Dr. Mollie Cummins delivered the opening keynote presentation titled Nursing and AI: An Evolution at the 2025 Rita Kobb Nursing & Health Informatics Symposium at the University of Florida College of Nursing in Gainesville.
Christopher Stucky, Felichism Kabo, Dean Marla De Jong, Sherita House, and Josh Wymer presented a poster titled Surgical Team Structure: How Familiarity and Team Size Influence Communication Effectiveness in Military Surgical Teams at the AMSUS 2025 Annual Meetingin National Harbor, MD.
U Alumni sponsored Bringing the U to You: Portland – an event in which alumni could learn updates about the University, including its future and the collaborative efforts driving its success, and connect with each other. Moderated by Riley Smith, Associate Director, Alumni Chapters, panel members Deans Marla De Jong, Arnab Chakraborty, and Frankie Santos Laanan discussed topics such as University priorities, interprofessional collaboration, community engagement, academic excellence, and information about College-specific priorities, initiatives, and achievements.
March 3 Kudos
The Utah Women’s Forum invited Micaela Besser, student in the women’s health nurse practitioner track of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, to deliver a presentation titled Minding the Menopause Gap. Micaela and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson then facilitated a question and answer session with attendees.
Dr. Cynthia Beynon and Dr. Natasha Ansari presented Nursing Scholarship: Engagement and Application at the Intermountain Chapter of the Oncology Nursing Society’s Winter Seminar. Rather than delivering a traditional lecture, they led an engaging session on nursing scholarship and research, immersing attendees in the research process and guiding them through a mini quantitative study where they built a research poster on the spot. Dr. Beynon and Dr. Ansari’s innovative approach highlighted how all nurses can contribute to scholarship, making research accessible and actionable in everyday practice.
Dr. Elizabeth Sloss delivered an invited presentation titled Leveraging AI to Improve Care Quality Across the Cancer Care Continuum: From Enhancing Prognosis Communication to Implementing a Hospital at Home Care Delivery Model at the 2025 Clay Dunagan, MD, MS Annual Patient Safety & Quality Symposium in St. Louis. Barnes-Jewish Hospital, WashU Medicine, and St. Louis Children’s Hospital jointly hosted the symposium. The theme of the symposium was Unlocking Artificial Intelligence to Improve Patient Care.
The American Red Cross invited Kari Weiss, student in the pediatric primary care nurse practitioner track of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, to participate as a Shot@Life Champion during Hill Day in Washington DC. As a Champion, Kari met with six members of Congress who represent Utah and advocated for strong US government investment in national and global immunization programs.
PUBLICATIONS
March 24 Kudos
Aaron SP, Supiano KP, Elk R, Wallace B. Towards a framework for a culturally centered evidenced based prolonged grief group therapy intervention. Int J Palliat Nurs. 2025;31(3):109-118.https://doi.org/10.12968/ijpn.2025.31.3.110
Bekker JH, Heaton B, Valentine J, Valentine M, Burns N, Hawkins A, Kardon G, Kiefer J, Kirchhoff A, Morath J, Stanfield G. Readers' Forum: Protect Utah’s dental health — veto HB81. Deseret News. March 14, 2025.
Tay DL, Perkins R, Muehlberger JR, Casucci T, Campbell T, McFarland MM, and Ellington L. The role of palliative nursing in the context of immunotherapies: A scoping review of patient- and family-centered care considerations. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000001111
The Scholars Strategy Network is a national membership organization made up of college- and university-based researchers interested in improving policy and strengthening democracy. Scholar Dr. Sara Bybee published a policy brief titled The Disproportionate Experience of Financial Hardship and Negative Health Outcomes Among Spanish-Speaking Communities.
College Kudos will not be published on March 31, 2025.
March 10 Kudos
Publications:
Dr. Mollie Cummins published three blogs via Telehealth.org.
- Mastering AI documentation in telehealth: 5 must-know tips for clinicians. March 4, 2025.
- The potential impacts of NIH funding cuts on telehealth research. February 28, 2025.
- How telemedicine reduces healthcare's carbon footprint: New research. February 20, 2025.
March 3 Kudos
Alekhina N, Wong B, Sward K, Mooney KH. Patterns of self-reported diarrhea in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy. Support Care Cancer. 2025;33(3):154. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-025-09206-1
Darawad MW, Reinke LF, Khalil A. Melhem GB, Alnajar M. Palliative care for patients with end-stage renal disease: An examination of unmet needs and experiencing problems. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000001104
Garcia K, Flynn E, Alvarez G, Iacob E. Evaluation of educational activity with Guatemalan birth attendants about helping babies breathe. Hisp Health Care Int. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/15404153241295553
Glissmeyer EW, Stipelman CH, He ZS, Olivas AR, Fox JM, Rigby JM, Cannon SS, Winn E, Alvey J, Kadish H. Improving same-day access in pediatric primary care – a patient-centered and timeliness quality improvement initiative. J Pediatr Health Care. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2025.01.001
Towsley GL, Edelman LS, Geurin R. Successful care conferences: Nursing home staff, persons with dementia, and caregiver perspectives. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2025;14:105504. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2025.105504
IN THE MEDIA
March 24 Kudos
Cancer Discovery, an American Association for Cancer Research journal, features Cancer Discovery News, a comprehensive hub for cancer researchers who aim to stay informed about significant advances in preclinical and clinical research, as well as therapeutic development. In a Cancer Discovery News article titled Clinicians Warn Trump’s EOs Will Harm LGBTQ+ Patients, Aaron Tallent quoted Dr. Sara Bybee regarding health disparities that persons who identify as LGBTQ+ experience.
In conjunction with International HPV Awareness Day, Dr. Deanna Kepka was interviewed for a KUTV Check Your Health segment titled HPV Awareness and Importance of the HPV Vaccine.
March 10 Kudos
Pioneering the Future: Stories of Discovery and Innovation is a University of Utah Health exclusive series that tells stories of high-impact research that is advancing knowledge and improving the health and well-being of people in Utah and beyond. The Science of Healingedition features innovations in telehealth and perinatal depression, including a piece titled Easy-Access Care for Perinatal Depression that spotlights Dr. Gwen Latendresse’s work to develop and test a telehealth program designed to prevent and treat perinatal depression, and enable new mothers to conveniently access mental health support at home.
March 3 Kudos
Dr. Susan Madsen, Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, facilitated an engaging podcast titled Understanding Sexual Assault in Utah with Dr. Julie Valentine and Liliana Olvera-Arbon. Sexual assault is one of four main areas of focus in a report titled Women’s Safety & Security: Utahns’ Awareness, Understanding, and Attitudes.
HealthFeed – the official blog of University of Utah Health – offers information on the latest in medicine, research, nutrition, exercise, and more. A blog titled Take Care of Yourself While Caring for a Loved Onesummarizes Dr. Echo Warner’s research, and includes quotes from Dr. Warner concerning experiencing social isolation, connecting through technology, receiving emotional support through social media, and communicating needs.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & SERVICE
See past Kudos below
Kudos from 2025
February 24 Kudos
Teaching Assistants (TA) play a vital role in enhancing student learning and supporting course instructors at the College of Nursing. Student Affairs and Academic Operations staff Heather Clarkson, Shelley Kern, and Sally Matthews hosted the inaugural Teaching Assistant & Tuition Benefit Funding Information Session, via Zoom, for current and incoming Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy students who are interested in being a TA for academic year 2025-2026. The session focused on the application process and selection criteria, responsibilities and expectations of a TA, time commitment and scheduling, the Tuition Benefit Program and other benefits, available resources and support, and how the TA role can benefit students both professionally and academically. Fifty-two students attended the session, which also was recorded.
February 10 Kudos
The College of Nursing held a Graduate Fair on January 30. More than 70 undergraduate students and University employees met with faculty and staff from the Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Philosophy programs, learned about and compared and contrasted the programs and their tracks, explored pathways towards graduate education, and asked questions. The Office of Student Affairs and Academic Operations treated attendees to free pizza. Ryan Copeland organized the fair, and the following faculty and staff participated:
- Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi
- Dr. Natalie Allen
- Dr. Natasha Ansari
- Dr. Cynthia Beynon
- Sarah Christensen
- Heather Clarkson
- Dr. Erin Cole
- Dr. Sheila Deyette
- Dr. Jessica Ellis
- Dr. Heidi Favero
- Erica Fearnley
- Dr. Kim Friddle
- Dr. Teresa Garrett
- Dr. Julie Gee
- Sonja Jensen
- Dr. Chris MacIntosh
- Kristen Mahoney
- Dr. Paula Meek
- Dr. John Nerges
- Kristan Tunks
- Dr. Emily Winn
U Alumni sponsored Bringing the U to You: Silicon Slopes – an event in which alumni could learn updates about the University, including its future and the collaborative efforts driving its success, and connect with each other. Moderated by Mike Hale, a member of the U Alumni Board of Governors, panel members Deans Marla De Jong, Arnab Chakraborty, and Peter Trapa discussed topics such as President Randall’s vision for innovation, community engagement, academic excellence, and information about College-specific priorities, initiatives, and achievements.
Miriam Lovin, Mindy Francis, Mary Wheeler, and Jenna Hoff planned and held a College of Nursing Meet and Greet event in Utah County. Dean Marla De Jong updated about the College, and alumni attendees reconnected with classmates, faculty, and staff, and formed new relationships with other alumni.
February 3 Kudos
The Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council (AGEC) is an independent 501c3 with the expressed mission of accrediting gerontology programs in higher education. The Master of Science Gerontology program prepares professionals to understand the aging process, and issues related to an aging society. Students learn from experts who value an interdisciplinary approach, and graduate equipped to be a leader in the field of aging. Importantly, the program is open to all academic disciplines. Students are not required to have a nursing or medical background. Given that the Gerontology program applied for initial AGEC accreditation, a 3-member AGEC Review Team completed a 2-day virtual accreditation site visit of the Gerontology Program. In April, AGEC will send a formal report to the College regarding its accreditation status. Those who contributed included the following:
Chief University of Utah Academic Officers:
· Dr. Michael Good
· Dr. Mitzi Montoya
Program Director and Faculty, Practicum Coordinator, and Faculty Advisors:
· Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Co-Lead for the Visit
· Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Co-Lead for the Visit
· Dr. Cynthia Beynon
· Dr. Alycia Bristol
· Dr. Kara Dassel
· Dr. Linda Edelman
· Dr. Valerie Flattes
· Dr. Julie Gee
· Dr. Schola Matovu
· Dr. Cathy Maxwell
· Dr. Rebekah Perkins
· Dr. Lynn Reinke
· Dr. Caroline Stephens
· Dr. Gail Towsley
· Dr. Katherine Supiano
CON Faculty and Staff Support:
· Rebwar Baesmat
· Sarah Brown
· Heather Clarkson
· Denise Crismon
· Lynn Dixon
· Hollie Fuhrmann
· Dr. Sara Hart
· Dr. Linda Hofmann
· Sonja Jensen
· Kristen Mahoney
· Summer Martin
· Minhvan Thach
· Dr. Andrea Wallace
· Dr. Rebecca Wilson
· College of Nursing Excellence in Education
· Dean Marla De Jong
Gerontology MS Students:
· Tessa Buck
· Chris Gravett
· Julie Kemeny
· Kristine Lee
· Jami McDonald
· Kaitlyn Rager
· Suzette Shepherd
University of Utah Support:
· James Harris
· Dr. Alayne Markland
· Dr. Matt Mooney
· Catherine Soehner
· Rob Ence
· Joel Macey
· Dr. Michael Caserta
· Jaime Cross
· Alianne Sipes
· Lauren Chamberlain
January 27 Kudos
The Global Deaf Research Institute invited Dr. Michelle Litchman and Bruno Rodriguez-Gonzales to Quito, Ecuador to discuss improving access to healthcare for deaf Ecuadorians. They met with the Ministerio de Salud Pública (Ministry of Public Health), Federación National de Sordos de Ecuador (National Federation of the Deaf of Ecuador), and Casa de la Diabetes (Diabetes House focused on improving quality of life through diabetes care, education, and prevention).
The National Cancer Institute Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities accepted Dr. Djin Tay as an Early Investigator Advancement Program (EIAP) Associate. Dr. Tay will attend a Grant Seminar in February and receive a grant writing workbook.
View Past Events Below
February 10 Kudos
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Group on Institutional Advancement (GIA) chose For the Love of Mothers, which features Dr. Gwen Latendresse’s work, to receive a Silver Award for Excellence in The Robert G. Fenley Writing Awards – Solicited Articles category. The GIA Awards for Excellence is an annual, peer-reviewed competition that recognizes outstanding work by members of the GIA and their colleagues. The awards honor the most creative and effective approaches used to promote academic medicine through alumni relations, communications, development, marketing, and public affairs programs and projects.
January 27 Kudos
Dr. Sharon Bigger is Volunteer of the Month for the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA), where she Co-Chaired the Emerging Scholars Special Interest Group, serves on the Research Committee, and mentors members of HPNA.
Dr. Valerie Flattes is the recipient of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) 2025 State Award for Outstanding Contributions. AANP “empowers all nurse practitioners (NPs) to advance accessible, person-centered, equitable, high-quality health care for diverse communities through practice, education, advocacy, research, and leadership (PEARL).” The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence that supports the NP role in the areas of PEARL, and is given to only one deserving recipient from each state. Dr. Flattes feels honored to be chosen to represent the state of Utah and the University of Utah College of Nursing, and will receive the award at the 2025 AANP National Conference in San Diego.
Holly Rapone, Family Nurse Practitioner, was recognized during the University of Utah Hospital leadership livestream on February 19 for the excellent care she provides to her patients in the University Hospital setting. Dr. Jen Clifton echoed the recognition writing, “Well done Holly!!”
January 13 Kudos
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $30,800 Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) Junior Faculty Career Development Award to Dr. Echo Warner and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff for their project titled Evaluating the Need for Dyadic Intervention Adaptation in the Health Insurance Navigation Tools (HINT) Intervention. Funding for the award is provided through the CCSS grant from the National Cancer Institute. Based at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, the CCSS is a competitive, internationally reviewed grant competition, with only one application selected annually.
Dr. Emily Winn earned the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential, which the National League for Nursing’s (NLN) Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program administers. This certification underscores Dr. Winn's knowledge and expertise in facilitating learning, facilitating learner development and socialization, using assessment and evaluation strategies, designing curriculum and evaluating program outcomes, functioning as a change agent and leader, engaging in scholarship, pursuing continuous quality Improvement in the academic nurse educator role, and functioning within the organizational environment and the academic community. NLN created this academic nurse educator certification to establish nursing education as a specialty area of practice and create a means for faculty to demonstrate their expertise in this role. Dr. Winn met eligibility criteria for certification and passed a 130-question examination.
On Pulse, Elizabeth Dabb recognized Dr. Josh Twitchell, writing, “Thank you for going above and beyond to provide excellent patient care. Your wisdom, kindness and compassion made your patient feel better.” Dr. Lauri Linder echoed the recognition, writing, “Congratulations on this nice recognition of your efforts in providing compassionate patient care. Thank you for your commitment to excellence in supporting your patients and your clinical colleagues. We are glad to have you here at the College of Nursing.”
February 24 Kudos
The College of Nursing is ranked #17 (#12 for public universities) in National Institutes of Health funding to colleges of nursing. $6,178,032 in new funding during 2024 moved the College from #32 in 2023 to #17 in 2024. We commend our hard-working and innovative scientists, their collaborators and team members, and the stellar Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center staff who support them.
The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) Platform Accelerating Rural Access to Distributed & InteGrated Medical care (PARADIGM) program awarded a $11,925,283 5-year federal contract to the Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah to broaden access to specialized cancer care for patients who live in rural and frontier Utah. It will allow the expansion of the rural Huntsman at Home program with augmented hospital at home services through advanced diagnostic capabilities and the addition of selected cancer clinical trials. This is the first University of Utah-led ARPA-H award. Dr. Kathi Mooney is Principal Investigator and will lead the augmented hospital at home use case and the research core that will conduct three clinical effectiveness studies. Dr. Liz Sloss will lead the human centered design and financial sustainability cores. Christina Echeverria will be Program Manager, and Doctor of Nursing Practice alum Dr. Angie Fausett will be the Lead Nurse Practitioner. The PARADIGM program aims to create a multi-functional, rugged electric vehicle platform equipped with advanced medical devices to deliver hospital-level care in rural communities across the country. A press release titled Bringing Cancer Care Closer to Home: Federal Program Expands Treatment to Rural and Frontier Communities contains much more information.
January 27 Kudos
Huntsman Cancer Institute Cancer Control and Population Sciences awarded a $29,714 pilot grant to principal investigators Sheetal Hardikar and Chia Jie Tan and co-investigator Dr. Djin Tay for their project titled Real-World Longitudinal Evidence on Immune-Related Adverse Events in Melanoma Survivors: Incidence and Patient Experience.
The University of Utah’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute awarded a $3,949.75 voucher to Dr. Djin Tay for her project titled Partnering with Rural Cancer Patients to Optimize Self-Advocacy for Financial Empowerment-SAFE. Dr. Tay willobtain feedback on adapting her rural cancer financial toxicity toolkit with Hispanic/Latino community leaders for Spanish speaking rural populations.
January 13 Kudos
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $30,800 Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) Junior Faculty Career Development Award to Dr. Echo Warner and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff for their project titled Evaluating the Need for Dyadic Intervention Adaptation in the Health Insurance Navigation Tools (HINT) Intervention. Funding for the award is provided through the CCSS grant from the National Cancer Institute. Based at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, the CCSS is a competitive, internationally reviewed grant competition, with only one application selected annually.
View Past Recognitions Below
January
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $30,800 Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) Junior Faculty Career Development Award to Dr. Echo Warner and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff for their project titled Evaluating the Need for Dyadic Intervention Adaptation in the Health Insurance Navigation Tools (HINT) Intervention. Funding for the award is provided through the CCSS grant from the National Cancer Institute. Based at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, the CCSS is a competitive, internationally reviewed grant competition, with only one application selected annually.
January 27 Kudos
Undergraduate student Stephanie Quist has been awarded the 2024-2025 Francis Family Scholarship for undergraduate research. Stephanie is a member of the Taylor-Swanson lab and has been accepted into the master’s program in Special Education at the University of Utah, starting fall 2025. With faculty mentorship support from Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Stephanie will conduct research titled ACUAWARE, exploring changes in interoceptive awareness in patients as they undergo a course of acupuncture treatment for chronic pain, monitoring patients’ pain levels, and assessing whether patients also experience changes in how they feel and perceive their own body in relation to their pain.
February 24 Kudos
Dr. Sara Bybee will present Bridging the Gap: Cultivating Trust for Authentic Data in LGBTQ+ and Hispanic/Latino Researchfor Palliative Care Rounds at the University of Rochester Medicine Palliative Care Grant Rounds on February 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM MST. Click here to attend.
Undergraduate student Sofia Flowers presented a poster titled The Parent Caregiving Experience of School-Aged Children With Cancer at Research on Capitol Hill (ROCH), held in the State Capitol Rotunda. This year, ROCH celebrated 25 years of undergraduate students from the University of Utah and Utah State University sharing their research with lawmakers, emphasizing the importance of undergraduate research and creative work. In addition, Lara Jones interviewed Dr. Annie Fukushima and Sofia for KRCL’s RadioACTive. Dr. Lauri Linder is Sofia’s mentor.
Dr. Julie Valentine presented three podium presentations at the 77th Annual Scientific Conference of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Baltimore. The conference theme was TECHNOLOGY: A Tool for Transformation or Tyranny?
- Dr. Julie Valentine, Matthew Gamete, and Leslie Miles presented Variability in Uploaded CODIS Profiles from Sexual Assault Kits.
- Dr. Julie Valentine, Luke Johnson, Leslie Miles, Brian Brown, Connor Alder, and Andrew Criddle presented Lessons Learned from the Development of Sexual Assault Kit Evidence Machine-learning Models.
- Dr. Julie Valentine and Luke Johnson presented What about the Swabs? Retrospective Review of DNA Analysis Findings from Sexual Assault Kit Evidence.
Doctor of Nursing Practice student Kari Weiss will present about adoption at the Safe and Healthy Families Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) session on February 27, 2025. Click here to register.
Faculty presented at the 1U4U Symposium, which featured projects funded in 2023 and was held at the Cleone Peterson Eccles Alumni House. 1U4U is designed to seed multidisciplinary faculty and/or student collaborations in areas of mutual research interest and opportunity. Funded projects cultivate partnerships across campus and within the community, enable innovative and collaborative education and training, address social and scientific problems too deep and complex to be solved by any single discipline, stimulate early and high-risk approaches that would not attract traditional funding support, engage young researchers and scholars in multidisciplinary partnerships, and facilitate discussion and collaboration among scholars interested in the same challenges who might not otherwise meet.
- Kaila Christini, Simon Brewer from the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Dr. Echo Warner, Naina Phadnis from the School of Biological Sciences, Stephen Gubler and Rebecca Slagle from the Huntsman Cancer Institute, and Dr. Deanna Kepka presented Overcoming Vaccine Hesitancy and Preventing Cancer Through Adaptive Learning Artificial Intelligence and Refinement of Reminder Interventions and Campaigns.
- Zhaoxia Pu from Atmospheric Sciences, Paul Brooks from Geology and Geophysics, and Dr. Xiaoming Sheng presented Understand and Predict the Severe Drought Events in the Western United States and their Influence on Water Resources and Human Health.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Camille Moreno from the School of Medicine, Jeannette Villalta from Utah Area Health Education Centers, and Isabel Dulfano from World Languages and Cultures presented Addressing a GAP in MENOpausal Latinas’ Healthcare: Adapting MENOGAP for Community Health Worker Delivery in Hispanic/Latina Communities.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) awarded a scholarship to Dr. Clarisa Medina-Poeliniz, enabling her to participate in the AASM Foundation Young Investigators Research Forum, which will be held from March-May 2025. This unique training program allows participants to interact with senior sleep investigators, peers, and funding agency program officers; and provides guidance, tactics, and strategies to advance career development in sleep and circadian research.
February 10 Kudos
Dr. Sara Webb presented a webinar titled Postpartum PTSD for a Utah Department of Health and Human Services ACT (Ask, Collaborate, Teach) session. Dr. Webb spoke about birth trauma, risk factors for developing postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the impacts of PTSD on the family, and the steps healthcare providers can take to prevent PTSD during pregnancy and childbirth.
Faculty and staff presented at the Social Interventions Research & Evaluation Network (SIREN) 2025 National Research Meeting in San Diego. The meeting theme was “Advancing the Science of Social Care.”
- Dr. Sara Bybee, Natalie Tedford, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Ernest Grigorian, Lisa Diamond, and Dr. Andrea Wallace delivered a podium presentation titled The Role of Threat Vigilance in Screening and Addressing Unmet Social Care in the Emergency Department.
- Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Catherine Elmore, Ernest Grigorian, Dr. Bob Wong, and Dr. Andrea Wallacepresented a poster titled Hispanic/Latinx Adults’ Perceptions of Deservingness in Addressing Social Care.
- Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Brenda Gulliver, and Melissa Baker presented a poster titled Evaluating Clinical Staff Perspectives on Social Needs Screenings Using Self-Determination Theory.
- Dr. Andrea Wallace, Ernest Grigorian, Dr. Bob Wong, Dr. Ching-Yu Wang, Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, and Dr. Brenda Luther presented a poster titled Patient Engagement in Social Needs Screening and Referrals by Screening Approach, Clinical Service, and Language.
- Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Dr. Sara Bybee, Ernest Grigorian, and Dr. Bob Wong presented a poster titled Psychometric testing of Spanish SINCERE (SINCERE-Sp).
February 3 Kudos
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was selected for the Spring 2025 Faculty Upskilling in AI (UAI) program. The UAI program is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to design and execute AI-driver research projects, write competitive research proposals leveraging AI, and critically evaluate AI methods for responsible and effective use in their work. Dr. Taylor-Swanson will learn about the design of chatbot-delivered menopause health education. Dr. Vivek Srikumar and Dr. Sneha Kumar Kasera from the College of Engineering coordinate the UAI program.
Sherri Kerney organized and Simulation Center actors Liz Whittaker and Stacey Jenson presented two plays for a Caring Connection workshop titled Best Practices in Supporting Patients & Families as They Prepare for End of Life and Grief. The plays, created for the Hospice Foundation of America and that Dr. Sara Bybee arranged for Caring Connections to use, were exceptionally polished and compelling for an audience of hospice professionals.
Dr. Shawna Sisler and Dr. Richard MacIntyre will present an American Association of Colleges of Nursing webinar titled Disaster Ready: Preparing Nurses for Crisis Response on February 11. They will explore the critical role of nurses in disaster management, the importance of comprehensive disaster nursing education, and the current state of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in nursing, focusing on education needs, workforce readiness, and community resiliency.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Claudia Charles, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Sharon Austin, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Lorna Oforiwah Khemchand, Sarai Negrete Macias, Camille Moreno, Dr. Megan Maughan, Leslie Crandall, and Ryan Ward delivered an oral presentation titled Creating Waning Moon with Two-Eyed Seeing: A Menopausal Transition Health Promotion Intervention with Indigenous, Integrative, and Biomedical Education Developed with Urban American Indian/Alaska Native Women at the Coyote Institute’s Fourth Annual Two-Eyed Seeing Conference, which was held at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine, and virtually. The Two-Eyed Seeing Conference was established to honor Albert D. Marshall, a M’iqmak tribal elder, who coined the term “two-eyed seeing” – the equal validity of indigenous and scientific ways of knowing.
January 27 Kudos
Vernell DeWitty, adjunct instructor Joan Gallegos, and Dr. Teresa Garrett will deliver a presentation titled Eliminating Structural Racism in Nursing Education: Utah Action Strategies at Campaign for Action's Advancing Health Equity in Nursing Education webinar on January 30 from 12-1:30 PM MST. To register, click here.
Dr. Sheila Deyette delivered a presentation titled The Significance of Implementing a Trauma-Informed Health Care Model in Community Health Clinics to College of Nursing Practice and Community Collaboration nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and staff. The presentation was a key component of PACC's ongoing initiative to integrate trauma-informed care across all PACC-affiliated clinics.
Dr. Linda Edelman and Josh Dallin delivered a presentation titled Ag Wellness – Addressing Mental Health in Utah’s Farm and Ranch Families and Communities for the Integrative Primary Care and Substance Abuse Use Disorder Treatment ECHOseries.
Cervivor, Inc. invited Dr. Deanna Kepka to participate as a panelist at the 2025 Cervical Cancer Summit in Washington DC. The summit celebrated 20 years of dedication to ending cervical cancer and providing support to communities across the United States affected by the disease.
Dr. Lauri Linder presented a webinar titled Considerations for Central Venous Catheter Selection and Maintenance Care to the International Society of Paediatric Oncology’s Supportive Care Network.
Caring Connections faculty and staff delivered several presentations.
· Dr. Katherine Supiano delivered a presentation titled Grief of Suicide Death to Washington County, Iron County, and Intermediate School Districts, as well as to the Southwest Behavioral Health Adolescent Unit, with Cathy Davis from the Utah State Board of Education.
· Dr. Katherine Supiano delivered a presentation titled Traumatic Grief to the Utah Funeral Directors Association.
· Dr. Katherine Supiano, Laura Bradbury, Taryn Hiatt, Adrienne Bott, Anna Fetzer, and Dr. Sara Bybee will present a workshop titled Best Practices in Supporting Patients & Families as They Prepare for End of Life and Grief, at Larkin Sunset Gardens on January 29, 2025. Sherri Kerney and two College of Nursing Simulation Center actors collaborated with Dr. Bybee and will perform two short plays about advance care directives, which align with the Hospice Foundation of America's Advanced Directive Project, during the workshop.
· Dr. Katherine Supiano and Anna Fetzer will present an online workshop titled Grief of Overdose Death Training: A Clinical Training and Education Program on January 31, 2025.
Faculty and staff presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Doctoral Education Conference in Coronado, CA.
- Dr. Diane Chapman, Dr. Ann Butt, Somer Aly, Dr. Van Gip-Duran, and Dr. Gwen Latendresse delivered a podium presentation titled Simulation Pilot for Student Led Clinic.
- Dr. Jennifer Clifton delivered a podium presentation titled College of Nursing-Practice Partnership in the Juvenile Justice System.
- Dr. Linda Aiken and Dean Marla De Jong delivered a podium presentation titled Charting Innovations in PhD Education.
Dean Marla De Jong facilitated the Academic Health Center Like Schools Focused Discussion.
January 13 Kudos
Dr. Paul Estabrooks and Dr. Elizabeth Sloss will present Theories, Models, & Frameworks in Dissemination & Implementation Science on January 24, 2025. Sponsored by the Utah Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), the session will be held from 9 am – 12 pm in the Williams Building, Room 238A, and also will be streamed through Zoom.
View Past Presentations Below
January
Dr. Paul Estabrooks and Dr. Elizabeth Sloss will present Theories, Models, & Frameworks in Dissemination & Implementation Science on January 24, 2025. Sponsored by the Utah Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI), the session will be held from 9 am – 12 pm in the Williams Building, Room 238A, and also will be streamed through Zoom.
February 24 Kudos
Crispi M, Davis CM, Christensen AB, Chavez-England JL, Echeverria L, Fenton AA, Garrett T, Noss T, Sampson YB, Taylor-Swanson LJ, White H, Woodbury R, Adams K. Nurse leaders as stewards for responsible environmental healthcare practice. Am Nurs J. Epub ahead of print.
Friberg Felsted K, Cadiz A, Eaton J. Have you heard of House Bill 60? Promoting age inclusivity for older adults through higher education. Gerontol Geriatr Educ. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/02701960.2025.2464124
Rogers KN, Kaddas HK, Ramsay JM, Waters AR, Vaca Lopez PL, van Thiel Berghuijs K, Linder L, Lewis MA, Warner EL, Gill D, Kirchhoff AC. Health insurance coverage among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors receiving health care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2024.0115
February 10 Kudos
Adams MCB, Sward KA, Perkins ML, Hurley RW. Standardizing research methods for opioid dose comparison: The NIH HEAL morphine milligram equivalent calculator. Pain. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003529
Alnajar M, Kim N, Roark E, Park MJ, Rose, M., Ansari N, Perkins R, Keddington A, Ellington L, and Tay D. Palliative care perceptions and needs among total cancer care patients undergoing immunotherapy: A mixed methods study. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. In press.
Chevrier A, Vaca Lopez PL, Rogers K, Stefanou M, van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Fair D, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC, Warner EL. Adaptation, feasibility, and acceptability of a health insurance literacy intervention for caregivers of pediatric cancer patients (CHAT-C). Curr Oncol. 2025;32(2):69. https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020069
Cummins MR. Telemedicine reduces no-shows and last-minute cancellations in healthcare appointments. Telehealth.org. 2025.
Ivanova J, Cummins MR, Ong T, Soni H, Barrera J, Wilczewski H, Welch B, Bunnell B. Regulation and compliance in telemedicine: Viewpoint. J Med Internet Res. 2025;27:e53558. https://www.jmir.org/2025/1/e53558
Ivanova J, Shah B, Foote C, and Cummins MR. Assessing the costs and savings of telemedicine: Insights from the consolidated framework for implementation research. Digit Health. 2025;11. https://doi.org/10.1177/20552076251314552
Killela M, Turner CA, Chevrier A, Stefanou M, Vaca Lopez PL, Kaddas HK, Karely M. van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Warner EL, Perez GK, Waters AR, Fair DB, Nelson RE, Lewis MA, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC. CHAT-S study protocol: A randomized controlled trial of a health insurance literacy education program for young adult cancer survivors. Prev Oncol Epidemiol. 2025;3(1):2455706. https://doi.org/10.1080/28322134.2025.2455706
Reblin M, Liang I, Tay DL, Kirtane K, Ketcher D. The patient and caregiver experience of CAR T-cell therapy: A qualitative analysis. J Psychosoc Oncol. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/07347332.2025.2460060
Sisler SM, Hart S, Hamilton J, Shapiro NA. Preventing suicide through lethal means restriction in pediatric care. J Pediatr Health Care. 2025;39(2):308-317. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedhc.2024.09.004
van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Ray N, Vaca Lopez PL, Waters AR, Tsukamoto T, Kaddas HK, Warner EL, Fair D, Lewis M, Perez GK, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC. “I've never personally discussed the cost of anything:” Adolescent and young adult patients with cancer experiences and preferences for cost-of-care conversations. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2024.0102
Warner EL, Sikorskii A, Cunicelli N, Badger T, Segrin C, Morrill KE, Rainbow J. Employment productivity and cancer-related psychological symptoms among adult cancer dyads. J Occup Environ Med. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003334
February 3 Kudos
Armstrong C, Friberg-Felsted K, Macali J, Clifton J, Simonsen S. “More attentive to my wellness”: Reported experiences of academic nurse faculty and staff in the early months of the pandemic. OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine 2025;10(1):008. doi:10.21926/obm.icm.2501008
Bradbury L, Supiano K, Andersen T, Ponce Gonzalez K, and Bott A. Conducting grief support groups in prison: A pragmatic feasibility and impact study. J Gerontol Soc Work. Accepted.
Murphy AE, Arewasikporn A, Taylor-Swanson L, Williams DA, and Harris RE. Pressure pain threshold and perceived impact of pain differentially predict short-term and long-term pain reduction following acupuncture in fibromyalgia. J Integr Med. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joim.2025.01.005
Supiano K, Evans M, Fetzer A, Bradbury L, Ponce Gonzalez K, Bott A. Conducting grief support groups in prison: A pragmatic feasibility and impact study. J Correct Health Care. Accepted.
January 27 Kudos
Carney KB, Wilkes J, Aderibigbe T, Stegenga K, Spraker-Perlman H, Linder LA. Symptom documentation in unstructured palliative care notes of children and adolescents with cancer. J Pain Symptom Manage. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2025.01.004
Garcia K, Alvarez G, Iacob E, Kepka D. Focus groups with Guatemalan community leaders about barriers to cervical cancer prevention and control. Health Promot Pract. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248399241309897
Greteman BB, Cole A, Charlton ME, Shannon J, Kepka D, Paskett ED, Borrayo EA, Studts JL, Thompson HS, Scarinci I, Hinton LC, Chrischilles EA, Garcia-Auguste CJ, Christini K, Aker H, Plascak JJ, Harper FWK, Baskin ML, Bae S, Pandya V, Kim YI, Faseru B, Befort C, Kuo H, Dignan M, Canedo J, Champion V, Drake BF, Davis KL, Friedman DL, Elsaid MI, Mama SK, Cohn WF. Cancer-related health behaviors during the COVID 19 pandemic in geographically diverse samples across the US. BMC Cancer. 2025;25:50. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-024-13373-5
Hughes AS, Mirus K, Heydarian NM, Litchman M. Diabetes care disparities in Deaf/hard of hearing and blind/low vision populations. Curr Diab Rep. 2025;25:14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-024-01565-z
Iacob E, Hollingshaus M, Utz R, Tay D, Ornstein KA, Alexander R, Barrientos P, Ellington L, Newman M, Belnap T, Cizik AM, Smith K, Meeks HD, Stephens CE. Caregiving at end-of-life: How do family structure and dementia status impact antidepressant and anxiolytic prescriptions among families? Alzheimers Dement. In press.
Kent-Marvick J, Cloyes KG, Clark A, Angulo M, de la Haye K, Debbink MP, Creal C, Wong B, Simonsen SE. Listening to understand: Exploring postpartum women’s perceptions of their social networks and social support in relation to their health behaviors and weight. Women's Health (Lond). 2025;21. https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057241309774
January 13 Kudos
Aderibigbe TB, Adeleye K, Simonsen S, Latendresse G. A narrative review of culturally informed breastfeeding interventions for African American women. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs. Accepted.
Cummins M. How does telemedicine affect EHR burden? Insights from recent research. Telehealth.org. November 26, 2024.
Cummins M. Shutdown update: American Relief Act sustains crucial telehealth flexibilities. Telehealth.org. December 21, 2024.
Lim M, Sivaloganathan V, Rodgers GM, Simonsen SE. Development and validation of an algorithm to better identify pregnant women with inherited bleeding disorders within electronic health records. Thromb Res. Accepted.
Maxwell CA, Grubbs B, Dietrich MS, Boon JT, Dunavan J, Knickerbocker KJ, Patel MR. Mitochondrial fitness science communication for aging adults: Prospective formative pilot study. JMIR Form Res. 2024;8:e64437. doi:10.2196/64437
Ong T, Soni H, Ivanova J, Wilczewski H, Cummins M, Barrera J, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Current Directions in Research on Virtual Reality in Mental Health Care. In Stone J. ed. Mental Health Virtual Reality: The Power of Immersive Worlds. Wiley, 2025:13-26.
View Past Publications Below
February 10 Kudos
GOOD Notes featured an article titled Expanding Our Impact: Addressing Social Determinants of Health from the College of Nursing insights magazine. The article features Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Dr. Catherine Elmore, Dr. Michelle Litchman, and Dr. Andrea Wallace.
View Past In the Media Topics Below
February 24 Kudos
In 2024, Dr. Ana Alder Chaired the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses’ Progressive Scope and Standards Task Force. The first edition of AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive Care Nursing Practice was published online in January 2025. Historically, AACN Scope and Standards addressed both critical-care and progressive care. One goal of the task force was to determine if and how progressive care might be designated as a specialty with its own unique focus. AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive Care Nursing Practice is tailored to progressive care, and provides essential and evidenced-based guidance for registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses who care for acutely ill patients in progressive care settings where patients require complex assessments and interventions.
Dr. Emily Winn was invited to serve as a member of the Utah Health Workforce Advisory Council's Clinical Preceptor Subcommittee. The subcommittee was established to develop policy recommendations that strengthen the availability, quality, and capacity of clinical preceptors for Utah's physician and advanced practice registered nurse students, and is expected to complete its work by June 2025. Their recommendations will be sent to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services and other relevant state entities.
Feburary 10 Kudos
The Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma raised $1,270 for Fourth Street Clinic through donations from students, faculty, and friends. Thanks to those who donated, enabling the clinic to help improve the health and quality of life for individuals experiencing homelessness. The fundraising effort was led by faculty and student interns of the Gamma Rho Chapter, including:
- Dr. Amanda Keddington, President
- Dr. Anna Alder
- Dr. Natasha Ansari
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
- Dr. Lisa Barry
- Dr. Sue Chase Cantarini
- Jessica Chavez-England
- Leslie Crandall
- Dr. Jenneth Doria
- Dr. Valerie Flattes
- Sofia Flowers, Intern
- Dr. Kelly Mansfield
- Dr. John Nerges
- Anida Pathammavong, Intern
- Dr. Rebekah Perkins
- Paige Potter
February 3 Kudos
Dr. Julie Valentine was appointed to serve as a member of the National Academies' Committee on Sexual Assault at Sea. Under Congressional mandate, a committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will conduct a consensus study that will review and assess existing evidence on challenges and prospective solutions associated with sexual assault at sea aboard Coast Guard vessels, to include the provision of survivor care, forensic examination of the victim, and evidence collection. The study will review best practices of conducting sexual assault forensic examinations and evaluate the operational capabilities of the Coast Guard in providing alleged victims of sexual assault immediate access to care onboard a vessel. As appropriate, the committee will make evidence-driven policy and research recommendations to key military stakeholders and provide any appropriate recommendation for changes to existing laws, regulations, or employer policies. Dr. Valentine’s service extends through September 2026.
The Academic Senate approved the Center for Interprofessional Simulation-based Experiential Learning (CISBEL), co-directed by Dr. Ann Butt and Dr. Ken Johnson. CISBEL's mission focuses on healthcare excellence and equity through simulation, experiential learning, and collaboration. As a resource for University of Utah Health colleges and schools, CISBEL will enhance existing simulation-based learning activities; expand research opportunities for faculty, staff, and students; serve as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration; increase professional development opportunities; and boost community engagement through events and demonstrations. Dr. Butt is recognized for expertise in simulation-based experiential learning and was instrumental in establishing the Center.
Dr. Valerie Flattes, Aarohi Drabu, and MS student Alyssa Pham organized the third annual College of Nursing Saturday Academy outreach event, welcoming 105 students from elementary, middle, and high schools in and around Salt Lake City, and inspiring students to pursue a career in nursing. Saturday Academy fosters an inclusive campus environment and helps build a strong, diverse applicant pool for health science fields. Students in grades 4-12 participated in hands-on activities in the CON Simulation Center, where they had the opportunity to interact with nurses, faculty, and nursing students. They also learned about the nursing student experience, including the college preparation process, admissions, and more. The event would not have been possible without the incredible support of the following individuals and teams:
Simulation Center Team:
· Yvonne Bass
· Debbie Boulter
· Dr. Ann Butt
· Bobby Cody
· Kristy Gauthier
· Lori Hanson
· Anne Harris
· Sherri Kerney
· Mandy Thomson
Staff Support:
· Ryan Copeland
· Erica Fearnley
· Adryenne Huo
· Shelli King
· Gabriel Mayberry
· Kristan Tunks
Student Support:
· Zamzam Ahmed
· Piper Chnoweth
· Jasmine De La Cruz
· Arie Fichialos
· Sofia Flowers
· Lucas Gwynn
· Gabriella Hernandez
· Yi-Hsuan Huang
· Kate Miller
· Bailee Minhondo
· Jon Todd Mosier
· Elena Nelson
· Abby Neukamm
· Anida Pathammavong
· Thu Pham
· Charity Ralphs
· Anagha Rao
· Kaitie Rogers
· Jacy Thomas
· Kelly Tran
· Nhu Trinh
· Renee Villafana
· Allison Wannenmacher
· Jennie Wilson
Faculty Support:
· Dr. Lisa Barry
· Leslie Crandall
· Dr. Erica Nelson
· Jesika Chavez-England
· Danielle Puri
· Dr. Katie Ward
Special gratitude to the members of College Student Council who volunteered to help with Saturday Academy, and to Alyssa Pham. Alyssa has been organizing Saturday Academy for the past three years, and her hard work and commitment have made the event a continued success.
Participants provided the following feedback (unedited):
· “Getting to learn about the different aspects of nursing and what sorts of things nurses do”; “I loved learning about how to care for babies”
· “I enjoyed the things I learned and how there is a place for everyone. There’s also a good chance you can get into nursing so that’s good.”
· “I think my most favorite part was hearing the manikins’ heartbeat and the noises they make.”
· “The experience to be learning with health professionals was great”
· “being able to talk to people in the field and ask questions was the best part”
· “All of the people who helped us out were really nice as well.”
· “College of Nursing gave us an experience”
· “The energy and attitude all the people had was so good to see.”
January 27 Kudos
The Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) appointed Dr. Deanna Kepka as the inaugural leader of its newly launched Global Oncology Initiative, which addresses the growing burden of cancer in low- and middle-income countries, where more than 75% of cancer-related deaths are projected to occur in the next decade. These countries face significant challenges, including limited access to screening, detection, treatment, and palliative care. Given that many synergies exist among work in these low-resource settings, the Initiative aims to foster a collaborative community of global oncology investigators in the Mountain West, strengthen research partnerships, and provide mentorship opportunities to amplify the global impact of their work. Leveraging HCI’s expertise in cancer prevention and treatment, the Initiative supports its mission through activities such as meetings, newsletters, and research retreats. Dr. Kepka will convene local researchers interested in global health and help foster activities to maximize HCI’s impact worldwide.
January 13 Kudos
Dr. Linda Edelman has been selected to serve as a member of the Advisory Committee on Interdisciplinary, Community-Based Linkages (ACICBL), of the Health Resources and Services Administration, for a term of 3 years. The ACICBL provides advice and recommendations on policy and program development to the Secretary of Health and Human Services concerning the activities authorized under Part D of Title VII of the PHS Act, which include Area Health Education Centers, geriatrics, rural health, allied health, podiatry, chiropractic medicine, mental and behavioral health, pain care, and quality improvement and patient safety. Committee members also develop and publish performance measures and guidelines, and recommend appropriations for the above-mentioned programs.
View Past Service Topics Below
Kudos from 2024
The College of Nursing will be well-represented at the 2024 Western Institute of Nursing Conference on April 17-20, 2024, in Salt Lake City. The conference theme is Health and Equity in Changing Environmental and Social Climates. More than 100 faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students will present.
Recognition
2024 Western Academy of Nurses Inductees: Dr. Lauri Linder and Dr. Perry Gee
2024 WIN Award Recipient: Carol A. Lindeman Award for a New Researcher: Dr. Scott Christensen
Podium Presentations
Integrating Sustainability Concepts into Nursing Courses and Curricula. Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Marge Volkening
When Water Use and Public Health Collide: The Human Health Implications of the Great Salt Lake’s Collapse. Ben Abbott, Dean Marla De Jong
Moderating Podium Presentations at a Professional Conference. Cara Gallegos, Dr. Lauri Linder
Women’s Health Across the Lifespan – Moderator: Dr. Lauren Clark
- An Intersectional Exploration of Women’s Experiences during Menopause. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Madison Maughan, ValentineMukundente, Lori Pacheco, Wendy Sanders, Fahina Tavake-Pasi, Jeannette Villalta, Heather Merkley, Camille Moreno
- Using Female Reproductive System History in Cardiovascular Nursing Research. Mary Roberts Davis, Shirin Hiatt, Nandita Gupta, NathanDieckmann, Lissi Hansen, Quin Denfeld
- Adapting an Integrative Group Medical Visit to Address a Gap in Menopause Care: Menogap. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Jennie Leo, Zoee Perry, Camille Moreno, Luul Farah, Sara Farah, Julie Fritz, Cinneamon Geppelt, Doriena Lee, Heather Merkley, Valentine Mukundente, LoriPacheco, Wendy Sanders, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Kari Stoddard, Fahina Tavake-Pasi, Jeannette Villalta, Paula Gardiner
State of the Science Address in Research: Climate Change and Nursing Research: Implications for Climate Justice. Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
Symposium: A Framework for Researching Women’s Health across the Lifespan.
- Overview: A Framework for Researching Women’s Health across the Lifespan. Mary Roberts Davis, Quin Denfeld, Shirin Hiatt, Lyndsey Miller,Susan Rosenkranz, MinKyoung Song, Deanne Tibbitts, Ellen Tilden
- Applying the WHRL Model to Understand Multimorbidity Challenges Among Women. Shirin Hiatt
Symposium: Methods to Support the Inclusion of Children with Complex Health Conditions and Their Families in Research. Moderator: Dr. LauriLinde
- Overview: Methods to Support the Inclusion of Children with Complex Health Conditions and Their Families in Research. Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Christine Platt, Dr. Kelly Mansfield, Leandra Bitterfeld
- Engaging Children with Cancer and Their Parents in Instrument Development. Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Christine Platt, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Kristin Stegenga
- Strategies for the Inclusion of Siblings to Children with Chronic Illnesses in Research. Dr. Christine Platt, Sally Martens, Dr. Lauri Linder
- Participant-Centered Recruitment of Parents of Hospitalized Infants. Dr. Kelly Mansfield, Linda Lambert, Dr. Katherine Sward, ClaudiaDelgado-Corcoran, Dr. Kristin Cloyes
Associate Deans and Directors for Research. Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
Child Health / Illness Session – Siblings as Caregivers for Children with Chronic Illness: A Qualitative Exploration. Dr. Christine Platt, Sally Martens
Education: Focus on Equity and Diversity Session - Rural Health Disparities and Nursing Education: Using Simulation to Help Bridge the Gap. Dr. Ann Butt, Kristy Gauthier, Carly Bonfiglio
Maternal Health Session. Moderator: Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
Postpartum Health Behaviors and Weight Are Associated with the Social Environment. Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Kayla de laHaye, Dr. Bob Wong, Michelle Debbink, Dr. Sara Simonsen
Older Adult Health Session - Tailoring a Diabetes Tech Intervention for Care Partners of Older Adults with Dementia. Dr. Synneva Hagen-Lillevik, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Shinduk Lee, Dr. Nancy Allen
Topics in Diversity and Inclusion Session - Non-Traditional Age Nursing Students’ Experiences: Implications for Education. Michaella Lawson, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Kara Dassel, Dr. Jacqueline Eaton
Biological Research in Nursing Session. Moderator: Dr. Christine Platt
Chaotic Patient Trajectory and Risk Framework: Development of a Foundational Approach. Dr. Jace Johnny
Symposium: Our Patients (And Our Students) As Our Teachers. Moderator: Dr. Shawna Sisle
- Overview: Our Patients (and Our Students) As Our Teachers. Dr. Shawna Sisler, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Danielle Bennett, Dr. Cynthia Garbett
- Implementing Novel Formative Simulation-Based Education for Nursing Trainees. Dr. Shawna Sisler, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Danielle Bennett,Dr. Cynthia Garbett
- From Awareness to Action: Translating SDOH Competencies into DNP Curricula. Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Danielle Bennett, Dr. Shawna Sisler
- Psychological Safety: An Antecedent to Critical Learning. Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Danielle Bennett, Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Shawna Sisler
- Our Students as Our Teachers: An Autoethnography. Danielle Bennett, Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Shawna Sisler, Dr. Rebekah Perkins
Topics in Clinical Education Session. Moderator: Dr. Ginette Pepper
PhD/DN Collaboration and Clinical Networking Special Interest Group. Moderator: Dr. Perry Gee
Mid-Career Connection to CANS. Moderator: Dr. Andrea Wallace
Distinguished Research Lectureship: From There to Here and a Program of Research: I Had No Idea. Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
Chronic Illness Session. Two Distinct but Different Trajectories of Symptoms in End-Stage Liver Disease. Lissi Hansen, Michael Chang, Shirin Hiatt,Nathan Dieckmann, Christopher Lee
Linguistic Markers of Stress and Coping in Cancer Dyads’ Diaries during COVID-19. Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Kelly Mansfield, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo
Nurse Wellbeing Session. Nurse Reactions to Workplace Violence: Reporting and Safety Implications. Dr. Scott Christensen, Dr. Barbara Wilson
Public Health Issues Session. Educational Activity with Guatemalan Comadronas about Helping Babies Breathe. Kimberly Garcia, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Emily Flynn
Topics in Academic Education Session. Moderator: Amanda Keddington
The Development of Family Caregiving Competencies for Nursing Education. Dr. Sara Hart, Kathryn Sexson, Andra Davis
Poster Presentations
External Urinary Catheters in Pediatric Females: A Quasi-Experimental Study Proposal. Kaylee Fauvell, Katreena Merrill, Dr. Perry Gee, Janine Roberts
Parents Perceptions of Healthcare Team Support during an Acute Hospital Stay. Dr. Kelly Mansfield, Dr. Katherine Sward, Maija Reblin, Eric Jones,Claudia Delgado-Corcoran, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Linda Lambert, Dr. Kristin Cloyes
Recruitment & Engagement of Emerging Adults with Type 1 Diabetes for a Peer Support Trial. Bruno Gonzales, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, JuliaBlanchette, Nazeen Shah, Porter Bischoff, Dr. Michelle Litchman
Staff Views on Social Needs Screening: A Social Determination Perspective. Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Andrea Wallace
Implementation of Nurse-Led Medication Titration to Improve Outcomes in Heart Failure. Aaron Bennion
Skin Color Representation in Nurse Practitioner Education. Dr. Jennifer Hamilton, Dr. Robert Sylvester, Kari Weiss, Amy Dubuque, Annika Potter,Annabelle Huntsman, Dr. Valerie Flattes
Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Rural Oncology Care with a Provider Toolkit. Angela Fausett, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Kristin Barber, Dr. Tek Kilgore, Dr. Gillian Tufts, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Dr. Kathi Mooney
Embedding Community Health Workers into an Integrated Healthcare System. Amanda Keddington, Janine S. Roberts, Dr. Perry Gee, Dr. Julie Peila Gee
Adjusting Workload and Schedule Demands to Promote Nurse Leader Well-Being. Dr. Scott Christensen, Tracey Nixon
Workplace Violence Trends in Oncology Nursing and Beyond: Strategies for Safety. Dr. Scott Christensen, Mary Jean Austria
Enhancing Transitions of Care: The Heal at Home Program. Juan Manuel Hernandez, Michael Sanchez, Dr. Scott Christensen
Hitting the Bullseye: Dismantling Racism in Nursing Education. Dr. Teresa Garrett, Joan Gallegos, Vernell DeWitty, Vivienne Pierce McDaniel
Death with and without Dementia: Impact on Family Antidepressant Prescriptions. Dr. Eli Iacob, Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. DjinTay, Katherine Ornstein, Pamela Barrientos, Mike Newman, Tom Belnap, Dr. Caroline Stephens
Implementing Loneliness Screening at a University Student Health Center. Helena Bronte Reay, Jeremy Yorgason, Brad LeBaron, Dr. Cynthia Garbett
A Cultural Humility Framework to Create a Virtual Reality for Health Professionals. Dr. Katherine Doyon, Malek Alnajar, Dr. Julie Peila Gee, Dr. Nancy Allen
Feasibility of Web-Monitoring Software Methods to Measure Online Misinformation. Cindy Turner, Ida Tovar, Dr. Echo Warner
Screening and Treatment of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea in Juvenile Corrections. Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Cara Leigh Wolf
Exploring Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs of Sustainability in Nursing Education. Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
Identifying the Gaps in Teaching about Social Determinants of Health. Shaw Akutsu, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Jake Hutchings, Dr. Shawna Sisler
The Academic Nursing Educators Shortage: Stopping the Leak, Replenishing the Well. Dr. Jenneth Doria, Edwin-Nikko Kabigting, Edmund Pajarillo,Shellye Arlene Vardaman, Erica Sciarra, Laura Logan, Suja Davis, Sheryl Feeney, Jordan Baker, Susan Seibold-Simpson, Maria Bajwa
Environmental Science in Nursing Education. Dr. Katherine Sward, Dr. Victoria Tiase
Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Hemoglobin A1C in Native Americans with Diabetes. Leslie Crandall, Danielle Puri, Dr. Van Gip-Duran
Addressing Language Barriers for Spanish-Speaking Patients at a Women’s Health Clinic. Erica Cristina Nelson, Dr. Teresa Garrett
Developing Sex-Specific Nomogram Prediction Models for Low Bone Mineral Density Risk. Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Yu-Hsu Chen, Shau-Kwaun Chen
What Happens in Pregnancy Stays in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Analysis of Postpartum Care. Stephanie St. Clair, Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Sara Simonsen
Using Evidence to Elevate Inpatient Hospice Nursing Care on a Medical/Oncology Unit. Bonnie Hoch, Dr. Scott Christensen
Adult-Child Caregiver Health and Wellbeing by Proximity to the Care Recipient. Dr. Catherine Elmore, Soojung Ahn, Katherine Ornstein
Improving Preoperative Communication from a Long-Term Care Facility. Catherine Ann Bowman, Dr. Teresa Garrett, Adam Marberger, Tyler DeHart
Preconception Preparation: Qualitative Results from a Participatory Film Project. Emma C. Norris, Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, ValentineMukundente, Akkiko Kamimura, Amy Mahtre-Owens, Dr. Sara Simonsen
Characteristics of Patients with Heart Failure with and without Caregivers. Youjeong Kang, Emily Knighton, Josef Stehlik, Meghana Nerusu, Dr. KathiMooney
Improving Access and Timeliness of Employee Annual Exams. Dr. Katie Davis, Dr. Carrie Huntsman-Jones, Lyndsay Wixom, Dr. Joshua DeanTwitchell, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Morgan West
What Is a ‘Peaceful Death’ for Adults with Advanced Stage Cancer?: A Concept Analysis. Rachael Alexander, Dr. Caroline Stephens
Addressing GAPs in Menopausal (MENOGAP) Healthcare for Latina/Hispanic Women. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead,Isabel Dulfano, Camille Moreno, Jeannette Villalta, Zurisadai Vasquez Bedolla, Johana Soto
Core Outcome Sets for Acupuncture Trials in Women’s Health across the Lifespan. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Wen Tu, Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell,Kate Levett, Claudia Citkovitz, Kathleen Lumiere, Sandro Graca, Belinda (Beau) Anderson, Lisa Conboy, Rosa Schnyer
Research and Information Exchange Posters: Brigham Young University College of Nursing
Recommendations to Address Repetitiveness in People Living in Long-Term Care. Jeana Olmo, Corinna Trujillo-Tanner, Jessica Allen, JessicaBarney, Emily Lewis, Madeline Hoyt, Carmen Bowen, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Mitchel Holmes, Dr. Linda Edelman
Recommendations to Address Combativeness in Long-Term Care Settings. Jessica Barney, Jessica Allen, Corinna Trujillo Tanner, Jeana Olmo, EmilyLewis, Maddy Hoyt, Carmen Bowen, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Mitchel Holmes, Dr. Linda Edelman
Recommendations to Preserve Autonomy and Dignity in Long-Term Care Settings: Bathing. Jessica Edwards, Corinna Trujillo Tanner, Jessica Allen,Jessica Barney, Jeana Olmo, Emily Lewis, Maddy Hoyt, Fabianna Stracuzzi, Carmen Bowen, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Mitchel Holmes, Dr. Linda Edelman
Recommendations for Addressing Depression in Long-Term Care Settings. Emily Lewis, Corinna Trujillo Tanner, Jessica Allen, Jessica Barney, JeanaOlmo, Maddy Hoyt, Fabianna Stracuzzi, Carmen Bowen, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Mitchel Holmes, Dr. Linda Edelman
Research and Information Exchange Posters (R&IE): University of Utah College of Nursing:
Implementing Screening and a Resource List for Eating Disorders in Primary Care. Elise Anderson, Dr. Larry Curtis Garrett, Dr. Suzy Talken, Chelsea Edwards, Liz Joy, Dr. Tek Kilgore, Dr. Gillian Tufts
Unplanned Rehospitalization of Unsheltered Adults Utilizing Medical Respite. Jaime Cross, Dr. Linda Edelman
Palliative Care Utilization Among Advanced Cancer Patients Receiving Immunotherapy. Katie Feldner, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Natalya Alekhina, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Djin Tay, Mia Hashibe
Identifying the Gaps in Teaching About Social Determinants of Health. Shaw Akutsu, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Jake Hutchings, Dr. Shawna Sisler
The Caregiving Experience of Parents of School-Age Children with Cancer. Sofia Flowers, Dr. Lauri Linder
Improving Primary Care: Intimate Partner Violence Screening as a Quality Initiative. Tahsha Spackman, Dr. Diane Chapman, Kelsey A. Bywater
Improvement of Methamphetamine Use Disorder Treatment in Primary Care. Tania Oliveira, Dr. Jennifer Clifton
Increasing Referrals to Diabetic Self-Management Education Programs. Amanda Murray, Dr. Lynn Reinke
Ba Duan Jin for Vasomotor Symptoms in Menopausal Women: Scoping Review Protocol. Wen Tu, Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Caroline Sariah Howell,Lydia Howes
Evaluation of Game Design in Gamified Online Learning of Telehealth. Wen Tu, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Martin Chow
Research and Information Exchange Posters (R&IE): University of Utah College of Nursing Reviewers:
Dr. Jackie Eaton, Dr. Shinduk Lee, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Mollie Cummins, Dr. Echo Warner, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Lauri Linder
Exhibit and Reception at the 2024 WIN Conference
Carrie Radmall, Ryan Copeland, Annastasia Beller, Mikayla Dalley, Erica Fearnley, Kristen Mahoney, Kristan Tunks, Shelley Kerns, Andrea Aguilar, Heather Clarkson, Sonja Jensen, Miriam Lovin, Mindy Francis, Mary Wheeler, and Jenna Hoff are supporting the WIN and College receptions, and/or representing the College at Exhibit Booth #9.
Ryan Copeland, Gabriel Mayberry, Adryenne Huo, and Aaron Lovell prepared banners, and marketing and digital images. Gabriel Mayberry wrote a press release about the event. Gabriel Mayberry and Adryenne Huo will photograph the event.
Support to Faculty and Students:
Colleen Neering prepared a comprehensive schedule of all College of Nursing presentations, and provided input for College Kudos.
Ruby Hocker and Malinda Martinez supported faculty by coordinating poster printing with the J. Willard Marriott Library and managing WIN-related expenses.
Heather Clarkson supported students by awarding conference travel scholarships.
Service to the Western Institution of Nursing:
Board of Governors – Governor Representative of Nursing Research: Dr. Paula Meek
Program Committee: Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Paula Meek, and Dr. Perry Gee
Abstract Reviewers: Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Scott Christensen, Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Teresa Garrett, Dr. Perry Gee, Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Paula Meek, and Dr. Ginette Pepper
December
The Mountain West HPV Vaccination Coalition celebrated its 10th Year Anniversary on October 8. Dr. Deanna Kepka and her team hosted a celebration at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. Those who attended in-person and virtually were privileged to hear from keynote speaker Dr. Vivian Colon-Lopez from the University of Puerto Rico.
Dr. Seneca Moore, representing herself, participated in the Utah Chapter of the Health Information and Management Systems Society (UHIMSS) Health IT Forum on the Hill on November 20, 2024, at the Utah State Capitol. The theme of the forum was Advancing AI in Healthcare Policy. The forum emphasized the importance of transdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together diverse stakeholders to develop meaningful AI policies that protect Utah's residents while fostering technological innovation. Dr. Moore offered insights on innovative approaches that bridge technological advancement with patient-centered care, generating enthusiastic engagement from the group’s experts. Dr. Moore also participated in conversations reflecting the collaborative spirit driving Utah's approach to healthcare AI.
The Caregiver Nation Network invited delegates from Utah and nine other states to attend the 2nd Caregiver Nation Summit in Washington D.C. on November 19-21, 2024. The network shares a mission to enhance support for family caregivers by fostering state leadership and building a movement to transform systems ensuring better support for family caregivers and those they care for. Family Caregiving Collaborative members Drs. Lee Ellington, Schola Matovu, Echo Warner, Megan Thomas Hebdon, and Rebecca Utz were among the seven Utah delegates. The summit included presentations from national leaders, legislators, and advocacy educators, and the opportunity for Utah delegates, representing themselves, to meet with Congressional staff members.
To welcome new students, Dr. Natalie Allen and Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi hosted all new family nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner nurses within the primary care specialty track. The group gathered at Sugar House Park, and Dr. Emily Winn led a fun activity that enabled students to get to know each other.
Dr. Paula Meek, Carrie Radmall, and Lauren Kelly held a Welcome Dinner for new PhD students and faculty. Attendees shared information about themselves and their research interests.
Dr. Jessica Ellis and Dr. Erin Cole planned the Annual Soiree for nurse-midwifery and women's health nurse practitioner students, faculty, and preceptors. Dr. Paige Miller prepared food, Dr. Christina Whiting assisted with set-up, and Dr. Susanna Cohen hosted the event in her home.
August
To welcome new students, Dr. Natalie Allen and Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi hosted all new family nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner nurses within the primary care specialty track. The group gathered at Sugar House Park, and Dr. Emily Winn led a fun activity that enabled students to get to know each other.
Dr. Paula Meek, Carrie Radmall, and Lauren Kelly held a Welcome Dinner for new PhD students and faculty. Attendees shared information about themselves and their research interests.
Dr. Jessica Ellis and Dr. Erin Cole planned the Annual Soiree for nurse-midwifery and women's health nurse practitioner students, faculty, and preceptors. Dr. Paige Miller prepared food, Dr. Christina Whiting assisted with set-up, and Dr. Susanna Cohen hosted the event in her home.
Carly Bonfiglio, Nurse Simulation Educator, coordinated the 2024 regional Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Fellows Boot Camp that was held August 1-3 in the College of Nursing Simulation Center. Demonstrating strong teamwork, Debbie Boulter, Yvonne Bass, Bobby Cody, Lori Hanson, Sherri Kerney, and Henri Sasa set-up and ran several very realistic scenarios, helping Pediatric Fellows take part in situations ranging from cardiac tamponade and septic shock to traumatic brain injury with increased intracranial pressures. These scenarios required much preparation and set up, and involved putting manikins on mechanical ventilation and adding arterial lines and external ventricular drains, among other things. Pediatric attending physicians who organized the event praised and thanked team members for their support.
June
Dr. Valerie Flattes and Aarohi Drabu recently planned and held the annual Nursing Summer Camp from June 12-14, 2024 for 29 middle school and high school youth. These youth expressed interest in becoming a nurse, and some came from groups that have been historically marginalized, underrepresented, or excluded in nursing.
The idea was to inspire the campers to consider a nursing career, inform them about nursing specialties that they did not know existed, and introduce them to the student experience at the University of Utah. Attendees met with College of Nursing faculty to learn about the profession of nursing; met with nursing advisors from the College of Nursing Student Services and admissions advisors from the University of Utah Office of Admissions; listened to alumni describe their pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student; actively participated in three hands-on activities in the College of Nursing Simulation Center; met with representatives from affinity groups; and toured the College of Nursing building, Kahlert Village, Kem Gardner Commons, A. Ray Olpin Student Union, Student Life Center, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, Marriott Library, and other areas of campus. Campers’ parents attended a dinner, toured the College of Nursing Simulation Center, and learned about a student’s pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student, preparation for college, the admissions process, financial aid, and more.
This camp could not have been possible without the support and contribution of the following people, and Dr. Flattes and Aarohi much appreciate their help.
College of Nursing Simulation Center – the highlight of the camp!
- Yvonne Bass
- Debbie Boulter
- Dr. Ann Butt
- Bobby Cody
- Lori Hanson
- Sherri Kerney
- Mandy Thomson
- Henri Sasa
Panelists
- Ryan Copeland
- Dr. Cristi Creal
- Dean Marla De Jong
- Dr. Linda Edelman
- Heather Hicken (RN-BS Student)
- Dr. Cathy Lin (Alumna)
- Kristen Mahoney
- Alyssa Pham (MS Student)
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson
Faculty Volunteer – Dr. Amanda Keddington
Administrative Support
- Rafael Briones
- Rachel Hamilton
- Adryenne Huo
- Sonja Jensen
- Shelli King
- Miriam Lovin
- Gabriel Mayberry
- Steve Seckinger
- Shiver
Student Volunteers
- Autumn Barker
- Ruby Cook
- Denise Crismon
- Amanda Desjardins
- Caitlin Gowey
- Tatum Heiner
- Geovanna Inguanzo
- Jon Todd Mosier
- Eloisa Marie Natalicio
- LeAnn Nguy
- Dan Price
- Elle Santori
- Brielle Simpson
- Emily Thomas
- Kelly Tran
The following University of Utah entities supported the camp:
- Center for Equity and Student Belonging
- Campus Tours
- Commuter Services
- Housing & Residential Education
- Office of Admissions
- Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library
- Youth Education
In addition to those mentioned in the last edition of Kudos, we recognize that Bobby Cody was part of the Simulation team that met with students who were participating in the REACH U2 program.
Aarohi Drabu, Program Manager for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), collaborated with the UHealth EDI team to host students participating in the REACH U2 program at the College of Nursing. Six undergraduate students from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, a public, historically black, land-grant research university, spent time in the Simulation Center with Dr. Ann Butt, Debbie Boulter, Henri Sasa, Yvonne Bass, and Mandy Thomson. In addition, they familiarized themselves with the graduate school, including application processes and tools to succeed. The REACH U2 program aims to offer a rigorous ten-week summer research opportunity for undergraduate students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities in North Carolina. The program pairs participants with faculty mentors to prepare them for competitive graduate programs. REACH U2 focuses on providing hands-on research experience in areas such as cancer research, public health, and bioinformatics, with a particular emphasis on health disparities.
May
Dr. Erin Cole planned for the College to host guests from the Nursing & Midwifery Development Centre (NMDC) in Erbil, Kurdistan. Attendees included 1) Eva Said, Executive Director of the NMDC and a Certified Global Nurse Consultant, 2) Eva’s assistant Barien Barzani, 3) Carolyn Melby, a board member of the NMDC and a nurse with a rich history of work in academia, global and public health, health policy, administration, and volunteer service, and 4) Michele Calderon, a board member of the NMDC. Guests
- Met with representatives from Global Learning Committee – Dr. Schola Matovu, Dr. Deanna Kepka, and Dr. Josh Wall.
- Met with neonatal nurse practitioner faculty members – Dr. Kim Friddle, Dr. Jenny Hearne, and Dr. Julieanne Schiefelbein.
- Attended part of the NURS 6115 Gynecologic Management class, which Dr. Katie Ward taught.
- Had a lunch meeting with Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Valerie Flattes, Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Erin Cole, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Katie Ward, and Dr. Heidi Favero.
- Met with nurse-midwifery, maternity and women’s health faculty members – Dr. Erin Cole, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, and Dr. Katie Ward.
- Toured the Simulation Center with Yvonne Bass, Debbie Boulter, and Dr. Ann Butt.
- Discussed women’s health research with Dr. Sara Simonsen.
The University of Utah held a Faculty Retirement Brunch to honor faculty who retired or will retire during Academic Year 2023-2024. Honorees from the College of Nursing included Dr. Nanci McLeskey, Dr. Pam Phares, and Dr. Gillian Tufts.
Seeds of Remembrance, presented by Caring Connections, is an opportunity for individuals to come together and cope with the loss of a family member or friend while honoring the memory of the person who died. This year's event featured speaker and performer Molly Bice-Jackson and performer Terence Hansen. Dr. Kathie Supiano, Caring Connections Director, and Adrienne Bott were instrumental in hosting the event.
Vitae annually highlights exceptional investigators and their pioneering research programs. The program seeds new collaborations and development strategies by humanizing research through story. This event underscores the excellence of our departments, their chairs, and their faculty in recruiting and mentoring. Over the past ten years, Vitae speakers have included Pew Scholars, NIH Director's New Innovator awardees, Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellows, a TED Fellow, and recipients of other high-profile national awards. Dr. Andrea Wallace was featured in a Vitae Vignettes Video at this year's event. She is using her expertise in health services research to find ways to measure patients’ social needs and connect them to the resources they need most, so that recovery doesn’t stop once patients leave the clinic.
The 29th Annual Utah Nurse Practitioners Pharmacology Conference was held on April 26-27, 2024 in Park City.
- Drs. Mandy Al-Khudairi and Kim Bayless were Co-Chairs.
- Dr. Katie Davis and students Conner Ashton, Victory Heagy and Julia Paulson served on the Planning Committee.
- Dr. Diane Chapman delivered a podium presentation titled AANP Health Policy Update.
- Dr. Heidi Vawdrey delivered a podium presentation titled Insomnia and Sleep Disorders.
April
2nd Annual Open House
Mikayla Dalley and Annastasia Beller hosted the College of Nursing’s 2nd Annual Open House on April 15, where they greeted current and potential University of Utah pre-nursing students. Students and parents met with advisors, learned about prelicensure application and admission processes, and toured the Simulation Center, which was a big hit. Dr. Ann Butt, Yvonne Bass, Bobby Cody, and Debbie Boulter led the simulation tour and facilitated simulation experiences.
Dean Marla De Jong, together with faculty, staff, and students, hosted a Delegation from Taiwan. The delegation includedDr. Bih-Ching Shu, Distinguished Professor, Department of Nursing, Institute of Allied Health Sciences, National Cheng Kung University; Dr. Ying-Hwa Su,Associate Professor and Director, School of Nursing, Yuan Ze University; andDr. Yun Chen, Professor, Graduate Institute of Medicine, Yuan Ze University. The delegation aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the College’s programs and curriculum, and explore opportunities for potential collaboration.
More than 20 million jobs will be available in long-term care settings between 2021 and 2040. The Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program partnered with the College of Social Work to host the U’s annual Careers in Aging Month hybrid event. Dr. Gail Towsley served as lead faculty in organizing the event, which was held in the Goodwill Building. Faculty members, Drs. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Cynthia Beynon, and gerontology students, Hailey Hansen, Jaime Cross, and Paige Corley, worked with Dr. Towsley to plan, market, and present the event titled Discovering Career Paths in Senior Living.
Women in Health, Medicine, & Science (WiHMS) hosted an outreach event on March 25 at the College of Nursing. WiHMS invited Health Sciences LEAP students to visit the College to learn more about nursing as a profession, network with faculty, and ask in-depth questions about admissions and nursing specialties. The evening began with Yvonne Bass and Dr. Ann Butt leading a tour of the Simulation Center. Following dinner and a question and answer session with faculty and staff, Dr. Sheila Arlene Deyette and Dr. Cynthia Garbett shared their journeys as nurses and experiences as psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners. They also spoke with students about educational pathways and practice areas available in nursing. Students were immensely interested in the College and the profession. Dr. Sara Hart, Dr. Valerie Flattes, and Aarohi Drabu and University of Utah Health Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (UHEDI) helped plan the event, and Mandy Thomson and Shelli King provided administrative support.
January
The College of Nursing Lamp of Learning ceremony was held on January 25, 2024. The ceremony is a tradition in which we recognize incoming prelicensure students and acknowledge their decision to enter the profession of nursing. Erica Fearnley and Mikayla Dalley – Student Services Academic Advisors – planned and directed the ceremony. The Spring 2024 pre-licensure cohort and their invited family and friends met in the Student Union Ballroom for a meaningful evening that included hearing from Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Valerie Flattes, Alyssa Pham, and Dr. Melody Krahulec. Dr. William Hull and Dr. Sue Chase Cantarini read the names of the pre-licensure students as they walked across the stage. A big thank you to the Advancement team for providing lanterns for each student. Staff members Sonja Jensen, Ben Jones, Annastasia Beller, Adryenne Huo, and Gabriel Mayberry also supported the event.
The College of Nursing (CON) celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Week with several events January 13-19, 2024. Cristi Creal, along with the BIPOC group, set up a pop-up display on the second floor of the College. Additionally, the CON Simulation Center hosted an open house for community members. MLK Week emphasizes the significance of equal access to quality healthcare for all individuals, and the CON Simulation Center embodies this principle by providing an inclusive learning environment that fosters excellence in healthcare delivery. The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team expresses gratitude to the Simulation Center team – Sherri Kerney, Yvonne Bass, Bobby Cody, and Debbie Boulter – for providing space and giving community members a tour of the center.
Dr. Valerie Flattes, Aarohi Drabu, and Master of Science student Alyssa Pham organized the Saturday Academy session that was held on January 20, 2024 for 90 elementary, middle school, and high school youth. Saturday Academy is a collaboration among the Health Sciences Colleges and Schools and their offices of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. The Saturday Academy aims to create and promote an inclusive campus environment, and populate a strong applicant pool for admission into multiple health science fields. Focusing on those from historically marginalized and underrepresented populations in health care, the academy inspires students in grades 4-12 to pursue a career in nursing. Attendees engaged in hands-on activities in the CON Simulation Center, interacted with nurses and nursing students, and learned about the journey of a nursing student, including preparation for college, the admissions process, and more. The following contributed to and supported the success of the academy:
- Simulation Center team – Dr. Ann Butt, Debbie Boulter, Lori Hanson, and Bobby Cody.
- Administrative support – Kristan Tunks, Erica Fearnley, Gabriel Mayberry, Adryenne Huo, Shelli King, Mandy Thomson, and Deidre Schoenfeld.
- Students and alumni: Haley Gray, Nancy Astorga, Caroline Howell, Emma Plute, Taylor Nash, Madyson Hulse, Akira Oregel, Geovanna Inguanzo, Jacy Thomas, Carson Bohn, Courtney Eyler, Allie Stewart-Duke, Eloisa Marie Natalicio, Kate Wiseman, Ava Wronski, Sara Williams, Dayanara Zarate, Aynsley Silliman, Victoria Caroline Tompkins, Priscilla Santos, Brianna Aquilla, Salma Arrambide,AnneMarie Fougler, Denise Crismon, Lindsey Davis, Autumn Barker, and Daniela Cartwright.
December
The University of Utah Board of Trustees designated Dr. Tek Kilgore as Assistant Professor (Clinical) Emeritus effective September 1, 2024.
The University of Utah Board of Trustees designated Dr. Linda Edelman as Professor Emeritus effective January 1, 2025.
Dr. Mary Killela was invited to participate in the Emotional Well-Being and Economic Burden Network (EMOT-ECON) Grant Writing Workshop Intensive on February 17-21, 2025, in Nashville. The purpose of the workshop is to support scholars who are writing a R type grant that will advance the science of emotional well-being. Dr. Killela will work closely with experienced grant writers, receive guidance for developing competitive grant proposals, have protected time for grant writing, and participate in a mock review session process to further strengthen her grant submission. EMOT-ECON is part of a larger group of five other networks funded by the National Institutes of Health to refine and test key concepts that advance the study of emotional well-being.
Dr. Lauri Linder was competitively chosen as a 2025 Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) faculty mentor. Her project is titled Digital Health Interventions to Support Symptom Management for Children and Adolescents with Cancer. SPUR is a nationally competitive, intensive 10-week educational opportunity that provides undergraduate research students training and mentorship in a variety of disciplines under the leadership of a faculty mentor. Selected students must meet educational requirements and must be matriculated, degree-seeking undergraduates during Fall Semester 2024. The program is offered through the Office of Undergraduate Research.
Students’ Commendation of Faculty Preceptors:
Students have the opportunity to provide feedback about their preceptors. The following unedited quotes are from students regarding nurse practitioner faculty preceptors.
Dr. Randy Bullock: "Dr. Bullock is an excellent provider and mentor. He allowed me to practice my skills independently and always gave me feedback."
Dr. Diane Chapman: "Dr. Chapman is incredibly knowledgeable, caring, and engaging. She worked hard to develop a space for students, working with the medical team. Thank you!"
Dr. Katie Davis: "Katie was a fantastic preceptor and empowered me to grow my clinical knowledge and skill set. She is warm, welcoming, loves her patients, and provides care that is evidence-based and patient centered. She challenged me to see patients independently, form my own clinical judgement/differentials, and collaborate on possible treatment plans. Her encouragement and constructive feedback were effective and guided me through a positive learning experience. I was especially impressed by her in-depth knowledge and experience with endocrine and hormone related care!"
Dr. Liz Greene: "I am the biggest fan of Liz Greene; she is great, makes me feel safe to ask any questions, and answers them appropriately; if she doesn't know the answer, she will look it up for me. She is an example of a preceptor with fantastic rapport with patients and good knowledge of medications. She is just great, and everyone knows it. I am lucky to be rubbing shoulders with her and excited for next semester, saving the best for last!"
Dr. Frances Johnson: "Fran was invested in my learning experience during this clinical rotation. I'm incredibly grateful for her willingness to teach. Fran is intelligent, supportive, diligent, and so organized. I absolutely loved learning from her and truly enjoyed my time working with the team at Madsen. Everyone at the clinic helped me feel as though I was a part of the team!"
Dr. Frances Johnson: "Frances is an amazing nurse practitioner, preceptor, professor, and medical director. She makes every effort to create a safe psychological environment for everyone around her. I really admired her ability to have/welcome difficult conversations with her patients. She does a lot of procedures as well which was a great learning experience."
Dr. Jessie Leavitt: "Jessie was an incredible preceptor! I felt very supported and encouraged to take charge of my learning experience and push myself to gain more confidence. She is an amazing provider, and it was a great experience learning from her!"
Dr. Suzy Talken: "I have really enjoyed my time here with Suzy. She has really helped me grow not only in this program, but as a person this semester. I can tell she truly cares about my well-being and wants me to succeed. She gives me every opportunity to be autonomous without leaving me to drown. I wish we could copy and paste her 100 times so we all had a Suzy mentor to help us through this program!"
Dr. Heidi Vawdrey: "They provide an amazing clinical experience. They got you involved early on and work with you to build your skills to where they should be by the end of the semester."
Dr. Sara Webb: "I am very fortunate for this opportunity!"
Dr. Emily Winn: "Emily is such a great preceptor. She is so great at giving productive feedback and praising when things are doing well. She is a wealth of knowledge."
November
The Vice President’s Clinical & Translational (VPCAT) Research Scholars Program accepted Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon as VPCAT Scholar for January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2026. Dr. Caroline Stephens and Dr. Jennifer Majersik will serve as Dr. Hebdon’s Scientific Mentor and VPCAT Senior Mentor, respectively. A key objective of the program is to provide a cohesive learning experience that will expand scholars’ research knowledge and skills, and prepare them for transition to independence. The VPCAT curriculum, delivered in multiple formats, offers training that aligns with three key mission themes – scientific career development, grant writing and management, and leadership.
The Family Caregiving Collaborative’s effort to increase awareness regarding caregiving resulted in Governor Spencer Cox declaring November 2024 as Family Caregivers Month in Utah.
Numerous faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students will present at the Gerontological Society of America Annual Scientific Meeting on November 13-16, 2024 in Seattle. This year’s theme is The Fortitude Factor. Participants will learn about and discuss cutting-edge scholarship and research, and network with leaders and peers in the fields of aging and gerontology.
The Behavioral and Social Sciences Section of the Gerontological Society of America selected Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted for induction as a Fellow. Fellow status – the highest category of GSA membership – is peer recognition for outstanding and sustained contributions – including notable participation in the Society, research, teaching, administration, public service, and practice – to gerontology. The induction ceremony will occur at the Presidential Symposium and Networking Program at the GSA Annual Scientific Meeting on November 13-16, 2024, in Seattle.
Kirsten Schmutz successfully defended her dissertation titled Barriers and Strategies to Patient Participation in Early Mobility in the CVICU After Cardiac Surgery to committee members Dr. Andrea Wallace (Co-Chair), Dr. Alycia Bristol (Co-Chair), Dr. Haley Bento, Dr. Ann Butt, and Dr. Jorie Butler.
October
On Pulse, Morgan West recognized Dr. Amanda Keddington, writing, “For volunteering time out of your busy schedule to help nursing students give flu shots with the RedMed pop up clinics! Your dedication to supporting their hands-on learning is truly appreciated!” Dr. Lauri Linder echoed the recognition, writing, “Congratulations on this nice recognition. I truly appreciate your efforts to support the flu shot clinics and to be such a positive professional role model for our students.”
On Pulse, Dr. Amanda Keddington recognized Dr. Lisa Barry writing, “Lisa has gone above and beyond to help our nursing students in their capstone placements. She exemplifies professionalism consistently earning respect from students & clinical partners!” Dr. Lauri Linder echoed the recognition, writing, “Congratulations, Lisa for this nice recognition! Your efforts in supporting the success of Capstone are greatly appreciated and do not go unnoticed.”
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson completed a week-long leadership and capacity building fellowship in Sydney, Australia. The Australian Research Consortium in Complementary and Integrative Medicine led the fellowship.
Cheryl Gerdy, President of the Utah Organization of Nurse Leaders (UONL) presented the UONL 2024 Nurse Researcher Award to Dr. Julie Valentine at the College of Nursing College Council meeting. The award recognizes a nurse researcher who has focused on advancing the health of Utahns through innovation and/or cultivation of excellence in nursing leadership through education, mentoring, leadership development, or professional development. Dr. Valentine was honored for her research on sexual assault that has 1) been a driving force behind Utah’s improvement in addressing sexual violence, 2) informed national standards in sexual assault evidence collection and kit submissions, and 3) resulted in multidisciplinary reforms in education, practice, and policy in Utah and the United States.
Shiver passed their dissertation proposal defense on October 18, 2024. Shiver is a PhD student in the Department of Education, Culture, and Society. Their dissertation is titled An Exploratory Study on Racial Narratives of Whiteness and Antiracist Praxis Among Postsecondary Education Administrative Staff.
Dr. Mindy Robert, Sarah Roberts, Amy Miller earned Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) certification, which the National Commission on Correctional Health Care sponsors. This certification underscores their knowledge and expertise in governance and administration; health promotion, safety, and disease prevention; personnel and training, ancillary health care services; patient care and treatment; special needs and services; and medical-legal issues. Dr. Roberts, Sarah, and Amy met eligibility criteria and passed an 80-100 question exam.
On Pulse, Adam Christiansen recognized Dr. Amanda Dailey-Hansen, writing, “Thank you for being willing to fill in and help out when needed, it makes a huge difference and we appreciate you! Thanks for your contributions to making this a great place for our patients and colleagues!” Dr. Dailey-Hansen worked multiple extra shifts when the department was understaffed. Dr. Lauri Linder echoed the recognition, writing, “This is such a nice recognition of your contributions to practice and working to ensure excellence to the patients you serve.”
Dr. Sumin Park was competitively selected to attend the Secondary Caregiver Data Analysis Trainee Workshop that followed the 3rd Conference on Caregiving Research in Pittsburgh.The Utah Area Health Education Center (AHEC) presented the 2024 Preceptor of the Year Award to Dr. Jennifer Hamilton, Dr. Jessica Leavitt, Dr. Paige Miller, and Dr. Emily Winn. The Utah AHEC was developed as part of Congress’s initiative to recruit, train, and retain health care professionals serving in underserved communities, with the goal that all citizens of Utah can access high-quality primary care. The award highlights individuals who go above and beyond for their students, ensuring their training experience is valuable. The award ceremony was held during the 2024 Utah Primary Care Summit Reception on October 17, 2024.
U.S. News & World Report ranked 686 Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #39 (tie) and is the highest-ranked Bachelor of Science nursing program in Utah.
Yvonne Bass achieved recognition as a Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS). Yvonnepassed a 115-question examination and joins other Simulation Center staff members – Debbie Boulter and Sherri Kerney – who are CHSOS certified. The Society for Simulation in Healthcare Certification Council offers certification to individuals who have two years of experience in simulation, and who implement and deliver simulation activities that span simulation modalities, settings, geographic locations, learner populations, and specialists’ functions. CHSOS certification validates knowledge concerning 1) concepts in healthcare as applied to simulation, 2) simulation technology operations, 3) healthcare simulation practices, principles, and procedures, 4) professional behavior, capabilities, and leadership, and 5) concepts in instructional design as applied to simulation.
Dr. Erica Nelson achieved Nurse Executive Certification (NE-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The peer-developed 150-question examination and awarded certification validates Dr. Nelson's knowledge in the areas of 1) human resource management including knowledge of employment law, critical communications, employee and team performance management, 2) quality and safety including knowledge of change management frameworks, culture of safety, continuous process improvement, and research and evidence-based practice methods, 3) business management including reimbursement methods/payor systems, financial management/budgeting, hours per patient day, resource utilization and leadership styles, and 4) health care delivery, including the ANA's Nursing Leadership Scope and Standards of Practice, regulatory and compliance standards, emergency preparedness, patient experience, nurse sensitive indicators, core measures, and technology evaluation and integration of systems such as telehealth, predictive analysis, and remote monitoring.
September
The Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault presented Dr. Julie Valentine with the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault Beacon of Hope Award. The award recognizes individuals or organizations that demonstrate an extraordinary commitment and service to victims or sexual violence, as well as those that improve the accessibility or appropriateness of systems for victims or sexual violence.
Dr. Justin Rigby and Dr. Sarah Canham – Director and Co-Director, respectively, of the University of Utah Health Interprofessional Education (IPE) Program expressed appreciation to faculty for their exceptional contributions as facilitators in the IPE program from Fall Semester 2018 to Spring Semester 2024. In a letter addressed to Dr. Linda Hofmann and Dr. Lauri Linder they wrote, “Through their dedication and expertise, these faculty members have significantly enriched the educational experiences of our students and have played a vital role in fostering collaboration among students from various disciplines. Their commitment to promoting interprofessional teamwork and communication in healthcare has had a profound impact on our institution's mission to prepare future healthcare professionals for the challenges they will face in their careers… We would like to express our deepest gratitude to these faculty members for their ongoing commitment to excellence in interprofessional education. Their contributions are invaluable to the success of our program, and we are truly grateful for their dedication to advancing collaborative healthcare practice.”
The faculty members are:
- Tamara Ekker, 155 hours, Platinum level
- Dr. Jennifer Macali, 60 hours, Platinum level
- Dr. Zoe Robbins, 48 hours, Platinum level
- Dr. Chris Macintosh, 28 hours, Gold level
- Dr. Liz Greene, 25 hours, Gold level
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, 23 hours, Gold level
- Dr. Sue Chase Cantarini, 23 hours, Gold level
- Dr. John Nerges, 23 hours, Gold level
- Dr. Natalie Allen, 18 hours, Silver level
- Dr. Sheila Deyette, 15 hours, Silver level
- Dr. Sherri Evershed, 13 hours, Silver level
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson, 13 hours, Silver level
For the first time in years, the College’s total grant portfolio has surpassed $52.5M and continues to grow thanks to our faculty, and members of the Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center (EEJNRC) team, program managers, study coordinators, and research assistants who support all phases of their projects.
- Associate Dean for Research: Provide visionary and strategic leadership for sponsored (grants and contracts) and internal research programs, provide administrative leadership for the EEJNRC, and guide College personnel to develop capacity for research.
- Dr. Andrea Wallace
- Director: Direct the EEJNRC and ensure that budget, management, and compliance processes are robust and effective.
- Terri Pianka
- Pre-Awards Team: Help faculty, post-docs, and students identify and apply for a diverse range of funding opportunities.
- Hollie Fuhrmann
- Emily Baily
- Harper Vander Hoek
- Post-Awards Team: Manage the day-to-day administration and reporting of active grants.
- Rachel Hamilton
- Helen Yang
- Nurse Scientist Training: Oversee the post-doctoral program and help make connections for PhD and undergraduate students.
- Emilee Cluff
- Statistical Team: Provide invaluable statistical and data management support across the college.
- Dr. Xiaoming Sheng
- Dr. Bob Wong
- Dr. Eli Iacob
- Keiko Cawley
- Dr. Seneca Moore helps integrate AI into research and training.
- Administrative Support: Organize and coordinate training and events that support the research mission.
- Colleen Neering
- Research Program Managers: Plan, organize, direct, and oversee aspects of research projects; interact with personnel at clinical study sites and sponsors; onboard staff; make purchases; support faculty and staff; and/or manage data.
- Ana Liquin
- Christina Echeverria
- Jacqueline Telonidis
- Karissa Mirus
- Megan McClure
- Nancy Aruscavage
- Somer Aly
- Clinical Research Coordinators, Study Coordinators, Research Nurses, Research Assistants, Graduate Students, Nurse Practitioner Clinicians, and Research Analysts: Support scientists in numerous ways in accordance with the nature of the study or project.
- Adonica Kauwe Tuitama
- Amber Dayley
- Anna Fetzer
- Annemarie Rousseau
- Bruno Rodriguez Gonzales
- Cassie Kuhn
- Chaz Davis
- Christopher Hernandez
- Emily Gilgen
- Ernest Grigorian
- Hannah Bruce
- Ida Tovar
- Jacqueline Kent-Marvick
- Joe Delannoy
- Keiko Cawley
- Mackenzie Elliot
- Megan Rose
- Nicole Fleming
- Pamela Barrientos
- Roxanne Geurin
- Samantha Stebleton
- Tracey Mai
- Vinay Kumaran
- Wen Tu
The Presidential Scholar award recognizes the extraordinary academic accomplishments and promise of associate professor faculty members, providing them with financial support to advance their research and teaching. Dr. Michelle Litchman has been selected from an exceptional cadre of nominees from Colleges and Schools across the university for this impressive distinction. She will be recognized as a Presidential Scholar for three academic years: 2024-2025, 2025-2026, and 2026-2027.
On Pulse, Aubry Bagshaw recognized Malek Alnajar, writing, “Thank you for your help during a challenging morning of unexpected downtime. You were so calm and helpful, and a great example to our patients and staff. Thank you Malek!”
At its Emergency Nursing 2024 conference in Las Vegas, the Emergency Nurses Association welcomed Associate Instructor and Master of Science (Nursing Education) graduate student Paige Potter to its 2024 class of 20 Under 40 program. The 20 Under 40 program spotlights emergency nursing professionals who make exceptional contributions to their workplaces, their communities, and the emergency nursing specialty.
Dr. Djin Tay was featured on the cover of the Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing. The photo caption reads, “Djin Tay, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Utah. Dr. Tay’s research focuses on family caregiving outcomes in advanced cancers. She has co-Chaired HPNA’s Emerging Scholar SIG, serves as a member of the Research Advisory Committee, and has contributed to HPNA’s 2023-26 Research Agenda.”
To support early-career educators, the College established Success Academy to mentor new faculty and provide resources that will enable them to achieve teaching excellence. This initiative was developed under the strategic guidance of Division Chairs Dr. Linda Hofmann and Dr. Lauri Linder and Dean Marla De Jong and is sponsored by the Excellence in Education program (CONExEd). Alongside Dr. Rebecca Wilson, Director of CONExEd, and given their pedagogical expertise, Drs. Carolyn Scheese, Diane Chapman, and Cheryl Armstrong were selected as mentors. The objectives of the Success Academy include enhancing mastery of the academic nurse educator role, increasing teaching confidence and satisfaction, and improving student education experiences.
The Success Academy launched its first cohort on August 12 and held an immersive orientation. Faculty participants included:
- Dr. Lisa Barry
- Jesika Chavez-England
- Leslie Crandall
- Dr. Amanda Daily-Hansen
- Dr. Katie Davis
- Dr. Van Gip-Duran
- Anne Harris
- Dr. Megan Hebdon
- Dr. William Hull
- Esther Kang
- Dr. Amanda Keddington
- Dr. Jessie Leavitt
- Dr. Kelly Mansfield
- Dr. Cathy Maxwell
- Dr. Joshua Twitchell
- Dr. Erica Nelson
- Danielle Puri
- Dr. Jacob Steenblik
- Dr. Julie Valentine
- Alisa Wursten
During the immersive orientation,
- Dr. Carolyn Scheese presented Being Educators at the CON.
- Dr. Josh Wall, Dr. Melody Krahulec, Dr. Diane Chapman, and Shiver led a panel discussion on the Institutional/Organizational Framework.
- Dr. Diane Chapman presented First Day of Class Overview.
- Mike McIntosh, Gabriel Mayberry, Adryenne Huo, and Dr. Carolyn Scheese presented breakout sessions about Canvas, classroom technology, and social media and communication.
- Dean Marla De Jong spoke about education priorities and new developments within the University.
Attendees appreciated learning about the College’s structure, organization, and policies. They found the technology breakout rooms to be helpful before beginning teaching during Fall Semester 2024. Many faculty expressed thanks for the College offering Success Academy and for being invited to participate. Angie Fenton commented, “I am so glad you are offering this to newer faculty (I know I am still new) - those first couple of years can be rough!”
Sarah Brown, Lynn Dixon, Kathy Doom, Karen Fuller, Shelli King, Shiver, Deidre Schoenfeld, Dr. Linda Hofmann, and Dr. Lauri Linder provided invaluable support, contributing to a successful launch of Success Academy.
At the end of each semester, students have the opportunity to provide feedback about each course they took, and the faculty who taught the course. The following unedited quotes are from students who took courses during Summer Semester 2024.
Dr. Mandy Al-Khudairi: NURS 7604 PCNP Practicum IV. “Amanda has been helpful and supportive of me and my struggles with graduate school and my health over the last six months. Thank you for understanding and working with me to get the most out of this class. I appreciate all of your time and support!”
Dr. Nancy Allen: NURS 7701 DNP Scholarly Project I. “Professor Allen is very knowledgeable about the DNP scholarly projects. Her examples and advice are extremely helpful. She is very supportive and helpful with guiding me with my project.”
Natasha Ansari: NURS 4650 Capstone Clinical. “I loved how Natasha let us discuss things that were important to us during our meetings even if they went off the planned discussion. I also enjoyed how Natasha let us solve our own problems and turn to our class mates first for advice before jumping in herself to help us problem solve as needed. When she did offer advice, her experience in dealing with similar situations really shone through as her advice usually seemed to work for classmates as they shared their experiences. She advocates for her students and offers a supportive and nonjudgmental space for students to express their successes and fears.”
Dr. Sheila Deyette: NURS 7661 Psychiatric/Mental Health Practicum I. "I love the passion you teach with! I have talked to some of the other students, and they feel the same way. You were amazing at laying the groundwork for us in understanding the deeper concepts in therapy. Whether it was different theories like humanistic, psychodynamic, or behavioral, you broke them down in a basic way and really got us to reflect on how these theories apply to our patients and how understanding these concepts will unlock the gateway for a healthy therapist/patient relationship. Now that we are in our therapy rotation, this has really paid off.…Take my word for it, you are having a profound impact on everyone. Thank you!"
Dr. Jenneth Doria: NURS 4116 Public Health Nursing for RN's. "Jenneth Doria is an amazing professor who not only leads a well-organized course, but wholeheartedly cares about her students and wants us to succeed. She has a kind heart and I have truly enjoyed this class and being her student. Thank you for your support and dedication to my learning."
Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted: GERON 5280 International Dimensions of Lifelong Learning. What could this instructor do to improve or increase learning opportunities in this class? “Absolutely nothing. She’s perfect.”
Esther Kang: NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum. “Esther is a fantastic instructor. She brings valuable experiences that she shares with her clinical group and is supportive of all of her students.” “Esther is great! I enjoy her post–conferences after clinicals as she teaches us valuable lessons like conflict management and interviewing tips.”
Dr. Amanda Keddington and Dr. Cynthia Garbett: NURS 3300 Professional Roles I: Foundations of Professionalism. “I didn't expect to like this course, but I learned a ton of skills and framework for things I will encounter as I enter the nursing field. A lot of the learning we had were things that are some of my weaknesses in terms of communicating effectively, so I really enjoyed it.”
Dr. Shinduk Lee: NURS 5550 Practical Statistics. “Homework and quizzes aligned with lectures and text book, stats was challenging but the instructor structured the class for students to succeed and master concepts, I enjoyed the class.”
Dr. Shinduk Lee and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson: NURS 7701 DNP Scholarly Project I. “It was helpful to take [7700] in conjunction with 7701 as it helped me think through outcome measures for my project that I was then able to use for assignments for that class.”
Dr. Lynn Reinke: NURS 6329 Death, Dying and Bereavement. “This class provides distinct and tangible benefits to my clinical nursing practice, i.e. exposure to advance care planning, the discussion on cultural practices surrounding death and how grief appears in younger populations. This will help me be a more competent clinician.”
Dr. Zoe Robbins: NURS 7664 Psychiatric/Mental Health Practicum IV. “Dr Robbins was not my small group leader, but I recommend her as an instructor. I'm always learning new things from her, especially when it comes to addiction medicine. She responds quickly about clinical sites and preceptors.”
Dr. Xiaoming Sheng: NURS 7201 Statistics I. “Dr. Sheng was incredibly knowledgeable and able to answer student questions from multiple perspectives giving broader range of topics/ideas/discussions.” “Xiaoming does a great job with his organization and explanations of the topics. The labs are easy to follow.”
Dr. Djin Tay: NURS 7207 Quantitative Research Designs I. “Amazing instructor! Available, genuine, knowledgeable, explains things clearly.” “She explains everything very well and gives detailed feedback on the assignments.”
Dr. Joshua Twitchell: NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum. “Josh is hands down the best professor I have ever had. He cares deeply about his students and wants to see them succeed. He provides the best advice/help when experiencing something tragic, and helps his students process with him. Josh grades in a way that provides constructive criticism without students making themselves feel bad about themselves and gives students the grades they deserve after we have worked so hard on assignments. Josh may not teach the hardest class in the program, but he teaches the most important one. His students are so grateful for him and his influence/presence in their lives.”
Dr. Echo Warner: NURS 7207 Quantitative Research Designs I. “Echo was very nice and respectful, she obviously has a very good knowledge base to teach this course. She paid a lot of attention to the course and the students.”
The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities awarded a $3,600,000 R01 grant to Dr. Amanda Petrik at the Kaiser Permanente Northwest Center for Health Research for a project titled Multilevel Peer-to-Peer Education Program to Increase HPV Vaccinations and Wellness in School Based Health Centers (PEER). Dr. Deanna Kepka is a Consultant. Effective August 28, 2024, the team is working to use school-based health centers for primary and preventive care, evaluate a multilevel intervention to increase HPV vaccination, and improve health equity and health outcomes.
The National Cancer Institute Cervical Cancer ‘Last Mile’ Initiative includes federal and private sector participants who are contributing evidence on the accuracy and clinical effectiveness of self-collection-based HPV testing for cervical cancer screening. Dr. Deanna Kepka and Dr. Kathryn Maurer are Lead Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator, respectively, at the Huntsman Cancer Institute for the initiative’s multi-center SHIP (Self-collection for HPV testing to Improve Cervical Cancer Prevention) trial.
Dr. Julie Valentine and colleagues were awarded the 2023 Journal of Forensic Nursing Education Article of the Year. Downing NR, Avshman E, Valentine JL, Johnson LM, Chapa H. Forensic nurses' understanding of emergency contraception mechanisms: Implications for access to emergency contraception. J Forensic Nurs. 2023;19(3):150-159. DOI: 10.1097/JFN.0000000000000430 Co-author Luke Johnson was one of Dr. Valentine’s undergraduate research assistants and is currently attending medical school at the University of Virginia.
August
The National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) presented its Sarah Gomez Erlach Humanitarian Award to Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead. Named after Sara Gomez Erlach, an extraordinary Hispanic nurse who dedicated her professional and personal life to service for the underserved – especially minority, migrant, and rural populations, the award honors NAHN members for their lifetime humanitarian efforts on behalf of vulnerable populations. It recognizes members who seek to improve health delivery to those that are financially disadvantaged, the rural poor, and/or migrant farmworkers and their families. Awardees have demonstrated initiating or implementing health program(s) for the financially disadvantaged, the rural poor, and/or migrant farmworkers and their families, and being committed to and advocating for public health services to the financially disadvantaged, the rural poor, and/or migrant farmworkers and their families. The award letter included the following: “Congratulations! You are the 2024 recipient of the NAHN Sarah Gomez Erlach Humanitarian Award. It is our great privilege to recognize your contribution to the world of nursing and to celebrate your accomplishments. This recognition is not only a celebration of your work, but also an expression of gratitude for your leadership, commitment, and contributions to NAHN and the Hispanic community.”
Dr. Mansfield’s dedication to student success shines through in NURS 4505 Concepts in Critical Care Nursing. As one student shared, "This elective was the highlight of my final semester, and even my entire nursing program." A fellow faculty member eloquently summarized Kelly's impact: "Your passion for teaching, unwavering commitment to students, and ability to inspire and challenge them is truly remarkable. Thank you for everything you do.”
The University of Utah Board of Trustees designated Dr. Nanci McLeskey as Associate Professor (Clinical) Emeritus effective July 1, 2024.
The University of Utah Board of Trustees designated Dr. Gillian Tufts as Associate Professor (Clinical) Emeritus effective July 1, 2024.
The National League for Nursing (NLN) announced its 2024 Classes of Fellows, including Dr. Ann Butt. Induction into the Academy is a prestigious honor, and reflects Ann’s academic leadership, innovative research and scholarship, application of evidence-based and novel teaching-learning strategies, and mentorship of students, staff, and faculty. Distinguished by their innovative teaching and/or learning strategies; nursing education research; faculty development activities; academic leadership; promotion of public policy initiatives that advance nursing education; and/or collaborative educational, practice, or community partnerships, inductees will be recognized at the NLN Education Summit on September 18-20, 2024. The theme of the summit is A Daring Proposition: Competency-Based Education.
On July 25, Dr. Amanda Keddington hosted the virtual Annual Meeting and Induction Ceremony for the Gamma Rho chapter of Sigma. Dr. Keddington announced and thanked the chapter’s new leadership board, including:
- President: Dr. Amanda Keddington
- Vice-President and Awards Chair: Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
- Secretary: Dr. Lisa Barry
- Treasurers: Dr. Rebekah Perkins and Dr. John Nerges
- Governance Chair: Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini
- Faculty Counselor: Dr. Anna Alder
- Archivist: Dr. Valerie Flattes
- Research/Scholarship: Dr. Kelly Mansfield
Dr. Linda Hofmann delivered the keynote address titled Transformational Leadership, sharing excellent leadership pearls and experience.
Nurse leaders inducted into Sigma included:
- Dr. Liz Greene
- Katie Feldner
Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted has been appointed as Assistant Dean of the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program.
July
As Graduate Nursing Student Academy Advocacy Leaders, Jesika Chavez-England and Dr. Amanda Keddington participated in Virtual Hill meetings, meeting with Congressman Blake Moore’s staff and Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. In a message to Dean Marla De Jong, Rachel Minahan (Stevenson), Director of Government Affairs at American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), praised Jesika and Amanda, writing “Two graduate nursing students, Jesika Chavez-England and Amanda Keddington, from the University of Utah are joining these visits. I have to say they are extremely impressive! You truly have a strong team and I appreciate all of your leadership.”
Dr. Diane Chapman earned the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential, which the National League for Nursing’s (NLN) Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program administers. This certification underscores Dr. Chapman's knowledge and expertise in facilitating learning, facilitating learner development and socialization, using assessment and evaluation strategies, designing curriculum and evaluating program outcomes, functioning as a change agent and leader, engaging in scholarship, pursuing continuous quality Improvement in the academic nurse educator role, and functioning within the organizational environment and the academic community. NLN created this academic nurse educator certification to establish nursing education as a specialty area of practice and create a means for faculty to demonstrate their expertise in this role. Dr. Chapman met eligibility criteria for certification and passed a 130-question examination.
Dr. John Nerges achieved board certification in Emergency Nursing, passing the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN®) exam. According to the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing, the CEN is the foundational nursing specialty certification for registered nurses working in the Emergency Department and across the emergency spectrum. Certified emergency nurses are lifelong learners who demonstrate expertise in clinical practice and are better prepared for professional development and overall career success.
Academic Promotion, Award of Tenure, and Reappointment:
Based on a formal review and accomplishments, the following individuals have been promoted, awarded tenure, reappointed, or retained in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2024:
- Dr. Anna Alder was promoted to the academic rank of Assistant Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Natalie Allen was reappointed at the academic rank of Assistant Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Alycia Bristol was retained at the academic rank of Assistant Professor
- Dr. Jackie Eaton was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor and awarded tenure
- Dr. Heidi Favero was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Eli Iacob was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Research)
- Dr. Deanna Kepka was promoted to the academic rank of Professor
- Denise Reeves was reappointed at the academic rank of Assistant Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Tom Rowley was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical)
- Christopher Sneddon was reappointed at the academic rank of Instructor (Clinical)
- Dr. Caroline Stephens was promoted to the academic rank of Professor
- Dr. Suzanne Talken was reappointed at the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Djin Tay was retained at the academic rank of Assistant Professor
- Dr. Josh Wall was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical)
The American Academy of Nursing announced its 2024 Class of Fellows, including Dr. Linda Hofmann and Dr. Nancy Allen, and alumna Dr. Shelly Reed. Induction into the Academy is one of the most prestigious honors in nursing. Distinguished by their substantive and sustained contributions to health and health care, the inductees will be recognized at the Academy’s 2024 Health Policy Conference on October 31 – November 2, 2024. The theme of the conference is Courageous Transformations Towards an Equitable Future.
Dr. Cathy Maxwell has been appointed as the Robert L. and Joyce T. Rice Presidential Endowed Chair in Healthy Aging and begins her faculty appointment on July 1, 2024.
Dr. Kelly Mansfield is recognized for her expertise in teaching and applying evidence-based practice (EBP) methodologies, a substantial process using critical appraisal, synthesis, translation, and outcomes measurement to make evidence-based practice changes and promote evidence-based quality improvement. As academic-practice partners, Intermountain Health (IH) leaders invited Kelly to co-teach PULSE, an evidence-based course that IH offers quarterly for nurses across its system.
June
Dr. Lauri Linder was appointed as Adjunct Professor to the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics.
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) selected Dr. Zoe Robbins to receive its 2024 American Association of Nurse Practitioners State Award for Excellence. Established in 1991 to recognize outstanding clinical quality, the AANP State Award for Excellence honors nurse practitioners for the lifesaving care they provide to patients. AANP will present the award to Dr. Robbins at the 2024 AANP Conference in Nashville, TN, on June 28, 2024.
Dr. Schola Matovu is one of 16 nurse scientists accepted to the fifth cohort of the Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders and Innovators. The three-year fellowship recognizes early- to mid-career nursing scholars and innovators with a high potential to accelerate leadership in nursing research, practice, education, policy, and entrepreneurship. Fellows receive $450,000 to conduct an innovative project or study that has the potential to address a gap in knowledge, meet a vital need, alter care delivery, or design a new solution to advance health. Dr. Matovu will conduct a project to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led telecoaching and support intervention for grandparent-caregivers with Type 2 diabetes in rural Utah and the greater Intermountain West.
May
Dr. Amy Pasmann achieved Nurse Executive (NE-BC) certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This peer developed examination and awarded certification validates Dr. Pasmann's knowledge in the areas of 1) human resource management, including knowledge of employment law, critical communications, employee and team performance management; 2) quality and safety, including knowledge of change management frameworks, culture of safety, continuous process improvement, and research and evidence-based practice methods; 3) business management including reimbursement methods/payor systems, financial management/budgeting, hours per patient day, resource utilization and leadership styles; and 4) health care delivery, including ANA's Nursing Leadership: Scope and Standards of Practice, regulatory and compliance standards, emergency preparedness, patient experience, nurse sensitive indicators, core measures, and technology evaluation and integration of systems such as telehealth, predictive analysis, and remote monitoring.
The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) selected Dr. Jia-Wen Guo to be inducted as a fellow (FAMIA). FAMIA recognizes AMIA member professionals who apply informatics skills and knowledge towards the goals of enhanced personal and population health, improved organizational performance and learning, and individual empowerment in healthcare. Fellows apply informatics skills and knowledge within their professional setting, demonstrate professional achievement and leadership, and contribute to the betterment of AMIA. The induction ceremony will occur at the AMIA 2024 Clinical Informatics Conference May 21-23 in Minneapolis.
The Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science (CANS), a signature initiative of the American Academy of Nursing, announced it will honor Dr. Andrea Wallace with the inaugural Exemplary Mid-Career Researcher and Mentor Award at the CANS 2024 State of the Science Congress on Nursing Research. This award recognizes a mid-career nurse scientist whose established and impactful program of research has significantly contributed to advancing nursing knowledge through interdisciplinary research teams and mentorship of nursing students.
Carly Bonfiglio earned a Master of Science in Nursing degree, specializing as a family nurse practitioner, from Westminster University.
Dr. Valois Feneziani earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in organizational leadership, from the University of Utah.
Congratulations to all College of Nursing graduates who earned Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, or Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Nursing, a Master of Science degree in Gerontology, and/or a certificate in nursing or gerontology. We celebrate your academic accomplishments and look forward to hearing about your contributions as you promote wellness and prevent illness, reduce health disparities, shape the future of healthcare to be equitable, and improve health outcomes for persons and communities.
Commendation to all faculty, staff, preceptors, and community partners who supported and positioned students for academic success during their programs of study.
Dr. Natasha Ansari earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in nursing.
Dr. Amanda Keddington earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in organizational leadership. She received the Outstanding Doctor of Nursing Practice Scholar Award.
Dr. Kelly Mansfield earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in nursing, and a Graduate Certificate in nursing education.
Dr. Erica Nelson earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in organizational leadership.
Simulation Center staff and faculty organized several events for junior high and high school students from the Ascent Academy in West Jordan, the Canyons School District’s Nurse Assistant program, Granite Technical Institute, and the Alpine School District. Simulation Center staff and faculty, including Mandy Thompson, Debbie Boulter, Carly Bonfiglio, and Dr. Ann Butt worked hard to ensure a positive experience for all attendees.
Eighty 7th graders from Ascent Academy, most of whom had not thought much about attending college or becoming a nurse, traveled by Trax to visit the Simulation Center. Their visit led to conversation in class about the fun they had in the Simulation Center, and that it would be cool to attend the University of Utah. Their thank you note is included in the collage above.
Tom Wood, Work-Based Director of the Alpine School District, sent a thank you message to Simulation Center staff and faculty.
“… I just wanted to drop you all a massive thank you for putting together such an incredible day for the Alpine School District Medical Explorers visit. Seriously, you knocked it out of the park! The activities you organized were not only fun but also super informative. You made learning about medical exploration an absolute blast! Your hard work and dedication didn't go unnoticed, and we're all so grateful for the awesome experience you provided. Thank you all!!!”
Bo Berry, Executive Director of the Western Institute of Nursing (WIN), sent a thank you message to Dean Marla De Jong.
“Thank you and the University of Utah College of Nursing for the incredibly generous sponsorship of WIN’s 2024 conference and for the tremendous support you provided our annual meeting this year. What a great event!
… feedback from the conference is overwhelmingly positive. We are so grateful to you and your team for making the meeting a success. It was a great pleasure to finally bring the conference back to Salt Lake City after 15 years.
As always, Carrie Radmall was delightful to work with and provided a great deal of support behind the scenes. We are also very grateful to Gabriel Mayberry for photographing our 2024 award recipients. I was able to send the photos to each honoree yesterday, and they are always so happy to receive them.
Paula Meek, Linda Edelman, Perry Gee, Lauri Linder, Andrea Wallace, Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, and Cheryl Armstrong all worked so hard to support WIN this year and the conference. The University of Utah’s support means a great deal to our small organization (and to NEXus) and truly helps sustain us…”
April
The Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine Meaningful Use Committee awarded $25,250 to Drs. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Camille Moreno for their project titled Delivering MENOGAP: A Group Medical Visit for Midlife Patients.
The Veteran's Administration Pain/Opioid Consortium of Research (CORE) awarded $46,732 to Drs. Felice Indindoli (PI; Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford, MA), Lisa Taylor-Swanson (Co-I), and Carolyn Gibson (Co-I; University of California, San Francisco) for their project titled Rapid Quality Improvement and Evaluation of an Acupuncture Therapy Clinic for Peri/Post-Menopausal Women Veterans with Chronic Pain (A-MVP).
U.S. News & World Report ranks Midwifery programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #11 (tie; #9 publics) among 37 ranked schools and is the only ranked Midwifery program in Utah.
U.S. News & World Report ranks Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #25 (#17 publics) among 156 ranked schools and is the only ranked Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Utah.
The University of Utah Academy of Health Science Educators (AHSE) Selection Committee chose Dr. Jennifer Hamilton and Dr. Rebekah Perkins to be Fellows of the Academy. Recognized as outstanding educators in their field, Fellows advocate for excellent education in their Colleges and University of Utah Health, actively participate in Academy committees, and create a culture of collaboration and exceptional education within University of Utah Health. An Induction Ceremony to honor Drs. Hamilton and Perkins and other new Fellows was held on April 8, 2024.
The Alpha Chi Chapter of Sigma Phi Omegaheld its Annual Spring Induction Ceremony. Gerontology students inducted into Sigma Phi Omega included:
•Christopher Gravett- •Hailey Hansen
- •Julie Kemeny
- •Aline Lowenthal
- •Sasha Perez
- •Olivia Snyder
Faculty member Dr. Cynthia Beynon also was inducted into Sigma Phi Omega. Those who planned and produced the ceremony included Chapter Co-Advisors Dr. Rebekah Perkins and Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Chapter President Jaime Cross, and Chapter Secretary Katelyn Rager. Dean Marla De Jong provided remarks about students’ success, Dr. Gail Towsley spoke about careers in aging, and Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted provided remarks about students' diligence and honors, gratitude for faculty, and appreciation for professional members. Rob Ence, Executive Director of the Utah Commission on Aging, was recognized as a distinguished guest.
Cindy Turner achieved Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. PMP certification acknowledges candidates skilled at managing the people, processes, and business priorities of professional projects, and validates that certification holders are highly skilled in motivating people and teams through all phases of a successful project; using predictive, agile, and hybrid approaches to determine which way of working is best; and highlighting the success of a project and its impact on overall strategic organizational goals.
Dr. Amanda Dailey-Hansen earned Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) certification from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation. AOCNP certification is for advanced practice nurses who possess a graduate degree from an accredited nurse practitioner program and who practice as a nurse practitioner in adult oncology.
Austin Waters, Cindy Turner, Caleb Easterly, Ida Tovar, Megan Mulvaney, Matt Poquadeck, Hailey Johnston, Lauren Ghazal, Stephen Rains, Dr. Kristen Cloyes, Anne Kirchhoff, and Dr. Echo Warner authored a paper titled Exploring Online Crowdfunding for Cancer-Related Costs among LGBTQ+ Cancer Survivors: Integration of Community-Engaged and Technology-Based Methodologies that recently was published in JMIR Cancer. Their paper was awarded first place in the Cancer Leaders Like Us Health Disparities Student Paper and Poster Contest for Winter 2024, which the National LGT Cancer Network organized.
March
Dr. Sara Simonsen will receive the 2024 OUR Mentor Award at the annual OUR Awards Ceremony on April 1, 2024. The award criteria included a record of sustained commitment to undergraduate research mentoring, active participation in research-related activities on campus, and positive contributions to the research and teaching culture of the Department, College, and University.
Dr. Djin Tay received the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association New Investigator Award at the Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Carein Phoenix, presented by the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and the Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association. Dr. Tay’sresearch focuses on the implications of emerging treatments on caregiving, decision-making, palliative care, and end-of-life in the context of the family. She leads the development of the Immunotherapy, Palliative, End-of-Life Treatment Utilization and Spousal Outcomes (ImmPETUS) cohort, a population-based cohort of Utah patients diagnosed between 2013 and 2019 with lung, colorectal, breast, melanoma, bladder, or head and neck cancer.
Dr. Liz Sloss was competitively selected for the two-year Alliance of Nursing Informatics (ANI) Emerging Leaders program. Individuals are paired with a mentor for dialogue and coaching during the two-year program. Mentors are selected by a sub-set of the ANI Governing Directors based on the proposed leadership project and will provide feedback and guidance throughout the program.
The Vice-President for Research Incentive Seed Grant Program awarded a 1-year, $27,022 research grant to Dr. Julie Valentine for her innovative study titled Toward trauma-informed care in dentistry: An evaluation of the impact of trauma on use and provision of dental care services. Dr. Valentine and Co-Investigator Dr. Brenda Heaton will explore the connection of trauma history in predominantly low-income/marginalized populations and survivors of sexual or gender-based violence with dental-related fear and utilization of dental care services. In addition, they will evaluate how the dental care workforce understands and applies trauma-informed care. After Drs. Valentine and Heaton merge findings from these distinct participant groups, they will design and conduct further research to develop best practice guidelines for trauma-informed care in dentistry.
Dr. Amanda Dailey-Hansen was recognized by her clinical practice colleagues for her communication to support efficient patient care. “Amanda always emails to the inpatient team regarding incoming admits. Even if it's a scheduled chemo, she goes above and beyond to update on any current issues with the patient in the outpatient setting to ensure exceptional care! We are so grateful for Amanda's excellent communication with the inpatient team regarding admissions from the clinic.”
Dr. Jenneth Doria: NURS 4140 Leadership and Management for Professional Nurses. “I wanted to extend my heartfelt appreciation for your patience and generosity in serving as my preceptor this semester. I am profoundly thankful for your understanding of my circumstances and for making my leadership practicum possible. Your prompt responses and meticulous attention to ensuring I had the necessary resources have not gone unnoticed. It has been a privilege to have you as my professor, and your admirable dedication to nursing and the impact of your work on individuals, including myself, have been truly inspiring. Your passion has sparked my interest in exploring projects beyond the hospital setting. Thank you again for everything you have done this semester. I express my gratitude and offer my best wishes for all your future endeavors."
February
At the end of each semester, students have the opportunity to provide feedback about each course they took, and the faculty who taught the course. The following unedited quotes are from students who took courses during Fall Semester 2023.
- Anna Alder: NURS 3410 Acute Care Practicum. “I cannot sing the praises of Anna Alder enough. Anna was a fantastic course lead who I really respect. She is very evidenced based in her approach to how she teaches/answers questions. She was able to facilitate a safe and caring environment in ACD. My only complaint is that we didn't get to see her enough! The few times she filled instructors in post–conference was really lovely – she does a very good job of making room to share struggles of clinicals and also turn those hard clinical experiences into teaching moments.”
- Dr. Nancy Allen: NURS 7702 DNP Scholarly Project II. “ Nancy does a great job in the canvas videos explaining content and assignments. Her knowledge of the research and writing process has been very valuable to us as students. I have a lot of respect for her and enjoy our interactions. She is well organized and provides a template for U DNP students to produce quality projects.
- Dr. Cynthia Beynon: GERON 5001 Introduction to Aging. “Professor Beynon was incredibly kind and always responded to my emails. I love the way she had her course set up, and I felt like I genuinely learned from her course. Most courses like these, I remember the material long enough for each quiz; but I really learned in this class.”
- Melissa Black: NURS 3410 Acute Care Practicum. "Melissa was great!! She was detailed at explaining everything before, during, and after our clinicals. She gave great feedback and was always there if we needed anything or got confused with some paperwork."
- Dr. Sara Bybee: NURS 7101 Research Ethics & Protection of Human Subjects. “Dr. Bybee was very easy to approach and gave great feedback. Her lectures were well prepared and brought in important ethical issues that feel relevant to our lives.”
- Dr. Sue Chase Cantarini: NURS 4650 Capstone Clinical. “Sue was very positive and supportive throughout the course. When I had to email her with some questions, she responded in a timely manner and was very willing to help. When I had some concerns about my capstone, Sue was very helpful and helped me explore all my options. She is great at advocating for her students and has a great energy.”
- Dr. Diane Chapman: NURS 7053 Advanced Pathophysiology for DNP Students I. “Excellent instructor who draws from her clinical experience to inform classroom discussions; I appreciate her honesty and straightforward manner. Thank you for an excellent semester!”
- Dr. Katie Davis: NURS 7602 PCNP Practicum II. “There are no words to explain how unbelievably incredible Dr. Davis is. She is tough with her expectations, but this makes you learn more and provides more benefits in the long run, even when you feel like students outside of her group have it easier. Katie cares so much about her student's education and her students as individuals. She is encouraging, kind, inspiring, and an invaluable part of my education. I hope that she teaches more of our courses.”
- Dr. Sheila Deyette: NURS 6301 Foundations of Psychotherapy: The Art & Science of Healing in Relationship. “Dr. Deyette, You possess significantly greater insight into each modality, and role, than the typical instructor. I feel this arrives as a benefit of the thirty–plus years you have helped others move toward resolution. I believe your teaching style offers the student an appropriately nuanced view of the role, client–provider alliance, and the therapies we will be using to assist our patients in a way that lays the onus on the individual, as learners, yet offers firm instruction and guidance along the way. That is the best available path, in my opinion. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.”
- Angie Fenton: NURS 3305 Foundations of Clinical Nursing Care. “Angie always had great feedback and made sure to explain everything well. I learned a lot from her!”
- Dr. Val Flattes: NURS 6603 Chronic Problems of Adults and Elders. “Val, YOU are an amazing teacher, and I LOVED your class. It was a safe place to learn and explore and you will always be one instructor I will not forget and always appreciate during my time at the university. I had a preceptor who took your class 7 years ago she also agreed you are one of the most comfortable and cherished instructors. Thank you for pointing out or showing us that although you are a guru on the mountain, you are still a learner at heart.”
- Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted: GERON 5370 Health and Optimal Aging. “Dr. Felsted is one of my favorite instructors at the university. She has high standards for achievement that she implements with fairness, compassion, and grace; this is a powerful combination that keeps me striving to do my best without added anxiety. Dr. Felsted is the embodiment of ethical leadership with responsible use of power.”
- Amanda Keddington: NURS 4650 Capstone Clinical. “Mandi is a wonderful instructor. I couldn't have been happier with my capstone group/experience. Keep up the good work Mandi, you're an asset to the College of Nursing and your field!”
- Dr. Nanci McLeskey: NURS 3430 Nursing Across the Lifespan. “Nanci is amazing and really makes the material engaging and unique! I loved her section of the class.”
- Erica Nelson: NURS 4600 Professional Roles IV. "Erica was very helpful throughout the course and was very attentive to student's mental health. I could tell that Erica cares about her students by making herself approachable through Canvas. She reached out for a mental wellness check–in halfway through the semester and that was very heartwarming as a nursing student."
- Dr. Shawna Sisler: NURS 4110 Global Health Nursing. "Professor Sisler is the definition of excellent. She is very open to feedback and makes an effort not to let the fact that a class is online stop her from building relationships with students. She is also invested in their overall experience, not just their experience in her class.”
- Jacqueline Telonidis: GERON 5235/6235 The Aging Mind. “I have really enjoyed this class. You seem to really care about your students and our success.”
Dr. Julie Valentine was awarded Fellow designation in the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). AAFS presented the award at its 76th Annual Conference, which was held February 19-24 in Denver, CO. Fellowship recognizes service to AAFS, the general area of forensic sciences, forensic science research
The Alzheimer’s Association awarded a 3-year $199,964 research grant to Dr. Sara Bybee for her study titled Fostering Equitable Dementia Care for Hispanic/Latino Communities. Dr. Bybee aims to provide equitable dementia care by translating the LEAD Guide (Life-Planning in Early Alzheimer's & Other Dementias) into Spanish (S-LEAD). She will incorporate community-based participatory research practices within a cultural adaptation framework to refine S-LEAD, design an intervention, and evaluate its effects among Hispanic/Latino Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia dyads. Co-investigators include Drs. Kara Dassel and Eli Iacob.
The College of Nursing is ranked #32 in National Institutes of Health funding to colleges of nursing. We commend our hard-working and innovative scientists, their collaborators and team members, and the Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center staff who support them.
The Utah Academy of Health Science Educators renewed Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini as a Fellow of the Academy for five years, extending through April 2029. Involvement in the Academy is instrumental in creating a culture of collaboration and exceptional education within University of Utah Health.
The Georgia Nurses Foundation announced the 2024 inductees for the Georgia Nursing Hall of Fame. These 10 individuals are exceptional registered nurses who have contributed or are contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession on a local, national, and/or international level. Mary Gullatte, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, AOCN LSSYB, FAAN, an alumna of the PhD program, is one of 10 inductees. The initiative honors nurses who have become legends in Georgia and brings them into the spotlight.
January
Dr. John Nerges facilitated the panel discussion. Recent graduate Emme Keizer (2023) emphasized that self-care and resilience are important to success. Four current students generously shared their experience, holding nothing back, but accentuating that success is not only possible but expected, and that students can access resources to help them along the way.
NURS 3410 faculty and Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh thank Nicole Halenkamp, Riley Histon, Emme Keizer, Grace Poulsen, and Bailey Van Wagonerfor their generosity and selfless service to current students who will follow them into the nursing profession.
Yvonne Bass recognized Kristy Gauthier for excellence, writing on Pulse, "Kristy always strives to make the lessons she teaches better every time. She is never stagnant. She expects the same level of effort from those around her, helping us strive for excellence with her."
The National Institute on Aging’s IMPACT Collaboratory Health Care Scholars Program funded Dr. Alycia Bristol’s project titled Partnering with UHealth to Design ePCT non-pharmacological interventions for PLWD and CPs for $129,600. [Abbreviations: embedded pragmatic clinical trial (ePCT); persons living with dementia (PLWD); care partners (CP)].
The Oncology Nursing Society funded post-doctoral fellow Dr. Sumin Park’s RE03 proposal titled The Impact of Multi-level Social Determinants of Health Outcomes for Lung Cancer Patients and Their Family Caregivers During the Transition from Cancer Treatment for $50,000. Dr. Andrea Wallace and Dr. Alycia Bristol mentor Dr. Park.
December
The R. Harold Burton Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to the Outreach, Collaboration & Organizational Enrichment Team for the Future Nurses Summer Camp. The Foundation’s four main areas of focus are education, science, literacy, and health and human services. Funding from the Foundation allows organizations to make positive impacts on the local community and its citizens. Dr. Valerie Flattes and Aarohi Drabu extend their sincere thanks to Mindy Francis and Mary Wheeler from the Advancement team for their invaluable help in securing this funding.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)awarded a $246M federal contract to a FHI 360-led multinational consortium, including the University of Utah, that will improve infectious disease detection and surveillance across the globe. Investigators at the U with expertise in biomedical informatics – Drs. Kathy Sward, Edgar Javier Hernandez, Ram Gouripeddi, Julio Facelli, and Mollie Cummins – genomics, and diagnostics will contribute by helping countries better detect, and respond in a timely way to infectious disease outbreaks.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Center awarded a $50,000 pilot award to Co-Investigators Drs. Deanna Kepka and Guilherme Del Fiol for their project titled PROMISE: Predicting HPV Missed Vaccination Opportunities to Improve Cervical Cancer Equity. PhD student Kaila Christini is program leader.
The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation awarded a $5,000 Hillman Small Grant Fellowship to Dr. Mary Killela for her project titled Role of Artificial Intelligence in Financial Patient Navigation.
The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation awarded a $250,000 Hillman Innovations Dissemination (HID) grant to Rural Huntsman at Home. Principal Investigator Dr. Kathi Mooney and Co-Investigator Dr. Elizabeth Sloss will improve access to care for rural communities that have been historically marginalized by expanding nurse-led specialty cancer care, which has been effective in rural Utah counties, to persons with cancer who live in Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. A part of Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Huntsman at Home service, Rural Huntsman at Home provides specialty cancer care to patients in their home. In a press release, The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation stated that “Rural Huntsman at Home improves quality of life for patients and families, shortens patients’ hospital stays after treatment, reduces emergency room visits, and lowers health care costs.” Dr. Kathi Mooney stated, “We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation. Their support will be instrumental in helping to disseminate Rural Huntsman at Home. The Huntsman Cancer Institute, where our program was developed, is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in this five-state region, and we believe strongly that this high-quality care should be equally available to our neighbors in frontier and rural communities.”
November
The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation awarded a $250,000 Hillman Innovations Dissemination (HID) grant to Rural Huntsman at Home. Principal Investigator Dr. Kathi Mooney and Co-Investigator Dr. Elizabeth Sloss will improve access to care for rural communities that have been historically marginalized by expanding nurse-led specialty cancer care, which has been effective in rural Utah counties, to persons with cancer who live in Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. A part of Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Huntsman at Home service, Rural Huntsman at Home provides specialty cancer care to patients in their home. In a press release, The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation stated that “Rural Huntsman at Home improves quality of life for patients and families, shortens patients’ hospital stays after treatment, reduces emergency room visits, and lowers health care costs.” Dr. Kathi Mooney stated, “We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with The Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation. Their support will be instrumental in helping to disseminate Rural Huntsman at Home. The Huntsman Cancer Institute, where our program was developed, is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in this five-state region, and we believe strongly that this high-quality care should be equally available to our neighbors in frontier and rural communities.”
The Rocky Mountain Public Health Training Center awarded a $17,000 grant to Dr. Teresa Garrett and Joan Gallegos, enabling them to continue work to dismantle structural racism and promote diverse environments of belonging in nursing education. In addition, public health faculty will complete an 8-week Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) curriculum, fostering interdisciplinary conversation about identifying and removing barriers that contribute to structural racism.
The Health Sciences Office for Faculty Development awarded $1,250 to Dr. Emily Winn to purchase the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) New Faculty Development Program, a 28-hour program that addresses the learning needs of novice nurse practitioner educators, and examines the complex and unique aspects of nurse practitioner education. The program features content about foundations and theoretical frameworks of education, curriculum design, student assessment, clinical education and evaluation, and technology and learning best practices.
September
The National Institutes of Health Fogarty International Centerawarded a $968,360 K01 Mentored Research Scientist Career Development Award to Dr. Schola Matovu for her project Development and Testing of BAJJAJJA: An Intervention to Promote Economic Empowerment and Health of Grandmothers Who Provide Primary Care for Grandchildren in Uganda. Dr. Lee Ellington and Dr. Noeline Nakasujja of Makerere University are Dr. Matovu’s primary mentors. Dr. Xiaoming Sheng will provide statistical support. During this five-year project, the team will refine, adapt, and test BAJJAJJA (Building A Joint Action for JaJJAs), an innovative, multi-component intervention consisting of an income generating activity (IGA, facilitated by IGA experts) and health coaching (facilitated by visiting nurses). In the absence of child welfare and similar social services in the sub-Saharan setting, extended family members, often older grandmothers (Bajjajja), frequently step forward and bear the crucial burden of caring for children whose parents have died or are otherwise affected by poor social determinants of health. Considering the resulting public health crises many sub-Saharan Africa countries would face without the safety net afforded by grandmother-caregivers, it is critical to address health outcomes and wellbeing of these older adults, who are already vulnerable to age-related poor health outcomes and chronic socioeconomic stressors that may be further exacerbated by caregiving.
The National Institute of Justice awarded a $575,000 grant to Dr. Julie Valentine for her 2-year study titled What about Us? Formative Evaluation of Forensic Nursing Program Delivery of Intimate Partner Violence Medical Forensic Examinations. Members of the research team include Dr. Bob Wong (Co-Investigator), Dr. Heather Melton (Co-Investigator), Keiko Crawley, and Dr. Nancy Downing. The purpose of this formative evaluation study – which will begin January 1, 2025 and be conducted in Salt Lake City, Utah; Maricopa County, Arizona; and El Paso County, Colorado – is to advance knowledge and understanding of forensic nursing program delivery of intimate partner violence medical forensic examinations. The team will create three logic models, which will create a framework for future research on intimate partner violence medical forensic examinations program delivery.
The National Institute of Nursing Research awarded a $460,641 3-year K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award titled AI Modeling of Nursing Workload to Understand Burnout to Dr. Vicky Tiase, Adjunct Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing, and Assistant Professor in the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine Department of Biomedical Informatics. Based on electronic health record audit log data,Dr. Tiase will develop a model to estimate nursing workload, and then use the model to develop and test interventions that may reduce the burden of nursing documentation.
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT awarded a $998,903 Leading Edge Acceleration Projects (LEAP) grant to Dr. Sarah Rossetti at Columbia University for a multi-center study titled Scalable, Shareable, and Computable Clinical Knowledge for AI-Based Processing of Hospital-Based Nursing Data (SC2K). Dr. Vicky Tiase is Principal Investigator for the University of Utah. The team will develop an infrastructure for AI-based research that leverages nursing and multi-modal data in the hospital setting.
The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) awarded a 5-year $3,846,851 R01 grant to Principal Investigator Dr. Andrea Wallace, Co-Investigators Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Sara Simonsen, and Dr. Bob Wong, and Research Coordinator Ernest Grigorianfor their project titled Enhanced Digital Access to Bridge Social Needs and Reduce Health Disparities: The e-SINCERE Study. This study is funded as part of the NINR “Bridge to Care” initiative, which promotes research linking clinical care with community resources to address adverse social determinants of health (SDOH) to improve health outcomes and advance health equity. The initiative 1) supports studies that leverage healthcare-community-government partnerships to develop, expand, and evaluate interventions addressing social needs like food insecurity, housing, and transportation, especially in underserved populations, and 2) aims to create sustainable, integrated approaches to social care that go beyond referrals, focusing on impactful, coordinated care delivery within communities. In this National Institutes of Health stage 3 real-world efficacy study, the research team will use a community-engaged process and rapid cycle testing with community, governmental, and clinical partners to develop and implement an Information and Communication Technology screening and access program in three emergency department settings across Utah. In stage two, they will test the intervention with a randomized controlled trial with 600 patients seen in the emergency department who have social needs and communication access barriers to assess whether providing stable cellphones, community service outreach, and digital navigation improves health outcomes over 6 months compared to providing only cellphones and community service outreach.
August
The National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences awarded a $3,300,000 3-year supplement to Multiple Principal Investigators Drs. Jamie Dwyer, Kathy Sward, and Kevin Watt for the HEAL (Helping to End Addiction Long-term) ERN (Effectiveness Research Network) Data Coordinating Resource Center. This funding will enable the team to provide continued data coordinating center support to multi-center pain management trials under the National Institutes of Health HEAL initiative.
The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development awarded a $150,000 1-year administrative supplement to Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network Principal Investigator Dr. Kevin Watt and Co-Investigator Dr. Kathy Sward. Dr. Sward’s team will develop National Institutes of Health Common Data Elements for pediatric critical care research.
The Utah Department of Health and Humans Service awarded a $50,000 grant to Dr. Deanna Kepka (Principal Investigator [PI]), Kaila Christini (Program Manager, PhD Student), Becca Slagle (Research Associate), and Stephen Gubler (Research Associate) for their project titled Precision Outreach to Enhance HPV Vaccination through Education and Community Tailoring. The team began the work on August 1, 2024, and will conclude it on June 30, 2025.
The National Institute on Aging awarded a $2,984,024 R01 grant to Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Kara Dassel (Co-Investigator), Dr. Jia-Wen Guo (Co-Investigator), Dr. Eli Iacob (Co-Investigator), Dr. Fernando Wilson (Co-Investigator), Dr. Troy Andersen (Consultant), and Dr. Jason Flatt (Consultant) for their project titled Developing an Inclusive Measure of Financial Hardship for People Living with Dementia and their Care Contributors. From August 15, 2024 to June 30, 2029 the team will develop and validate an inclusive Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia (AD/ADRD)-focused measure of financial hardship for use by care contributors to sexual and gender minority (SGM) and non-SGM persons living with dementia (PLWD). A validated screener that is inclusive enough to capture the unique experiences of SGM PLWD and their care contributors in the context of AD/ADRD will help with the early identification of those at greatest risk of financial hardship and related negative physical and mental health outcomes. The increasing prevalence of older adults (SGM and non-SGM) with AD/ADRD, the growing diversity of the population, and projections that AD/ADRD is becoming the most expensive disease in the world suggest that this project has the potential to make a significant impact not only on the lives of SGM and non-SGM PLWD and their care contributors, but may also contribute vital knowledge to inform future programs and policies.
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $2,904,474 R01 grant to Dr. Lauri Linder, and Co-Investigators Drs. Roger Altizer, Guilherme DelFiol, Kensaku Kawamoto, Michael Pulsipher, Xiaoming Sheng, and Pallavi Ranade for their project titled mHealth Intervention to Support Symptom Communication for Children with Cancer. Communication that includes the child’s perspective and can be understood and acted upon by parents and clinicians is key to managing symptoms associated with childhood cancer and its treatment. The goal of this study is to improve symptom communication for children during the early cancer treatment period. Accordingly, and from July 17, 2024 to June 30, 2029, the team will use Color Me Healthy, a child-centric app that provides an evidence-based structure for children to report 11 common symptoms, localize symptom areas of the body, and communicate other concerns. Dr. Linder and her team will develop and test a clinician-facing version of Color Me Healthy that is integrated with electronic healthcare record systems to support review and discussion of children’s data in the clinical workflow, and improve communication about children’s symptoms during clinic visits.
The Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University issued an additional amendment for Dr. Mollie Cummins’ project titled Researching COVID TO Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative, awarding her an $49,280 in funding and extending the work until November 30, 2024.
College of Nursing Excellence in Education awarded two grants to support education scholarship.
- Dr. Nancy Allen (team lead), Dr. Julie Gee, Dr. Katherine Doyon, and Malek Alnajar (PhD student) received $15,000 to explore the feasibility, usability, and satisfaction of implementing a virtual reality simulation using gamification. Guided by the concept of cultural humility, the purpose of the immersive technology simulation is to foster student awareness and empathy surrounding social determinants of health and health disparities.
- Dr. Cynthia Beynon and Dr. Anna Alder received $13,200 to investigate the impact of integrating a Community-Engaged Learning Framework within a Master of Science clinical course. Using this community-focused pedagogy, the team will further develop and assess student attainment of patient-centered care-related competencies, and design and evaluate this course innovation within a graduate program. Their work has the potential to serve as a model for other programs that seek to incorporate meaningful direct care into their curriculum.
July
The Department of Defense United States Army Medical Research and Development Command’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs’ Toxic Exposures Research Program awarded a $1,539,865 grant to Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Lisa Conboy, and Dr. Irina Conboy to conduct a study titled Confirming the Effectiveness of Acupuncture to Treat the Symptoms of Gulf War Illness. Spanning from August 1, 2024 to July 31, 2028, the project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture in reducing pain and improving physical function in Gulf War veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Illness. Key contributors to the project include Dr. Melissa Cortez, director and founder of the autonomic physiology lab, and members of the Applied Statistics Team, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng and Dr. Bob Wong, among many others.
The Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center Pilot Program awarded a $19,185 grant to Drs. Lynn Reinke, Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and Paula Meek to conduct a study titled Acupuncture or Self-Acupressure for Dyspnea and Dyspnea-Related Anxiety for Persons Diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease.
May
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences awarded a $3.1 million, 5-year R24 grant to Multiple Principal Investigators Ramkiran Gouripeddi from the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine Department of Biomedical Informatics and Dr. Mollie Cummins for their project titled Community-Driven Sensor Metadata Ecosystem for Exposure Health. Co-Investigators are Dr. Kathy Sward and Julio Facelli (DBMI). To advance methods for exposure health research entailing sensors, the team will develop a logical model for representing diverse types of sensor metadata; discover and harmonize sensor and device metadata in a community-driven approach; design and evaluate a user-facing metadata repository; develop specifications, logical models, and the functions needed to transform any exposure health data into an event-based format, enhanced with spatial and temporal coordinates; and develop prototype workflows that research teams can use as models. Building on prior research and development efforts, and in conjunction with the University of Utah's Center of Excellence in Exposure Health Informatics, the team will engage the environmental exposure health research community through an expert panel, user-centered design, public comment, and a communications plan. The team expects to develop community-driven, shared, and generalizable tools for metadata and data management, supporting reproducible environmental exposure health research.
The University of Utah Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR) awarded a $14,916 grant to Dr. Kara Dassel for her study titled Knowledge, Experience, and Attitudes of Health Care Providers Regarding VSED (voluntarily stopping eating and drinking) and MAID (medical assistance in dying) in Dementia. Co-Investigators include Dr. Tim Farrell from the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, and Dr. Tenielle Brown from the College of Law.
Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Julie Gee, Malek Alnajar, Dr. Ann Butt, Dr. Emily Barrows, and Dr. Katherine Doyon received a $14,791 College of Nursing Excellence in Education grant for a project titled Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Experience to Increase Empathy and Awareness.
April
The Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Centerawarded a $28,689 pilot grant to Dr. Sara Bybee for herstudy titled Hispanic/Latino Individuals’ Experiences of Housing Instability and Resilience. Dr. Bybee, along with co-investigators Dr. Andrea Wallaceand Sarah Canham from the College of Social Work, will conduct a mixed-methods pilot study to explore the lived experience of Hispanic individuals who have and have not received housing assistance when experiencing housing instability.
March
The Vice-President for Research Incentive Seed Grant Program awarded a 1-year, $27,022 research grant to Dr. Julie Valentine for her innovative study titled Toward trauma-informed care in dentistry: An evaluation of the impact of trauma on use and provision of dental care services. Dr. Valentine and Co-Investigator Dr. Brenda Heaton will explore the connection of trauma history in predominantly low-income/marginalized populations and survivors of sexual or gender-based violence with dental-related fear and utilization of dental care services. In addition, they will evaluate how the dental care workforce understands and applies trauma-informed care. After Drs. Valentine and Heaton merge findings from these distinct participant groups, they will design and conduct further research to develop best practice guidelines for trauma-informed care in dentistry.
February
The Alzheimer’s Association awarded a 3-year $199,964research grant to Dr. Sara Bybee for her study titled Fostering Equitable Dementia Care for Hispanic/Latino Communities. Dr. Bybee aims to provide equitable dementia care by translating the LEAD Guide (Life-Planning in Early Alzheimer's & Other Dementias) into Spanish (S-LEAD). She will incorporate community-based participatory research practices within a cultural adaptation framework to refine S-LEAD, design an intervention, and evaluate its effects among Hispanic/Latino Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia dyads. Co-investigators include Drs. Kara Dassel and Eli Iacob.
January
The National Institute on Aging’s IMPACT Collaboratory Health Care Scholars Program funded Dr. Alycia Bristol’s project titled Partnering with UHealth to Design ePCT non-pharmacological interventions for PLWD and CPs for $129,600. [Abbreviations: embedded pragmatic clinical trial (ePCT); persons living with dementia (PLWD); care partners (CP)].
The Oncology Nursing Society funded post-doctoral fellow Dr. Sumin Park’s RE03 proposal titled The Impact of Multi-level Social Determinants of Health Outcomes for Lung Cancer Patients and Their Family Caregivers During the Transition from Cancer Treatment for $50,000. Dr. Andrea Wallace and Dr. Alycia Bristol mentor Dr. Park
November
Mirna Gutierrez, Custodian for the Simulation Center, passed the United States citizenship test and became a U.S. citizen.
August
Nicole Wells was selected as a recipient of a 2024 Health Academics District Staff Excellence Award. This prestigious award program recognizes superior service and ongoing contributions by full-time and part-time staff employees. To be selected is a high honor, and a sign of commitment and contributions that are truly valued by her colleagues. Nicolewill be honored at an upcoming luncheon and awards ceremony, and will be considered for the Presidential Staff Excellence Award.
July
On Pulse, Scott Nelson recognized Yvonne Bass, writing, “Thank you for all your help with MICU's emergency simulations! You really filled in the holes when we were short on facilitators this week and it made a great educational experience for our staff. "
May
Morgan West, Patient Services Coordinator, was recognized on Pulse by a patient who visited RedMed. "Morgan made my visit to RedMed quick and efficient. I went in for a WellU visit. She identified other tasks that I needed to complete on my record AND completed them right there in the clinic."
Twelve staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2023-2024 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the College’s reputation for excellence.
- Staff Service Excellence Award:
- Nancy Aruscavage
- Heather Clarkson
- Shelley Kern
- Malinda Martinez
- Shiver
- Morgan West
- Faculty Mentoring Award: Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi
- Faculty Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Katie Davis
- Faculty Practice Award: Dr. Liz Greene
- Faculty Excellence in Research and Scholarship Award: Dr. Lauri Linder
- Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Christopher Macintosh
- Excellence in University Health Partnership Award: Denise Reeves
Grant Awards
The Alzheimer’s Association awarded a $200,000 grant to Dr. Sara Bybee (PI), Dr. Kara Dassel (Co-I), and Dr. Eli Iacob (Co-I) for their project titled Promoting Dementia Care Planning within Spanish-Speaking Latino Communities. The grant period is 2024 through 2027.
April
“Today, I want to recognize Adrienne Bott, Administrative Manager for the University of Utah College of Nursing Caring Connections, for her compassion, gentleness, keen sense of humor, attention to detail, and loving concern for others.” Cathy added details about a situation in which she was required to submit additional paperwork within a short time to the contracting department. “I am delighted to inform you that, thanks to Adrienne's swift action and expertise, our project has been approved... It is a privilege to work alongside someone of Adrienne's caliber.”The quick resolution will lead to a $70,000 contract.
March
Jane Price recently earned the complete set of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Credentials. Universal Design for Learning is a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific insights into how humans learn. The credentials covered the key concepts of UDL, such as learner variability and barriers in online course design, and culminated in the development of a publicly-available course on accessibility following UDL principles. These credentials validate Jane’s expertise in concepts that are important for UDL, ability to analyze learning scenarios, and skill in using UDL to develop learning experiences.
Kristen Tunks, Student Success Manager, collaborated with colleagues from across the University and within the College to plan the first College of Nursing Tax Clinic. Volunteers provided income tax assistance so that nursing students could file their taxes for free. Kristen also will host an Open House to highlight opportunities available to students who participate in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and the Honors Program, and recruit new students into these programs. Later this semester, Kristan and colleagues will host “destress for finals” week for all Health Science students.
September
The College of Nursing welcomed six post-doctoral fellows the week of August 26 for an in-person week intensive. Fellows attended orientation sessions, completed training, met with mentors, and even attended a football game. New fellows are Dr. Sharon Bigger, Dr. Mary Killela, and Dr. Clarisa Medina-Poeliniz, and returning fellows are Dr. Tumilara Aderibigbe, Dr. Bridget Nicholson, and Dr. Sumin Park.
August
Students inducted into Sigma included:
- Elza Gietz
- Alex Hutton
- Annie Kopell
- Mina Lambert
- Katie McLeod
- Elle Orton
- Derika Parkin
- Grace Poulsen
- Molly Sugrue
- Alexis Taylor-Allred
- Eliza Ter-Gevorkian
- Bailey Van Wagoner
- Maya Watanabe
- Megan Young
The Gamma Rho chapter also welcomed two new leadership interns:
- Sofia Flowers
- Anida Pathammavong
Jonas Nursing and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing selected Kait Otero, a Doctor of Nursing Practice student in the psychiatric-mental health track, as a 2024-2026 Jonas Scholar. Dr. Sheila Deyette is Kait’s mentor. Kait will receive $12,000 towards tuition, and an assigned Jonas Scholar mentor will advise her about the nurse faculty role. Scholars who accept a faculty position are eligible for an additional $6,000 award.
July
The Hospice & Palliative Nurses Foundation awarded Malek Alnajar, a PhD student, the highly competitive 2024 Individual Education Scholarship at the doctorate level. The scholarship provides financial assistance for hospice and palliative care nurses and nursing assistants who are earning new nursing licenses or academic degrees. Dr. Lynn Reinke has been instrumental in mentoring Malek and supporting his career development within the Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association.
April
The Alpha Chi Chapter of Sigma Phi Omega held its Annual Spring Induction Ceremony. Gerontology students inducted into Sigma Phi Omega included:
- Christopher Gravett
- Hailey Hansen
- Julie Kemeny
- Aline Lowenthal
- Sasha Perez
- Olivia Snyder
100% of baccalaureate graduates who took the NCLEX-Registered Nurse licensure exam during Quarter 1 of 2024 passed the exam. High praise for each faculty member, preceptor, and staff member who contributed to their education.
March
Michaella Halweg, nominated by Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, and Dr. Kara Dassel, will receive the 2024 Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher (OUR) Award at the annual OUR Awards Ceremony on April 1, 2024. The award criteria included a record of sustained commitment to developing research skills and knowledge under the supervision of a faculty mentor, evidence of independent and critical thinking, active participation in research-related activities on campus, and positive contributions to the research culture of the Department, College, and University.
February
Ryan Jamora, a second-semester prelicensure student, was recognized for his exceptional critical thinking and clinical reasoning during his acute care clinicals at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. When making rounds on the Telemetry unit, the clinical instructor learned that the previous day Ryan had identified a serious medication-related adverse effect that others missed. A charge nurse described a patient who was experiencing visual changes. During rounds, when the provider asked if there were any questions, Ryan confidently asked, "Is there a chance the visual changes could be from his new Digoxin?" The provider admitted they had not considered that possibility, expressing gratitude for Ryan's insightful input. This experience demonstrates the impactful influence and dedicated efforts of prelicensure faculty. Prelicensure faculty are continually committed to foster clinical judgment in all students, which is reflected in Ryan's exemplary demonstration of critical thinking and proactive engagement in patient care.
January
On January 9, five talented students volunteered to participate in the orientation session for NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum, sharing their wisdom and experience with incoming students.
December
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson delivered an invited presentation titled What is the Relevance of & Evidence for Integrative Health Therapeutics for Menopausal Behavioral Health? to Behavioral Health Project ECHO in Hawaii. Approximately 120 behavioral, nursing, and medical health providers in Hawaii, Guam, and American Samoa attended the presentation.
Dean Marla De Jong moderated an American Academy of Nursing panel discussion titled Academy Fellowship Dialogue: Insights for Sponsors and Applicants. Panelists included Roxana Chicas, Carolyn Curtis, Gwendolyn Foster, Clifton Kenon, Jr., Linda McCauley, and Natasha Schaefer Solle. Panelists described processes and recommendations for sponsoring applicants and applying for Fellowship. More than 700 persons attended the webinar.
Dr. Deanna Kepka, Electra Paskett, and Carmen Guerra delivered a presentation titled Cervical Cancer Elimination: Aspiration or Reality? at the 8th International Oncology Leadership Conference on November 10-12 in Paris, France.
Dr. Deanna Kepka and members of her team presented posters at the 36th International Papillomavirus Conference on November 12-15 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The conference theme was Equitable, Evidence-based Approaches to HPV Disease.
- Rurality, Race, and Ethnicity Relates to HPV and COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in the United States. Dr. Deanna Kepka, Dr. Hannah Aanderud Tanner, Kaila Christini, Dr. Charles Teames, Dr. Sara Mann, Chrissy Radloff, Dr. Neal Davis, and Dr. Amanda Petrik
- Evaluation of an Online HPV Vaccination Training Program for Primary Care Health Providers. Dr. Deanna Kepka, Dr. Jaime Talleh, Ida Tovar, Stephen Gubler, Becca Slagle, and Kaila Christini
CON faculty and staff presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Transform 2024 Conference on December 5-7, 2024, in New Orleans. The conference theme was Where Nurse Faculty and Innovation Meet. A generous donor supported faculty attending and participating in this important conference, which focused on accreditation standards and emerging trends in education for undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. - Dr. Cheryl Armstrong and Dr. Amanda Keddington presented two posters – Evaluation of a Faculty-Student Mentoring Program, and Cultivating Belonging Through Faculty-Student Mentoring Program. Co-authors included Dr. Ann Butt, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Angela Fenton, and Kristan Tunks.
- Dr. Cynthia Beynon and Dr. Anna Alder presented a poster titled Integrating Community-Engaged Learning in Graduate Nursing Education.
- Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Amanda Keddington, Dr. Melody Krahulec, Dr. Will Hull, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, and Dr. Josh Wall presented a poster titled Case-Based Learning Across Nursing Didactic Courses.
- Dr. Cynthia Garbett delivered a podium presentation titled Transforming Nursing Education with Unfolding Case-Study Simulations. Additional authors included Dr. Lisa Barry, Dr. Dina Drits-Esser, Dr. Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Dr. Rebecca Wilson, and Dr. Nancy Allen.
- Dr. Melody Krahulec, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Will Hull, and Dr. Josh Wall delivered a podium presentation titled Competency-Based Assessment Strategies.
- Dr. Shawna Sisler presented a lecture titled Emerging Solution: Bridging the gap: Academic Service Learning and CBE. Additional presenters included Dr. Richard MacIntyre from Samuel Merritt, and Terry Stigdon from the American Red Cross.
Dr. Kara Dassel delivered community education presentations this fall.
- Don’t Miss your Window: Talk Now at the Alzheimer’s Association Walk Event in Draper.
- Caring for the Caregiver: Planning Ahead at the Mountainland Association of Governments Caregiver Conference in Pleasant Grove.
- Talk, Document, Share: Planning for your Future Care at the Alternative Arts and Music Program in Salt Lake City.
Students presented at the virtual Fall Undergraduate Research Symposium on December 6, 2024.
- Stephanie Quist: ACUAWARE: Acupuncture’s Effects on Interoceptive Awareness in Chronic Pain Patients (Research Mentor, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson)
- Joshua Seabury: Promoting Age Inclusivity within the College of Nursing (PAI-CON) (Research Mentor, Dr. Rebekah Perkins)
Numerous faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students will present at the Gerontological Society of America Annual Scientific Meeting on November 13-16, 2024 in Seattle. This year’s theme is The Fortitude Factor. Participants will learn about and discuss cutting-edge scholarship and research, and network with leaders and peers in the fields of aging and gerontology.
Adapted Conversation Analysis to Evaluate Dyadic Dementia-Related Advanced Care Planning Discussions. Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Jordana Clayton, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Katherine Supiano, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Sharon Bigger, and Dr. Kara Dassel
Impact of Project ECHO on Self-Assessed Knowledge in Long-Term Care and Primary Care Workforces. Jacqueline Telonidis, Cherie Brunker, Christopher Hernandez, Dr. Kara Dassel, and Dr. Linda Edelman
Family Caregiving Competencies for Nursing Education: Course and Curricular Integration. Dr. Sara Hart and the National Consortium for Family Caregiving Competencies
Feasibility and Acceptability Pilot of the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) Intervention. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Sarah Neller, Moroni Fernandez Cajavilca, Amber Dayley, Julene Johnson, and Dr. Lee Ellington
"Incorporate Into My Daily Life:" Responses to MitoFit Intervention Videos on Mitochondrial Fitness. Jeffrey Boon, Brandon Grubbs, Maulik Patel, John Dunavan, Kelly J. Knickerbocker, and Dr. Cathy Maxwell
Factors Affecting Implementation of Socially Assistive Robots in Long-Term Care Facilities. Judith Tate, Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Miroslava Migovich, Nibraas Khan, Ritam Ghosh, Kelley Colopietro, Abigail Kilpatrick, and Nilanjan Sarkar
Recruitment Strategies in Long-Term Care: New and Novel Approaches. Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Judith Tate, Lisa Juckett, Kelley Colopietro, Abbey Kilpatrick, Lorraine Mion, and Nilanjan Sarkar
Exploring and Characterizing Multimorbidity Profiles Among Adults with Heart Failure. Shirin Hiatt, Dr. Paula Meek, Christopher Lee, and Quin Denfeld
Grief Literacy: Community-Based Strategies to Reframe Grief in Older Adults. Dr. Katherine Supiano and Laura Bradbury
Supporting Diabetes Management for Persons Living with Dementia: Care Partner Experiences. Dr. Alycia Bristol, Synneva Hagen-Lillevik, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dr. Nancy Allen
Annual Wellness Screening and COVID-19: A Missed Opportunity to Address Health Disparities. Dr. Nancy Allen, Yao He, and Norman Foster
Older Age Predicts Positivity in Hospice Family Caregiver Audio Diaries: Implications for Assessment Innovation. Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon, and Dr. Lee Ellington
AGH Program of Merit: Technical and Practical Application Information and Assistance. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Marilyn Gugliucci
Testing Interventions to Improve Outcomes for Older Adults. Dr. Cathy Maxwell (Chair)
- MITOFIT: A Formative/Summative Evaluation of a Novel Intervention on Mitochondrial Fitness. Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Brandon Grubbs, Jeffrey Boon, John Dunavan, Kelly Knickerbocker, and Maulik Patel
Engaging People Living With Dementia, Care Partners, and Staff to Inform Remote Me and My Wishes. Dr. Gail Towsley and Dr. Linda Edelman
Going the Extra Mile: How Pioneering Gerontologists Translate Research to Policy and Practice. Taylor Jansen and Dr. Sara Bybee (Co-Chair)
LGBTQIA+ Older Adults' Needs, Concerns, and Experiences in Health Care: Inclusivity, Caregiving, and Visibility. Korijna Valenti, Dr. Sara Bybee (Discussant), Gary Stein, Cathy Berkman, Jason Flatt, and Morgan Wright
Advancing an Applied Theoretical Framework of Creating a Legacy of Values: A How-to Guide. Sarah Neller, Kristin Cloyes, and Dr. Gail Towsley
Assessing Age Inclusivity Using the Age-Friendly Inventory and Campus Climate Survey. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton and Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted (Co-Chairs)
Assessment of Age Inclusivity: Results from a Research-Intensive College of Nursing. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Summer Martin, Dr. Rebekah Perkins,Dr. Kara Dassel, and Dr. Sara Hart
Opportunities for Integrating a GSA Student Chapter With a Sigma Phi Omega Honor Society Chapter. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted
Posttraumatic Growth: Reframing Job Market Challenges and Lessons Learned. Dr. Sara Bybee
Advance Care Planning Concordance Associated with Relationship Quality and Grief Among Dementia Dyads. Dr. Sara Bybee, Jordana Clayton, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Sharon Bigger, and Dr. Kara Dassel
Exploring a Range of Roadmaps Leading to the Age-Friendly University Designation and Beyond. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Dr. Jacqueline Eaton (Co-Chairs)
- That's One Way to Do It: The Experience of Successfully Pursuing and Implementing the AFU Designation. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Dr. Jacqueline Eaton
Rural Health & Family Caregiving: Identifying Characteristics & Addressing Needs Across Populations. Dr. Caroline Stephens and Jacqueline Telonidis (Co-Chairs)
- Interagency Collaboration to Support Caregivers in Rural Communities. Jacqueline Telonidis, Christopher Hernandez, Randall Rupper, Jennifer Morgan, Dr. Katherine Supiano, Dr. Linda Edelman, and Dr. Kara Dassel
- Role of Family Characteristics of Rural and Urban Nursing Home Residents at End-of-Life. Dr. Caroline Stephens, Rachael Alexander, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ken Smith, and Katherine Ornstein
- Impact of Rurality on Palliative Care-related Service Use: Findings from a Population Dataset. Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Katherine Ornstein, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, and Dr. Lee Ellington
- Unrepresented to Flush-with-Family: The Role of Family Structure on Dementia Care, by Rurality. Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Eli Iacob, Michael Hollingshaus, Erin Bouldin, T. Cudjoe, K. Miller, Tim Farrell, and Katherine Ornstein
November
Marcia Williams, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ryoko Kausler, Dr. Sara Simonsen, and Dr. Gwen Latendresse delivered a podium presentation titled The Number of Significant Life Events Predicts Increasing Symptoms of Perinatal Depression in a Diverse Rural Population, Regardless of Age or Ethnicity at the American Public Health Association 2024 Annual Meeting & Expo in Minneapolis on October 27-30. The meeting’s theme was Rebuilding Trust in Public Health and Science.
Adapted Conversation Analysis to Evaluate Dyadic Dementia-Related Advanced Care Planning Discussions. Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Jordana Clayton, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Katherine Supiano, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Sharon Bigger, and Dr. Kara Dassel
Impact of Project ECHO on Self-Assessed Knowledge in Long-Term Care and Primary Care Workforces. Jacqueline Telonidis, Cherie Brunker, Christopher Hernandez, Dr. Kara Dassel, and Dr. Linda Edelman
Family Caregiving Competencies for Nursing Education: Course and Curricular Integration. Dr. Sara Hart and the National Consortium for Family Caregiving Competencies
Feasibility and Acceptability Pilot of the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) Intervention. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Sarah Neller, Moroni Fernandez Cajavilca, Amber Dayley, Julene Johnson, and Dr. Lee Ellington
"Incorporate Into My Daily Life:" Responses to MitoFit Intervention Videos on Mitochondrial Fitness. Jeffrey Boon, Brandon Grubbs, Maulik Patel, John Dunavan, Kelly J. Knickerbocker, and Dr. Cathy Maxwell
Factors Affecting Implementation of Socially Assistive Robots in Long-Term Care Facilities. Judith Tate, Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Miroslava Migovich, Nibraas Khan, Ritam Ghosh, Kelley Colopietro, Abigail Kilpatrick, and Nilanjan Sarkar
Recruitment Strategies in Long-Term Care: New and Novel Approaches. Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Judith Tate, Lisa Juckett, Kelley Colopietro, Abbey Kilpatrick, Lorraine Mion, and Nilanjan Sarkar
Exploring and Characterizing Multimorbidity Profiles Among Adults with Heart Failure. Shirin Hiatt, Dr. Paula Meek, Christopher Lee, and Quin Denfeld
Grief Literacy: Community-Based Strategies to Reframe Grief in Older Adults. Dr. Katherine Supiano and Laura Bradbury
Supporting Diabetes Management for Persons Living with Dementia: Care Partner Experiences. Dr. Alycia Bristol, Synneva Hagen-Lillevik, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dr. Nancy Allen
Annual Wellness Screening and COVID-19: A Missed Opportunity to Address Health Disparities. Dr. Nancy Allen, Yao He, and Norman Foster
Older Age Predicts Positivity in Hospice Family Caregiver Audio Diaries: Implications for Assessment Innovation. Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon, and Dr. Lee Ellington
AGH Program of Merit: Technical and Practical Application Information and Assistance. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Marilyn Gugliucci
Testing Interventions to Improve Outcomes for Older Adults. Dr. Cathy Maxwell (Chair)
- MITOFIT: A Formative/Summative Evaluation of a Novel Intervention on Mitochondrial Fitness. Dr. Cathy Maxwell, Brandon Grubbs, Jeffrey Boon, John Dunavan, Kelly Knickerbocker, and Maulik Patel
Engaging People Living With Dementia, Care Partners, and Staff to Inform Remote Me and My Wishes. Dr. Gail Towsley and Dr. Linda Edelman
Going the Extra Mile: How Pioneering Gerontologists Translate Research to Policy and Practice. Taylor Jansen and Dr. Sara Bybee (Co-Chair)
LGBTQIA+ Older Adults' Needs, Concerns, and Experiences in Health Care: Inclusivity, Caregiving, and Visibility. Korijna Valenti, Dr. Sara Bybee (Discussant), Gary Stein, Cathy Berkman, Jason Flatt, and Morgan Wright
Advancing an Applied Theoretical Framework of Creating a Legacy of Values: A How-to Guide. Sarah Neller, Kristin Cloyes, and Dr. Gail Towsley
Assessing Age Inclusivity Using the Age-Friendly Inventory and Campus Climate Survey. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton and Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted (Co-Chairs)
Assessment of Age Inclusivity: Results from a Research-Intensive College of Nursing. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Summer Martin, Dr. Rebekah Perkins,Dr. Kara Dassel, and Dr. Sara Hart
Opportunities for Integrating a GSA Student Chapter With a Sigma Phi Omega Honor Society Chapter. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted
Posttraumatic Growth: Reframing Job Market Challenges and Lessons Learned. Dr. Sara Bybee
Advance Care Planning Concordance Associated with Relationship Quality and Grief Among Dementia Dyads. Dr. Sara Bybee, Jordana Clayton, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Sharon Bigger, and Dr. Kara Dassel
Exploring a Range of Roadmaps Leading to the Age-Friendly University Designation and Beyond. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Dr. Jacqueline Eaton (Co-Chairs)
- That's One Way to Do It: The Experience of Successfully Pursuing and Implementing the AFU Designation. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Dr. Jacqueline Eaton
Rural Health & Family Caregiving: Identifying Characteristics & Addressing Needs Across Populations. Dr. Caroline Stephens and Jacqueline Telonidis (Co-Chairs)
- Interagency Collaboration to Support Caregivers in Rural Communities. Jacqueline Telonidis, Christopher Hernandez, Randall Rupper, Jennifer Morgan, Dr. Katherine Supiano, Dr. Linda Edelman, and Dr. Kara Dassel
- Role of Family Characteristics of Rural and Urban Nursing Home Residents at End-of-Life. Dr. Caroline Stephens, Rachael Alexander, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ken Smith, and Katherine Ornstein
- Impact of Rurality on Palliative Care-related Service Use: Findings from a Population Dataset. Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Katherine Ornstein, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, and Dr. Lee Ellington
- Unrepresented to Flush-with-Family: The Role of Family Structure on Dementia Care, by Rurality. Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Eli Iacob, Michael Hollingshaus, Erin Bouldin, T. Cudjoe, K. Miller, Tim Farrell, and Katherine Ornstein
Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program staff presented at the Utah Mental Health Counselors Association’s Utah Fall Conference on Substance Use on October 23-25, 2024, in St. George, Utah.
- Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez and Laura Bradbury, in collaboration with community partner Javier Alegre from Latino Behavioral Health, delivered a podium presentation titled Culturally Responsive Approaches to Grief Support.
- Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez, Laura Bradbury, Anna Fetzer, and Adrienne Bott presented a workshop titled Understanding & Utilizing Grief Literacy to Support Clients, Families, & Friends.
The 2nd annual DELPHI Data Science Initiative Symposium was held at the University of Utah on November 1, 2024. Dr. Mollie Cummins served on the DELPHI Data Science Initiative leadership team that planned the event. Presenters highlighted discoveries and innovations in data science at the University of Utah and beyond.
- Sunho Im, Leela Jandhyala, Dr. Kathy Sward, Dr. Julio Cesar Facelli, Dr. Mollie Cummins, and Ram Gouripeddi presented a poster titled Metadata-centric Approaches for Incorporating Sensors into Exposure Health Ecosystems.
- Dr. Echo Warner presented a lightning talk titled Who is Most at Risk for Believing in Cancer Misinformation? A Novel Cancer Misconceptions Measure (CMM).
October
The Transcultural Nursing Society (TCNS) held its 50th Annual Conference in Salt Lake City on October 23-26, 2024. The conference theme was Envision the Future, Honor the Past: A Half-Century of Advancement in Transcultural Practice, Education, Research, and Administration. Dr. Madeline Leininger, Dean of the University of Utah College of Nursing from 1974-1979, founded TCNS, a society that seeks to advance cultural competence for nurses worldwide, advance the scholarship of transcultural nursing, and develop strategies for advocating social change for culturally competent care. Attendees at the conference celebrated growth in transcultural nursing, and focused on how they can enhance the quality of culturally congruent, competent, and equitable care that results in improved health and well-being for people worldwide.
Dr. Jenneth Doria and Dr. Julie Gee were members of the Salt Lake City Planning Committee.
Several faculty presented or participated at the conference.
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead delivered the keynote address titled Enhancing Community Engagement in Transcultural Nursing to Address Emerging Health Issues.
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Jill Johnson, Kimberly Garcia, and Abby Pascua presented a podium presentation titled The Lived Experience of Guatemalan Lay Midwives' Beliefs and Practices about Helping Babies Breathe.
- Leslie Crandall, Claudia Charles, Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Sarai Negrete Macias, Lorna Oforiwah Khemchand, Madison Elizabeth Maughan, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Sharon Deezbaa Austin, Ryan Ward, Camille Moreno, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a podium presentation titled Developing a Nurse-Delivered Menopausal Transition Health Promotion Intervention with Indigenous, Integrative, andBiomedical Health Education: A Community-Based Approach with Urban American Indian/Alaska Native Women.
- Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Amanda Keddington, and Dr. Rebekah Perkins presented a poster titled Creating a Psychologically Safe Classroom for Nursing Students to Address Microaggressions Through Role Play.
- Dr. Amanda Keddington and Dr. Julie Gee presented a podium presentation titled Community Health Workers Employed in an Accountable Care Model: A Needs Assessment.
- Dr. Lauri Linder, Haley Utendorfer, Brianna Oliveros, Sydney Gilliland, Dr. Victoria Tiase, and Roger Altizer presented a poster titled Using Cognitive Walkthrough Evaluations to Refine a Symptom
- Dr. Erica Cristina Nelson and Dr. Teresa Garrett presented a poster titled Linguistically Appropriate Care forSpanish-speaking Patients ata Women’s Health Clinic.
- Assessment App for School-Age Children with Cancer.
- Dean Marla De Jong delivered welcome comments and paid tribute to Dr. Madeleine Leininger at the Welcome Reception, which the College of Nursing sponsored.
- The Offbeats Traditional Jazz Band, including Dr. John Nerges, provided musical entertainment at the Welcome Reception.
Dr. Tom Rowley presented Motivational Interviewing for Lifestyle Change and Patient Compliance at the National Conference on Correctional Health Care in Las Vegas on October 19-23, 2024.
The International Society of Paediatric Oncology held its SIOP 2024 Congress in Honolulu, Hawaii on October 17-20, 2024.
- One of eight nursing keynote presenters, Dr. Lauri Linder delivered a keynote address titled Elevating the Voices of Young Children in Research and Practice.
- Dr. Lauri Linder, Christine Platt, and Kristin Stegenga presented a podium presentation titled Comparison of Child and Parent Ratings of Symptoms and Quality of Life Among School-Age Children with Cancer.
- Courtney Sullivan, Julie Buser, Dr. Lauri Linder, Mengxue He, Linda Abramovitz, Mohammad Alqudimat, Rebecca Billings, Sibongile Chituku, K Elizabeth Skipper, Maureen Majamanda, Tadala Mulemba, and Patricia Patrician presented a poster titled A Need for Novel Quality Indicators to Measure Improvements in Pediatric Cancer Nursing Services in Resource-Diverse Countries.
The Office for Health Sciences Workforce Excellence sponsored Veterans Health Week on October 21-25, 2024. The theme was Stronger Together: Empowering Veterans, Service Members, and Families.
- Mario Reeve moderated a panel discussion titled The Military Learner: Managing the Adjustment from Uniform to Cap & Gown. Panelists included Christopher Smith, Frank Greaves, Dr. John Nerges, and Dr. Dennis Ahern.
- José Rodriguez moderated a Town Hall. Panelists included Dr. Michael Good, Dean Marla De Jong, and Dr. Julie Nguyen.
Taryn Hiatt, a new social worker with Caring Connections: A Hope an Comfort in Grief Program, presented Grief Literacy: Building Compassionate Communities at the Interfaith Suicide Prevention Summit for Faith Leaders. Live On and the National Alliance on Mental Illness sponsored the summit.
Faculty and postdoctoral fellows presented at the 3rd Conference on Caregiving Research in Pittsburg. The College’s Family Caregiving Collaborative supported faculty to participate in this one-of-a-kind conference with national experts in caregiving policy, research, and advocacy.
- Amy Cizik, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Djin Tay, Lucas Marchand, Dr. Lee Ellington, and Dr. Caroline Stephens presented a poster titled Fragility Fractures, Dementia and Family Caregivers at End-of-Life: A Population-based Study.
- Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon, Dr. Djin Tay, Maija Reblin, and Dr. Lee Ellington presented a poster titled Hospice Family Caregiver Audio Diaries Spanning Caregiving and Bereavement Periods.
- Dr. Kara Dassel, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Kathie Supiano, Dr. Sara Bybee, Nancy Aruscavage, and Jordana Clayton presented a poster titled Empowering Dementia Advance Care Planning within Community Dyads.
- Dr. Jackie Eaton, Amber Dayley, Moroni Fernandez Cajavilca, Sarah Neller, Julene Johnson, Dr. Rebecca Utz, and Dr. Lee Ellington delivered a podium presentation titled Expanding Recruitment to Pilot Test the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) Intervention.
- Dr. Catherine Elmore, Christina Miyawaki, Benjamin Olivari, John Omura, Lisa McGuire, and Erin Bouldin presented a poster titled Demographics, Health, and Caregiving Characteristics of Adult Caregivers by Life Stage – Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2019–2022.
- Dr. Sumin Park, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Catherine Elmore, Mackenzie Elliott, and Dr. Andrea Wallace presented a poster titled Caregiver Involvement in Patient Discharge: Caregiver and Clinician Experiences.
- Dr. Caroline Stephens, Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Linda Edelman, and Dr. Rebecca Utz presented a poster titled Family Type Impacts Nursing Home Resident End-of-Life: A Population-Based Rural Urban Evaluation.
- Dr. Djin Tay,Kline Dubose, Jonathan Chipman, Malek Alnajar, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Caroline Stephens, and Katherine Ornstein presented a poster titled Risk of Mental Health Disorders in Bereavement: A Population-Based Analysis of Lung Cancer Spouses.
- Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon, Carolyn Phillips, Kate Doyon, Tamryn Gray, Shaowei Wan, Lee Johnson, Amy Patten, Cuong Phan, and Stacy Fischer presented a poster titled, Financial Interventions for Family Caregivers: A Scoping Review.
- Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Eli Iacob, Cathi Sparks, Amber Thompson, Alex Terrill, and Dr. Bob Wong presented a poster titled Time for Living and Caring (TLC): An Online Self-Administered Intervention for Dementia Caregivers.
- Dr. Echo Warner, Dr. Mary Killela, Austin Waters, Perla Vaca Lopez, Amy Chevrier, Monique Stefanou, Katie Rogers, Douglas Fair, and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff presented a poster titled Intervening on Childhood Cancer Caregivers’ Health Insurance Literacy and Legislation Knowledge.
Dr. Scott Christensen will deliver a podium presentation titled The Novel Use of Video Vignettes to Explore Workplace Violence in Nursing at the ANA Enterprise Research Symposium in New Orleans.
Dean Marla De Jong and Tammy Austin-Ketch facilitated the Academic Health Center Like Schools Focused Discussion at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) 2024 Academic Nursing Leadership Conference in Washington, DC, and presented themes to the AACN Board of Directors.
Dr. Diane Chapman and Karl Kirby presented Cultural Humility: Best Practices for Dietitians serving Diverse Clientele at the Intermountain Health Nutrition Update Conference.
Dr. Djin Tay delivered a presentation titled Leveraging Linked Population Data to Advance Caregiving Science to faculty and staff at the SingHealth DukeNUS Academic Medical Centre’s Supportive & Palliative Care Centre Interprofessional Forum in Singapore.Dr. Tay’s presentation focused on her immunotherapy research, and Family Caregiving Collaborative-supported family caregiving research for Utah Caregiving Population Science (C-PopS) using the Utah Population Database.
Dr. Djin Tay, Kline Dubose, Zaki Wilmot, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Aik Choon Tan, Arabella Young, Sheetal Hardikar, Samantha Stone, Chia Jie Tan, Toby Campbell, and Dr. Xiaoming Sheng presented a poster titled Immune-Related Adverse Events, Mood Disorders, and the Impact of Social Determinants of Health among a National Cohort of Immunotherapy Patients at the 2024 ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) Quality Care Symposium in San Francisco.
September
Dr. Julie Valentine delivered the keynote address at the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault Gala at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.
Dr. Rebecca Wilson, Dr. Cynthia Beynon, and Jesika Chavez-England presented a poster titled Community of Inquiry Framework to Teach Health Equity at the National League for Nursing Education Summit in San Antonio.
As part of the University of Utah Health’s Women’s Leadership Seminar Series, Dr. Linda Edelman presented Strategies for Building Meaningful Connections Through Networking. The University of Utah Health’s Women’s Leadership Seminar Series includes monthly virtual seminars that are based on breakout sessions from the Women’s Leadership Day meeting. A recording of Dr. Edelman’s presentation and slides may be accessed through the Women’s Leadership Seminar Series Pulse page.
Dr. Linda Edelman delivered a presentation titled What is Age Friendly Care and Why Do You Deserve It to residents and caregivers at Spring Gardens Holladay. Spring Gardens is an independent living, assisted living, and memory care services provider that professes senior living “never felt this good.”
Dr. Linda Edelman presented on Caring for Those Who Feed Us: Health Vulnerabilities of Older Farmers and Ranchers as a member of the American Academy of Nursing Aging Expert Panel. The panel discussed the American Academy of Nursing‘s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity Statement. The Academy fosters equity, diversity, and inclusivity, and works towards “dismantling structural and institutional racism to promote social justice and the vision of the Academy: healthy lives for all people.”
Faculty and staff will present at the Academy of Health Science Educators 11th Annual Education Symposium on September 17, 2024 in Salt Lake City.
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson and Brandon Patterson will deliver the Welcome and opening remarks.
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong and Dr. Ann Butt will deliver an E-poster titled Impact of a Faculty Student-Cohort Mentoring Program on Prelicensure Baccalaureate Nursing Students.
- Dr. Jennifer Hamilton and Kari Weiss will deliver an E-poster titled Skin Color Representation in Nurse Practitioner Education.
- Dr. Carolyn Scheese and Yves Lussier will deliver an E-poster titled Educational Insights from a Course on Generative AI in Healthcare.
- Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Dr. Liz Greene, and Dr. Ann Butt and will deliver a TED Talk titled Knowing, Doing, and Being: Building a Competency-Based Curriculum in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Doctoral Program.
- Dr. Carolyn Scheese and Jesika Chavez-England will deliver a workshop titled Teaching with AI: A Hands-On Workshop for Faculty.
Faculty, staff, students, and alumni presented at the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) Annual Conference in Salt Lake City on September 11-13, 2024.
- Sofia Flowers, a third-semester prelicensure student, and Dr. Lauri Linder delivered a podium presentation titled The Parent Caregiving Experience of School-Aged Children With Cancer.
- Dr. Mary Killela, Sheila Santacroce, Sandra Soto, Todd Schwartz, Jessica Williams, and Jessica Keim-Malpass presented a poster titled Stress and Coping Present in Medical Crowdfunding: Implications for Social Support Interventions in Pediatric Cancer.
- Dr. Lauri Linder and Minahil Usman delivered a podium presentation titled School-age Children’s Characterization of Symptoms and Symptom Management.
- Kitty Montgomery, Dr. Lauri Linder, Teresa Herriage, Sue Zupanec, and Pamela Hinds presented a concurrent education session titled The Evidence is in: Addressing Fatigue in Children and Adolescents with Cancer.
- Dr. Michelle Skinner, alumna of the prelicensure track (BS 2007), presented a concurrent education session titled What is Haploidentical Transplantation? A Game of Jeopardy Exploring Haplo Transplantation and the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) ASCT2031 Study.
- Courtney Sullivan, Julie Buser, Dr. Lauri Linder, Mengxue He, Linda Abramovitz, Mohammad Alqudimat, Rebecca Billings, Sibongile Chituku, K Elizabeth Skipper, Maureen Majamanda, Tadala Mulemba, and Patricia Patrician delivered a podium presentation titled Measuring What Matters Most: Rigorous Development of Pediatric Cancer Nursing-Sensitive Quality Indicators for Resource-Diverse Settings and Countries.
Dr. Mary Killela, Dr. Anne Kirchhoff, Perla Vaca Lopez, Amy Chevrier, Monique Stefanou, Katie Rogers, Douglas Fair, and Dr. Echo Warner will present a poster titled A Novel Look at Patient Education in a Health Insurance Literacy Intervention: Valence of Language Used by Parents of Children with Cancer and Patient Navigators at the 17th American Association for Cancer Research Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved in Los Angeles on September 21-24, 2024.
B Warner, Dr. Echo Warner, Perla Vaca Lopez, Amy Chevrier, Monique Stefanou, Katie Rogers, Douglas Fair, Dr. Anne Kirchhoff, and Dr. Mary Killela will present a poster titled Trends in Analytical Language between Parents of Children with Cancer and a Patient Navigator: Results from a Health Insurance Literacy Program at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine Research Forum in Salt Lake City on September 17, 2024.
Faculty and staff presented at ADCES 24, the Annual Conference of the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialist conference in New Orleans on August 9-12, 2024.
- Dr. Nancy Allen delivered an invited oral presentation titled Research Roundtable: Building Blocks of Funding.
- Dr. Nancy Allen delivered an invited oral presentation titled Research Roundtable: Dissemination and Implementation Science, Evidence-Based Quality Improvement.
- Allyson Hughes, Dr. Michelle Litchman, and Karissa Mirus delivered an oral presentation titled Solve Diabetes Technology Equity for Deaf/Hard of Hearing or Blind/Low Vision People with Diabetes.
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, Karissa Mirus, and Dr. Nancy Allen delivered an oral presentation titled Care Partner Involvement in DSMES for Deaf Individuals.
- MaryAnn Perez-Brescia, Dr. Nancy Allen, Veena Channamsetty, and Kelley Newlin-Lew presented a poster titled Increasing Continuous Glucose Monitoring Access and Uptake in Community Health Centers.
Dr. Deanna Kepka delivered a Keynote Panel presentation titled HPV Self-Collection Program Implementation for Hard-to-Reach Populations at the American Cancer Society National Roundtable on Cervical Cancer, a virtual annual meeting for members, on September 11, 2024.
Huyen Nguyen, Caitlin Kelly, Kallee Miller, Naomi Chaytor, Marisa Hilliard, Brynn Marks, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Emilee Cornelius, Yogish Kudva, Katherine Chapman, Anders Carlson, Daniel DeSalvo, Jennifer Sherr, and Wendy Wolf delivered an oral presentation titled CGM Sensor Glucose Metrics Pre- and Post-Automated Insulin Delivery Use among Adults in the T1D Exchange Online Registry at the 60th Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Madrid, Spain on September 10-13, 2024.
Dr. Michelle Litchman was invited to present Peer Networking in Digital Diabetes Management at the Application of Digital Health Technology to the Management of Type 2 Diabetes meeting hosted by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases in Bethesda on September 5-6, 2024.
Dr. Michelle Litchman will deliver a National Institute of Nursing Research webinar titled Aligning Diabetes Care with the Needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Populations on September 30, 2024.
Dr. Julie Valentine was primary author for two 90-minute interactive podium presentations at the 10th Annual Utah Sexual Violence Conference in Provo on September 12-13, 2024.
- Dr. Julie Valentine and Leslie Miles presented Sexual Assault and Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB) Victims: Research and Practice Implications.
- Dr. Julie Valentine, Jennifer Andrelczyk, and Leslie Miles presented Sexual Assault in the Elderly: Time to Dispel Myths and Take Action.
Ryoko Pentecost, Vasee Sivaloganathan, Andrew Wilson, and Dr. Gwen Latendresse delivered a podium presentation titled Implementation and Impact Analysis of a Universal Perinatal Depression Screening Initiative: An Examination of Electronic Health Record Data and Text Mining Techniques at the International Marcé Society for Perinatal Mental Health’s 2024 Conference in Barcelona, Spain.
Dr. Julie L. Valentine presented at the International Association of Forensic Nurses’ International Conference on Forensic Nursing Science and Practice in Denver.
- The Future of Forensic Nursing – a Keynote Panel with moderator Jan Lanbein and panelists Jennifer Pierce-Weeks, Dr. Majia Anderson, Kalen Knight, and Sylvia Kornegay
- The Issue is . . . Touch DNA in Sexual Assault Cases – invited speaker
- Understanding and Addressing Post-Sexual Assault Pain: Forensic Nursing Perspectives – research podium presentation with Dr. Leslie Miles
- What About Justice? Fostering Collaboration between Prosecutors and SANEs to Improve Criminal Case Outcomes – interactive presentation with Patricia Powers
August
Dr. Jenneth Doria delivered three presentations at Sigma’s 35th International Nursing Research Congress in Singapore.
- A Sustainable Feeding Program: Nurse-Led Intervention Supporting ‘Last Mile School’ Children’s Health & Well-Being; Dr. Jenneth Doria
- Retrospective Analysis of Educational Intervention with Low-literacy Guatemalan Comadronas about COVID-19 in Remote Petén Region on behalf of Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Kimberly Garcia, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Emily Flynn
- Student Nurse Knowledge, Attitudes, & Beliefs about Sustainability in Nursing Education on behalf of Dr. Jennifer Macali and Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
Dr. Deanne Kepka presented Exploring New Frontiers in HPV-related Cancer Prevention at the 2024 National Rural Cancer Control Conference, which the Vanderbilt – Ingram Cancer Center hosted in Nashville.
As part of the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute Research Speaker Series, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson provided an invited lecture titled Community-Based Participatory Research with Minoritized Communities: Developing Interventions with and for Menopausal Women at the University of California Irvine.
In collaboration with multidisciplinary faculty at the University of California Irvine Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing and Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson provided education and experientials for doctor of nursing practice students regarding acupuncture therapy and tai chi.
Dr. Diane Chapman presented at the North American Refugee Health Conference in Minneapolis.
- Karl Kirby, Dr. Diane Chapman, and Amy Covington presented a workshop titled Nourishing Growth: Empowering a Bright Future for Underweight Refugee Children.
- Dr. Diane Chapman, Sarah Bates, and Karl Kirby presented a poster titled Preliminary Results of Refugee Health Screening Provider Mentorship Program in Utah.
- Dr. Diane Chapman facilitated a workshop titled Refugee Health Nurses: Building Community.
Faculty presented at NI2024, the International Medical Informatics Association’s quadrennial nursing informatics meeting, in Manchester, England, UK, on July 28-31, 2024.
- Tamara Macieira, Elizabeth Umberfield, Raga Bjarnadottir, and Dr. Mollie Cummins delivered a panel presentation titled Nurse-generated Data in Focus: Advancing Clinical Research Consortia to Support AI in Healthcare.
- Sarah Rossetti, Jennifer Withall, Kathleen Kendle, Sarah Corely, Rebecca Mishuris, Mayfair Aboagyewah, Shawna Abdul, Trent Rosenbloom, Dr. Victoria Tiase, and Dr. Elizabeth Sloss presented a paper titled Dissemination of Strategies for Reducing Excessive Documentation Burden: 25x5 Task Force Activities Relevant to Nursing.
- Dr. Elizabeth Sloss, Dr. Victoria Tiase, Kenrick Cato, and Sarah Rossetti presented a pre-conference tutorial titled Decoding Artificial Intelligence (AI): A Comprehensive Tutorial of AI and Applications to Nursing.
Dr. Deanna Kepka delivered an invited talk titled Working towards cervical cancer elimination in the Mountain West region of the United States to the University of Puerto Rico’s Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Interest Group.
July
Dr. Mollie Cummins, Dr. Kathy Sward, Julio Facelli, and Ramkiran Gouripeddi delivered a podium presentation titled Building a Pipeline for AI in Exposure Health: A Community-Driven Sensor Metadata Ecosystem at the 3rd Workshop on Artificial Intelligence in Nursing. The workshop was co-located with the 22nd International Conference of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, which was held July 9-12, 2024 in Salt Lake City.
Dr. Erica Nelson delivered a podium presentation titled Organizational Policy Changes to Promote Language Equity for Spanish-speaking Clinic Patients at Diversity Impact 2024, Representation Matters: Breaking Down Contributing Factors of Health Inequities, which Frontier Nursing University sponsored. Dr. Teresa Garrett co-authored the presentation.
Several CON faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and staff presented at the American Diabetes Association 84th Scientific Sessions in Orlando.
- Bruno Rodriguez Gonzales, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Julia Blanchette, Dr. Ann Marie Moraitis, Nazeen Shah, and Dr. Michelle Litchman presented a poster titled Group Matching Preferences for Emerging Adults with Type 1 Diabetes.
- Kelly Newlin Lew, Maryanne Perez-Brescia, Venna Channamsetty, and Dr. Nancy Allen presented a poster titled Perspectives on the SDOH and CGM Uptake in Latino Adults with Type 1 Diabetes.
- Dr. Litchman delivered an invited presentation titled Health Disparities – A Deaf + Diabetes Care Lens. Invited Presentation.
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, Karissa Mirus, Jeremy Quiroga, and Susan Layton delivered an invited presentation titled Improving Care for Deaf People with Diabetes Who Use ASL Interpreters – A Hands-On Workshop.
- Dr. Michelle Litchman and Allyson Hughes delivered an invited presentation titled The State of Health Equity and Disability –Supporting Diabetes Technology Usage in People Who Are Deaf/Hard of Hearing or Blind/Low Vision.
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, Karissa Mirus, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dr. Nancy Allen presented a poster titled Diabetes Training for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community Health Workers.
- Kellee Miller, Huyen Nguyen, Jennifer Sherr, Yogish Kudva, Anders Carlson, Naomi Chaytor, Daniel Desalvo, Marisa Hilliard, Brynn Marks, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Cari Berget, and Wendy Wolf delivered an oral presentation titled Understanding Patterns of GLP-1/GLP-1 RA Use Among Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes – A T1D Exchange (T1DX) Online Registry Analysis.
- Karissa Mirus, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dr. Nancy Allen presented a poster title Qualitative Findings from the Deaf Diabetes Can Together Pilot.
- Nazeen Shah, Bruno Rodriguez Gonzales, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Julia Blanchette, Dr. Ann Marie Moraitis, and Dr. Nancy A. Allen presented a poster titled The use of Peer Connector Guides to Support an Emerging Adult Type 1 Diabetes Intervention.
- Chantel Shannon, Anuhya Kanchibhatla, Mary Jane Roche, Jorden Rieke, Claudia Lewis, Dionne Williams, Erika Lundgrin, Betul Hatipoglu, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Nancy Allen, and Dr. Julia Blanchette presented a poster titled Insights on Inclusion – Tailoring a Health Ins
June
Drs. Ann Butt, Rebekah Perkins, and Nanci McLeskey presented a podium presentation titled Out of the Simulation Center and Into the Classroom: Using Simulation to Enhance Geriatric Care Competency-Based Education at INACSL24, the annual conference of the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning, in Raleigh, NC.
Drs. Brenda Luther and Hailey Haffey presented Narrative Medicine and Simulation for OUD/SUD Care: An Interprofessional Collaboration to Address Priorities in Rural and Under-Resourced Health Settings at the 2024 Columbia Narrative Medicine ExCHANGE hosted by Columbia University Irving Medical Center. They described a successful interactive webinar designed last Fall, utilizing Narrative Medicine (NM) and Active Listening (AL) methods in a case-based simulation to empower interprofessional health care students with strategies to increase trust and reduce stigma during Substance Use Disorder (SUD) intake interviews. The ongoing, collaborative project included several stakeholder groups: the Utah Rural Opioid Healthcare Consortium-Collaborative Care Model (UROHC-CCM), the Utah Internal Medicine Pediatrics (Med-Peds) Rural Pathway, Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness (USARA), and Utah Area Health Education Centers (Utah AHEC). In addition, Brenda and Hailey outlined the value of narrative in training health care professions students to treat SUD, and the benefit of including peer recovery specialists in AL and NM simulations.
Four faculty members presented at the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science State of the Science Congress on Nursing Research.
Poster Presentations:
- Using Augmented Reality for Social Determinants of Health Education for Health Professions: A Scoping Review. Dr. Nancy Allen
- Healthcare professionals’ experiences in assessing the needs of family caregivers during hospital discharge. Dr. Alycia Bristol
- An Iterative Approach to Adapting the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale for Family Caregivers. Dr. Andrea Wallace
Podium Presentation:
- Diverse Populations: Increasing Access to Diabetes Education in American Sign Language for Deaf Populations. Dr. Michelle Litchman
Dr. Valerie Flattes and Aarohi Drabu presented a poster titled Strategies for Recruitment & Retention of Underrepresented Students Amidst Evolving Policies at the National Conference on Race & Ethnicity in Higher Education in Honolulu.
Drs. Angelo Volandes, Rebecca Sudore, Susan Hickman, and Kara Dassel facilitated a panel discussion titled Identify Gaps in ACP Research at the Advance Care Planning (ACP) in Primary Care Settings for People with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer’s Disease/Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) virtual workshop, which the National Institute on Aging Division of Behavioral and Social Research sponsored.
Laura Wandner, Dr. Kathy Sward, Lissette Saavadra, Megan Ghiroli, and moderator Cristina Murray-Krezan presented a panel discussion titled Common Data Elements: Experiences from the NIH HEAL initiative, the Effectiveness research network, the IMPOWR network, and the Harm Reduction research network at the 45th Annual Meeting of the Society for Clinical Trials in Boston. Dr. Sward focused on her work to develop common data elements for pain and opioid research.
Dr. Michelle Litchman, Karissa Mirus (Program Manager, Deaf Diabetes Can Together), Jeremy Quiroga (certified deaf interpreter), and Susan Layton (hearing interpreter) presented two sessions – Diabetes: An Overview of Basics, Nutrition, and Checking Glucose; and Overview of Diabetes-Related Medications and Technology – at the 2024 Deaf in Healthcare Summit for Interpreters, reaching 150+ American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. Their sessions focused on teaching ASL interpreters diabetes concepts and how to effectively sign those concepts, using their grant-funded ASL glossary of diabetes terms, and improving patient-provider communication for individuals who are Deaf/ or hard-of-hearing. Some comments include:
“Best workshop all day!!! Clearly explained diabetes AND provided practical application to the work we, as interpreters, do everyday!!! Gave concepts, signs, tips for management, gave on-going ideas for how to explain complicated concepts...if we needed it, this workshop provided it!!! I would definitely take another workshop from this speaker for sure!!! Please have her and her team back again!!! Fantastico workshop!!!”
“Phenomenal presentation!!! Fantastic use of visuals, examples, mock scenarios, and collaboration among the presenters made this information VERY accessible (and stickable to my brain!). Thank you. :)”.
May
Laura Bradbury and Adrienne Bott presented a workshop titled Supporting Clients and Clinicians in the Grief of Overdose Death: An Important Component of Comprehensive Substance Abuse Treatment at the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) Annual Conference in Las Vegas.
Patti Powers and Dr. Julie Valentine presented a podium presentation titled Forensics at its Finest: Examining the SANE Approach for Effective Prosecution of Sexual Assault at the 19th Annual Conference on Crimes against Women in Dallas.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was one of two invited speakers for the Research Roundtable: Focus on Complexity Science hosted by the Osher Collaborative Research Committee. She presented a talk titled Needles and Networks: Exploring Complexity in Acupuncture & East Asian Medicine.
Dr. Shawna Sisler, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a poster titled Interdisciplinary Integrative Health Seminar Series at the UHealth-hosted Evidence Based Practice & Wellness Champions Poster Fair.
Faculty presented at the SAR (Society of Acupuncture Research) / RCMI (Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation) POLYU Research Conference at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong. The conference theme was Bridging the Two Worlds: Engaging Traditional Chinese Medicine in Modern Healthcare.
- Rosa Schnyer, Lisa Conboy, Sandro Graca, Kate Levett, Kathleen Lumiere, Belinda “Beau” Anderson, Claudia Citkovitz, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a workshop titled Finding Harmony in Data Sets: TCM Practice-Based Common Outcomes in the West and the East.
- Belinda “Beau” Anderson, Lisa Conboy, Spod Dutton, Sandro Graca, Bridgette Linder, Nicholas Lowe, Kathleen Lumiere, David Riley, and Dr.Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a poster titled From Case to Evidence: A Secondary Analysis Approach to Acupuncture Reports.
Faculty and students presented at the University of Utah Health Women’s Health in the Cross Hairs Symposium:
- Leslie Crandall, Claudia Charles, Dr. Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Sarai Negrete Macias, Lorna Khemchand, Madeline Maughan, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Sharon Austin, Ryan Ward, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a poster titled Developing a Menopausal Transition Health Promotion Intervention with Indigenous, Integrative, and Biomedical Health Education: A Community-Based Approach with Urban American Indian/Alaska Native Women.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Madison Maughan, Valentine Mukundente, Lori Pacheco, Wendy Sanders, Fahina Tavake-Pasi, Jeannette Villalta, Heather Merkley, and Camille Moreno presented a poster titled An Intersectional Exploration of Women’s Experiences During Menopause.
- Wen Tu, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Caroline Howell, and Lydia Howes presented a poster titled Ba Duan Jin Exercise for Vasomotor Symptoms in Women Experiencing Peri- and Post-Menopause: A Scoping Review Protocol.
Faculty presented posters at the UHealth-hosted Evidence Based Practice & Wellness Champions Poster Fair on May 13-17, 2024. The event included a Leadership Reception on May 15 in the hospital atrium and Level A bridge to the John A. Moran Eye Center.
- Angie Fenton presented Calm Box: A Creative Way to Lower Nursing Student Stress Levels.
- Dr. Katie Davis, Dr. Carrie Huntsman-Jones, Dr. Lyndsay Wixom, Dr. Joshua Twitchell, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, and Morgan West presentedImproving Access for Annual WellU Exams.
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Ann Butt, Dr. Jennifer Macali, and Angie Fenton presented Effect of a Faculty Cohort Mentoring Program on Prelicensure Baccalaureate Nursing Students’ Well-being and Resiliency.
- Dr. Amanda Keddington, Janine Roberts, Dr. Perry Gee, and Dr. Julie Gee presented Hiring and Embedding Community Health Workers into an Integrated Health System: A Needs Assessment.
- Dr. Scott Christensen, Chris Snyder, Eliza Parkin, and Mary Jane Austria presented Wellness Amid Workplace Violence: Strategies for Nurses in Oncology and Across Specialties.
- Juan Hernandez, Michael Sanchez, Dr. Scott Christensen, Jared Huber, Steven Hayworth, Peter Weir, Allison Wood, Liza Johnson, Jaimi Ostergar, and Joel Macey presented Enhancing Transitions of Care: The Heal at Home Program.
Dr. Cynthia Beynon and Angie Fenton delivered a podium presentation titled Innovative Approaches to Curriculum Development and Teaching Methodologies at the INPD (Intermountain Nursing Professional Development) Spring Conference. The conference theme was Advancing Healthcare Education: Integrating Evidence-Based Practice, Innovation, and Safety.
Dr. Carolyn Scheese and Jessica Chavez-England presented an online podium presentation titled From Assignments to Rubrics: Strategies for Incorporating Generative AI into Teaching at College of Charleston's 8th Annual Teaching, Learning, and Technology Conference 2024.
Faculty presented at the ATA (American Telemedicine Association) Nexus 2024 Conference.
- Dr. Mollie Cummins, Sukrut Shishupal, Dr. Bob Wong, Neng Wan, J. Han, Ram Gouripeddi, Julia Ivanova, Triton Ong, Hiral Soni, Hattie Wilczewski, Brandon Welch, and Brian Bunnell delivered a podium presentation titled Observational Study of Telemedicine Travel Distance Indicates Annual U.S. Carbon Emissions Savings of 1.4 Million Metric Tons.
- Julia Ivanova, Hattie Wilczewski, Farina Klocksieben, Dr. Mollie Cummins, Hiral Soni, Triton Ong, Janelle Barrera, Brian Bunnell, and Brandon Welch presented a poster titled Assessing Patient Telemedicine Preferences and Use: A Nationwide Survey.
Drs. Caroline Stephens, Youjeong Kang, Lynn Reinke, Eli Iacob, and Paula Meek will present Older Adults with Heart Failure and COPD in the Last 2 Years of Life and their Family Caregivers: A Population-based Analysis for the Presidential EPoster session at the American Geriatrics Society 2024 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting on May 9, 2024.
Project ECHO connects community providers with health care resources and training, including continuing medication education, and features case-based learning. The U’s Project ECHO recently launched a midlife women’s health session. Dr. Katie Ward presented Managing Menopause Symptoms in Cancer Patients and Cancer Survivors.
Jordana Clayton, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Kara Dassel, Dr. Katherine Supiano, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Sara Bybee, and Dr. Eli Iacob delivered a podium presentation titled Healthy Older Adults' Perceptions of the Wish to Hasten Death in Hypothetical Disease Scenarios at the 4th International Conference on End of Life: Law, Ethics, Policy, and Practice in Salt Lake City.
Dr. Schola Matovu presented Inclusion in Global Health: Global Nursing at the WomenLift Health Conference. The conference, held at the Julius Nyerere International Conference Center in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, brought together remarkable women leaders, politicians, policymakers, and scientists from 41 countries. Dr. Matovu participated as a delegate from the United States, and hosted a mentorship session that included a group of inspiring women leaders worldwide.
Dr. Schola Matovu, Dr. Deb Penney, Dr. Teresa Garrett, and Dr. Deanna Kepka presented a poster titled Creating Partnerships for a Collaborative Online Transcultural Education Training for Nurses at the 15th Annual Conference of the Consortium of Universities for Global Health in Los Angeles. The presentation highlighted the group's findings on the Collaborative Online Transcultural Education Training Pilot.
April
Faculty and students presented at the 2024 Utah Public Health Association Conference on April 10-11, 2024. The conference theme was “ACT for Health.”
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Jeannette Villalta, Camille Moreno, Isabel Dulfano, and Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented Adapting an Integrative Group Medical Visit for Community Health Worker Delivery Among Latina Menopausal Women.
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Heather Brown, Valentine Mukundente, Ivoni Nash, and Reverend Francis Davis presented Addressing Community Health Needs and Health Equity through Community Coalitions: CFU - A Model for Change.
Faculty and students will present at the Oncology Nursing Society Congress in Washington, DC, on April 24-28, 2024.
- Rachael Alexander and Dr. Caroline Stephens will present a poster titled Palliative Care Stigma in Oncology: An Integrated Systematic Literature Review.
Angela Fausett, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, and Dr. Lynn Reinke will present a poster titled Rural Health Care Transformation: Enhancing Oncology Access to Care.
Lori Minasian, Dr. Kathi Mooney, Deborah Mayer, and Anabella Aspiras will present a podium presentation titled National Cancer Initiatives: Igniting the Effort to End Cancer as We Know It.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented an invited keynote titled Menopause: There’s So Much More to It than Hot Flashes and the Kidneys at the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture Annual Symposium in Minneapolis. The symposium theme was “Embracing the Diversity of Acupuncture: Connecting People and Paradigms.” Dr. Taylor-Swanson then presented two 2-hour workshops titled Menopause: A Workshop on Acupuncture and East Asian Medicine Techniques and Theories, providing hands-on demonstration of evidence-based acupuncture therapy for peri- and post-menopause symptoms and experiences.
Facutly presented at the 2024 International Congress on Integrative Medicine and Health in Cleveland.
- Jessica Barnhill, Aisha Chilcoat, Paula Gardiner, Isabel Roth, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a research panel discussion titled Adapting Evidence-Based Interventions for Diverse Patient Populations: Mindfulness Based Interventions Within Integrative Group Medical Visit.
- In an oral abstract session regarding natural medicine therapies, Belinda Anderson, Melissa Zappa, Barbara Glickstein, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented Chinese Herbal Medicine and COVID-19: A Qualitative Analysis of Approaches to Evidence-Based Practice by Licensed Acupuncturists in the United States.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson provided an online presentation titled Vasomotor Symptoms + Migraine = Increases the Relative Risk of Heart Disease & Stroke in Midlife Women for the White Pine Circle Research Study Group. White Pine Circle is an online resourcefor practicing acupuncturists, enabling them to continue learning, earn continuing education credit, and share best practices regarding the provision of East Asian medicine.
Dean Marla De Jong presented Leadership Lessons Pertaining to Military Service to Air Force Reserve Officer Training CorpsCadets at the University of Utah.
Dr. Elizabeth Sloss presented a webinar titled Streamlining Success: Implementing Documentation Burden Reduction with the AMIA 25x5 Toolkit. The American Medical Informatics Association hosted the webinar, which more than 300 persons attended.
Faculty presented at the 2nd Annual Pediatric Health Equity Symposium at Primary Children's Hospital Eccles Outpatient Center.
- Susanna Cohen, Dr. Cristina Creal, Candace Chow, and Karen Tao presented a workshop titled Cultivating Cultural Fortitude and Multicultural Orientation in Clinician-Patient Interactions and Language.
- Caleb Hocutt, Cindy Turner, Katie Rogers, Douglas Fair, Joseph Letourneau, Anne Kirchhoff, and Dr. Echo Warner presented an abstract titled Equity and Accessibility of Fertility Preservation Services for Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Patients.
Faculty, staff, and students presented at the Society of Behavioral Medicine 2024 Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, PA.
- Cindy Turner, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Skyler Johnson, Andy King, Anne Kirchhoff, Margaret Raber, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Ida Tovar, Dr. Deanna Kepka, and Dr. Echo Warner presented a poster titled Filling the Gaps in Online Health (Mis)information Research: Feasibility of Web-monitoring Software Methodology.
- Dr. Echo Warner, Cindy Turner, Skyler Johnson, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Ida Tovar, Caleb Hocutt, J. Piccolo, Anne Kirchhoff, Dr. Deanna Kepka, and Andy King presented a poster titled Cancer Patients’ Use of the Internet and Social Media for Cancer Information and Perceived Exposure to Cancer Misinformation.
Faculty, staff, and students presented at the American Society of Preventive Oncology 2024 Annual Meeting in Chicago.
- Cindy Turner, Austin Waters, Lauren Ghazal, Matt Poquadeck, Caleb Easterly, Anne Kirchhoff, Stephen Rains, Dr. Kristen Cloyes, Erin Kent, and Dr. Echo Warner presented a poster titled Go Fund Yourself: A Content Analysis of LGBTQ+ Cancer Crowdfunding.
- Dr. Echo Warner, Cindy Turner, Skyler Johnson, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Ida Tovar, Caleb Hocutt, J. Piccolo, Anne Kirchhoff, Dr. Deanna Kepka, and Andy King presented a poster titled Cancer Patients’ Use of the Internet and Social Media for Cancer Information and Perceived Exposure to Cancer Misinformation.
Caleb Hocutt, Cindy Turner, Katie Rogers, Douglas Fair, Joseph Letourneau, Anne Kirchhoff, and Dr. Echo Warner will present a poster titled Examining Equity in Fertility Preservation for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients at the 2024 American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Conference in Seattle.
The College of Nursing was well-represented at the Spring Undergraduate Research Symposium held on April 9, 2024. The following students presented posters:
- Aidan Cheney: Understanding Sex Education for Women with Disabilities (Research Mentor, Dr. Sara Simonsen)
- Sofia Flowers: The Parent Caregiving Experience of School-Aged Children Diagnosed With Cancer (Research Mentor, Dr. Lauri Linder)
- Lorna Khemchand: American Native and Alaska Native Women in Menopause (Research Mentor, Dr. Sara Simonsen)
- Jennie Leo: Midlife Women's Experiences of Participating in MENOGAP (Research Mentor, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson)
- Emma Norris: Using film to address reproductive health among Central African immigrantsrefugees resettled in Utah (Research Mentor, Dr. Sara Simonsen)
- Mia Sheneman: Improving Access to Naloxone and Opioid Resources through the Emergency Department (Research Mentor, Dr. Jacob Steenblick)
- Anya Weglarz: Internalized HIV Stigma Among Women Giving Birth in Tanzania: A Mixed Methods Study (Research Mentor, Melissa Watt)
Christopher Stucky, Felichism Kabo, Dean Marla De Jong, Sherita House, and Josh Wymer presented a poster titled Surgical Team Structure: How Familiarity and Team Size Influence Communication Effectiveness in Military Surgical Teams at the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses Global Surgical Conference & Expo in Nashville. They won second place for research posters.
March
Faculty, staff, and students presented at the Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Care and State of the Science in Hospice and Palliative Carein Phoenix, AZ, which the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA) sponsored.
- Mike Hollingshaus, Ken Smith, Huong Meeks, Katherine Ornstein, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Caroline Stephens, and Dr. Rebecca Utz presented a poster titled Mortality Risk Following End-of-Life Caregiving: A Population-Based Analysis of Hospice Users and Their Families.
- Dr. Eli Iacob, Mike Hollingshaus, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Djin Tay, Katherine Ornstein, Pamela Barrientos, Mike Newman, Tom Belnap, and Dr. Caroline Stephens presented a poster titled Death With and Without Dementia: Impact on Family Antidepressant Prescriptions.
- Holli Martinez co-led a pre-conference session titled Lessons in Leadership Using the Art of Poker.
- Dr. Lynn Reinke facilitated the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association Membership Meeting.
- Dr. Lynn Reinke and Holli Martinez were invited to co-present Developing an Advanced Practice Clinician Palliative Care Fellowship: A Leading-Edge Program Responding to Workforce Demands.
- Dr. Caroline Stephens, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Eli Iacob, Mike Hollingshaus, Dr. Rebecca Goodwin, Timothy Farrell, Erin Bouldin, Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Dr. Ken Smith, Dr. Lee Ellington, and Katherine Ornstein presented a poster titled Dying with Dementia in a Nursing Home with and without Family: A Population-based Study.
- Dr. Djin Tay, Kline Dubose, Huong Meeks, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Natalya Alekhina, Katie Feldner, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Jonathan Chipman, Dr. Lee Ellington, and Mia Hashibe presented a poster titled Inpatient and ED Use among Melanoma and Lung Cancer Patients Receiving Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors.
Miriam Lovin and Mary Wheeler planned a College of Nursing exhibit, sharing information about the College’s education programs, faculty, and open faculty positions with those who attended the Assembly.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to present a talk titled Alternative and Western Medicine During Menopause for Alternative and Western Medicine During Menopause for a Utah Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Lunch & Learn. The AHEC program enhances access to quality healthcare by improving the supply and distribution of healthcare professionals.
Dean Marla De Jong and Linda McCauley facilitated the Academic Health Center Like Schools Focused Discussion at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) Deans Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, and presented themes to the AACN Board of Directors.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson provided the inaugural presentation titled Menopause, Acupuncture, Research, Interoception and YOU! for the White Pine Circle Research Study Group. White Pine Circle is an online resource for practicing acupuncturists to continue learning, earn continuing education credit, and share best practices regarding provision of East Asian medicine.
Faculty spoke at the University of Utah Health Women’s Leadership Day: Be a Champion of Change. Content focused on influencing change at the individual, team, and organizational levels.
- Sara Lamb and Dr. Gwen Latendresse: Organizational Change
- Brenda Heaton, Rachel Hess, and Dr. Andrea Wallace: Research Change
- Kelly Tappenden, Sam Finlayson, and Dean Marla De Jong: Deans’ Visions of Organizational Change
February
First-semester prelicensure student Sofia Flowers (mentor Dr. Lauri Linder) presented her honors thesis research at the Huntsman Cancer Session at the Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research, which was held February 16 at Utah Valley University. Sofia’s presentation was titled The Parent Caregiving Experience of School-Age Children with Cancer.
The Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU) featuring Dr. Sara Bybee for its Scientist in the Spotlight: Social Scientist program. During her presentation – Detecting and Preventing Housing Injustice – she explored the impact of state eviction laws on the physical and mental health of the population. Dr. Bybee showcased the tools used to link data on evictions and health, described first-hand accounts from those who have experienced eviction, and provided ways in which people can have a positive impact on their community.
January
Dr. Ann Butt and Kristy Gauthier attended the International Meeting of Simulation in Healthcare and presented Imagine U: Using Simulation to Explore Careers in Nursing and Medicine, sharing how the College of Nursing Simulation Center supports Summer Camp, Imagine U!, and Saturday Academy.
Dr. Julie Valentine and Dr. Nancy Downing presented a virtual Texas Teleforensic Remote Assistance Center ECHO-SAFE webinar titled Intersections of Mental Illness and Sexual Assault: Implications for Forensic Nursing.
December
Ansari N, Wilson R, Warner E, Taylor-Swanson L, Van Epps J, Iacob E, Supiano K. “We are not heroes”: Examining nurses' experiences of moral distress during Covid-19, Teach Learn Nurs. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.teln.2024.11.021
Hoch BJ, Hauschildt M, Palmer LM, Christensen SS. Elevating end-of-life care: Implementing general inpatient hospice services on a medical oncology unit. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2024;28(6):544-55. DOI: 10.1188/24.CJON.544-550
Killela MK, Adynski H, Adynski G, Myer EA, Dictus C, Morgan L, Hmiel H, Williams J. Preparing PhD Students for tenure-track faculty positions. Nurs Res. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000791
In 2019, Dr. Catherine Staes, Dr. Heidi Kramer, and Elaine Kirish published a report titled Clinical Information Needs Assessment Related to Use of the Utah Controlled Substance Database for the Utah Department of Health. The report summarized their work to describe provider information needs within the clinical workflow, and for data and analytics; identify ways to enhance providers’ access to Utah’s Controlled Substance Database (CSD), and describe requirements for accessing the CSD from the clinical Health Information Exchange. The team identified strengths and limitations to consider as enhanced designs are developed and implemented to facilitate access to information. Recently, Connie Kitchens began working with the CSD and implemented nearly all recommendations from the above-mentioned report. Pausing their retirements, Drs. Staes and Kramer now are writing a follow-up paper.
Chan GK, Baker NR, Cooke C, Cummins MR, Joseph ML, Meadows-Oliver M, Rambur B. The importance, challenges, and proposed solutions for preceptors to educate the nursing workforce. J Prof Nurs. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2024.11.008
Clayton JL, Utz RL, Aruscavage N, Bybee SG, Bigger SE, Iacob E, Dassel KB. Using community engagement with FRAME: Framework for reporting adaptations and modifications to evidence-based interventions. Contemp Clin Trials Commun. 2024;42:101398. http://doi.org/1016/j.conctc.2024.101398
Ivanova J, Wilczewski H, Klocksieben F, Cummins M, Soni H, Ong T, Barrera J, Harvey J, O'Connell N, McElligott J, Welch B, Bunnell B. Patient preferences for direct-to-consumer telemedicine services: Replication and extension of a nationwide survey. JMIR Hum Factors. 2024;11:e51056. doi:10.2196/51056
Killela MK, Adynski H, Adynski G, Myer EA, Dictus C, Morgan L, Hmiel H, Williams J. Preparing PhD students for tenure-track faculty positions. Nurs Res. 2024. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000791
Iacob E, Kausler R, Williams M, Simonsen S, Smid M, Weissinger K, Latendresse G. Protocol for a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a telehealth group intervention to reduce perinatal depressive symptoms. Contemp Clin Trials. 2024;147:107738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cct.2024.107738
Sisler SM, MacIntyre R, Fahey L, MacIntyre L. Developing disaster nursing competencies through academic service-learning. 2025. J Nurs Educ. In press.
November
Iacob E, Kausler R, Williams M, Simonsen S, Smid M, Weissinger K, Latendresse G. Protocol for a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a telehealth group intervention to reduce perinatal depressive symptoms. Contemp Clin Trials. 2024;147:107738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cct.2024.107738
Sisler SM, MacIntyre R, Fahey L, MacIntyre L. Developing disaster nursing competencies through academic service-learning. 2025. J Nurs Educ. In press.
Elmore CE, Elliott M, Schmutz KE, Raaum SE, Johnson EP, Bristol AA, Conroy MB, Wallace AS. Assessing patient readiness for hospital discharge, discharge communication, and transitional care management. J Am Board Fam Med. 2024;37(4):706-736. https://doi.org/10.3122/jabfm.2023.230172R3
Kimpel CC, Frechman E, Chavez L, Maxwell CA. Essential advance care planning intervention features in low-income communities: A qualitative study. J Pain Symptom Manage. In press. 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.09.018
October
Rosenzweig M, Belcher SM, Braithwaite LE, Cuaron L, Fischer-Cartlidge E, Lally RM, Linder LA, Meyeraan T, Ogunkunle R, Springer NG, Song L, Wickersham KE, Moore MSB, Anderson A. Research priorities of the Oncology Nursing Society: 2024-2027. Oncol Nurs Forum. 2024;51(6):502-515. https://doi.org/10.1188/24.ONF.502-515
Gouripeddi R, Facelli J, Sward K, Cummins M. Community-driven approaches for a sensor metadata ecosystem in exposure health. Proceedings of the International Society of Exposure Science (ISES) 2024 Annual Meeting. 2024. https://virtual.oxfordabstracts.com/event/20221/submission/724
Gouripeddi R, Smart R, Madsen R, Cummins M, Sward K, Facelli J. Towards a generalizable informatics ecosystem for exposure health research. Proceedings of the International Society of Exposure Science (ISES) 2024 Annual Meeting. https://virtual.oxfordabstracts.com/event/20221/submission/634
Ong T, Barrera JF, Sunkara C, Soni H, Ivanova J, Cummins MR, Schuler KR, Wilczewski H, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Mental health providers are inexperienced but interested in telehealth-based virtual reality therapy: Survey study. Front Virtual Real. 2024;5:1332874. https://doi.org/10.3389/frvir.2024.1332874
Gold C, Madsen T, Griffith M, Langi S, Jones A, Seymour G, Steenblik J. Naloxone knowledge, interest, and obtainment among a general emergency department patient population. Am J Emerg Med. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2024.08.043
Linder L, Utendorfer H, Oliveros B, Gilliland S, Tiase VL, Altizer R. Usability evaluation of the revised Color Me Healthy symptom assessment app: Perspectives of children and parents. Children. 2024;11(10):1215. https://doi.org/10.3390/children11101215
September
Aaron SP, Supiano K, Desimio S. Voices of care: Nurses' perspectives on end-of-life care for Black/African American patients. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. In press.
Ansari N, Warner E, Taylor-Swanson L, Wilson R, Van Epps J, Iacob E, Supiano K. Nurses navigating moral distress, resilience, and team dynamics: A literature review. Nurs Ethics. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/09697330241277992
Ansari N, Warner E, Iacob E, Taylor-Swanson L, Van Epps J, Wilson R, Supiano K. Moral distress by a thousand cuts: A mixed methods study on nurses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. JSM Health Educ Prim Health Care. 2024;6(1):1050. https://doi.org/10.47739/2578-3777/1050
Kent-Marvick J, Knysheva M, Gibson B, Simonsen SE. Why do people choose to enroll or not enroll in the national diabetes prevention program lifestyle change program? A mixed-methods analysis from a sample of adults with a prediabetes diagnosis. J Prim Care Community Health. 2024;15. doi: 10.1177/21501319241282862
Stucky CH, Kabo FW, De Jong MJ, House SL, Moser CH, Kimbler DE. Surgical control time estimation variability: Implications for medical systems and the future integration of AI and ML models. Perioper Care Oper Room Manag. 2024;37:100432.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcorm.2024.100432
Wallace AS, Bristol AA, Johnson EP, Elmore CE, Raaum SE, Presson A, Eppich K, Elliott M, Park S, Brooke BS, Weiss ME. Impact of social risk screening on discharge care processes and postdischarge outcomes: A pragmatic mixed-methods clinical trial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Med Care. 2024;62(10):639-649. doi: 10.1097/MLR.0000000000002048
Canela SM, Allen NA, Henderson M, Lee S, Miller NA, Howes Z, Litchman ML. Care Partner experiences in supporting deaf and hard of hearing adults with diabetes. Diabetes Spectr. Accepted.
Mayberry LS, Nelson LA, Bergner EM, Raymond JK, Tanenbaum ML, Jaser SS, Wiebe, DJ, Allen NA, Berg CA, Naranjo D, Litchman ML, Ollinger L, Hood K. Time for a CGM reframe: Shifting focus from uptake to sustainable use to optimize outcomes. J Diabetes Sci Technol. Accepted.
Ryan D, Burke SD, Bronich-Hall L, Rinker J, Yehl K, Litchman ML. Identifying competencies for diabetes community care coordinators. ADCES in Practice. 2024;12(1):12-20. https://doi.org/10.1177/2633559X2312212
Wilson R, Sneddon C. Adult Learning Theory. In Lalwani K, Cohen IT, Choi EY, Robins B, Kirsch JR, eds. Professional, Ethical, Legal, and Educational Lessons in Medicine: A Problem-Based Approach. New York: Oxford University Press, 2024:284-289.
Grubbs KL, Keinath CM, Bigger SE. MAiD in America: A rapid review of medical assistance in dying in the United States of America and its implications for practice for healthcare professionals. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. In press.
Merced K, Parameswaran U, Dearden S, Pentecost R, Latendresse G. Latina mothers recommendations on a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy group intervention for perinatal depression. Hisp Health Care Int. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/15404153241266585
August
Taylor-Swanson L, Kent-Marvick J, Déezbaa’ Austin S, Ellis J, Charles C, Ward R, Crandall L, Negrete Macias S, Moreno C, Simonsen SE. Developing a menopausal transition health promotion intervention with Indigenous, integrative, and biomedical health education: A community-based approach with urban American Indian/Alaska Native women. Glob Adv Integr Med Health. 2024;13. https://doi.org/10.1177/27536130241268232
Bretsch JK, Wallace AS, McCoy R. Social needs screening in academic health systems: A landscape assessment. Popul Health Manag. 2024 Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/pop.2024.0111
Citkovitz C, Graca S, Anderson B, Conboy LA, Gold MA, Hirsch E, Lumiere K, Phelps S, Schnyer RN, Smith RJ, Taylor-Swanson L. Acupuncture practice-based research in the age of artificial intelligence: Developments as of May, 2024. J Integr Complement Med. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2024.0459
Huntsman-Jones C, Kaiser J, Wood L. Recommendations for caring for patients who have experienced sexual violence. J Nurse Life Care Plan. 2024;XXIV(3):24-27.
Otts JA, Pittman J, Riley B, Hall H, Mestas L, Morton P. Building a research-focused academic practice partnership: A stepwise approach. J Prof Nurs. 2024;53:118-122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2024.05.012
Rossetti S, Withall J, Kendle K, Corley S, Mishuris RG, Aboagyewah MA, Abdul S, Rosenbloom ST, Tiase V, Sloss E. Dissemination of strategies for reducing excessive documentation burden: 25x5 task force activities relevant to nursing. Stud Health Technol Inform. 2024;315:437-441. doi: 10.3233/SHTI240186
Taylor-Swanson L, Stoddard K, Fritz J, Anderson BB, Cortez M, Conboy L, Sheng X, Flake N, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Stark LA, Farah L, Farah S, Lee D, Merkley H, Pacheco L, Tavake-Pasi F, Sanders W, Villalta J, Moreno C, Gardiner P. Midlife women's menopausal transition symptom experience and access to medical and integrative health care: Informing the development of MENOGAP. Glob Adv Integr Med Health. 2024:13. https://doi.org/10.1177/27536130241268355 Kari Stoddardgraduated from the University of Utah in May 2022 with a BS in Nursing and Honors degrees, and based her Honors Thesis on the MENOGAP project. Eight authors are community collaborators.
July
Cummins MR, Tsalatsanis A, Chaphalkar C, Ivanova J, Ong T, Soni H, Barrera JF, Wilczewski H, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Telemedicine appointments are more likely to be completed than in-person healthcare appointments: A retrospective cohort study. JAMIA Open. 2024;7(3):ooae059. doi: 10.1093/jamiaopen/ooae059.
Hull W, Donaldson G, Cloyes KG, Ellington L, Lee K, Mooney K. Longitudinal analysis of cancer family caregiver perception of sleep difficulty during home hospice. Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/10499091241265404
Citkovitz C, Graca S, Anderson B, Conboy LA, Gold MA, Hirsch E, Lumiere K, Phelps S, Schnyer RN, Taylor-Swanson L. Acupuncture practice-based research in the age of artificial intelligence: Developments as of May, 2024. J Integr Complement Med. 2024. Epub ahead of online publication. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2024.0459
Saxena K, Patterson-Lomba O, Gomez-Lievano A, Zion A, Cunningham-Erves J, Kepka D. Assessing the long-term implications of age 9 initiation of HPV vaccination on series completion by age 13-15 in the US: Projections from an age-structured vaccination model. Front Pediatr. 2024;12:1393897. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2024.1393897
Valentine J. Assessment of Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Evidence Selection Leading to Development of SAK Evidence Machine-Learning Model (SAK-ML Model). 2024. Report No.: 309199. This Technical Summary describes National Institute of Justice-funded (2019-NE-BX-0001) work that Dr. Valentine recently completed in collaboration with the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services (Utah state crime lab), Idaho State Police Forensic Services (Idaho state crime lab), and the Orange County Crime Lab, California.
June
Kaur A, Bourbeau J, Brighton L, Celli B, Crouch R, Demeyer H, Gerardi DA, Katsura H, Meek P, Morgan M, Paneroni M, Singh S, Stickland MK. Increasing exercise capacity and physical activity in the COPD patient. Breathe. 2024;20(2):230347. DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0347-2023
Gallagher ML, Brown JP, Clapp DB, Christensen SS. Promoting end-of-life care and healthcare worker well-being: Implementing the 3 Wishes Project in an oncology intensive care unit. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2024;28(3):257-262. https://doi.org/10.1188/24.cjon.257-262
Iacob E, Caserta M, Donaldson G, Sparks C, Terrill A, Thompson A, Wong B, Utz RL. Evaluating the Efficacy of Time for Living and Caring: An online intervention to support dementia caregivers' use of respite. Innov Aging. 2024;8(5):igae043. doi: 10.1093/geroni/igae043
Solkowski L, Utz R, Dassel K. The association of religion with advance care planning. Death Stud. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/07481187.2024.2361755
May
Matovu SN, Watt M, Young HM, Nakasujja N, Ellington L. Using grounded theory to develop a substantive theory for grandparent-caregiving in Uganda: The GRACE Model. J. Transcult Nurs. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/10436596241253
Brady CJ, Looman WS, Hamilton JL, Dunitz J, Gilard T, Sender AI, George C. A national postgraduate nurse practitioner and physician assistant fellowship in cystic fibrosis: An innovative approach to the provider shortage in complex and rare disease. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/JXX.0000000000001021
Bybee SG, Eaton J, Wong B. Dissemination innovation: Using found poetry to return study results to patients and partners facing cancer. PEC Innovation. 2024;4:100286. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100286
Soni H, Ivanova J, Wilczewski H, Ong T, Ross N, Bailey A, Cummins M, Barerra J, Bunnell BE, Welch BM. Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap): A survey of user preferences and needs for health data collection. J Med Internet Res. In press.
Carrico C, McKibbin C, Waters L, Thompson K, Graupner J, Cotton S, Faul A, Clark P, Telonidis J, Helm F, Caprio T, Bennett K. Growth and impact of Project ECHO® for workforce development in age-friendly care. J Am Geriatr Soc. Accepted.
Clayton JL, Supiano KP, Aruscavage N, Bybee S, Utz RL, Iacob E, Dassel KB. Advance care planning in the context of dementia: Defining concordance. Gerontologist. Accepted. doi: 10.1093/geront/gnae029
Cloyes KG, Mansfield KJ, Wawrzynski SE, Vega M, Kent-Marvick J, Guo J-W. Cancer survivors' and care partners' audio diaries on stress and social support resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2024;40(2):151623. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151623
Gordon BA, Azer L, Bennett K, Edelman LS, Long M, Goroncy A, Alexander C, Lee J-A, Rosich R, Severance JJ. Agents of change: Geriatrics workforce programs addressing systemic racism and health equity. Gerontologist. Accepted. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnae038
Sloss EA, McPherson JP, Beck AC, Guo J-W, Scheese CH, Flake NR, Chalkidis G, Staes CJ. Patient and caregiver perceptions of an interface design to communicate artificial intelligence-based prognosis for patients with advanced solid tumors. JCO Clin Cancer Inform. 2024;8:e2300187. https://doi.org/10.1200/CCI.23.00187
Wolf C, Clifton J, Sheng X. Screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea in youth correctional facilities, Utah, USA. Emerg Infect Dis. 2024;30(13):62-67. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3013.230712
April
Douglass B, Stager SL, Shaw K, Hite A, Solecki S, Stanik-Hutt J, Tufts G. Professional identity in nursing: Why it is important in graduate education. J Prof Nurs. 2024;52:50-55. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2024.03.004
Farley J, Taylor-Swanson L, Koppenhaver S, Thackeray A, Magel J, Fritz JM. The effect of combining spinal manipulation and dry needling in individuals with nonspecific low back pain. J Pain. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpain.2024.03.002
Goodwin RM, Utz RL, Elmore CE, Ornstein KA, Tay DL, Ellington L, Smith KR, Stephens CE. Leveraging existing datasets to advance family caregiving research: Opportunities to measure what matters. J Aging Soc Policy. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/08959420.2024.2320043
Linder B, Yang G-Y, Lumiere K, Taylor-Swanson L, Graca S, Armour M. Collaborative design of a Chinese herbal medicine case report guideline (CHM-CARE), Eur J Integr Med. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eujim.2024.102364
Allison TA, Stephens CE, Kotwal AA. Supporting technology access for older adults though in-home, intergenerational involvement: The case for ethnographic methods and student service-learning courses. Invited editorial for J Am Geriatr Soc. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1111/jgs.18860
Campbell KM, Ogbeide SA, Echiverri A, Guillaume G, Henderson JE, Jackson N, Marquez CM, Miranda C, Montoya M, Oni K, Pierre G, Semenya MA, Udezi V, Flattes VJ, Rodriquez JE, Washington JC. Are committee experiences of minoritized family medicine faculty part of the minority tax? A qualitative study. BMC Medical Education. 2023;23:862. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04848-3
March
Allison TA, Stephens CE, Kotwal AA. Supporting technology access for older adults though in-home, intergenerational involvement: The case for ethnographic methods and student service-learning courses. Invited editorial for J Am Geriatr Soc. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1111/jgs.18860
Campbell KM, Ogbeide SA, Echiverri A, Guillaume G, Henderson JE, Jackson N, Marquez CM, Miranda C, Montoya M, Oni K, Pierre G, Semenya MA, Udezi V, Flattes VJ, Rodriquez JE, Washington JC. Are committee experiences of minoritized family medicine faculty part of the minority tax? A qualitative study. BMC Medical Education. 2023;23:862. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04848-3
Hollingshaus M, Smith KR, Meeks H, Ornstein K, Iacob E, Tay D, Stephens C, Utz RL. Mortality risk following end-of-life caregiving: A population-based analysis of hospice users and their families. Soc Sci Med. 2024. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116781
Buller DB, Sussman AL, Thomson CA, Kepka D, Taren D, Henry KL, Warner EL, Walkosz BJ, Woodall WG, Nuss K, Blair CK, Guest DD, Borrayo EA, Gordon JS, Hatcher J, Wetter DW, Kinsey A, Jones CF, Yung AK, Christini K, Berteletti J, Torres JA, Barraza Perez EY, Small A. #4Corners4Health social media cancer prevention campaign for emerging adults: Protocol for a randomized stepped-wedge trial. JMIR Res Protoc. 2024;13:e50392. doi: 10.2196/50392
Garcia K, Iacob E, Dean-Smith M, Royce E, Alvarez G, Kepka D. Low levels of lifetime pap test receipt among vulnerable Guatemalans. J Cancer Educ. 2024. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1007/s13187-024-02405-0
Mayahara M, Tay DL, Kates J, Rosa WE. Palliating serious illness during disasters and public health emergencies. Am J Nurs. 2024;124(3):56-60. DOI: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0001008424.70710.ca
O’Conner-Von S, Shlafer R, Galchutt P, Kettering S, Bouterse A, Freese R, Berry P. A survey of state correctional health care providers on advance care planning: Opportunity for collaboration with corrections. Am J Hosp Palliat Care. Epub ahead of press. doi:10.1177/10499091241226638
Taylor-Swanson L, Wong B, Anderson BJ, Hullender Rubin L, Majd I, Altschuler D, Bensky D, Ma S, Mitchell C, Taromina K, Cohen M, Conboy L. Describing Chinese herbal medicine telehealth care for symptoms related to infectious diseases such as COVID-19: A prospective, longitudinal, descriptive cohort study protocol. Integr Med Rep. Epub ahead of press. doi.org/10.1089/imr.2023.0042
February
Allison TA, Stephens CE, Kotwal AA. Supporting technology access for older adults through in-home, intergenerational involvement: The case for ethnographic methods and student service-learning courses (invited editorial). J Am Geriatr Soc. In press.
Alnajar M, Darawad M, Khater W, Alshahwan R, Mosleh S, Nofal B, Abdalrahim M. Exploring palliative care needs among patients with cancer and non-cancer serious chronic diseases: A comparison study. Am J Hosp Palliat Med. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/10499091241235920
Bybee SG, Waters AR, Smith K, Warner EL. Misalignment of social support in the social media posts of young adult cancer caregivers. Cancer Reports. 2024;7(2):e1998. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/cnr2.1998
Christensen S, Wilson BL, Cummins MR, Eaton JL, Iacob E, Hansen SD. Exploring nurses’ emotional reactions to and reporting of patient-on-nurse workplace violence: A mixed-methods study. Int J Nurs Stud. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2024.104724
Matovu SN, Whitley DM, Young HM. A global perspective on intersecting social and systemic barriers experienced by grandparent-caregivers: A qualitative systematic review. GrandFamilies: The Contemporary Journal of Research, Practice and Policy. 2024;7(2):7-54.
Nicholson B, Sloss EA, Fausett A, Davis C, Dumas K, Littledike M, Mooney K. Rural access to the cancer hospital at home care model. NEJM Catalyst. 2024;5(3). DOI:10./0/56/CAT.23.0336.
Ong T, Wilczewski H, Soni H, Ivanova J, Barrera J, Cummins M, Welch B, Bunnell BE. Therapist perspectives on telehealth-based virtual reality exposure therapy. Virtual Reality. In press. doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3161151/v1
Cummins M, Shishupal S, Wong B, Wan N, Johnny JD, Mhatre-Owens A, Gouripeddi R, Ivanova J, Ong T, Soni H, Barrera J, Wilczewski H, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Observational study of travel distance between participants in U.S. telemedicine sessions with estimates of emissions savings. J Med Internet Res. In press. DOI: 10.2196/53437
Cummins MR, Ivanova J, Ong T, Soni H, Barrera JF, Wilczewski H, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Will the U.S. pass on telemedicine progress? JAMIA Open. In press.
Cummins M, Soni H, Ivanova J, Ong T, Barrera J, Wilczewski H, Welch B, Bunnel, BE. Narrative review of telemedicine applications in decentralized research. Journal of Clinical & Translational Science. In press. doi:10.1017/cts.2024.3
Anderson M, Taylor N, Rowley T, Owens C, Iacob E. Understanding factors influencing nursing faculty departure and intentions. Nurse Educ. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1097/NNE.0000000000001612
Beck SL, Smith R, Mindes J, Beck K, Leah Kim J, Weitzman M, Stone JAM, Veleber S, Dudley WN. Feasibility and usability of EnergyPoints: A mobile health app to guide acupressure use for cancer symptom management. Integr Cancer Ther. 2024;23.
https://doi.org/10.1177/15347354231223965
Bybee SG, Sharareh N, Guo J-W, Luther B, Grigorian E, Wang C-Y, Wong B, Wallace AS. A secondary data analysis of technology access as a determinant of health and impediment in social needs screening and referral processes. AJPM Focus. 2024;3(2):100189. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.focus.2024.100189
Kaiser J, Huntsman-Jones C, Woods L. Kinesiology tape in outpatient settings. J Nurse Life Care Plan. 2024;XXIV(1):15-19.
Sisler S, Al-Khudairi M, Hart S. Rebranding “sick leave” to “health leave.” Utah Nurse. 2024;33(1):2.
Unroe KT, Towsley GL. Learning from the experience of dementia care for nursing home residents during the pandemic. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2024. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1111/jgs.18771
January
Lim M, Rodgers G, Branch W, Simonsen S. Targeting a higher plasma VWF level at time of delivery in pregnant individuals with von Willebrand disease: Outcomes at a single-institution cohort study. Haemophilia. Accepted for publication.
Waters AR, Easterly CW, Turner C, Ghazal L, Tovar I, Mulvaney M, Poquadeck M, Rains SA, Cloyes KG, Kirchhoff AC, Kent EE, Warner EL. LGBTQ+ inequity in crowdfunding cancer costs: The influence of online reach and LGBTQ+ state policy. Cancer Med. 2024. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1002/cam4.6926
Miles LW, Valentine JL, Mabey LJ, Hopkins ES, Stodtmeister PJ, Rockwood RB, Moxley ANH. A syystematic review of evidence-based treatments for adolescent and adult sexual assault victimes. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc. 2023; 0(0). doi:10.1177/10783903231216138
St Clair S, Dearden S, Clark L, Simonsen SE. Some key questions: Pregnancy intention screening by community health workers. Womens Health (Lond). 2023;19. https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057231213735
Stephens C, Utz R, Tay D, Iacob E, Hollingshaus M, Goodwin R, Farrell T, Bouldin E, Edelman L, Reinke LF, Smith K, Ellington L, Ornstein K. Dying with dementia in nursing homes: A population-based study of decedents and their families. J Am Geriatr Soc. In press.
Reinke LF, Tartaglione EV, Ruedebusch S, Smith PH, Sullivan DR. Nurse-led, telephone-based primary palliative care intervention for patients with lung cancer: Domains of quality care. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000001005
December
The Utah Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association featured Dr. Kara Dassel in its E-News article titled Utah researcher looks at advance care planning. The article describes Dr. Dassel’s LEAD (Longitudinal Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease) research, which helps people with memory loss consider advance care planning. The Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging funded the research.
Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez published Voices: An Ofrenda Helped My Family Honor Our Culture – And Make Room for the Emotional Complexities of Loss in The Salt Lake Tribune.
In a U Health Newsroom article titled Family Caregiving Collaborative Seeks Better Ways to Care for the Caregivers, Sophia Friesen described the College’s Family Caregiving Collaborative, and quoted Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Dr. Kathie Supiano, and Dr. Echo Warner.
Dr. Katie Ward is co-host on The Scope 7 Domains of Women's Health. The current podcast series is on Stress with new episodes released weekly.
November
Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez published Voices: An Ofrenda Helped My Family Honor Our Culture – And Make Room for the Emotional Complexities of Loss in The Salt Lake Tribune.
In a U Health Newsroom article titled Family Caregiving Collaborative Seeks Better Ways to Care for the Caregivers, Sophia Friesen described the College’s Family Caregiving Collaborative, and quoted Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Dr. Kathie Supiano, and Dr. Echo Warner.
Dr. Katie Ward is co-host on The Scope 7 Domains of Women's Health. The current podcast series is on Stress with new episodes released weekly.
October
Dr. Linda Edelman presented a Rural Roads podcast titled Farmer and Ranch Stress, addressing unique aspects of farmer and ranch stress, signs of stress, incidence of substance use disorder, ways to provide support, and resources that are available to farmers, ranchers, and their families. Episodes of the Rural Roads podcast address topics and issues of import to those associated with a Health Resources and Services Administration-funded Rural Communities Opioid Response Program. Dr. Edelman leads workforce development research through her work with the Utah Rural Opioid HealthCare Consortium-Collaborative Care Model Program. The podcast is available on Spotify.
Dr. Natasha Ansari and Samantha Greenberg co-host the 9 to Thrive Careers podcast. The podcast is designed to support individuals as they navigate their careers in higher education and healthcare. Discussions focus on key topics such as career transitions, mentorship, and professional values, aiming to empower at all stages of one’s career. The podcast is available on Spotify and Apple.
September
Michael Monostra wrote an article titled Care partners of deaf and hard-of-hearing people with diabetes face unique challenges and quoted Dr. Michelle Litchman and Karissa Mirus about their Deaf Diabetes Can Together work.
August
For an article titled Menopausal Flood Brings Heavy Bleeding, But Help Is Out There that she wrote for WebMD, Liz Scherer interviewed and quoted Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson regarding heavy menstrual bleeding during perimenopause. Lisa provided information about what is considered to be excessive bleeding, recalled a patient who presented with heavy uterine bleeding, and provided information on acupuncture efficacy to regulate menstrual flow.
July
Dr. Katie Ward, Dr. Diane Chapman, Dr. Kim Friddle, and Dr. Schola Matovu led a successful global learning experience for two prelicensure (Abigail Price and Sarah Robertson), one Master of Science (Nels Nichols), four Doctor of Nursing Practice (Garrett Schwanke, Daina Swamy, Kathy Wsol, and Tallya Llewelyn) and two PhD (Rachel Buchleiter and Denise Crismon) students to Rwanda in May. GOOD NOTES featured the experience in an article titled Global Learning Creates Connections in Rwanda.
RaeAnn Christensen hosted Drs. Julie Valentine, Susan Madsen, and Liliana Olvera-Arbon on Utah Insight, a weekly series from PBS Utah that examines the most pressing issues facing the state. In the episode titled Sexual Assault in Utah, members of the panel discussed the prevalence of sexual assault in Utah, ways to encourage survivor reporting of a sexual assault, resources available to survivors, ways to increase awareness throughout Utah regarding sexual assault, legislation related to sexual assault, and more.
Lara Jones interviewed Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students Micaela Besser and Tammy Dunklebarger on KRCL’s RadioACTive show about menopause management, and how, for their DNP Scholarly Project, Micaela and Tammy are developing a menopause toolkit to educate BirthCare HealthCare colleagues and primary care providers at the University of Utah Health Madsen Health Center about menopause management.
The Family Caregiving Collaborative has been at the forefront of efforts to involve Utah at the national level. The National Alliance for Caregivinglaunched the Caregiver Nation Network, connecting and uniting leaders from 10 states – including Utah – and investing in leaders’ capacity to inform state and federal policy solutions regarding family caregiving. By fostering state leadership, the Network is building a movement to transform systems to better support family caregivers and those they care for, foster peer-to-peer learning regarding caregiving policy, and ensure that family caregiving is included on national and state policy agendas. Dr. Nancy Allen can be heard speaking at minute 1:02 of a 2:12-minute video that promotes theCaregiver Nation Network.
June
Dr. Natasha Ansari published Healing the Healers: Strategies to Reduce Moral Distress in Nursing in Accelerate. The article focuses on moral distress, a significant nursing issue exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting from nurses' perceived inability to ethically support patients due to external constraints. Traditional nursing programs have inadequately prepared students for real-world ethical challenges, often focusing on test preparation rather than equipping them with self-care and stress management skills. To address this, it is essential to revise nursing curricula to include training on mindfulness, ethical competence, self-care, and effective team dynamics, ultimately enhancing nurses' resilience and improving patient care quality.
Drs. Wendy Hobson-Rohrer, Joanne Rolls, and Rebecca Wilson published How to Master Education in the Health Professions in the May 17 edition of Accelerate. They described the Master of Education in Health Professions degree program – a post-graduate program intended for clinicians who have completed a Master’s or Doctoral degree in a health profession who are either currently responsible for education or aspire to an educator or faculty role.
May
Christine Fruhauf and Dr. Kara Dassel wrote a feature article for the Age Inclusivity in Higher Education Spring 2024 newsletter. The newsletter serves as a platform for educators, administrators, scholars, and community members to share updates about how colleges and universities accommodate aging populations and create more age-diverse campuses. The article titled Integrating Age-Inclusive Priorities in Careers in Aging Activities discussed how the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) expanded its Careers in Aging initiative to a month-long campaign emphasizing the importance of gerontological education. The expansion allows for a more comprehensive integration of teaching, research, and service opportunities to broaden students' exposure to careers in aging. Supported by GSA funding, several universities, including the University of Utah, organized various activities such as age-diverse panel discussions, intergenerational events, and social gatherings with older community members to promote age inclusivity and interest in aging-focused careers.
Also, in the newsletter, Dr. Gail Towsley was congratulated for receiving a small grant award from the Gerontological Society of America Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education to support Careers in Aging Month activities, which were described in the April 8, 2024 edition of College Kudos.
In honor of International Nurses Day, Dr. Schola Matovu wrote a blog titled Leadership is a Lifelong Journey, reflecting on her identity as a nurse, a woman, and a leader, and how her leadership journey inspired her to lead with authenticity and resilience.
March
OPENPediatrics™ is an interactive digital learning platform for healthcare clinicians sponsored by Boston Children's Hospital and in collaboration with the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies. It is designed to promote the exchange of knowledge between healthcare providers around the world caring for critically ill children in all resource settings. The content includes internationally recognized experts teaching the full range of topics on the care of critically ill children. All content is peer-reviewed and open access, thus free to users. In a Nursing World Shared Practice Forum video titled Leveraging Research to Address Social Determinants of Health, Julie Waitt spoke with Dr. Andrea Wallace, who shared the importance of implementing social determinants of health screening in healthcare delivery, recommended non-traditional strategies and resources nurses can use to participate in evidence-based practice activities, and discussed firsthand experiences with implementing evidence-based practice in the context of improving outcomes when social determinants of health exist. Kathryn Brodie and Michele De Grazia contributed to producing the video, which is available through three sites.
Julie Kiefer, host of the podcast U Rising, interviewed Dr. Linda Edelman for the Ageism: Here is What it is and How to Avoid Engaging in it episode. Dr. Edelman discussed the perceptions of aging, ageism, and the importance of creating age-friendly communities. Similarly, Julie and Dr. Edelman wrote Ageism: What it is and How to Avoid Engaging in it for Accelerate. They reviewed the World Health Organization's definition of ageism, and discussed the impact of ageism on social isolation, health outcomes, and disparities in access and treatment. They also described strategies to address ageism and create age-friendly communities, and emphasized the importance of adopting a positive attitude towards aging, reframing language, and working towards creating inclusive, supportive environments.
February
Aaron Tallent recently interviewed Dr. Sara Bybee for an article in Cancer Discovery News titled LGBTQ+ Individuals Vulnerable to Cancer Disparities. The article highlights that LGBTQ+ individuals are more at risk of cancer and face disparities in healthcare due to minority stress and discrimination. Mental health problems and substance misuse further worsen these disparities. The article emphasizes the importance of personalized care for LGBTQ+ patients, including training for healthcare providers and collecting sexual orientation and gender identity data in electronic health records to address disparities effectively. Dr. Bybee emphasizes the need for inclusive research and clinical guidelines to ensure equitable cancer care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Drs. Matthew Howard, Esther Chipps, and Dr. Perry Gee published The Collaborative Edge in Nursing Centered, Sigma's online resource center. The article emphasizes the pivotal role of nurse scientists in integrating research and evidence-based practice in healthcare organizations, highlighting their contributions to strategic planning, consulting, mentoring, and securing research funding. Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, ethical considerations, and diverse research demands, the authors proposed collaboration among nurse scientists across multiple health systems as a solution. Collaborative efforts offer benefits such as resource sharing, data pooling, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical guidance, ultimately enhancing research quality and relevance. By fostering collaboration, nurse scientists can overcome challenges, drive progress in healthcare research, and improve patient care outcomes, leading to a culture of innovation and satisfaction within the healthcare community.
Cassidy Kotobalavu, Amanda Keddington, and Mary-Jean Austria published Recipe for Success: Decreasing Burnout in Nurse Educators in Accelerate. To tackle burnout risks among educators in the Clinical Staff Education Department at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, the authors devised a method that focused on improving professional support and team culture. The recipe for implementing an improvement project for a team included four ingredients – a dedicated team, data collection tools, leadership support, and a collaborative spirit. They assessed the baseline state and investigated the problem, provided group classes and team-building activities to foster professional growth, empowered team members to take ownership, monitored progress, and refined strategies based on results. As a result, burnout scores decreased from 35% to 24%. The authors attributed the success of the project to regularly assessing and refining their strategies, which helped reduce negativity and increase engagement.
Drs. Shawna Sisler, Mandy Al-Khudairi, and Sara Hart published Rebranding “Sick Leave” to “Health Leave” in the Utah Nurse, the official publication of the Utah Nurses Association. They proposed changing terminology used in the state of Utah – renaming "sick leave" as "health leave." Drs. Sisler, Al-Khudairi, and Hart emphasized the importance of words and ideas, asserting that time and actions focused on health and healing are acts of wellness rather than sickness, that language can transform societal attitudes, organizational health cultures, and behaviors; and that terminology changes reflect commitment to holistic health and a departure from the disease-centered model traditionally used in human resources. Starting with the 2024 Utah legislative session, they encourage nurses to support legislation regarding “health leave,” asserting that nurses, informed by firsthand patient care experiences, can play a crucial role in advancing this initiative.
Dr. Lynn Reinke was featured on the Palliative Perspective Podcast, where she spoke on mentoring, taking risks, and engaging in opportunities that led to her being elected as 2024 President of the Board of Directors for the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA) and for the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Foundation (HPNF). Dr. Reinke also shared her enthusiasm for HPNA Strategic Plan, and her focus on building a strong community of hospice and palliative care nurses.
Dr. Sara Bybee published Opinion: Utah Will Only Achieve Housing Justice if We Prioritize People Over Profits in the Salt Lake Tribune. She underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy in Utah's housing policies, emphasizing housing justice that prioritizes people over profits. While acknowledging Gov. Spencer Cox's plan for 35,000 new starter homes, she recommended a multifaceted strategy, including a state-funded housing voucher program for extremely low-income households. Dr. Bybee called for addressing eviction policies that disadvantage vulnerable groups, and noted the influence of legislators involved in real estate. She stressed the urgency of changing housing policies, practices, and programs, which can prevent the negative consequences associated with forced displacement and evictions.
January
In an article titled Cancer Misinformation Puts Patients in Harm’s Way, that Brian Furlow published in The Lancet Oncology, Dr. Echo Warner was quoted saying, “Misinformation can disrupt effective cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care. But its potential to do harm does not stop there. The constant barrage of inaccurate claims and inconsistent information from different sources can be a source of anxiety and distress for individuals trying to understand a cancer diagnosis and can harm patients’ trust for and relationships with clinicians and caregivers.” The article addresses the rise of cancer misinformation, emphasizing its dangers to patients. Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo's unsupported claim linking mRNA COVID vaccines to cancer is highlighted. Cancer misinformation, often tied to political polarization, can lead patients to delay proven treatments or pursue unproven ones, increasing the risk of death. The spread of misleading claims on websites and social media, particularly from anti-vax movements, poses a significant threat. Improving communication and social media cooperation are suggested solutions, along with the need to provide education regarding critical thinking and conduct further research.
Dr. Gwen Latendresse’s Maternal Mental Health Access study, also known as the "MaMa" Study, is a prevention program designed for women who are at risk for postpartum depression. Recently the study has gained attention in news outlets.
- U of U Health pushing for more care for postpartum depression, and anxiety, an interview by Jim Spiewak from KUTV.
- When It’s More Than the Baby Blues: Help for new moms struggling with mental health, an interview with Brooke Walker, from Studio 5.
- For the Love of Mothers, an article included in the University of Utah Health 2023 Report to Our Community.
Dr. Linda Edelman was a featured guest on the U Rising podcast, Ageism: Here is What it is and How to Avoid Engaging in it. In her interview with Dr. Edelman, Julie Kiefer, associate director of science communications at University of Utah Health, explored how age stereotypes can lead to prejudice and discrimination, with a focus on internal ageism. Dr. Edelman emphasized the World Health Organization's definition of ageism and discussed its impact on social isolation, health outcomes, and healthcare access. She also described benefits of aging, the age-friendly health system, and the importance of reframing language to combat age bias in both healthcare and everyday life.
Dr. Kathi Mooney provided an interview to Brooke McCormick with the American Journal of Managed Care on Improving Patients' Quality of Life Through Technology, describing how her Symptom Care at Home and Huntsman at Home have improved the quality of life for patients with cancer. Symptom Care at Home is a patient-reported symptom platform where patients report symptoms at home daily, and receive automated self-management coaching tailored to their current symptoms' severity. This approach significantly reduced severe and moderate symptom days, increased mild and no symptom days, and decreased emergency department visits and rehospitalizations. The Huntsman at Home program offers acute-level care for symptoms that would typically lead to emergency department visits or hospitalizations. This program effectively halved emergency department visits and hospitalizations, leading to a nearly 50% reduction in costs while supporting patients at home and minimizing unplanned healthcare utilization.
The National Commission on Correctional Health Care recognized the College’s Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS) clinical practice by reprinting three blogs from University of Utah Health GOOD NOTES: Voices of U of U Health in the last three editions of its CorrectCare Extra.
- Caring for At-Risk Youth in Utah Correctional Facilities – Part 1 by Dr. Jennifer Clifton.
- Caring for At-Risk Youth in Utah Correctional Facilities – Part 2 by Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs.
- Caring for At-Risk Youth in Utah Correctional Facilities – Part 3 (Oral Health) by Anna Fuller. Via the College of Nursing’s contract, Dentists from the School of Dentistry provide oral health care to youth in correctional facilities.
December
Dr. Erica Nelson, Christopher Sneddon, Dr. Joshua Wall, and Dr. John Nerges visited Jordan High School in Sandy to speak with two combined sections of the Latinos in Action class, a group of senior students preparing for the workforce. These faculty members shared insights about nursing as a promising career. Positive feedback from both students and presenters reflects its success. Dean Marla De Jong thanked faculty for volunteering their time and for sharing insights about a career in nursing with high school students. Dean De Jong wrote “Your passion for and dedication to nursing are inspiring, and I’m certain left a lasting impression on students. I hope that the interest you sparked will translate to some choosing nursing as their professional career.”
Dr. Jen Clifton’s peers on the Board of Representatives elected her Member-At-Large to the National Commission on Correctional Health Care Governance Board.
October
Dr. Jen Clifton’s peers on the Board of Representatives elected her Member-At-Large to the National Commission on Correctional Health Care Governance Board.
Dr. Lee Ellington served on the Program Planning Committee for the 3rd Conference on Caregiving Research, and the Junior Investigator Post-Conference Workshop Subcommittee.
Dr. Jacob Steenblik and a team of collaborators from the Moran Eye Center and its global outreach groups performed 200 vision screenings for adults and children at a temporary clinic, which they set up at Navajo Mountain High School in Navajo Mountain, Utah, and performed seven phacoemulsification cataract surgeries in Blanding, Utah.
Simulation Center staff hosted 30 high school students from the Upward Bound program at Wasatch High School in Heber City. Bobby Cody, Henri Sasa, Debbie Boulter, Yvonne Bass, and Mandy Thomson led a tour, shared resources, and facilitated learning experiences. Brandon Patterson showed students resources, such as the Anatomage Table and virtual reality equipment and education modules, that are available at the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library. Mindy Francis helped with scheduling and arranged for students to have lunch before returning to school. Upward Bound is a college preparation program for high school students who come from low-income households, are potential first generation college students, or have a disability. The program helps students succeed in high school and prepare for college, positioning them for a successful future. Emily Nelson is the Upward Bound Advisor at Wasatch High School.
September
Dr. Mollie Cummins has been appointed to the National Advisory Council for Nursing Research (NACNR) Workgroup “Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Health: Future Directions in Nursing Science,” which is charged with recommending National Institute of Nursing Research-supported science and training concerning data science and artificial intelligence.
Dr. Liz Greene and Psychiatric Mental Health Doctor of Nursing Practice students Amber Dentino, Nancy Dorny, Jenni Gonzalez, Isaac Harmon, Jaricka Lau, Laura Linton, JT Mosier, Israel Ortiz, Kait Otero, Mark Pincock, and Cherry Steelevolunteered on the Compassion Committee for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Salt Lake City Out of the Darkness Walk on September 7, 2024. Through these walks, those affected by suicide and members of the community communicate that no one is alone and that suicide can be prevented, and raise funds for education, support, and suicide prevention.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was invited to serve as a National Mentor for the Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders and Innovators at UC Davis Health.
Dr. Amy Newman, former post-doctoral fellow, was installed as president-elect of APHON, and will become president in September 2025.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) awarded a 3-year education grant to Dr. Elizabeth Howell for an interdisciplinary project titled The Utah COLLABORATE project (COLLectively Arranging and Bringing Optimized Recovery and Addiction Training and Education to the University of Utah). Faculty and staff aim to bolster interdisciplinary education about substance use disorders for health professions students, including nurse practitioner, physician assistant, and medical students, at the University of Utah. Dean Marla De Jong is a member of the Advisory Board.
On August 23, 2024, Esther Kang volunteered at Healthy Start West Valley. University of Utah Health and University Neighborhood Partners hosted the large annual health fair in collaboration with West Valley City, Granite School District, Ascent Academy West Valley, and other organizations. Residents of West Valley received free vision, dental, diabetes, and mammography screenings.
Dr. Julie Valentine was appointed as a grant reviewer for the United States Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime.
August
Dr. Deanna Kepka facilitated the Vax 2 Stop Cancer Board Retreat in Birmingham.
Dr. Deanne Kepka moderated the survivor panel at the American Cancer Society’s National Roundtable on Cervical Cancer’s Force of the Future National Meeting.
Dr. Deanne Kepka served on the American Cancer Society’s Peer Review Committee for Etiology, Screening, and Early Detection (ESED) on June 17-18, 2024.
On June 4-5, 2024, and alongside other mother-daughter pairs from across the United States, Dr. Deanne Kepka and her daughter Evelyn Traum participated in a legislative day of action in Washington, DC. The event was organized by HPV Cancers Alliance as a part of their Healthy Girls, Healthy Women 2024 initiative.
Dr. Deanne Kepka, Sharon Talboys, and Taryn Valley spent 10 days in San Lucas Tolimán, Quetzaltenango, and Guatemala City, Guatemala on behalf of the PrecCaMM (Prevention of Cervical Cancer among Mayan Women project). They hosted a community advisory board meeting and completed 11 interviews with public health officials, promotoras de salud, researchers, and advocates.
July
Dr. Mollie Cummins has been appointed to the American Academy of Nursing’s Artificial Intelligence Task Force.
Dean Marla De Jong was appointed to the University of Utah Mental Health Alliance. Using a comprehensive whole-institution approach to mental health and substance use disorder, the Mental Health Alliance is designed to create an ecosystem that provides opportunities for novel training, cutting-edge research, and innovative treatment that produce new models of care. This Alliance is intended to build mutually beneficial relationships, evaluate possible partnerships, and recommend priorities to University of Utah President Taylor Randall to achieve a common goal – a national model for mental health, hope, and healing for all.
June
Dr. Bob Wong, Melissa Black, Jesika Chavez-England, Kristan Tunks, and Lynn Dixon volunteered at the Utah Food Bank on the Juneteenth holiday.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) Office of Programs to Enhance Diversity awarded a $1,800 stipend to Dr. Djin Tay. The Faculty Mentor Support Stipend is a pilot program designed to provide financial support to HCI faculty members who are actively engaged in mentoring summer trainees at the University of Utah, recognizing the role that mentorship plays in shaping the next generation of diverse leaders in cancer research. The funds are intended to support the professional development of summer trainees, and to recognize and offset the costs associated with the faculty members’ mentorship activities. By offsetting expenses, the pilot program aims to alleviate financial strain while supporting an environment that enhances mentorship. This summer, Dr. Tay and PhD student Malek Alnajar are mentoring four undergraduate students, including a Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) student, a former SPUR student, and two volunteers.
Dr. Michelle Litchman will serve as a content expert for the 2025 American Diabetes Association Standards of Care. She will specifically provide expertise on supporting diabetes care in Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Dr. Litchman also Co-Chairs the American Diabetes Association Health Disparities Committee.
Dr. Katarina Felsted completed training to become a Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging Program Facilitator. Dr. Felsted will volunteer her time to facilitate the workshop Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder at Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services locations.
Drs. Mark Supiano, Lena Makaroun, and Katherine Supiano, representing the American Geriatrics Society, participated in a crucial initiative at the White House on June 7, 2024 to promote gun violence prevention. The number one population that dies by suicide is older, unpartnered white men with access to firearms. Those in rural and very rural communities have the highest rates of suicide of all age cohorts. More than half of all suicides are completed with firearms. This was the first time that the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention convened medical professionals – from physicians and nurses to social workers and emergency responders – to discuss public health solutions to gun violence. The event offered an unparalleled platform to spotlight proactive measures and support strategies, underscoring ongoing commitment to prevention and postvention efforts, particularly in Utah.
Lynn Dixon, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and five student members of the Taylor-Swanson Lab attended the 2nd Annual Summer for A Bolder Way Forward. The primary aim of A Bolder Way Forward is to help more Utah women and girls thrive. Utah women and girls thrive when all aspects of their safety, security, health, and wellbeing are met, allowing them to explore and pursue educational, professional, civic, leadership, and other opportunities according to their interests, and to feel abundant levels of support and a sense of belonging as they do so. Dr. Taylor-Swanson Co-Chairs the Midlife Women’s Health Sub-Spoke of the Health Across the Lifespan Spoke.
May
Dr. Liz Greene and Doctor of Nursing Practice students Israel Ortiz, Amber Dentino, and JT Mosier, who are specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health, participated in NAMIWalks Utah, an event that the National Alliance on Mental Illness sponsors to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma.
The Behavioral Health Innovation and Dissemination Center (BHIDC) received a $15,000 gift from a local donor to fund trainee stipends. This generous donation will allow BHIDC, for the first time since its opening, to offer stipends to trainees in the fields of nursing, social work, psychiatry, and psychology. In addition, BHIDC received additional gifts to establish a mental health access fund to help cover the cost of services. In her role in development and community engagement at BHIDC, Dr. Liz Greene played a key part in securing these gifts.
Dr. Rebekah Perkins and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson will serve as University of Utah Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) mentors. UROP provides a $1,200 stipend and educational programming for students who assist with a faculty member’s research or creative project or who carry out a project of their own under the supervision of a faculty member. Dr. Perkins will mentor Joshua Seabury on research titled Promoting Age Inclusivity to Enhance Educational Excellence within the University of Utah College of Nursing (PAI-CON). Dr. Taylor-Swanson will mentor Stephanie Quist on research titled ACUAWARE.
Dr. Djin Tay and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson will serve as University of Utah Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR) mentors. The program provides undergraduate students with an intensive 10-week research experience under the mentorship of a University of Utah faculty member. SPUR mentors are University of Utah faculty members; scholars are comprised of students from throughout the United States. Dr. Tay will mentor Megan Rose, from the University of Utah, on research titled Economic Burden of Cancer Associated with Long-Term Treatment and at End of Life, and Dr. Taylor-Swanson will mentor Marge Dalseth, from Cornell University, on research titled MENOGAP: Engaging in Community-Led Development and Testing a Group Medical Visit Intervention.
Dr. Sara Hart was elected to the Senate Committee on Academic Freedom and Faculty Rights, where she will serve for a three-year term starting June 16, 2024. The committee is responsible for addressing issues related to academic freedom, faculty rights, and academic grievances in higher education. Its main duties include staying informed on the most important controversies regarding academic freedom and faculty rights in higher education, identifying and examining problems of academic freedom and faculty rights at the University of Utah, and providing an annual report to the Senate on these matters.
Dr. Lauri Linder was elected to the Senate Faculty Review Standards Committee, where she will serve a four-year term starting June 16, 2024. The committee advises the Senate and University administration regarding Regulations and practices for regular, periodic reviews of University faculty members. Acting on behalf of the Senate, the Committee reviews and approves Statements that describe the University’s systems for reviewing individual faculty members.
Dean Marla De Jong was elected by the Council of Academic Deans (CAD) to the Academic Senate for a two-year term beginning May 15, 2024. The Academic Senate is a legislative body where the major stakeholders at the University – faculty, students, and administrators – work together in setting educational policy and fulfilling the University’s three-part mission of teaching, research, and service. The Academic Senate plays an integral part in the shared governance of the University. More specifically, the Academic Senate has governing authority in all matters of educational policy, including the requirements for admissions, degrees, diplomas, curricular matters, and the creation of colleges, academic departments, interdisciplinary programs, Centers, and Institutes. The Senate also participates in and provides input on decisions relating to the general operations of the University, including budget decisions and administrative appointments.
Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research selected Dr. Sara Bybee and Dr. Julie Valentine to serve as Ambassadors. Ambassadors commit to ongoing contact with and education of Congressional members and staff regarding the importance of nursing research and funding for the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR). They also serve as a resource in supporting NINR’s mission at regional nursing research conferences, and with local policymakers and members of the media to enhance their understanding of the impact of NINR’s intramural and extramural research.
Dr. Kara Dassel was selected as one of three volunteer delegates from Utah to attend the Alzheimer’s Association's Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM) Advocacy Forum in Washington, DC. During meetings with staff members who work with Senators Lee and Romney, and Representatives Curtis, Moore, and Maloy, she, as a citizen scientist, discussed her support of renewal legislation related to Alzheimer’s research and caregiver support funding.
Dr. Schola Matovu was appointed to serve as a member of the American Nurses Association Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) National Advisory Committee. She also mentors MFP Fellows.
Dr. Schola Matovu was appointed to serve on the Selection Committee for WomenLift Health.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reappointed Dean Marla De Jong to its Government Affairs Committee for a second term.
The Graduate School acknowledged Dr. Tek Kilgore's valuable service as an internal reviewer for the Graduate Council academic program review of the Physician Assistant Program. He made a vital and substantial contribution to the review, and, most meaningfully, to the quality of education and the overall academic excellence of the University of Utah. The Graduate School much appreciated Dr. Kilgore’s dedicated time and efforts.
Dean Marla De Jong was appointed to the Search Committee for the Senior Vice President for Health Sciences. This will be a national search open to qualified candidates from within and outside the University of Utah community.
April
Angie Fenton was appointed Graduate Nursing Student Academy Liaison for the University of Utah.
Dr. Julie Gee and Dr. Jenneth Doria were invited to serve on the Conference Planning Committee for the Transcultural Nursing Society’s 50th Annual Conference, which will be held in Salt Lake City on October 23-26, 2024. The conference theme is Envision the Future, Honor the Past: A Half-Century of Advancement in Transcultural Practice, Education, Research, and Administration.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released a caregiving report titled Policies and Practices for Supporting Family Caregivers Working in Science, Engineering, and Medicine, which addresses the under-supported and stigmatized issue of caregiving, and provides leaders in academia and government with evidence-based guidance on how to implement policies and programs to support the retention, re-entry, and advancement of students and professionals working in science, engineering, and medicine who have family caregiving responsibilities. In March 2023, Dr. Djin Tay presented Emotional and Health Impacts of End-of-Life Caregiving and Bereavement: Implications for Family Caregivers in Academia and STEM at the Policies and Practices for Supporting Family Caregivers Working in Science, Engineering, and Medicine: Symposium 2. Dr. Tay and other presenters provided expert guidance to an expert committee of NASEM who wrote the report.
March
Dr. Rebekah Perkins was selected to serve as Advisor for the Alpha Chi Chapter of Sigma Phi Omega!
Dr. Schola Matovu was elected to serve a 3-year term on the Western Institute of Nursing’s Nominating Committee.
Dean Marla De Jong was appointed to the University’s Operational Excellence Deans Taskforce. In an effort to modernize and enhance operations, University of Utah leaders are considering new shared service models and administrative structures. The taskforce will serve as a platform for gathering feedback, addressing challenges, aligning academic objectives, collaborating across academic units, and exploring opportunities for improvement.
Angie Fenton was appointed Graduate Nursing Student Academy Liaison for the University of Utah.
Dr. Julie Gee and Dr. Jenneth Doria were invited to serve on the Conference Planning Committee for the Transcultural Nursing Society’s 50th Annual Conference, which will be held in Salt Lake City on October 23-26, 2024. The conference theme is Envision the Future, Honor the Past: A Half-Century of Advancement in Transcultural Practice, Education, Research, and Administration.
Angie Fenton has been selected as a member of the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses Governmental Affairs Strategic Work Team (SWT). The Governmental Affairs SWT monitors and reviews federal and state laws, regulations, and administrative actions affecting perianesthesia nursing and its practice. This position is a one-year term and includes serving as a liaison for local chapters.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson co-leads the Menopause Study Group at White Pine Circle. Group members meet monthly and discuss difficult cases and current research on menopause. With more than 70 members, it is one of the largest study groups in White Pine Circle.
February
Amanda Keddington gave a guest lecture titled Stop the Bleed at the Career and Technical Education program in the Salt Lake School District. The lecture was intended for high school juniors pursuing a career in health science. Amanda partnered with Jamie Troyer, the U Health Trauma Education Outreach & Injury Prevention Coordinator, who provided materials for the class. It was a great experience for Amanda to share her knowledge and help students learn about this important topic.
On February 9, 2024, Dr. John Nerges spoke to the students at Jordan High School about careers in healthcare and nursing. Mr. Jack Hyer sent the following message: “John came and spoke to our Latinos in Action class at Jordan High School today. He delivered an engaging presentation on his experience in his careers in the military and in nursing. The students were engaged and asked lots of questions about his experiences, and he was able to give great answers in response. There was a great discussion on college, programs offered, careers, etc. It was a great community connection with our high school for the University of Utah, and we would gladly welcome him back.”
The Utah Nurses Association held Nurses Day at the Legislature 2024 on February 9, 2024. Speaking as nurses and not on behalf of the University of Utah, faculty summarized legislation. Schedules permitting, those who sponsored the Bills joined the conversation.
- Dr. Zoe Robbins summarized HB 378 First Responder Mental Health Services (Representative Ryan Wilcox)
- Dr. Teresa Garrett summarized HB 58 International Licensing Amendments (Representative A. Cory Maloy)
- Dean Marla De Jong summarized HB 261 Equal Opportunity Initiatives (Representative Katy Hall)
Drs. Diane Chapman, Mandy Al-Khudairi, Zoe Robbins, and Doctor of Nursing Practice students, Lisa Bell and Hailey Sommerfield, attended the 2024 AANP Health Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. Utah was formally recognized for its recent move to 'green,' meaning that Utah is a full-practice authority state in which nurse practitioners may practice to the full extent of their experience and education. The group met with staff in Senator Mitt Romney and Senator Mike Lee's offices, as well as district representatives.
January
Dr. Lee Ellington has been elected to represent the College of Nursing on the Academic Senate through May 15, 2024.
Funded by a College of Nursing Global Health grant, Drs. Deanna Kepka, Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and Ivette Lopez traveled to Puerto Rico in December 2023. Their objective was to establish connections and gain insights into how their expertise could enhance women's health outcomes on the island. They are establishing relationships with faculty at the University of Puerto Rico, including the College of Nursing, the Centro Comprensivo de Cancer, and the University Sagrado Corazón. In addition, they are developing a community-academic relationship with Pro Familias. They will pilot test Sin Reglas (‘without periods, without limits’), which is MENOGAP in Spanish, and which Community Health Workers will deliver.
Dr. Caroline Stephens – representing the Utah C-Pops (Caregiving Population Science) Group, including Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Djin Tay, Dr. Erin Bouldin, Dr. Ken Smith, Dr. Amy Cizik, Rebecca Goodwin, Pamela Barrientos, and Dr. Katherine Ornstein – has been invited to showcase innovative Utah Population Database end-of-life caregiving work to Dr. Susan Gregurick, the Director of the National Institutes of Health Office of Data Science Strategy.
Kudos from 2023
For the past 75 years, the College of Nursing has unified and inspired educators, scientists, clinicians, staff, and students to design, lead, and achieve improvements for the well-being of all. Mindy Francis led work to create a special College of Nursing exhibit that is on display on the first floor atrium of the J. Willard Marriott Library through October 9, 2023, as well as a digital exhibit. During hours in which the library is open to the public, the exhibit enables visitors to experience the evolution of the College through captivating images, from past and present. The following people contributed to designing, preparing, and publicizing the exhibit:
- Mary Wheeler and Miriam Lovin
- J. Willard Marriott Library faculty and staff, including Special Collections – Dallas Alder, Allison Allred, Gabriell Barker, Scott Bigler, Heidi Brett, Sara Davis, Ian Godfrey, Alex Goff, and Sadaf Rahimi
- Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library staff – Bryan Hull, Carmin Smoot, Peter Strohmeyer, Mike Thelin, and Elaine Thornton
- Vianney Alcala
- Debbie Boulter
- College of Nursing Professor Emeritus Dr. Beth Vaughan Cole
- Katie Cummock (editor)
- Sonja Jensen
- Ben Jones
- DeAnna Lynch
- Carrie Radmall
- Jacque Scheider
- Exhibit Contributors – Dr. Beth Vaughan Cole, doctor of nursing practice student McKenna Craig, prelicensure students Emily Izazaga and Jennifer Paxton, Dr. John Nerges, Carrie Pike, Caroline Twitchell on behalf of the late Rear Admiral Maxine Conder, Dean Marla De Jong, the College of Nursing Simulation Center, and Student Services
The College of Nursing held several events to celebrate its 75th Anniversary.
- Psychiatric Mental Health Reunion
- College of Nursing Simulation Center Open House
- 75th Anniversary Gala
- Laser Drone Show
- Half Century Society Induction & Alumni Award Luncheon
- Homecoming Alumni Tailgate Led by Miriam Lovin, Mindy Francis, and Mary Wheeler, many persons from the College of Nursing, University of Utah, University of Utah Health, and the community planned and carried out these events.
College of Nursing
- Yvonne Bass, Will Biesinger, Debbie Boulter, Ann Butt, Bobby Cody, Beth Cole, Terese Cracroft, Lynn Dixon, Kenzie Fong, Adryenne Huo, Trisha Jensen, President, Sherri Kerney, Shelli King , Mike McIntosh, Lee Moss, Henri Sasa , Deidre Schoenfeld, Mandy Thomson, Annie Williams, Eren Yaman , Dean Marla De Jong.
University of Utah
- Brooke Abel, Assistant Director of Major Gifts, University of Utah Advancement, and University of Utah Athletics, Dallan Alder, J. Willard Marriott Library, Allison Allred, J. Willard Marriott Library, Jeff Bagley, Chief Creative Officer, University Marketing & Communications, Cate Baker, Private Events Coordinator, Ken Garff University Club, Scott Bigler, J. Willard Marriott Library, Michael Bigler, J. Willard Marriott Library, Joe Borgenicht, Senior Director, Strategic Communications, University of Utah Health, Kris Bosman, Chief Alumni Relations Officer, University of Utah Office of Alumni Relations, Heidi Brett, J. Willard Marriott Library, Sara Davis, J. Willard Marriott Library, Kendall Eisenberg, Events Manager, Rice-Eccles Stadium, Kellie Esters, Senior Executive Director of Advancement, University of Utah Health, Curt Garner, Poll Sound, Ian Godrey, J. Willard Marriott Library, Steve Griffin, Contract & Assignment Photography, Zack Gutierrez, Tech Services Manager, Rice-Eccles Stadium, Jeff Hanson, Executive Producer/Writer, University Marketing & Communications, Hillary Hettich, Account Executive/Copywriter, University Marketing & Communications, Ali Jackson, Event Sales Director, Ken Garff University Club, Kristan Jacobsen, Contract & Assignment Photography, Aaron Lovell, Associate Director, Marketing, University of Utah Health, Keaten McDonald, Associate Director of Events, Rice-Eccles Stadium, Cory Nelson, Senior Advancement Director, Alumni Engagement, University of Utah Office of Alumni Relations, Mary Neville, Advancement Officer, School of Dentistry, Eric Nhem, Executive Assistant, School of Dentistry, Open Sky Productions, Drone Company, Jessica Peterson, Senior Strategic Communications Manager, University of Utah Health, Lala Phunkang, Director of Marketing & Sales, Development, Sadaf Rahimi, J. Willard Marriott Library, James Swensen, Skymail, Carmin Smoot, Digital Publishing Coordinator, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, Anna Tibbitts, Director of Advancement, College of Health, Wesley Thomas, Owner, YUMI, Elaine Thorton, Assistant Director for the History of Health Sciences Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, Aaron White, Director, Stadium and Arena Events, Rice-Eccles Stadium, Cayley Wintch, Special Events Coordinator, Thomas S. Monson Center Generous Sponsors of the Gala and Laser Drone Show, Annette Cumming, Cumming Foundation, Claire Dumke-Ryberg and Steve Ryberg, Tim and Candace Dee.
December
The Family Caregiving Collaborative hosted its 2nd annual forum titled United for Those Who Care: Caregiver and Clinician Mental Health Forum on December 6. There was a special morning session for mental health clinicians in training; the afternoon session was open to the public. More than 140 attendees participated and learned from the following distinguished presenters:
- Christine Crawford –Director of Medical Student Education and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine; adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist who practices at the Boston Medical Center Child & Adolescent Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic
- Glen Kreiner –Chair of the Department of Management and L.S. Skaggs Presidential Chair of Business Ethics at the University of Utah; member of the national leadership team for Stop Stigma Together
- Utah State Senators Karen Kwan and Jen Plumb, Utah State Representative Steve Eliason, and former Utah State Senator Brian Shiozawa, and
- Most importantly, family caregiver panelists regarding the needs of family caregivers of persons with a mental health condition.
The Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI) and Behavioral Health Innovation and Dissemination Center (BHIDC) co-sponsored the event, along with community partner, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)-Utah. Program planning committee members included Dr. Lee Ellington (Chair), Dr. Lynn Reinke (Co-Chair), Dr. Liz Green (leader and presenter for the training session), Christine Moua (Event Coordinator), James Ashworth (HMHI), Brian Baucom (BHIDC),and Robin Holcomb (NAMI-Utah).Miriam Lovinand Mindy Francisalso supported the forum.
November
Those who planned and produced the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma induction ceremony included: Dr. Julie Gee(President), Dr. Frances Johnson, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. John Nerges, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Kelly Mansfield, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Dr. Anna Alder, Amanda Keddington, Dr. Shawna Sisler, and Bronwyn Himes. Dean Marla De Jong delivered opening remarks regarding Sigma’s theme –Be Bold. Dr. Nanci McLeskey delivered the keynote address.
October
Dr. Ally Spolsdoff, along with Mikayla Dalley and Annastasia Beller from Student Services, coordinated and organized a successful Halloween Movie Night event for Nursing Early Assurance Program (NEAP) students. Students enjoyed watching Hocus Pocus.
September
Dr. Jen Clifton, Morgan West, and Dr.Katie Davis participated in the Faculty Wellness Kickoff event on August29, 2023 at the J. Willard Marriott Library. Sponsored by the Office of Faculty and the Faculty Club, the kickoff highlighted programs that promote all aspects of faculty wellness, including affinity groups, exercise and physical wellness opportunities, mental and emotional resources, campus recreation and clubs, and campus leisure resources. College of Nursing faculty and staff took blood pressures and completed other health checks.
Dr. Jessica Ellis and Dr. Erin Cole planned and facilitated a soiree for Nurse-Midwifery and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner students, which was held on August 25, 2023. The event featured food, fun, and bonding, enabling three cohorts of students to meet each other and faculty associated with these tracks.
August
Caring Connections was the designated charity for the Annual Larkin Charity Classic Golf Tournament.The Larkin family presented proceeds of $15,000 to Caring Connections. The Larkin Mortuary has generously supported Caring Connections for more than a decade.Dr. Kathie Supiano, Adrienne Bott, Laura Bradbury, Anna Fetzer, Lynn Dixon, Miriam Lovin, Mindy Francis, and Mary Wheeler facilitated a successful event.
The 2023 Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Boot Camp was held August 3-5 at the College of Nursing (CON) Simulation Center.
- Carly Bonfiglio, CON Simulation Educator, worked last year with Andy Smith, MD, and Liz Quigley, MD, to create theBoot Camp, and revised it for this year. Andy and Liz are both Pediatric Critical Care Medicine (PCCM) attending at Primary Children’s Hospital. This team also collaborated with Vinay Nadkarni, MD,a Professor and Endowed Chair in Critical Care Medicine at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
- The CON is one off our hosts nationwide for the bootcamp. In both classroom and simulation settings, the regional boot camps aim to provide collaborative training and educational opportunities for first-yearPCCM fellows.
- First-year fellows attended the boot camp with two of their Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship Program Chair/Directors, who helped with classroom and simulation facilitation. Fellows came from Vanderbilt Medical Center(Nashville, TN), Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital (Grand Rapids, MI), Children’s Hospital and Medical Center (Omaha, NE), University of MinneapolisMedical Center(Minneapolis, MN), Phoenix Children’sHospital(Phoenix, AZ), Oregon Health & Science University Doernbecher Children’s Hospital (Portland, OR),Oklahoma Children’s Hospital (Oklahoma City, OK),and University of TexasSouthwestern Medical Center(Dallas, TX).
- Faculty and staff facilitated simulation scenarios, which included difficult airway, pediatric advanced life support, shock, and traumatic brain injury. These scenarios required much preparation and set-up. Faculty and staff ran each scenario 3-4 times back-to-back, requiring resetting and trouble shootingalong the way.
- Carly enlisted Pediatric Intensive Care Unit colleagues to participate in scenarios, adding realism and opportunities to practice interprofessional communication.
- Members of the Simulation Team–Carly Bonfiglio, Debbie Boulter, Sherri Kerney, Yvonne Bass, Lori Hanson, Bobby Cody,Mandy Thomson, and Dr. Ann Butt–worked hard to prepare for the 3-day event, gather and set up equipment, use moulage to enhance realism for participants, and ensure that it ran smoothly.
July
The Utah Simulation Coalition (USC) and the College of Nursing Simulation Center offered a Simulation Facilitator Course on July 14-15, 2023. The course provided opportunities for eight new simulation facilitators to learn and implement best practices, includinghow to build a simulation scenario, use simulation resources, practice psychological safety, and learn valuable skills in moulage and debriefing. Yvonne Bass, Lori Hanson, Kristy Gauthier (USC Secretary), and Dr. Ann Butt(USC President-Elect) planned the course, taught content, and facilitated simulation scenarios.
Dr. Valerie Flattes and Aarohi Drabu recently planned and held the annual Nursing Summer Camp on June 20-23, 2023 for 17 middle school and high school youth. These youth expressed interest in becoming a nurse, and came from groups that have been historically marginalized, underrepresented, or excluded in nursing.
The idea was to inspire the campers to consider a nursing career, inform them about nursing specialties that they did not know existed, and introduce them to the student experience at the University of Utah. Attendees met with College of Nursing faculty to learn about the profession of nursing; met with nursing advisors from College of Nursing Student Services and admissions advisors from the University of Utah Office of Admissions; listened to alumni describe their pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student; actively participated in three hands-on activities in the College of Nursing Simulation Center–the highlight of the camp; met with representatives from affinity groups; and toured the College of Nursing building, Kahlert Village, Carolyn and Kem Gardner Commons, A. Ray Olpin Student Union, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, and other areas of campus. Campers’ parents attended a dinner, toured the College of Nursing Simulation Center, and learned about a student’s pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student, preparation for college, the admissions process, financial aid, and more.
This camp could not have been possible without the support and contribution of the following people, and Dr. Flattes and Aarohi much appreciate their help.
College of Nursing Simulation Center
- Yvonne Bass
- Debbie Boulter
- Dr.Ann Butt
- Lori Hanson
- Sherri Kerney
- Mandy Thomson
- Gracie
Panelists
- Dr. Cristi Creal
- Dr. Mollie Cummins
- Dean Marla De Jong
- Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted
- Dr. Youjeong Kang
- Kristen Mahoney
- Yumi Malik(alumni)
- Dr. John Nerges
- Carrie Radmall
- Danielle Rubi (alumni)
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson
- Dr. Josh Wall
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson
Faculty and Staff Volunteers
- Will Biesinger
- Lynn Dixon
- Dr. Sara Hart
- Amanda Keddington
- Megan Whittaker
Administrative Support
- Vianney Alcala
- Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi
- Rafael Briones
- Emilee Cluff
- Rachel Hamilton
- Ana Hernandez-Liquin
- Sonja Jensen
- Shelli King
- Miriam Lovin
- Henri Sasa
- Deidre Schoenfeld
- Dr. Gillian Tufts
Student Volunteers
- Samantha Bolton
- Alexis Chappell
- Ruby Cook
- Jordan Williams
- Shae Wright
The following University of Utah entities supported the camp:
- Center for Equity and Student Belonging
- Campus Tours•Commuter Services
- Housing & Residential Education
- Huntsman Cancer Institute
- Office of Admissions
- Spencer S. EcclesHealth Sciences Librar
- Youth Education
The University of Utah Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Office provided financial support for the Nursing Summer Camp, which was greatly appreciated. Parents and campers provided positive feedback about the Nursing Summer Camp. For example:
- “Thank you for everything! My child had an amazing time and really has opened her eyes to the medical field, nursing in particular. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience for her.”
- “At the Nursing camp, I made many friends, learned so many things and truly enjoyed myself. First,the SIM Lab was so engaging. I loved the team so much. My favorite College info session was when Alex told us how to get into college. Lastly, my counselors really made me feel special and included. This camp made me curious to go and explore more nursingoptions. I cannot wait to pursue my dreams and maybe even come back to be a counselor here in the future. Thank you to all the staff and professors.”
June
On May 11-12, 2023, the grant team for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funded Utah Rural Opioid Healthcare Consortium – Collaborative Care Model (UROHC-CCM): Building Interprofessional and Community-based Substance Use Disorder Recovery Teams in East Central Utah held their first student summit on the Utah State University Eastern campus in Price, UT. College of Nursing members of the UROHC-CCM team include Dr. Linda Edelman, Megan McClure, Christopher Hernandez, Dr. Zoe Robbins, Dr. Larry Garrett, and Dr. Brenda Luther. The keynote speaker was Rev. Michelle Mathis, cofounder and Executive Director of Olive Branch Ministry. Rev. Mathis is an expert in creating faith-based community initiatives in North Carolina and worldwide. Many community leaders provided presentations and group work:
- Association for Utah Community Health (AUCH) • Castleview Hospital’s Bridge Program
- Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness (USARA)
- Mountain Plains Addiction Technology Transfer Center Network
- Utah State University Tribal and Rural Opioid Initiative (TROI)
- University of Utah Division of Public Health
- Utah State University Health Extension: Advocacy, Research & Teaching (HEART)
Student attendees provided positive feedback about the event:
- “I learned how to change my view on SUD (substance use disorders) and that I had some bias I was not aware of. I look forward to applying topics to my own experiences.”
- “The summit provided me incredible content and taught me so much about SUD, harm reduction, and struggles that are frequently faced.”
- “Very informative for me to hear the ‘Voices of Recovery’! I learned about resources I can bring into my practice.”
Kristy Gauthier and Dr. Ann Butt attended INACSL23 – the International Nursing Association for Clinical Simulation and Learning annual conference – in Providence, RI on June 14-17, 2023. The conference theme was Imagining the Future of Simulation.
The College of Nursing Lamp of Learning ceremony was held on May 25, 2023. The ceremony is a tradition in which we recognize incoming prelicensure students and acknowledge their decision to enter the profession of nursing. Mikayla Dalley – Student Services Academic Advisor – planned and directed the ceremony. The Spring 2023 pre-licensure cohort and their invited family and friends met in the Student Union Ballroom for a meaningful evening that included hearing from Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Lisa Barry, Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Valerie Flattes, Abbey Hafen, and Dr. Melody Krahulec. Staff members Vianney Alcala, Mindy Francis, Sonja Jensen, Ben Jones, Faye Leapai, and Miriam Lovin; and College Student Council leaders Anna Eldred, Ariana Marshall, and Lauren Russell supported Mikayla and the event.
Caring Connections team members Dr. Kathie Supiano, Adrienne Bott, Laura Bradbury, Anna Fetzer, and Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez recently held their annual Seeds of Remembrance event for the community. This year’s theme was “Just Keep Swimming: Lighthearted Lessons in Grief.” The event was supported by Dean Marla De Jong, Systems and Technology – Cole Wandler, and Office of Advancement – Mindy Francis from the College of Nursing, as well as by the Caring Connections Advisory Board, Larkin Mortuary, The Rose Shop, and Ruby Snap Cookies. The featured guest speakers were Anita Coyle and Mel Shore, creators of the podcast Widow We Do Now? Musical performances were provided by Cori Connors, Mark Robinette, and Mel Shore.
May
Many planned and carried out the College of Nursing Lūʻau, enabling faculty, staff, students, preceptors, members of the Dean’s Advancement Board, alumni, and friends of the College to come together to kick off the College’s 75thanniversary festivities, celebrate the end of the academic year, thank preceptors, celebrate Nurses Week, and socialize. Special thanks to Miriam Lovin, Mindy Francis, Mary Wheeler, Eden Bennett, Deidre Schoenfeld, Vianney Alcala, Karen Fuller, Henri Sasa, Janzell and Ben Tutor, Mary Neville, Eric Nehm, Anna Tibbitts, Karen Bennett, Lynn Nguyen, Ashlee Rauzon, Claire Martinez, Kendall Eisenberg, Malialole Entertainment, and Meiers Catering.
April
The Gamma Rho(University of Utah) and Nu Nu(Weber State University) chapters of Sigma, and the Weber State University Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), in collaboration with the Cold War Medal Foundation and the Golden Spike Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, hosted Major General (Retired) Dr. Mari Eder, author of The Girls Who Stepped Out of Line, on April 3, 2023, at the College of Nursing. Dr. Eder shared stories of 15 inspiring and heroic civilian and military women whose actions during World War II paved the way for women to expand their roles–today and for future generations. Major General (Retired) Eder presented the Utah Cold War Victory Medal to Colonel (Retired) Dr. John Nerges, and Colonel(retired) Dean Marla De Jong. Mandi Keddington, Kelly Mansfield,Dr. Frances Johnson, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, and Dr. Julie Gee were members of the Gamma Rho Planning Committee.
March
The Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigmaheld “Springboard to Success,” an annual eventfor pre-licensure nursing students.Keynote speaker, Dr. Perry Gee, presented Promoting Nurses' Joy and Wellness. Faculty members Dr. Rebekah Perkins and Tamara Ekker, alumni Rachelle Peltier and Jadea Hopes, and teaching assistantsAbbey Hafen and Ryanne Neville offered breakout sessions, includingNCLEX Review, New Registered NurseExperience Panel, andProfessional Growth and Development. Many CON faculty and staff, including Mandi Keddington, Dr. Julie Gee,Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Dr. Frances Johnson, Kelly Mansfield,Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Shawna Sisler, Lisa Barry, all Gamma Rho board members, and Dean Marla De Jong planned for, hosted, and supported this successful event.
January
The College’s Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-fundedNurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention (NEPQR) program, directed by Dr. Linda Edelman, sponsored the seminar Quality Competency-basedNursing Education:Benchmarking for Success. Attendees learned competency-based education assessment strategies from American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) experts, and networked with peers.The seminar included the following presentations:
- Update on the 2021 AACN Essentials Implementation: What’s Happening Across the Country; Susan Corbridge, PhD, APRN, FAANP, FCCP, FAAN, and Chief Essentials Program Officer at AACN.
- What is Competency-Based Education?Jacqui McMillian-Bohler, PhD, CNM, CNE, and Director of the Institute for Educational Excellence at Duke University School of Nursing.
- Guiding Principles of CBE Assessment Strategies Across Settings of Care; Joan Stanley, PhD, NP, FAANP, FAAN, and Chief Academic Officer at AACN.
Attendees also participated in a tabletop exercise that focused on benchmarking the 10 domains that comprise The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education, allowing them to set priorities and ask “burning questions” toAACN experts. In a combined effort, nursing faculty and staff from the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Southern Utah University, and Westminster College planned the event. CON members who planned and supported the event included Dr. Linda Edelman, Harper Vander Hoek, Megan McClure, Christopher Hernandez, Hannah Moerk, Jacquie Telonidis, Mitchell Holmes, Dr. Melody Krahulec, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Larry Garrett, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Teresa Garrett, Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Dr. Sue Cantarini, Dr. Rebecca Wilson, Dr. Jennifer Macali, and Dean Marla De Jong.
The College of Nursing Lamp of Learning ceremony was held on January 23, 2023. The ceremony is a tradition in which we recognize incoming pre-licensure students and acknowledge their decision to enter the profession of nursing. Mikayla Dalley –Student Services Academic Advisor –planned and directed the ceremony. The Spring 2023 pre-licensure cohort and their invited family and friends met in the Student Union Ballroom for a meaningful evening that included hearing from Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Valerie Flattes,Lisa Barry,Dr. Cara Wolf, and Dr. Melody Krahulec. Staff members Vianney Alcala, Mindy Francis,Ben Jones, Faye Leapai, Miriam Lovin, Kristen Mahoney, and Marissa Smith; and College Student Council leaders Anna Eldred, Autumn Hadley, and Ariana Marshall supported Mikayla and the event.
December
Dr. Julie Valentine has been appointed as the Ida May "Dotty" Barnes, R.N. and D. Keith Barnes, M.D. Presidential Endowed Chair.
The Presidential Scholar Award recognizes the extraordinary academic accomplishments and promise of associate professor faculty members, providing them with financial support to advance their research and teaching. Dr. Nancy Allen has been selected from an exceptional cadre of nominees from Colleges and Schools across the university for this impressive distinction. She will be recognized as a Presidential Scholar for three academic years: 2023-2024, 2024-2025, and 2025-2026.
The Department of Family and Preventive Medicine awarded a $40,000 F. Marion Bishop Grant to Drs. Sharon Talboys (PI), Jennifer Coombs (Co-I) and Deanna Kepka (Co-I) to study prevention of cervical cancer in Guatemala. The team recently completed a 10-day trip to San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala to build local partnerships, experience cultural learning activities, and meet with key public health, medical, and community leaders to improve cervical cancer prevention and control among indigenous communities.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) recognized Amanda Keddington as an Emerging Leader. Emerging leaders are students who demonstrate excellence in their graduate program and excitement for their nursing practice or research work, and who have the potential to greatly contribute to health care. Recognized as future leaders in health care, emerging leaders are featured in the GNSA Bulletin.
November
The George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center had a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation site visit for the Primary Care and Mental Health tracks of its post-graduate Nurse Practitioner Residency. Dr. Gillian Tufts, Dr. Tek Kilgore, and Dr. Sheila Deyette partnered with VA colleagues, advising about the structure and operation of the residency, recommending curriculum, contributing to residency activities, helping write the Self-Study Report, and meeting with members of the CCNE team. The evaluators reported that the VA’s Nurse Practitioner Residency Program met CCNE Standards I, II, III, and IV. During the exit meeting, CCNE evaluators provided a positive report, emphasizing evidence of a strong VA-College of Nursing academic partnership.
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma presented awards to College of Nursing faculty.
- Excellence in Leadership – Dr. Linda Hofmann
- Excellence in Mentorship – Dr. Rebekah Perkins
- Excellence in Education – Dr. Shawna Sisler
- Excellence in Research – Dr. Djin Tay
- Excellence in Clinical Practice – Dr. Cara Wolf
- Early Nurse Innovator – Dr. Anna Alder
- Excellence in Scholarship – Dr. Sara Simonson
Mandi Keddington has been selected as a Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) Advocacy Leader by the American Academy of Colleges of Nursing. As she represents the state of Utah in this role, Mandi will develop skills to engage in the advocacy process to advance priority nursing education initiatives.
Dr. Jennifer Macali was appointed to the Utah Acupuncture Licensing Board for a 4-year term, which began on October 10, 2023.
Dr. Katie Davis and Morgan West led the Flu Immunization Team. Student volunteers included Cassie Reyes, Samantha Scott (Allmacher),Hampton Butler, Isabel Barrera, Jennie Wilson, Paige Beno, Lexie Taylor-Allred, Emma Vernon, Tristan Smart, Brenna Hardy, Tehya Abrahams, Sean Robinson, Dema AL Qassy, Marina Howser, Madi Young, Nicole Halenkamp, Madison Blake, Colton Larsen, Katie Ercanbrack, Sage Migon, Jessie Beecroft, Tessa Cowley, Molly Sugrue, Eve Eversole, Sarah Robertson, Claire Pokorny, Alina Zhivkovich, Maren Speckhard, Jillian Phillips, Lily Prentice, Macy Wilkinson, Junwen Lai, Katherine Sardoni, Shawn Darrington, and Lindsey Vaillancourt. Staff and faculty volunteers included Donnie Benson, Nicole Wells, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Theresa Garrett, Dr. Brenda Luther,Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Jennifer Hamilton, and Dr. Michelle Litchman. The immunization team organized and held 14 clinics around campus, including Employee Appreciation Day, and administered 1,795 flu shots. Including flu shots they administered at the RedMed Employee Health Clinic, they immunized 1,965 employees.
During October 2023 the RedMed Employee Health Clinic team – Dr. Katie Davis, Morgan West, Dr. Lyndsay Wixom, Dr. Carrie Huntsman-Jones, and Dr. Josh Twitchell – had a three times higher provider utilization rate than in October 2022, while earning a Net Promoter Score of 100, the highest score possible. Net Promotor Score is a metric regarding how likely people are to recommend the clinic to others. The average score for the health care industry is 58. Patients provided the following feedback:
- Everyone was friendly and knowledgeable.
- Service was quick, professional, and friendly. Very happy with the healthcare provided and glad I got to show a med student something interesting.
- Very clear explanation during the procedure. Loved the environment.
- Everything was free. The nurses were very accommodating and made me feel super comfortable. Very quick, and totally painless even though it was my first-time getting stitches and I was quite nervous
- He was so professional and showed empathy.
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) awarded Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education fellow status to Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted. Fellow status – the highest class of membership within GSA – acknowledges outstanding and continuing work in the field of gerontology, and carries the distinction of FAGHE. As one of two FAGHE fellows selected worldwide this year, Katarina will be formally recognized at the annual scientific meeting, which will be held November 8-12, 2023, in Tampa, FL.
Dr. Sara Bybee received the 2023 Carroll L. Estes Rising Star Award. Conferred by the Social Research, Policy, and Practice (SRPP) Section of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA), the award acknowledges outstanding early career contributions in social research, policy, and practice. The award was established in 2009 and honors Carroll L. Estes, a distinguished gerontological researcher, tireless advocate for older persons, former SRPP section chair, and former GSA president.
The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) will present Leadership Awards during its 2023 Annual Symposium on November 12, 2023 in New Orleans, LA. Recipients being recognized for outstanding volunteer service advancing the vision, mission, and goals of AMIA 25x5 to reduce clinician documentation burden include Dr. Elizabeth Sloss, Instrumental Contributor and Champion, and Dr. Victoria Tiase, Policy Workstream Lead.
Dr. Jennifer Clifton was awarded the Excellence in Practice award from Alpha Chapter of Sigma, her home chapter.
Dr. Deanna Kepka and her team at Huntsman Cancer Institute received honorable mention for the Carol Friedman Excellence in Comprehensive Cancer Control Award for their Utah Cancer Action Network project titled Using Community-based Methods and Vaccine Registry Data to Improve HPV Vaccination Receipt in the Era of COVID-19. Sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the award was established in 2011 to honor Dr. Carol Friedman for her exemplary leadership, outstanding mentorship, and extraordinary dedication and contributions to comprehensive cancer control.
University of Utah Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion selected Jacqueline Kent-Marvick to receive the 2023 Inclusive Excellence Award: Student. Jacqueline was recognized for her contributions and leadership at the Inclusive Excellence Awards Ceremony, which was part of the annual MEDiversity Week, on October 26, 2023.
October
Dr. John Nerges has earned Nurse Executive, Advanced certification (NEA-BC®) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). “The ANCC Nurse Executive Advanced board certification examination is a competency-based examination that provides a valid and reliable assessment of the entry level knowledge and skills of the nurses with system-wide or organization-wide influence. Typically, these nurses are accountable for multiple groups of nurses and may be accountable for non-nurse personnel and operations. They focus, in part, on strategy, high-level finance, resource management, and system integration. They make higher-level decisions and serve as external representatives of the organization.”
University of Utah Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion selected Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson to receive the 2023 Leadership in Inclusive Excellence Award: Faculty. The selection committee was very impressed by Dr. Taylor-Swanson’s collaboration with and service to University of Utah faculty, staff, students, and community. Her support and commitment to inclusion and equity promote and enhance a culture of excellence and innovation across University of Utah Health. Dr. Taylor-Swanson will be recognized for her contributions and leadership at the Inclusive Excellence Awards Ceremony, which is part of the annual MEDiversity Week, on October 26, 2023.
The National Commission on Correctional Health Care’s (NCCHC) Young Professionals Committee selected Dr. Cara Wolf to receive the NCCHC Young Professional Award. Presented at the opening ceremony of the National Conference on Correctional Health Care, the award recognizes new and upcoming leaders in the correctional health care field. Dr. Wolf was selected as the best representative of an outstanding correctional health care professional who leads by example, inspires professional growth, and commits to maintain quality health care. In addition, Dr. Wolf was invited to speak in a video about careers in correctional health care, and serve on the Young Professionals Committee, beginning January 1, 2024.
September
Dr. Sara Bybee was accepted into the 2023-2024 Utah Health Equity Leadership & Mentoring (U-HELM) program. U-HELM provides mentoring and leadership development opportunities to junior faculty members and postdoctoral scholars from underrepresented populations in the health sciences or involved in health equity research and practice. A new cohort of approximately 14 U-HELM fellows is selected annually through an application process. U-HELM fellows complete a yearlong curriculum of monthly seminars and networking events that focus on traditional academic career development as well as topics related to cultural identity and challenges of systemic racism. In addition, fellows are matched with a senior-level faculty mentor to address issues of leadership and cultural identity.
August
Dr. Catherine Elmore attended the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) workshop from July 31 – August 1, 2023 hosted by the Michigan Center for the Demography of Aging at the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan. During the 3-day virtual workshop, NHATS/NSOC experts, including College of Nursing Visiting Scholar Dr. Katherine Ornstein, provided one-on-one mentoring to Dr. Elmore. By the end of the workshop, Dr. Elmore had created a complete dataset, and defined an analytic sample that she will use to advance understanding of the physical and mental health of caregivers who live at a distance from the care recipient.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was accepted into the inaugural cohort for the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) LEAD Program. The Leadership, Excellence, Advancement, and Development (LEAD) program advances the leadership culture at HCI. During the 11-week program, participants will gain a deep understanding of HCI’s mission, vision, values, and complexity; and learn how to better promote HCI’s mission. The program will foster a leadership culture centered around equity, diversity and inclusion, stewardship, sponsorship, wellness, and talent development. Through the program, participants will hone and strategically apply leadership competencies to cultivate excellence and promote a united effort.
Faculty who teach NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum participated in an all-day course orientation. Kirsten Schmutz presented the Canvas page for the critical care and specialty rotation. Kirsten’s Canvas page was noted as among the best in the College of Nursing. Jane Price commented, “This is an excellent example of an accessible Canvas page using the College of Nursing page template. It contains just relevant information in clear, easy-to-digest chunks. The formatting works well on phones and tablets and is completely user-friendly! Kirsten did it 100% on her own, so you can also! I love this page, Kirsten.” Kirsten and all NURS 3410 faculty are striving to deliver high-quality education.
Academic Promotions:
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Melissa Black was promoted to the academic rank of Assistant Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Erin Cole was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of his accomplishments, Dr. Bob Wong was promoted to the academic rank of Research Professor in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Jennifer Clifton was promoted to the academic rank of Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
- Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted was promoted to the academic rank of Professor (Clinical) in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
Colleague Becky Sunde recognized Denise Reeves on Pulse for Making a Difference, writing "Thanks for teaching our mega class today – couldn't have done it without you and the other amazing teammates! :)" An instructor with the Clinical Staff Education Department at University of Utah Health, Denise taught the Advanced Endorsement course to third year pediatric residents from the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine. The course is part of the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Heart Association’s Neonatal Resuscitation Program, which equips healthcare providers and teams with an evidence-based, effective approach for care of newborns.
"Dr. Lyndsay Wixom was generous with her time, gave a thorough exam, and took the time to ask questions. I felt understood and like she genuinely cared about my appointment. The meds she prescribed gave me a lot of relief. She heard my concerns without judgment and put my mind at ease."
"Dr. Lyndsay Wixom was incredible to me. She was kind and considerate and provided compassionate care while still matching my joking energy. She heard my concerns, and her recommendations/prescriptions helped me enormously."
"Dr. Josh Twitchell had a good professional manner and offered helpful information. Since RedMed is an employee health service, I'm very likely to tell my colleagues that I had a positive experience there."
Dr. Carolyn Scheese was awarded the Reed M. Gardner Award for Faculty Excellence for 2023. An integral member of the informatics team within the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine’s Department of Biomedical Informatics, and of the Nursing Informatics specialty track within the College of Nursing’s Master’s Program, Dr. Scheese is a role model for incoming and current Master’s students, and has demonstrated substantial impact as a teacher and mentor. Students in the Department of Biomedical Informatics and Nursing Informatics specialty track created this award to acknowledge the achievements of faculty members in the areas of teaching, mentoring, and service to the department. The award is given annually after a competitive nomination and decision process supervised by a committee of students. The late Dr. Reed M. Gardner was Emeritus Professor and previous Chair of the Department of Biomedical Informatics. A noted national leader in biomedical informatics, his primary academic and research interests were broad and groundbreaking, including hospital informatics systems, computerized medical decision-making, computerization of critical care, automation of clinical processes, medical informatics education, and public health informatics. He was one of the principal developers and evaluators of the medical expert system known as HELP (Health Evaluation through Logical Processing), and served as co-director of medical computing at LDS, Cottonwood, and Alta View Hospitals.
Dr. Ann Butt has accepted the position of Co-Director of Simulation Based Experiential Learning, reporting to Dr. Wendy Hobson-Rohrer, Associate Vice President for Health Sciences Education. In this role, which complements her role as Executive Director of Simulation and Experiential Learning in the College of Nursing, Dr. Butt will help plan and direct the Center for Interprofessional Simulation-Based Experiential Learning: Key responsibilities include, but are not limited, to:
- Defining and directing the strategic vision and mission for simulation and experiential learning.
- Providing health professional and simulation expertise in developing and designing simulation activities to support U Health’s professional education curriculum, and enable students to achieve professional competencies.
- Creating effective teamwork by leading, managing, training, and engaging with faculty, staff, and students.
- Liaising with faculty, advisors, administrators, and staff from Health Sciences colleges and schools, main campus, and community partners.
- Directing and leading special interdisciplinary projects, and participating on teams and committees that have an impact on the overall operation, strategic direction, and success of the Office.
Dr. Anna Alder completed a 5-day Evidence Based Practice Immersion Course – a foundational course for leading evidence-based practice and evidence-based quality improvement in practice and academia. The Helene Fuld Health Trust National Institute for Evidence-based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare offers the course to leaders, educators, and clinicians.
Dr. Sara Bybee was selected for the 2023 cohort of the Compass Leadership and Management Training and Mentoring Program. The NIH-funded program provides researchers with the training and mentoring that will help them be intentional about managing scientific projects, writing grant applications and papers, supervising people, and addressing other topics that will help them successfully launch their careers.
July
The University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International, Inc. (UPNAAI) has adjudged Dr. Jenneth Doria as the 2023 Julita Villaruel Sotejo Medallion of Honor Recipient. Chosen by peers, this is the highest recognition UPNAAI awards to alumni who embody the ideal espoused by Dean Sotejo. As the awardee, Dr. Doria will be the keynote speaker at the 44th Annual UPNAAI Convention in Garden Grove, CA on August 25, 2023.
Dr. Josh Wall has been selected to receive the 2023 Journal of Emergency Nursing Reviewer of the Year Award. Dr. Wall will be formally recognized as the recipient of this award at the Emergency Nursing 2023 Conference in San Diego, CA on September 21-23, 2023.
At a recent American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) meeting in Washington, D.C., Dr. Mollie Cummins was recognized for four years of service on AACN’s Health Policy Advisory Council.
Angie Fenton earned the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential, which the National League for Nursing’s (NLN) Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program administers. NLN created this academic nurse educator certification to establish nursing education as a specialty area of practice and create a means for faculty to demonstrate their expertise in this role. Angie Fenton met eligibility criteria for certification and passed a 130-question examination.
Dr. ElLois Bailey completed an intensive, year-long Integrative Psychiatry Fellowship Program and passed an exam, demonstrating competency in program material. Integrative Psychiatric treatment focuses on resolving the root causes of mental illness with evidence-based natural and pharmaceutical interventions – including ketamine, nutritional, psychedelic, and lifestyle-behavioral interventions – to treat psychiatric conditions.
Utah Coaching and Advancement Network (UCAN) administrators invited Dr. Sheila Deyette to participate in the Mid-Career Coaching Program. The Mid-Career Coaching Program provides coaching to University of Utah Health mid-career faculty to facilitate professional growth, career reinvention, and access to leadership roles. The program has three components: Senior Leadership Coaching, Peer Coaching, and Leadership Interviews. The Program pairs a senior faculty member in a coaching capacity with a mid-career faculty member to complete a systematic process of assessment and career planning over a three- to four-month period.
Upon the recommendations of colleagues and the dean of the College of Nursing, the University of Utah Board of Trustees designated Dr. Margaret Allen as Assistant Professor (Clinical) Emeritus, effective July 19, 2022.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Lauri Linder was promoted to the academic rank of Full Professor in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Michelle Litchman was promoted to the academic rank of Associate Professor and awarded tenure in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
Based on a formal review of his accomplishments, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng was awarded tenure in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Katherine Supiano was promoted to the academic rank of Full Professor in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Gail Towsley was promoted to the academic rank of Full Professor in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2023.
June
Dr. Kara Dassel was selected as a fellow in the 2023-2024 Class of the Dementia Palliative Care Clinical Trials Training Program (Dementia PCCT). Participation will be partially virtual and partially on-site in North Carolina, and includes a $1,400 travel award. The training directly addresses national priorities for dementia research and is grounded on the NIH Stage Model with a strong focus on research rigor, mechanisms, implementation, and scalability. Participants will develop competence in planning, designing, and executing randomized clinical trials in persons with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.
Dr. Shawna Sisler was accepted into the Physician Well-being Director course via WellMD & WellPhD at Stanford. The WellMD & WellPhD Center offers this comprehensive six-week virtual leadership educational series designed to empower leaders within organizations and hospitals to create positive change at the local level. The training is centered around the Stanford Model of Professional Fulfillment, which serves as a guide for fostering a culture of wellness. Participants will:
- Learn about factors that contribute to provider well-being, and gain a deep understanding of the various elements that influence the well-being of healthcare professionals.
- Explore translational research in organizational science by learning about the latest research findings in organizational science that focus on strategies and practices that promote professional fulfillment.
- Learn how to apply meaningful and practical frameworks to address and track wellness culture, practice efficiency, and personal resilience; and how to systematically approach improving overall well-being within the workplace.
- Gain appreciation for the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in workplace well-being, and learn how diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging contribute to overall professional fulfillment of healthcare providers.
Kirsten Schmutz passed her oral and written examinations, defended her proposal titled Barriers and Strategies to Patient Participation in Early Mobility in the CVICU, and has been recommended for PhD Candidacy. Kirsten’s dissertation committee members are Dr. Andrea Wallace (Co-Chair), Dr. Alycia Bristol (Co-Chair), Haley Bento, Jorie Butler, and Dr. Ann Butt.
Kirsten Schmutz is a clinical instructor in Nursing 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum, the second-semester clinical practicum for prelicensure students. Like all programs, clinical placements are tight, especially in the Salt Lake Valley. Placements for Summer Semester are unusually tight. On short notice, Kirsten designed and implemented an “Alternative Clinical Day.” Instead of missing a clinical day, students meet with a clinical instructor for an hour and present topics, using a flipped classroom approach. In the second hour, clinical and content experts present about topics such as respiratory therapy, aviation medicine, and intravenous access. The day ends with students meeting with their clinical groups for post-conference and debriefing, facilitating continuity. Course Lead Dr. John Nerges wrote, “Kirsten’s vision turned a difficult situation into an exceptional learning experience for prelicensure students. Kirsten’s Alternative Clinical Day idea and implementation showed us how to think outside the classroom box.”
Dr. John Nerges wrote, “I want to take a moment to recognize four members of the search committee. Like most committees, the work ebbs and flows. However, the search committee business is booming and has been for months. Search Committee members Dr. Bob Wong, Dr. Jenneth Doria, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, and Dr. Sheila Deyette have gone above and beyond to make sure the College of Nursing hires and inspires great candidates. In addition to screening applicants, the search committee is responsible to sell our organization to the candidates, as candidates interview us as much as we interview them. Their efforts to improve our diversity and inclusion are stellar. Thank you for all you do.”
May
Dr. Rebekah Perkins will serve as an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) mentor to third semester
prelicensure nursing student, Michaella Lawson, who was selected as a Summer 2023 UROP Scholar. Under Dr. Perkins'
mentorship, Michaella will complete a supplementary project to Drs. Jacqueline Eaton, Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Rebekah
Perkins, and Kara Dassel's College of Nursing Excellence in Education-funded project titled Promoting Age Inclusivity to
Enhance Educational Excellence within the University of Utah College of Nursing. Michaella will conduct focus groups and collect qualitative data to understand the lived experience and perceived barriers that non-traditional-aged nursing students (those 24 years and older) face during their nursing program and at the University
Dr. Carrie Huntsman-Jones earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in Population Health Leadership, from New Mexico State University.
The Salt Lake Tribune recognized the 2023 Utah Top Nurses, including Althea Martinez – College of Nursing staff member and Lead Nurse at the Mill Creek Youth Center. Althea oversees the medical needs of the youth who are in custody for criminal offenses.College of Nursing alumna Lynette Clements –Nurse Manager for Infusion Services at Intermountain Medical Center, Alta View, Riverton, Heber, and Park City Hospitals –also was recognized.
Brett Peterson, Director of the Utah Division of Juvenile Justice and Youth Services, wrote “Thank you CoN for the AMAZING partnership! We are so blessed to have y’all in the work with us!” Brett tweeted about a ceremony during which he thanked registered nurses Althea Martinez and Amy Miller for their excellent work at the Mill Creek Youth Center in Ogden.
Twelve staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2022-2023 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the CON’s reputation for excellence.
- Staff Service Excellence Award: Kimberly Brown, Valois Feneziani, Shelli King, Heather McKenzie, Jane Price, and Cole Wandler
- Faculty Excellence in Research and Scholarship Award: Dr. Alycia Bristol
- Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Diane Chapman
- Faculty Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Schola Matovu
- Excellence in University Health Partnership Award: Dr. Zoe Robbins
- Faculty Practice Award: Dr. Tom Rowley
- Faculty Mentoring Award: Dr. Katherine Sward
U.S. News & World Report ranks Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #18 (tied; #12 among publics) among 169 ranked schools, and is the only ranked Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Utah. A #18 ranking is particularly noteworthy given that the College was ranked #25 last year.
A student who completed NURS 5905 Clinical Physiology praised course instructor, Angie Fenton.
- “Just finished the final. I can finally breathe now… But I wanted to tell you all thanks for an excellent course. It was the best online class I've taken: extremely organized, PowerPoint lectures and accompanying manuals were very helpful, the textbook was great, links to additional videos for modules were very helpful, and I really appreciated the midterm and final reviews, as well as the opportunity to learn from my mistakes on the quizzes. The study guides were a great way to learn as well. Thank you all for being very approachable and responsive. I loved the personal stories and experiences shared in test reviews – they helped as well. Thank you!”
April
Dr. Jia-Wen Guo will travel to Taiwan to accept the Annual Outstanding Alumni Award from the National Tainan Junior College of
Nursing (NTJCN). The award ceremony will occur during the college’s 70 th Anniversary on May 27, 2023.
The American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM) provides annual benchmarking of midwifery practices across the United States. Best practices highlight the top three practices in each category based on the volume of births per year. For calendar year 2021, ACNM recognized BirthCare HealthCare for being one of the top three practices for breastfeeding rate at 48 hours and 6 weeks postpartum, intact perineum rate, and spontaneous vaginal birth rate. The practice also earned the “Triple Aim” distinction, which recognizes practices that meet the Institute for Healthcare Improvement “Triple Aim” of improving the patient experience, reducing cost of care, and improving the health of populations. For ACNM, this is demonstrated by high breastfeeding rates, low preterm birth and cesarean rates, and reporting fiscal variables. These achievements were a result of the combined efforts of Dr. Erin Cole, Dr. Cristina Creal, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Katie Ward, Dr. Karlie Porter Masaga, Emily duBois Hollander, Dr. Erminia Martinez, Carlie Naval, Julie King, Claudia Gerard, Dr. Jocelyn Yale, Abigail Rizk, Dr. Paige Miller, Dr. Isabelle Armstrong, Dr. Christina Whiting, Dr. Danica Loveridge, Dr. Naima Mohamed, Christina Elmore, and Dr. Susanna Cohen.
CON providers and staff, Carrie Huntsman-Jones, Dr. Lyndsay Wixom, Dr. Joshua Twitchell, and Dr. Katie Davis, and
Patient Care Coordinator Morgan West received the following accolades for their work at the RedMed Employee Health Clinic:
- “Easy to get in and great care! Awesome employee benefit!”
- “The staff at the clinic were very positive, kind, and very understanding. I was nervous because of my situation, but the staff
put me to ease. They answered my questions and treated me like a person.” - “Great experience. It was easy to schedule a visit. The clinic was conveniently located. The staff was friendly, attentive, and
explained everything thoroughly.” - “Redmed and their team of providers are the best. Prompt, friendly, caring, and knowledgeable.”
- “I received great attention, and was treated with a lot of respect and kindness”
- “It was a positive environment. I loved the decorations, the staff, and how easy it was to set an appointment. I also enjoyed
working with the student nurse.”
The University of Utah Academy of Health Science Educators selected Dr. Timothy Farrell, Dr. Linda Edelman, and Dr. Kara
Dassel to receive the 2023 Interprofessional Educational Team Award on behalf of the Utah Geriatrics Education Consortium
(UGEC). The UGEC is a Health Resources and Services Administration funded Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program that
aims “to improve health outcomes for older adults by developing a healthcare workforce that maximizes patient and family
engagement, and by integrating geriatrics and primary care.” The UGEC interprofessional faculty team provides health professions students positive exposure to geriatrics and gerontology through training programs and activities that generate knowledge and enhance skills. Most programs are developed by interprofessional faculty and staff teams, and are appropriate for students from any health profession program. Programs include online courses or modules and interprofessional education courses. Activities include individual mentoring and graduate student advising.
Dr. Rebekah Perkins was selected as a Career Champion of the Year. Her nomination included the following comment:
“Rebekah has taken the time to help me identify my career passions and goals. She has guided me toward developing a plan of
action to achieve those goals. Rebekah has provided me with the necessary support and guidance to succeed as a student and in my future nursing career.”
Dr. Barbara Wilson, Professor Emeritus, was selected as a Career Champion of the Year. Her nomination included the following
comment: “Dr. Barbara Wilson has gone above and beyond to support me with my career development. She cultivated my interest in becoming a nurse scientist and helped me receive an adjunct academic appointment at the College of Nursing. Her investment in me continues to positively impact health systems and nursing knowledge.
The NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum teaching team – Dr. John Nerges, Anna Alder, Chris Sneddon, Dr. Will Hull,
Kirsten Schmutz, Jesika England, and Brittany Petersen – innovatively supported student learning in the midst of last week’s
epic snowstorm. In light of dangerous driving conditions, faculty made the difficult decision to cancel in-hospital clinical
experiences. Under the leadership of Dr. John Nerges, the team launched a plan to recapture some lost clinical time. Each
faculty member identified a topic on which they could quickly develop and present a 1-hour teaching session. During 3-hour Zoom sessions held on Tuesday and Wednesday, students met with their assigned faculty member for a 1-hour clinical conference. During the next two hours, students attended presentations of their choice from among the following topics: respiratory physiology, adult sepsis, pediatric sepsis, hypotension, cardiac care, and emergency nursing. Kudos to the teaching team for creating meaningful learning opportunities for their students on what easily could have been lost clinical days.
Dr. Sara Bybee was accepted to the Natural History Museum of Utah Science Communication Fellows Program. The program
provides training to scientists and researchers to improve their science communication, especially in an informal science education setting. Fellows build their capacity for science communication by participating in four professional development workshops as well as three Natural History Museum of Utah public programs. The Science Communication Fellows Program operates in partnership with Portal to the Public, as a National Science Foundation funded program.
Dr. Lauri Linder was selected as the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Undergraduate Research (OUR) Mentor Award and will be honored at the OUR Awards Ceremony on April 3, 2023, at 10:30 AM. The award criteria included record of sustained commitment to undergraduate research mentoring, active participation in research-related activities on campus, and positive contributions to the research and teaching culture of the Department, College, and University.
Sydney Gilliland, Dr. Lauri Linder’s mentee, will receive the 2023 Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Award at the annual OUR Awards Ceremony on April 3, 2023. The award criteria included record of sustained commitment to developing research skills and knowledge under the supervision of a faculty mentor, evidence of independent and critical thinking, active participation in research-related activities on campus, and positive contributions to the research culture of the Department, College, and University.
May
The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) presented the Preceptor Gold Star Award, a competitive national honor bestowed upon one recipient annually, to Dr. Heidi Vawdrey.
March
Dr. Janice Morse is one of 10 University of Utah scientists listed in the world’s top 2% rankings for citations, according to the Scientific Index 2023
University President Dr. Taylor Randall appointed Dr. Debra Penney as Associate Professor (Clinical) Emeritus. Since her start at the College of Nursing in 2001, Dr. Penneymade sustained and impactful contributions to the nursing profession, the University of Utah, and the College of Nursing. Throughout her 43-year nursing career, her work informed and shaped nursing education, global health, health care for indigenous people and refugees, policy, research and scholarship, and interdisciplinary clinical practice.
February
Dr. Catherine Staes has been appointed Professor (Clinical) Emeritus in the College of Nursing, effective March 1, 2023.
Dr. Sheila Deyette – “Dear Dr. D., You were the right therapist for me. I’d been in therapy many times over the years, but this time was different. Who could have imagined where I would have ended up had it not been for the work we did together? I am finally truly me. I finally am whom I was meant to be. It proves it’s never too late to become whole. Thank you so much for helping me free myself from my internal prison. Hugs. (age 76).
Dr. Sara Hart achieved certification as a VTS@Work® Facilitator! Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) is a research-based methodology for facilitating discussions about complex, ambiguous materials, and is designed to deepen attentiveness, curiosity, critical thinking, self-awareness, and mutual appreciation within a group. The VTS@Work® program teaches persons to connect research and theory with cutting-edge topics from organizational behavior, metacognition, leadership and team development, inclusion and equity, patient care and/or user experience, innovation, and more. VTS@Work® Co-Founders commended Dr. Hart for deeply engaged reflective listening. “We are especially impressed by how you adeptly maintained a psychologically safe space. You are particularly skilled at creating and holding that space with warmth yet without judgment, one of the most difficult challenges of applying these techniques and mindsets in the workplace. Bravo!”
The College of Nursing is ranked #22 in National Institutes of Health funding to colleges of nursing. $4,059,547 in new funding during 2022 moved the College from #28 in 2021 to #22 in 2022. We commend our hard-working and innovative scientists, their collaborators and team members, and the amazing Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center staff who support them.
Dr. Jia-Wen Guo was the College of Nursing’s Clean Air Champion in January. She uses public transportation five days per week. To make commuting easier, Jia-Wen uses the Utah Transit Authority’s GoRide and Transit apps to track bus and TRAX schedules.
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) presented the HIMSS Most Influential Women in Health IT Award to adjunct assistant professor Dr. Victoria Tiase.
Dr. Valerie Flattes was interviewed for the EDI Leadership Series.
Dr. Jennifer Hamilton was present at Wasatch Canyons when a “code blue” was called for a person who experienced a life-threatening health emergency that required staff to immediately begin resuscitative measures. A person who was present sent the following email, praising Dr. Hamilton for her role during the emergency situation.
“Hello Jenny, I wanted to reach out and thank you for the effort you put into helping the pt and the caregivers yesterday on the Adol Day Treatment Unit. I talked with Jen Robins at length about the incident, and she kept coming back to how supportive and helpful you were. ‘If Jenny was not there, it would have just been me and one other RN, and I would have felt very alone in the decision making.’ I think that rings true to how your role is appreciated on these units. So, thank you for providing an extra layer of support and positivity to a difficult situation.”
January
Beginning this fall, Dr. Sara Hart and other illustrious faculty from across the United States will teach a continuing medical education course titled Training our Eyes, Minds and Hearts: Visual Thinking Strategies for Health Care Professionals at Harvard Medical School. The course will teach healthcare professionals about facilitating and applying Visual Thinking Strategies techniques and mindsets in classrooms, meetings, clinics, and hospitals. The course may sound familiar to those who previously attended Division of Medical Ethics and Humanities events at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.
U.S. News & World Report ranks online Master’s in Nursing programs. The College of Nursing now is ranked #24 (tied) among 185 ranked schools, and is the highest-ranked nursing Master’s program in Utah. High praise for leaders, faculty, staff, and preceptors who direct and support the MS program, and those who prepared and submitted data to U.S. News & World Report! A #24 ranking is particularly noteworthy given that the College was ranked #38 last year.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson recently completed the first onsite training of a competitively awarded fellowship at the University of Technology SydneyAustralian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine(ARCCIM).ARCCIM is leading an extensive program of empirical research focused upon a wide range of substantive issues around complementary and integrative medicine use and practice in Australia and internationally. As one of 12 international fellows, and one of two from theUnited States, who is mentored by senior faculty, she will lead several data-based manuscripts, and co-author an international state of the science paper in 2023. The ARCCIM Fellowship is a 4-year appointment, and funds annual international in-person training ($20,000 award).
Saskia Prince, administrator at Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS)recognized Alex Hanson, Nurse Manager, and Drs. Tom Rowley and JenniferClifton. “I see you and CoN as an integral part of our team, and although you're officially contractors, you are a part of our JJYS family!!Your leadership, support, professionalism, and drive with the medical piece of our EHR (electronic health record) implementation has been invaluable and is so greatly appreciated. I know this is a HUGE lift for nursing...I'm so grateful Alex, Tom, and Jen are part of our team!”
Kristy Gauthier achieved certification as a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator®(CHSE®)by meeting eligibility criteria and passing a 115-question exam. TheSociety for Simulation in Health care offers CHCS certification, noting that certification improves healthcare simulation education through the standardization and identification of best practices; strengthens patient safety efforts through support of simulation modalities; strengthens organizational, community, and learner confidence in the quality of education; recognizes expertise in simulation above and beyond domain expertise; provides external validation and recognition of individual educator knowledge, skills, and abilities; strengthens organizational, community, and learner confidence in the quality of education; garners local support, resources, and commitment; fosters a feedback loop between education and practice; encourages performance improvement and knowledge expansion of the individual educator; and provides a competitive edge in the community, program offerings, and grant funding
November
The Donaghue Foundation awarded a $192,938 grant to Dr. Caroline Stephens for her study titled Population Science Informs Rural Nursing Home (NH) Resident & Caregiver Health Initiatives. Team members include Drs. Linda Edelman, Djin Tay, Rebecca Utz, and Mike Hollingshaus. Funded from January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, the team will use their Utah C-PopS cohort, derived from the Utah Population Database, to examine how rural NH resident characteristics and the availability of first-degree family affect end of life healthcare utilization and outcomes, and how caring for a rural NH resident impacts subsequent family health. In consultation and collaboration with Comagine Health – their key partner and Utah’s Quality Improvement Organization – and an Advisory Board, comprised of rural community-based clinical, industry, and state policy leaders, the team will use research findings to develop, refine, and disseminate infographics and palliative care training materials for rural older adults and their families, rural NHs, primary care practices, and hospitals in Utah and other rural states – such as Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, and Oregon – within Comagine’s Network. Additional dissemination efforts will take place within the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium’s established interprofessional rural primary care and long-term-care workforce development programs, as well as via regional, state, and national conferences.
PhD student Natasha Ansari received a research grant from the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma to help fund her dissertation research titled Moral Distress, Resilience, and Team Dynamics in Nursing: A Mixed Methods Study. Dr. Kathie Supiano is Chair of Natasha’s Dissertation Committee.
Dr. Shawna Sisler, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted, Dr. Jennifer Macali, and Dr. Jennifer Clifton received a $1,000 University of Utah Wellness Seed Grant to develop and implement an innovative workshop about integrative health for CON faculty, staff, and students. The College of Nursing Wellness Committee is introducing an immersive workshop series on Interdisciplinary Integrative Health (IIH) and its role in modern healthcare and self-care. The series will be offered monthly, blending discussions and experiential curricula. Each month, a different modality will be explored in full – examining its evidence-base, treatment considerations, legal/ethical concerns in healthcare practice, and ending with an immersive experience. The College will partner with the Osher Center and its affiliates to bring in groundbreaking research and efforts in the greater UHealth Community within the IIH space.
September
Multiple Principal Investigators Drs. Jonathan Michael Dean, Jamie Dwyer, Dr. Katherine Sward, and Kevin Watt received a $2,081,355 supplement to their National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences grant for their project titled HEAL (Helping to End Addiction Long-term) ERN (Effectiveness Research Network): Data Coordinating Resource Center. The University of Utah Data Coordinating Center is serving as the data coordinating center for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) HEAL Initiative, HEAL ERN studies. The team will use the additional funding to conduct two new multi-center trials regarding managing sickle cell pain. In addition, Dr. Sward will lead collaborative work with the NIH on the HEAL Common Data Elements (CDE) Program, and Dr. Jia-Wen Guo will contribute as Co-Investigator. CDE are standardized data representations for trial data, and support data sharing and re-use.
August
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services increased funding to Caring Connections from $67,000 to $107,000 to address grief literacy and foster compassionate communities in which all citizens support persons experiencing loss and bereavement.
Dr. Mollie Cummins received an additional $99,775 for her subcontract from Weill Medical College of Cornell University. These funds extend the project Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative until October 31, 2023.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (2021) emphasizes competency-based education, and focuses on the concepts of clinical judgment, communication, compassionate care, ethics, social determinants of health, evidence-based practice, health policy, and diversity, equity and inclusion. The College of Nursing Excellence in Education (CONExEd) initiative awarded Intramural Scholarship Award funding to two teams who will integrate some of these concepts into College of Nursing course curriculum.
- Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini (team lead), Dr. Jenneth Doria, Lisa Barry, and Dr. Rebekah Perkins received $21,600 for their project titled Integration and Evaluation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity throughout the RN-BS Program. The team will advance diversity, equity, and inclusive design within the Registered Nurse to Baccalaureate Nurse (RN-BS) curriculum. Following AACN’s Guiding Principles for Competency-Based Education and Assessment, the team will map current content to 40 sub-competencies that pertain to diversity, equity, and inclusion; develop new learning activities that will enable students to achieve applicable sub-competencies; and evaluate redesigned activities across domains of learning and spheres of care. The goal is for students to demonstrate mastery of knowledge skills and attitudes toward health equity, diversity, equity, inclusion, and social determinants of health.
- Dr. Melody Krahulec (team lead), Dr. Will Hull, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, and Dr. Josh Wall received $18,740 for their project titled Integrating CBE Assessment Strategies through Unfolding Case Studies across Sequential Nursing Courses. The team will identify three common concepts that span the three Clinical Management (CM) courses, and generate a series of formative and summative assessments, utilizing video-based unfolding case studies. Faculty will scaffold the case studies from basic to advanced and tailor across settings, use standardized patients and confederates to play the patient and nurse, and integrate multiple sources of patient data. The goal is that this type of learning will enable prelicensure students to develop clinical reasoning and clinical judgement skills leveled across three courses with multiple contexts.
July
Dr. Gwen Latendresse (program director) received a $2,600,000 Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Advanced Nursing Education Workforce (ANEW) grant. Faculty collaborators include Dr. Diane Chapman, Dr. Jessica Ellis, and Dr. Valerie Flattes. Somer Aly is Program Manager. During the 4-year project, the team will support Primary Care track Doctor of Nursing Practice students who live and work in rural and urban underserved communities, help build out the network of clinical preceptors (this benefits College of Nursing students, whether they’re enrolled in the ANEW traineeship or not), and continue to collaborate with Utah Area Health Education Centers, the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, and other partners.
Dr. Michelle Litchman received a $450,000 G08 Information Resource Grant to Reduce Health Disparities from the National Library of Medicine. During the 3-year project titled Improving Access to Diabetes Information for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Populations, she will create a culturally relevant website that contains information about diabetes in American Sign Language. Team members include Dr. Kathy Sward, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Karissa Mirus, Project Manager.
Dr. Linda Edelman and the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium team received supplemental funding of $116,333 for their HRSA Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grant. This funding will enable Dr. Rebekah Perkins to continue work providing nursing home education and training to nursing and certified nursing assistant students, and to support publishing a supplement for Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $2.4M R01 grant to Dr. Lauri Linder (site PI) and her multi-site team, including Drs. Suzanne Ameringer (PI), Kristin Stegenga, Fiona Macpherson, R. K. Elswick, and Roger Altizer for their project titled A Randomized Controlled Trial using a Heuristic Tool to Improve Symptom Self-Management in Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. The purpose of their study is to test the effects of their innovative heuristics-based digital health resource, the Computerized Symptom Capture Tool (C-SCAT), versus usual care on self-efficacy for symptom self-management and symptom self-management behaviors. The investigators also will examine the effects of the C-SCAT versus usual care on symptom severity, symptom distress, social function, and satisfaction with social function immediately post-intervention and at follow-up.
May
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $666,739 R01 grant to Dr. Deanna Kepka, Kaila Christini, Erin Rothwell, Ben Haaland, David Turok, and Dr. Echo Warner for their study titled PREVENT –Practice-based Approaches to Promote HPV Vaccination.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute awarded a $52,794 supplement award to Dr. Youjeong Kang for her study titled Symptom Care at Home-Heart Failure: Developing and Piloting a Symptom Monitoring and Self-management Coaching System for Patients with Heart Failure. These funds will allow Dr. Kang to pilot the Symptom Care at Home Heart Failure mobile health tool.
The National Institute on Aging Imbedded Pragmatic Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and AD-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) Clinical Trials (IMPACT) Collaboratory announced Dr. Gail Towsley as a 2023 Health Care Systems (HCS) Scholars Programawardee. The HCS Scholars program offers investigators an opportunity to partner with HCS to develop embedded pragmatic clinical trials focused on improving the care provided to persons living with dementia, and their care partners. Dr. Towsley will receive $120,000 for her study titledBuilding an Academic Long-Term Care System Coalition to Improve Palliative Care. She will partner with Nexion Health to nurture a meaningful collaboration that blends research and clinical care expertise to better understand how palliative and end-of-life(EOL) care is implemented in the long-term care system. Together, theywill learn what needs to be done to conduct an embedded pragmatic clinical trial. Using community engagement approaches, they will identify 1) key details of how the HCS currently provides palliative and EOL care for people living with dementia, 2) essential elements of how the HCS would implement a new process, 3) outcomes that are important to all levels of the HCS related to palliative and EOL care, including how they are or can be integrated into the electronic health record, and 4)relevant data available via the Long-Term Care Data Cooperative.
April
Dr. Kathi Mooney and Dr. Elizabeth Sloss were awarded a $50,000 Digital Health Initiative Inspiring Digital Health Innovations
Seed Grant for their project titled Broadening the Impact of Symptom Care at Home through EHR Integration and Implementation Science. They will integrate Symptom Care at Home into the electronic health record, and collaborate with Drs. J.D. Smith, Ken Kawamoto, and Guilherme Del Fiol
Nearly 50 research teams submitted proposals for 1U4U Innovation Funding. With the support of Dr. Mike Good – Senior Vice
President for Health Sciences, Dr. Mitzi Montoya – Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, and the Colleges, 29 projects were funded, which included five College of Nursing faculty:
- Dr. Deanna Kepka, Simon Brewer, Dr. Echo Warner, Benjamin Haaland, and Naina Phadnis: Overcoming Vaccine
Hesitancy and Preventing Cancer Through Adaptive Learning Artificial Intelligence and Refinement of Reminder
Interventions and Campaigns, $15,000. Patient reminder and recall (RR) strategies have been proven successful in
immunization uptake; however, the effectiveness of these strategies varies by geographic and sociodemographic factors.
The current study will be among the first to use state-level vaccination registry data to systematically examine missed
opportunities and identify spatial and temporal trends of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. The work will inform
creation of an adaptive learning artificial intelligence for refinement of interactive RR strategies and interventions. Solutions
arising from this study are scalable, and can be tailored for diverse reminder campaigns, responsive to evolving
landscapes, and designed to deliver cost-effective solutions. Both innovative and transformative, this cross-campus
collaboration will address complex healthcare problems using precision public health strategies, optimized for decreasing
vaccine hesitancy and increasing uptake, and provide preliminary results for high-impact National Institutes of Health and
National Cancer Institute funding proposals. - Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Camille Moreno Isabel Dulfano, and Jeannette Villalta: Addressing
a GAP in MENOpausal Latinas’ Healthcare: Adapting MENOGAP for Community Health Worker Delivery in Hispanic/Latinx
Communities. $30,000. Building upon Ms. Villalta and Drs. Taylor-Swanson and Moreno’s ongoing work to create an
integrative group medical visit intervention (MENOGAP) for peri/menopausal women, the purpose of the study is to adapt a
provider-delivered MENOGAP to a community health worker-delivered intervention in Spanish for Latinas. This work is
greatly needed because research on racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare access and utilization consistently identifies
Hispanic/Latinx as one of the most disadvantaged ethnic groups. Concerning midlife women, Latinx women enter
menopause earlier and have longer-lasting and more intense symptoms than white women. A 2022 study proposed that
some health disparities experienced by Latinx women are likely attributable to structural racism in the United States. The
team aims to reduce these disparities for Latinas in Utah, and with time, outside the state as well. - Zhaoxia Pu, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, and Paul Brooks: Understand and Predict the Severe Drought Events in the Western
United States and their Influence on Water Resources and Human Health. $30,000. The investigators aim to better
understand and predict severe drought events in the western United States and their impacts on water resources and
human health, especially in Northern Utah. Seeking collaborations from climate, hydrological, ecosystem, and health
science, the team’s objectives are to 1) develop improved drought metrics based on the historical records and current
conditions of the atmosphere, land, and plant available water for an effective drought prediction method; and 2) assess the
drought impacts on human health, such as lung health of toxic dust caused by a drought in Great Salt Lake. The ultimate
goal is to provide effective drought prediction methods for the Western United States and identify significant issues, thus
making suggestions for essential decision-making.
Dr. Andrea Wallace was awarded a $50,000 Digital Health Initiative Inspiring Digital Health Innovations Seed Grant for work on
electronic health record integration of the Going Home Toolkit, a patient-centered digital resource planner/application to assist with the social needs of patients during hospital to home transitions. To accomplish the work, Dr. Wallace will partner with the Digital Health Initiative team, the Therapeutic Games and Apps (GApp) Lab, and Ken Kawamoto
March
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases awarded a $923,667 R01 grant to Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Cynthia Berg, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Dr. Jonathon Butner for their project titled Share plus: Continuous Glucose Monitoring with Data Sharing in Older Adults with T1D and Their Care Partners. The purpose of their study is to test an intervention, called Share plus, aimed at improving the use of data sharing between persons with diabetes and their care partners in order to maximize the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring. The Share plus intervention provides instruction to current continuous glucose monitoring users about setting up the data sharing app, strengthening dyadic communication and problem solving, and establishing a data-sharing action plan for older adults with type 1 diabetes and their care partners. Dr. Echo Warner,Andy King, Skyler Johnson,and JaheeYi received a $35,000 Research Incentive Seed Grant from theCollege of Nursing and the Vice President for Research Office for their projecttitledOnline Cancer Misinformation (ONC-M) Framework Face Validity Testing. The team will focus on validity testing of two important tools for cancer misinformationresearch among the general population. Theirfirst aim is to validate a measure of online cancer misinformationsusceptibility,and identify predictors of an individual’s ability to identify cancer (mis)information through an onlinesurvey. With a subset of survey respondents, the second aim is to evaluate the face validity of the ONC-M conceptual framework, which they previously developed,to explain the process by whichonline cancer misinformation influences health behaviors and decision-making. This work will advance Dr. Warner’s program of research by 1) contributing methodological rigor and reproducibility of measuring cancer misinformation susceptibility, and 2) enhancing the representativeness of the ONC-M framework for informing future cancer misinformation mitigation interventions.
Dr. Keisa Lynn and Melodie Weller were awarded a grant titled The Changing Landscape: HDV Reflex Testing and Linkage to Care in the Utah Population. They will assess the prevalence of hepatitis delta in Utah.
Systems and Technology (SYSTECH) received $177,725.93for their FY24 Learning Spaces Proposal. All eight proposals were fully funded, which will enable SYSTECH toinstall new interactive video conferencing equipment,upgrade existing equipment in multiple classrooms, update the bedside and control room computer infrastructure in the College of Nursing Simulation Center, renew the Canvas Respondus license for the campus; and obtain a Grammarly site license for all College of Nursing students, faculty, and staff at the College. Rebwar Baesmat, Mike McIntosh, Steven Seal, and Brent Vawdrey created project scopes, gathered data to justify the projects, obtained required documents from vendors, and wrote the proposal.
February
The Merck Investigator Studies Program Review Committee (MISP-RC) awarded Dr. Deanna Kepka a $256,508.82 grant for her study titled Assessment of Adolescent and Young Adult Vaccine Confidence and Missed Opportunities for Vaccination in the Mountain West.
The Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR) awarded a $1,500 pilot program award to Dr. Christine Platt for her project titled Siblings as Caregivers: Exploring Support Provided by Siblings for Children with Chronic Illnesses. She and mentors Dr. Andrea Wallace and Dr. Lauri Linder will conduct a mixed-methods study to investigate how siblings of children with chronic illnesses are engaged in the caregiving process. The study will help lay the groundwork for future studies supporting children with complex medical needs.
Team members Dr. Jackie Eaton, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, and Dr. Kara Dassel, and College of Nursing Excellence in Education (CONExEd) mentor Dr. Sara Hart received a $30,000 Teaching Innovation Team (TITe) intramural grant for their project titled Promoting Age Inclusivity to Enhance Educational Excellence within the University of Utah College of Nursing. Age inclusivity is an important aspect of meeting the needs of an aging population. In higher education, age stratification is often reinforced in how faculty and staff view traditional vs. nontraditional students. Unfortunately, this reduces the ability of trainees to prepare to work with older adults upon graduation. Age inclusivity has positive outcomes for learning, including improving health, reducing social isolation, and decreasing ageism. The College of Nursing (CON) is an important setting to innovate age inclusivity because of longstanding collaborations across nursing and gerontology and the strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. The team will enhance educational excellence in the College by 1) conducting a needs assessment of age inclusivity, 2) developing training opportunities to improve age inclusivity, and 3) applying for Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program accreditation.
January
Dr. Shawna Sisler, core team members – Dr. Cynthia Garbett, Emily Barrows, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Dr. Nancy Allen, consultants – Dr. Jennifer Macali and Dr. Sara Bybee – and mentor Dr. Brenda Luther received a $30,000 Teaching Innovation Team (TITe) intramural grant for their project titled Our Patients as Our Teachers. The team will design, implement, and evaluate formative simulation training, including synchronous and asynchronous learning components, to 1) build nursing student competencies in addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) in clinical settings, and 2) identify gaps in current undergraduate and graduate curricula regarding nurses’ preparation for assessing and addressing patient-client SDOH in clinical settings. Students also will learn the value of psychological safety in therapeutic relationships, and factors that may be unique or magnified in underserved settings. The results will help faculty understand how students identify, educate, and advocate for patients with social needs and highlight current gaps in curricula, promote a stronger practice of health humanism, and provide information about SDOH education that can be leveraged within and beyond the College of Nursing.
November
Adrienne Bott completed the Project Management Fundamentals Program through University of Utah Professional Education.
June
Now in its third iteration, the Provost’s Banner Project highlights researchers from across campus who are impacting our world. We are proud of Dr. Kara Dassel for being one of the 24 faculty awardees. The banners, which were installed early in May, are displayed on South Temple, between 1300 East and 500 East, and on University Street between 400 South and 200 South and are listed at @THEU. From studying cognitive aging and discovering new ways to tap into sustainable energy to understanding what drives customer decision-making, the researchers of the University of Utah are exploring and developing solutions to issues that reach beyond campus into every aspect of our community.
Earlier this year, University of Utah Health presented Language of Care, an incredible story of how a community of Deaf patients are breaking barriers by co-designing their own care with Dr. Michelle Litchman, members of her research team – Dr. Murdock Henderson, Nic Miller, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Zach Howes – and members of her Community Advisory Board – Lorne Farovitch, Jeremy Quiroga, Dianna Rivas, Tamiko Rafeek, and Michael Tyler. Language of Care premiered on January 23 during the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. The Telly Awards – now in its 44th annual season – honor excellence in video and television across all screens. This year, Telly focosued on “those who use their creativity and ingenuity to Break Through The Static of the ever-increasing ubiquity of video in our lives.” Language of Care received three Telly Awards: Gold award class for General-Social Impact, Silver award class for General-Documentary: Short Form (under 40 minutes), and Bronze award class for General-Health & Safety.
May
Hollie Fuhrmann completed the Leadership, Engagement, and Development (LEAD) program through the National Organization of Research Development Professionals (NORDP). The program creates opportunities for member development, engagement, and leadership.
Dr. Katie Davis praised Jane Price, writing: I look forward to reading Jane’s Canvas Corner each week. It comes with a similar anticipation I feel when I’m doing the New York Times Wordle or crossword. The way Jane weaves Canvas specialty tech into current world events or the local music scene, is literary brilliance as much as it is fun, informative, and engaging. I’ll learn something new and pertinent to teaching using Canvas, and I’m likely to enjoy a little extracurricular enrichment around music or craft hobbies. Aside from the Canvas Corner bits, every time I have asked Jane for Canvas help, even for the most mundane and obvious tasks for someone of her intelligence, she has been happy to help me and done so with a smile. Jane is a treasure to the College of Nursing!
March
Members of the University of Utah Health Sciences Emergency Management team trained Donnie Benson, Debbie Boulter, Rafael Briones, Matthew Brixey, Lynn Dixon, Kristen Mahoney, and Steve Seckinger to use the Med Sled® to evacuate injured individuals from the College of Nursing building. These seven members of the Emergency Preparedness Committee practiced using the equipment to evacuate individuals down the stairs safely. In the future, they will provide emergency preparedness training for College of Nursing staff and faculty.
January
Christine Moua, Program Manager of the Family Caregiving Collaborative,earned a Master of Education degree from Weber State University in December 2022. Her thesis was titled Family Caregiver Support: An Unmet Need for Family Caregivers. Christine cares for her mother, who, as shown in the photo, was very proud of her daughter who works full-time, attended graduate school full-time, and had her first baby, Noah, during school.
November
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma presented awards to College of Nursing Baccalaureate students inducted into Sigma included:
- Eva Brown
- Madison Callahan
- Ava Foulke
- Jane Haddock
- Michaella Halweg
- Amanda Holmes
- Kendall Huguley
- Averie Jacobs
- Erik Johnson
- Emme Keizer
- Mia Knox
- Nelson Kudilil
- Junwen Lai
- Franky Martinez
- Sydney Mortensen
- Pamela Muvunyi
- Ashlee Nelson
- Larene Orgill
- Lillian Prentice
- Sarah Robertson
- Lauren Russell
- Anna Spagnuolo
- Nicholas Terry
- Kaitlyn Walton
- Jessica Wieser
- Jordan Williams
- Sophia Wong
- Mia Woychick
Master’s student inducted into Sigma included:
- Phillip Dacruz
Doctor of Nursing Practice students inducted into Sigma included:
- Caroline Cobb
- Kimberly Orton
- Katy Foutz
- Tahsha Spackman
- Sara Williams
- Kathy Wsol
June
Samantha Greenberg – PhD student – was selected as Reviewer of the Month for The Journal of Urology, and interviewed about her academic background, reasons for reviewing, tips for authors, recommendations for future research, and more.
May
Students enrolled in NURS 3315 Maternal/Infant Health Nursing began their first clinical experiences at University of Utah Hospital and Intermountain Medical Center last week, and made a great first impression. ”I just wanted to brag to you about the 2 students who worked with us on WSC today! Kristen and Sydney were both AMAZING! It was their first clinical day, but they both were eager to learn and quick to find ways to help. They were engaged the entire day and asked thoughtful questions. I wish all students could be as great as these two! Please convince them to come work here after they are done with school!”
First-year international nursing PhD students Malek Alnajar (Advisor: Dr. Kathie Supiano) and Wen Tu (Advisor: Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson) are breaking boundaries. Both received scholarships to attend quantitative methods courses at the University of Michigan Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research. Malek Alnajar received the Jerome M. Clubb Scholarship, which will allow him to further his understanding of measurement, item response theory, and regression models. Wen Tu received a diversity scholarship, and will attendmathematics courses, and introduction courses to Python, R, regression analyses, measurement, and machine learning.
Congratulations to all College of Nursing graduates who earned Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, or Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Nursing, a Master of Science degree in Gerontology, and/or a certificate in nursing or gerontology. We celebrate your academic accomplishments and look forward to hearing about your contributions as you promote wellness and prevent illness, reduce health disparities, shape the future of healthcare to be equitable, and improve health outcomes for persons and communities. Commendation to all faculty, staff, preceptors, and community partners who supported and positioned students for academic success during their programs of study.
Dr. Anna Alder earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in organizational leadership.
Dr. Ben Bersick earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in organizational leadership.
Ashley Cadiz earned a Master of Science degree, specializing in gerontology.
Dr. Scott Christensen earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in nursing.
Dr. Mandi Vlam earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in adult gerontology primary care.
December
Dr. Sara Hart led a podium presentation titled Family Caregiving Competencies for Nursing Education: Recommendations from a National Consortium at American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Transform 2023 conference. Co-presenters included National Consortium members Dr. Kathryn Sexson from the University of California, Davis; Dr. Nannette Cowen from Binghamton University in New York; Dr. Andra Davis from the University of Portland in Oregon; Jennifer Mongoven from the University of California, Davis; Dr. Connie Perkins from St. Bonaventure University in New York; Dr. Tanya Seward from the University of Providence in Montana; and Dr. Hui Zhao from James Madison University in Virginia.
Dr. Julie Valentine and colleagues presented podium presentations at the American Society of Criminology, 78th Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, PA.
- Dr. Julie Valentine, Brooke Stacey, and Leslie Miles presented Non-fatal Strangulation and Sexual Assault.
- Dr. Julie Valentine and Leslie Miles presented Sexual Assault of Victims Born with Male Genitalia.
- Dr. Julie Valentine, Leslie Miles, and Sam Payne presented Sexual Assault Kits and Development of Uploaded CODIS STR DNA Profiles.
Shelby-Jade Murdock, Jennifer Lloyd, Natalya Alekhina, Ramkiran Gouripeddi, Dr. Mollie Cummins, and Dr. Julio Facelli presented a poster titled A Domain Analysis of eIRB Applications to Identify Data Extraction Requests for Clinical Research at the American Medical Informatics Association 2023 Annual Symposium in New Orleans, LA.
The Day of Disability & Neurodiversity, hosted in partnership with the Center for Disability and Access, Disability Studies, and the Universal Design and Access Committee, recognizes the year-round importance of promoting understanding and inclusivity on campus and facilitating discussions on ways to improve access for all. Audra Carlisle, Michael Bard, Jane Price, Jackie Warner, and Sherrá Watkins were panelists for a session titledCelebrating & Navigating Neurodiversity @ the U. Panelists described best practices and learner-focused strategies for creating classroom and campus spaces where neurodiversity is welcome and included.
November
In partnership with the Department of Biomedical Informatics and the Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah Health Digital Health Initiative is sponsoring a Digital Health Think Tank discussion titled Accelerating Virtual Care University of Utah Health on December 6, 2023. Panelists Mike Applegarth, Dr. Elizabeth Sloss, and Nate Gladwell will participate in an engaging panel discussion about what is happening around Virtual Care on campus.
Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Larry Garrett, Christopher Hernandez, and Megan McClure of the Utah Rural Opioid Healthcare Consortium – Collaborative Care Model (UROHC-CCM) attended the 2023 Rural Opioid and Stimulant Wellness Summit, hosted by Utah State University Extension in Price. The UROHC-CCM grant sponsored 25 students from the University of Utah, Southern Utah University, and Weber State University to attend the summit in person. Students had the opportunity to assemble wound care kits, listen to experts who work with substance use disorders, hear the stories of those in recovery, and make connections with others in this line of work. During the summit, Dr. Linda Edelman gave a presentation on Farm Stress: Recognizing the Risk and Providing Resources for the Farmers and Ranchers in Our Communities that resonated with the attendees of rural communities.
To prepare for the summit, Dr. Brenda Luther, along with Hailey Haffey from the School of Medicine, organized a webinar for students that focused on narrative medicine, active listening, and motivation. Students learned about the tools used in narrative medicine and active listening and then applied those in a simulation where they acted as a “provider” and talked with their new “patient” who had a substance use disorder.
The Excellence in Education initiative (CONExEd) hosted a TEACHtalks conversation focusing on right-sizing courses.
- Jane Price provided useful information on how to manage large classes, and use online grading tools.
- Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini led an open discussion about backward design, where faculty keep the ultimate goal(s) of the course in mind when preparing the syllabi, writing curriculum, and planning assignments.
Dr. Deanna Kepka, Amanda Petrik, Emily McGough, Kaila Christini, and Gloria Coronado presented a poster titled PREVENT – Practice-based Approaches to Promote HPV Vaccination at the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences New Grantee Workshop on October 30-31, 2023 in Shady Grove, MD.
Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Nanci McLeskey, and Dr. Ann Butt delivered a presentation titled Promoting Competency-Based Education: An Innovative Undergraduate Nursing Course at the National Hartford Center for Geriatric Nursing Excellence (NHCGNE) Leadership Conference. A unique segment of the course NURS 3430 Nursing Across the Lifespan stands out due to its integration of large-group simulation-based education within the classroom. The objective is to facilitate the development of students' skills and confidence in using the Age-Friendly Health Systems 4Ms Framework to assess older adults and form care plans. Students achieve learning objectives through collaborative work within peer groups, involving standardized patients and their family caregivers.
As an invited speaker, Dr. Echo Warner provided a lightning talk titled Perceptions of Online Cancer Misinformation among Cancer Patients at the First Annual DELPHI Symposium.
As an invited speaker, Dr. Echo Warner provided a talk titled Social Media Use among Young Cancer Patients and Caregivers at the Pediatric, Adolescent, & Young Adult Cancer Research Symposium.
Dr. Cheryl Armstrong will deliver an oral presentation titled Educating Low-Literacy Lay Midwives in Guatemala about Breastfeeding Recommendations in the Era of COVID-19 at the Sigma 47th Biennial Convention in San Antonio, TX on November 14, 2023.
Dr. Liz Sloss, Dr. Catherine Staes, Jordan McPherson, Dr. Carolyn Scheese, Teresa Taft, and Dr. Jia-Wen Guo presented a poster titled Information Needs When Deciding to Start a New Line of Therapy for Advanced Cancer: Are Patients, Caregivers, and Oncologists Aligned? at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Quality Care Symposium in Boston, MA on October 27, 2023.
Dean Marla De Jong and Tammy Austin-Ketch facilitated the Academic Health Center Like Schools Focused Discussion at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) 2023 Academic Nursing Leadership Conference in Washington, DC, and presented themes to the AACN Board of Directors.
Numerous faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students will represent the College of Nursing at the GSA 2023 on November 8-12, 2023 in Tampa, FL.
Workshop: AGHE Program of Merit: Technical and Practical Application Information and Assistance. Dr. Marilyn Gugliucci, Dr. Donna Weinreich, and Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted.
Symposium: Addressing the Needs of African American Bereaved Dementia Caregivers. Dr. Zachary Baker, Ashley Millenbah, Sheryl Fairbanks, Robbin Frazier. Discussant: Dr. Katherine Supiano
Symposium: Using Community Engagement to Develop, Test, and Implement Interventions for Dementia Care Partners. Chair: Dr. Jacqueline Eaton
- A Community-Based Approach to Refining the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) Intervention. Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Dr. Sara A. Neller, Moroni D. Fernandez Cajavilca, Dr. Julene K. Johnson, Dr. Lee Ellington
- Using RE-AIM to Guide Intervention Development and Pilot Testing: Case Study of the TLC Intervention. Dr. Rebecca Utz, Amber Thompson, Cathi Sparks, Dr. Bob Wong, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Alexandra L. Terrill, Dr. Mike Caserta
- LEADing Advance Care Conversations: Development of an Intervention Platform. Dr. Kara B. Dassel, Nancy Aruscavage, Emily Nachtweih,Dr. Katherine P. Supiano, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Eli Iacob, Jordana L. Clayton
- Engaging with Nursing Home Social Workers to Develop and Implement Clinical Intervention Training. Dr. Katherine P. Supiano, Dr. Troy C. Andersen, Laura Bradbury, Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez
ESPO and Social Research, Policy, and Practice Section Symposium: Law as a Determinant of Health: A Social Justice Lens to Impactful Policy Engagement. Chair: Dr. Sara Bybee, Co-Chair: Dr. Kexin Yu
- A Life Course Approach to Identifying Eviction Laws Affecting Older Adults and Historically Marginalized Groups. Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Sarah L. Canham, Nasser Sharareh, Dr. Fernando Wilson, Nathanael Player, Dr. Andrea Wallace
Symposium: Embracing the Queer Art of Failure in Gerontological Research and Education. Chair: Dr. Sara Bybee, Co-Chair: Dr. Austin Oswald
- Participants’ Perspectives on Receiving Results Using Found Poetry: A Mixed-Methods Study. Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Jacqueline Eaton, Dr. Bob Wong
Symposium: Rural Health, Family Caregiving, and Dementia: Characteristics and Needs Across Populations. Chair: Dr. Caroline Stephens, Co-Chair: Rebecca Goodwin
- Dying with Dementia in Nursing Homes: A Population-Based Perspective of Decedents and Their Families. Dr. Caroline Stephens, Rebecca Goodwin, Dr. Eli Iacob, Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Ken R. Smith, Dr. Djin L. Tay, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Katherine Ornstein
- Who Dies in a Rural Nursing Home With and Without Family? Evidence from the Utah Population Database. Rebecca Goodwin, Dr. Katherine Ornstein, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Michael Hollingshaus, Dr. Ken R. Smith, Dr. Djin L. Tay, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Caroline Stephens
Paper Session: Enhancing Caregiver Services and Supports. Developing a Conceptual Model to Assess Active Engagement within a Dementia Caregiver Intervention. Dr. Sara A. Neller, Moroni D. Fernandez Cajavilca, Dr. Julene K. Johnson, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Jacqueline Eaton
Paper Session: Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. Chair: Dr. Kara B. Dassel
- Feasibility and Efficacy of the LEAD Dementia Advance Care Planning Intervention. Dr. Kara B. Dassel, Dr. Eli Iacob, Jordana L. Clayton, Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Katherine P. Supiano, Dr. Rebecca Utz
Paper Session: Recommendations Regarding the Design of Pain Assessment and Management Tool for Older Adults with Heart Failure. Dr. Youjeong Kang, Dr. Yong K. Choi, Dr. Seung-Eun Oh
Paper Session: Intergenerational Health Promotion Projects with College Students
- Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Programs as AAA Age-Friendly Initiatives Partner. Dr. Jennifer J. Severance, Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Barbara Gordon, Susanna Luk-Jones, Jacqueline Telonidis, Jennifer Morgan
Making an IMPACT: An Integrated Model to Reduce Ageism and Support Professional Identities. Amy N. Powell-Versteeg, Dr. Rebekah Perkins,Dr. Scott Ward, Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Dr. Katherine P. Supiano
Conducting a Needs Assessment to Inform Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative for University of Utah Health. Ashley D. Cadiz, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Timothy Farrell, Dr. Linda S. Edelman
Engagement During Post-Acute Care Transition: Perceptions and Experiences of Dementia Family Caregivers. Dr. Ruth S. Tadesse, Dr. Karen S. Lyons, Dr. Glenise McKenzie, Dr. Sara Hart, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes
The Impact of COVID-19: Identifying Wellness Strategies for Academic Gerontology and Nursing Faculty and Staff, in Physical and Mental Health Education and Interventions. Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Sara Simonsen, and Dr. Jennifer Clifton.
Re-Imagining Dementia Family Caregiver Engagement for Post-Acute Care Transitions: Lessons Learned from COVID-19. Dr. Ruth S. Tadesse, Dr. Karen S. Lyons, Dr. Glenise McKenzie, Dr. Sara Hart, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes
CONTACT: An Online Coaching Tool to Empower Care Partners to Facilitate Conversations in Nursing Homes. Dr. Gail L. Towsley, Dr. Alexandra L. Terrill, Dr. Gregory N. Bayles
Predictors of Financial Burden in Two Samples of Adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias. Jordana L. Clayton, Dr. Eli Iacob,Nancy Aruscavage, Dr. Rebecca Utz, Dr. Katherine P. Supiano, Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Kara B. Dassel
Successful Care Conferences: Nursing Home Staff, Persons with Dementia and Caregiver Perspectives. Dr. Gail L. Towsley, Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Shelby Montez
October
Sponsored by the College of Nursing Excellence in Education (CONExEd) initiative, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead and Dr. Alycia Bristol presented Team Teaching at the inaugural TEACHtalks, sharing their story of successful team teaching, recommending practices, and facilitating a lively discussion. The recording and materials are available on the TEACHtalks Pulse page.
Several faculty will present as part of MEDiversity Week on October 23-27, 2023. The theme “Care-4-All Ages” draws attention to the importance of designing and delivering care that meets the needs of every person, regardless of age. Presentations will emphasize anti-ageism in health care and how to eliminate ageism, the designation of U Health as an Age-Friendly Health System, and the University’s membership in the Age-Friendly University Global Network.
- Expert panelists Karen Gunning, Jamuna Jones, and Dr. Katie Ward will present a Women in Health, Medicine, and Science webinar titled Let’s Talk About Menopause!, focusing on perimenopausal, menopausal, and post-menopausal health. They will facilitate a discussion that breaks down the barriers associated with talking about menopause, normalizing the changes that happen to women’s bodies as they go through menopause, and becoming more empowered as patients, providers, and supporters.
- The University of Utah is the newest member of the Age-Friendly University Global Network. Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Jackie Eaton, Timothy Farrell, Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted, Valerie Greer, and Ken Jameson will present AFU @ the U: What does the Age-Friendly University Designation Mean for You?
- James Brown will moderate a panel discussion titled Aging Through an Intersectional Lens. Panelists Nick Brening, Sharlee Capes, and Dr. Valerie Flattes will highlight common challenges faced by older adults from a variety of backgrounds, demonstrate similar threads that all experience when aging, and introduce ways in which all can be anti-ageist to create the best care regardless of age.
- The MEDiversity Week Town Hall will provide a chance for the community to ask panelists about their thoughts and expertise on health equity, diversity, and inclusion at the University of Utah. Dr. Jose Rodriguez will moderate the town hall with panelists Drs. Michael Good, Linda Edelman, Gina Hawley, and Mary Ann Villarreal.
Integrating Social Risk Assessment and Communication During Inpatient Care: Effects on Discharge Processes, Patient Reported Outcomes, and 30-Day Readmissions. Dr. Andrea Wallace, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Erin Phinney Johnson, Dr. Catherine E. Elmore, Angela Presson, Kaleb Eppich, and Mackenzie Elliott.
Effective Communication Interventions when Referring Patients to Community Services for Unmet Social Needs. Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Sara Bybee, Dr. Catherine Elmore, Ernest Grigorian, Samuel Wang, Jorie Butler, and Dr. Andrea Wallace.
Opportunities for Improving Caregiver Involvement in Primary Care after Hospital Discharge: Caregiver and Primary Care Provider Perspectives. Dr. Catherine Elmore, Lisa Barry, Kirsten Schmutz, Mackenzie Elliott, Erin Johnson, Dr. Alycia Bristol, and Dr. Andrea Wallace.
Integrating Social Risk Assessment and Communication During Inpatient Care: Applying the Implementation Logic Model to Uncover Key Mechanisms and Needed Strategies. Dr. Andrea Wallace, Erin Phinney Johnson, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Catherine Elmore, and Mackenzie Elliott.
Dr. Andrea Wallace will serve as the 8th Annual Keynote speaker for the Boston Children's Hospital Annual Evidence-Based Practice Mentorship Program Lecture on October 17. Her talk, Applying Evidenced-Based Practice-Related Implementation Strategies: Translating Social Health Care Priorities to Reduce Disparities, will be part of a charge by Boston Children's nurse scientists and leaders, who also hold appointments at Harvard Medical School, to advance the integration of best evidence to improve care and outcomes for patients, their families, and staff. Each year, a national expert is invited to present their work related to evidence-based practice. Dr. Wallace’s lecture also will include an interview in OPENPediatrics World Shared Practice Forum for Nursing. This high-fidelity webcast is used to connect international nursing experts with nurse leaders worldwide. The World Shared Practice Forum is offered in collaboration with the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies.
Dean Marla De Jong, Tracey Nixon, and Sandi Gulbransen were panelists for a session titled Elevating Employee Engagement: Creative Insights for Staff Retention, Satisfaction, and Shared Governance at the University of Utah Health Regional Network 9th Annual Affiliate Symposium. Dean De Jong described opportunities for partnership with the College of Nursing, Tracey focused on empowering nurses through nursing shared governance, and Sandi spoke about how leaders empower a value culture. Carrie Radmall and Shelley Kern tabled, sharing information about College of Nursing academic programs with symposium attendees.
Several faculty, staff, and students will present at the 2023 International Conference on Communication in Healthcare in Puerto Rico on October 23-25, 2023.
Dr. Cara Wolf presented The Fundamentals of LGBTQ+ Health Care at the National Conference on Correctional Health Care in Las Vegas. This session aimed at improving the basic cultural competency of health professionals who care for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing incarceration.
Dr. Jennifer Hamilton delivered two presentations at the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Pediatric Virtual Symposium
- Genetics for the Pediatric-focused APRN
- Pharmacogenetics for the Pediatric-focused APRN: Things You Vaguely Remember from Pharmacology
Dr. Julie Valentine presented a poster titled Improving Submission Rates of Sexual Assault Kits at the American Academy of Nursing 2023 Health Policy Conference in Washington, DC.
Faculty, staff, students, and alumni presented at the 2nd Second World Congress of Integrative Medicine and Health in Rome, Italy.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Julie Fritz, Belinda Anderson, Camille Moreno, and Paula Gardiner presented a podium and a poster presentation titled Designing and Delivering a Feminist Research-Informed Return of Results to Midlife Women: An Intersectionality Method to Understand and ‘Foreground’ Marginalized Voices.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Autumn Bear, Lauren Ziaks, Rhonda Taubin, Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell, and Melissa Cortez presented a poster titled Acupuncture Therapy for Autonomic Symptom Management: A Retrospective Case Series
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Camille Moreno, Belinda Anderson, Melissa Cortez, Lisa Conboy, Luul Farah, Sara Farah, Julie Fritz, Cinnamon Geppelt, Dorina Lee, Heather Merkley, Lori Pacheco, Wendy Sanders, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Kari Stoddard, Fahina Tavake-Pasi, Jeannette Villalta, and Paula Gardiner presented a poster titled Addressing a Gap in Menopause Care (MENOGAP): Pilot Testing an Integrative Group Medical Visit.
- Belinda Anderson, Melissa Zappa, Brent Leninger, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented a poster titled Evidence-based Medicine Analysis of Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescribing for COVID-19 Patients during the Pandemic in the United States: A Cross-sectional Survey.
Two PhD students presented posters at The Science of Tai Chi & Qigong as Whole-Person Health in Boston.
- Wen Tu, mentored by Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, presented Influence of the Transtheoretical Model-Based Ba Duan Jin Exercise on Glycemic Indicators and Psychological Discomfort of Menopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Literature Review
- Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell, mentored by Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, presented Somatic Movement as a Core Component in Social-Emotional Learning Curricula in Elementary Schools: A Conceptual Framework
Dr. Scott Christensen delivered a talk titled Addressing Workplace Violence in Nursing: Trends and Safety Measures at the 2023 Healthcare Vendor Night for the Saint Louis Chapter of the American Society for Pain Management Nursing, and the St. Louis Oncology Nursing Society.
September
Sponsored by the Academy of Health Science Educators, the 10th Annual Education Symposium is September 18, 2023. Numerous faculty will present.
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson, Dr. Ann Butt, and Catherine Soehner, Associate Dean for Research and Director of the Eccles Health Science Library will moderate the event.
- Amanda Keddington and Dr. Cynthia Garbett will present a TED Talk titled Psychological Safety: The Key to Candid Classroom Conversation.
- Dr. Ann Butt and Ken Johnson will present a TED Talk titled CISBEL: What is it and What Does it Mean for ME and MY Students?
- Brandon Patterson, Dr. Ann Butt, Chad McDonald, Matt Davis, Cole Benson, and Jonah Brooks will present a workshop titled Healthcare Innovation in Extended Reality.
- Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Nanci McLeskey, and Dr. Ann Butt will present a workshop titled Designing a Simulation Workshop to Support Competency-Based Education through Experience-Based Learning in the Classroom.
- Dr. Sara Hart and Dr. Jackie Eaton will present a workshop titled Integrating Family-Centered Care and Family Caregiving Competencies (FCG-C) in Health Professions Education: Small Steps for a Big Impact.
- Dr. Katie Ward, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Megan Fix, Sarah Burton, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Maija Holsti, Tony Tsai, Thunder Jalili, and Kristi Kleinschmit will present a workshop titled Mentoring & Coaching: Who’s Who and What’s What Across Health Sciences?!
- Dr. Jia-Wen Guo will present an e-Poster titled Development of an Asynchronous GENIE Module – Gamified Learning of IPE Telehealth.
- Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted, Dr. Kara Dassel, and Dr. Jacqueline Eaton will present an e-Poster titled Promoting Age Inclusivity to Enhance Excellence within the University of Utah College of Nursing.
Dr. Chris Macintosh will present Mapping AACN Sub-Competencies to Course Learning Outcomes Using Semantic Similarity Scores at the American Medical Informatics Association Linking Informatics and Education Academic Forum (LIEAF) in November.
Faculty will present at the Utah Nurses Association 2023 Fall Conference on September 30, 2023 at Southern Utah University. The conference theme is Reimagining Care in a Post-COVID World.
- Dr. Scott Christensen and Dr. Barbara Wilson will present Finding Solutions in the Workplace – Promoting Healthy Workplace Environments by Exploring Why Nurses do not Report being the Victims of Workplace Violence.
- Dr. Perry Gee will present Thriving in the Workplace.
Haley Bento, Emily Gherghel, and Kristy Gauthier will present Teaching Interprofessional Collaboration in Critical Care: Simulation Strategies for Enhancing Competencies in The Classroom and Beyond: Preparing Students for Collaborative Practice track at the Nexus Summit 2023 on September 27, 2023.
Angie Fenton will present Keep Them: Supporting New Graduates and Preceptors in Perianesthesia at the Utah Society of Perianesthesia Nurses Fall Conference at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, on September 23, 2023.
August
The CON was well represented August 9-11, 2023 at the 47th Annual PA/NP Conference at Snowbird. Speakers and their topics included:
- Dr. Tom Rowley – Assessing Motivation for Lifestyle Change, Motivational Interviewing and Patient Compliance
- Dr. Zoe Robbins – Anxiety Concepts & Care in a Primary Care Setting
- Dr. Keisa Lynch – Viral Hepatitis: Screening, Management, Treatment
- Dr. Jen Clifton, Matt Pierce, Joe Shuler, and Joshua Caless – Human Trafficking: An Overlooked Health Crises
Dr. Jen Clifton was a member of the conference planning committee. If interested in presenting at this state-level conference, please contact Dr. Clifton.
July
The College of Nursing was well-represented at the Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium held on August 3, 2023. The following students presented posters:
- Nestor Chavez: An Analysis of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and Resilience in Prelicensure Nursing Students During a Global Pandemic (Research mentor: Dr. Paula Meek)
- Alycia Colunga: Online Cancer Information Seeking and Feasibility of Web-Monitoring Among Cancer Patients (Research Mentor: Dr. Echo Warner)
- Danielle Gambino: Motivations to Participate in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Among Overweight and Obese Women Planning Pregnancy (Research Mentor: Dr. Sara Simonsen)
- Irene Liang: I'm at the Mercy of the Cost of Food: The Impact of Inflation on Financial Toxicity in Cancer Immunotherapy Patients (Research Mentor: Dr. Djin Tay)
- Rowan Neill: Primary Care Modules: An Effective Nursing Educational Model? (Research Mentor: Dr. Linda Edelman)
- Mya Thomas: Building Partnerships in Uganda to Improve Cervical Cancer Prevention (Research Mentor: Dr. Deanna Kepka)
Faculty presented at the 2023 Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists Conference (ADCES) in Houston, TX.
- Dr. Shinduk Lee, Dr. Sara Simonsen, and Bryan Gibson presented a poster titled Social Influence on Individual Decisions to Participate in a Diabetes Prevention Program.
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Nancy Allen, Lorne Farovitch, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dawn Noe delivered an oral presentation titled How the Broken American Sign Language Interpreter System Impacts Diabetes Education.
- Michelle Boakye, Dr. Nancy Allen, and Kristen Yehl delivered an oral presentation titled Transitioning into Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support: Experiences of Adults Newly Diagnosed with T2D.
- Karissa Mirus, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Ryan Layton, Susan Layton, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Dr. Nancy Allen presented a poster titled Developing Diabetes Education Videos for Deaf Populations Who Communicate Using American Sign Language. Accepted for the Distinguished Poster Showcase, team members also delivered a 10-minute oral presentation.
- Dr. Allyson Hughes, Dr. Michelle Litchman, and Dr. Lisa Golden participated on a panel presentation titled Employ Best Practices for Working with People with Diabetes and Disabilities.
- Jennifer Clements, Dr. Nancy Allen, Alexandra Kazaks, Kristina Naseman, Christina Whitehouse, Mayra Judith Cantazaro, Julia Blanchette, and James Fain facilitated Research Round Tables: A Speed Networking Opportunity with ADCES Research Experts (Part 1).
- Jennifer Clements, Alexandra Kazaks, Dr. Nancy Allen, Julia Blanchette, Kristina Naseman, Carla Cox, Michelle Boakye, Jennifer Rosselli, Gladys Ekong, James Fain, and Patricia Davidson facilitated Research Round Tables: A Speed Networking Opportunity with ADCES Research Experts (Part 2).
Dr. Anna Alder and Karen Stutzer will present Educating & Engaging the Multigenerational Workforce at the Intermountain Nursing Professional Development Summer 2023 Webinar on August 18, 2023.
Faculty, students, postdoctoral fellows, and alumni presented at the 34th International Nursing Research Congress in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
- Dr. Jenneth Doria delivered an oral presentation titled Harnessing Nursing Leadership to Support Determinants of Health, moderated two sessions on simulation, and was selected for a focus group.
- Dr. Jake Steenblik, Dr. Larry Garrett, Alejandro Blitch, Andrew Jones, Gerrit Seymour, Marina Griffith, Sikoti Langi, Jonathan Crump, Carrie Gold, and Dr. Troy Madsen delivered an oral presentation titled Improving Opioid and Naloxone Education in the Emergency Department Through Nursing Education.
- Dr. Kimberly Garcia, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, and Dr. Eli Iacob delivered an oral presentation titled Assessing Guatemalan Lay Midwives' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices regarding COVID-19.
- Dr. Jennifer Macali and Dr. Cheryl Armstrong presented a poster titled Incorporating Sustainability Concepts in Nursing Education: Now is the Time to Act.
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Katarina Felsted, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, and Dr. Sara Simonsen delivered a Pecha Kucha presentation titled Leveraging Technology through Gaming to Increase Student Nurses Participation, Equity, and Knowledge Retention.
- Dr. Christine Platt, Jana Hunsley, Thaddeus Pace, Brennan Platt, Helena Morrison, and Sheila Gephart delivered a podium presentation titled Recognizing Children in the Caregiving Process: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial with Foster Families.
Dr. Schola Matovu delivered several international presentations.
- Empowerment to 500 nursing students of Good Samaritan, International School of Nursing and Midwifery, and St. Mary’s Institute of Health Sciences in Lira, Uganda.
- Facilitators and Barriers to Sustainable Livelihoods for Ugandan Grandmother-Caregivers at the 3rd Global Carework Summit at the University of Costa Rica.
- Grandmother Caregiving Research at the Eastern Africa National Institute of Health Fogarty Fellows Research Workshop and Symposium at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
- Empowering Authentic Leaders through Identification of True Core Values at a workshop to train female faculty of MUHAS. This was a collaborative project between the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Global Cancer Program, Ethos, and the MUHAS Gender Unit.
- Empowering the Nurse Leaders at the UCSF Global Cancer Lecture series, which was held to celebrate International Nurses Day.
Faculty and staff presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC®) in Amsterdam on July 16-20, 2023.
- Dr. Kathie Supiano, Laura Bradbury, and Dr. Troy Anderson presented a poster titled Training Nursing Home Social Workers in the Pre-loss Group Support Intervention.
- Dr. Kathie Supiano, Jordana Clayton, and Nancy Aruscavage presented a poster titled LEADing Advance Care Conversations: Concordance amongst ADRD Dyads.
- Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Kara Dassel, Nancy Aruscavage, Jordana Clayton, Dr. Rebecca Utz, and Dr. Kathie Supiano presented a poster titled Feasibility and Efficacy of the LEAD Dementia Advance Care Planning Intervention.
The Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU) is featuring Dr. Sara Bybee for its Scientist in the Spotlight: Social Scientist program on July 21. NHMU’s Scientist in the Spotlight program is held at the Museum twice a month. Local scientists share their research with museum visitors in an informal, open house format using conversation, pictures, microscopes, specimens, tools, hands-on activities, and demonstrations.
Julie Lucero, Linda Nguyen, Lilliam Pinzón, and Dr. Andrea Wallace delivered a panel presentation titled Setting Boundaries across Your Career at the University of Utah Health Women’s Leadership Day: The Art of Setting Boundaries on June 1, 2023.
June
Faculty presented at the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses 2023 National Teaching Institute in Philadelphia, PA on May 22-24, 2023.
- Dr. Anna Alder and Sarah Wells co-facilitated a concurrent session titled Better Together: Building Bridges Between Emergency and Critical Care to Promote Health Equity.
- Desiree Hodges, Dr. Anna Alder, Nguyen Duong, and Deborah Hurley facilitated a panel discussion titled Leveraging Diversity Toward a Healthy Work Environment.
- Kirsten Schmutz presented a poster titled Nurses Are Superheroes.
Faculty, a post-doctoral fellow, and a doctoral student presented at the 16th International Family Nursing Conference in Dublin, Ireland on June 21-23, 2023. The conference theme was Global Innovations in Family Nursing: Advancing Family Health.
- Eileen Engh and Dr. Kathy Sward presented a poster titled Parents Seeking Information about Rare Diseases – A Dynamic Sociotechnology Theory Scaffolds the Methods Used to Conduct a Study.
- Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Christine Platt, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, and Kristin Stegenga presented a poster titled Evaluation of the Content Validity and Reading Level of Instruments to Measure Symptom Self-management Behaviors in School-age Children with Cancer and their Parents.
- Dr. Christine Platt, Thaddeus Pace, Sheila Gephart, Brennan Platt, Jana Hunsley, and Helena Morrison presented a podium presentation titled Salivary cortisol as a biomarker within foster family caregiving dyads: A pilot study.
Drs. Linda Edelman, Brenda Luther, and Larry Garrett conducted a student summit on rural health and substance use disorders. The two-day summit was held in Price, Utah, and featured presentations from clinicians and community organizations from across the State. The summit was conducted as a part of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funded Utah Opioid Healthcare Consortium – Collaborative Care Model initiative that is focused on reducing opioid usage and dependence in Carbon, Emery, and Wayne counties.
Dr. Larry Garrett presented Building, Training, and Diversifying the SUD Workforce at the 2023 Summer Institute on Substance Use, Ethics, and Culture. The University of Alaska Anchorage sponsored the Summer Institute.
May
College of Nursing faculty and students presented at the Society for Acupuncture International Research Conference on May 17-21, 2023 in New York City, NY. The conference theme was From Mechanism to Patient-Centered Care: Research in Acupuncture and Traditional East Asian Medicine.
- Symposium: Measuring Patient-Centered Care: Common data sets for acupuncture trials across women’s lifespan. Kate
Levett, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Belinda “Beau” Anderson, Claudia Citkovitz, Lisa Conboy, Kathleen Lumiere, Rosa
Schnyer. - Post-Conference Workshop: Building Consensus – Producing Core Outcome Sets for Acupuncture Trials in Women’s
Health. Kate Levett, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Belinda “Beau” Anderson, Debra Betts, Claudia Citkovitz, Lisa Conboy,
Kathleen Lumiere, Rosa Schnyer. Wen Tu and Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell assisted with the workshop. - Oral Presentation: Volunteer Primary Care Providers' Experience with Referring Guatemalan Patients for Acupuncture
Therapy. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Buffy Taylor, Lisa Bell, Joan Boccino, Mindy Dillard, Caroline Sariah Howell,
Cinnamon Geppelt, Ashlee Taft Nelson, Claudia Citkovitz, Gabby Alvarez, Wen Tu, Dr. Kimberly Garcia. - Poster Presentations:
- Volunteer Primary Care Providers' Experience with Referring Guatemalan Patients for Acupuncture Therapy. Dr.
Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Buffy Taylor, Lisa Bell, Joan Boccino, Mindy Dillard, Caroline Sariah Howell, Cinnamon
Geppelt, Ashlee Taft Nelson, Claudia Citkovitz, Gabby Alvarez, Wen Tu, Dr. Kimberly Garcia. - Training Guatemalan Lay Midwives in Acupressure for Preterm and Post-term Labor. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson,
Buffy Taylor, Lisa Bell, Joan Boccino, Mindy Dillard, Caroline Sariah Howell, Cinnamon Geppelt, Ashlee Taft
Nelson, Claudia Citkovitz, Gabby Alvarez, Wen Tu, Dr. Kimberly Garcia. - Delivering Acupuncture Therapy in Guatemala During a Medical Mission: Pilot Study Outcomes and Lessons
Learned. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Buffy Taylor, Lisa Bell, Joan Boccino, Mindy Dillard, Caroline Sariah
Howell, Cinnamon Geppelt, Ashlee Taft Nelson, Claudia Citkovitz, Gabby Alvarez, Wen Tu, Dr. Kimberly Garcia. - Acupuncture Therapy for Autonomic Symptom Management: A Retrospective Case Series. Dr. Lisa Taylor-
Swanson, Autumn Bear, Lauren Ziaks, Rhonda Taubin, Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell, and Melissa Cortez. - CARE – Health Research Reporting Guidelines for Case Reports. Lisa Conboy, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Kathleen
Lumiere, David Riley.
College of Nursing faculty and students presented posters at the Women, Disrupted: Environmental, Endocrine, Emotional, Equity & Economic Impacts on Women’s Health on May 18, 2023 at the University of Utah.
- Training Guatemalan Lay Midwives in Acupressure for Preterm and Post-term Labor. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Lisa Bell,
Mindy Dillard, Joan Boccino, Caroline Sariah Howell, Cinnamon Geppelt, Ashlee Taft Nelson, Buffy Taylor, Claudia
Citkovitz, Wen Tu, Gabby Alvarez, Dr. Kimberly Garcia. - Addressing a Gap in Menopause Care (MENOGAP): Pilot Testing and Integrative Group Medical Visit. Dr. Lisa Taylor-
Swanson, Camille Moreno, Belinda “Beau” Anderson, Melissa Cortez, Lisa Conboy, Luul Farah, Sara Farah, Julie Fritz,
Cinnamon Geppelt, Dorina Lee, Heather Merkley, Lori Pacheco, Wendy Sanders, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Kari Stoddard,
Fahina Tavake-Pasi, Jeannette Villalta, Paula Gardiner
Star Jones, Alexia Harrist, Jay Middleton, Dr. Deanna Kepka, andCassandra Walkama were invited speakers for the HPV Panel at the Wyoming Immunization Conferencein Casper, WY
Dr. Kara Dassel will co-facilitate a workshop titled What if? The importance of Planning Ahead at Lynden Legacy Foundation's Caregiver Seminar & Workshops 2023 on May 20, 2023.
Faculty, students, and alumni presented at the American College of Nurse-Midwives 68th Annual Meeting & Exhibition on May 7-9, 2023, in Orlando, FL. The conference theme was Reimagine & Rebuild.
- Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Ryoko Kausler, Uma Dorn, Dr.Sara Simonsen, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Marcela Smid, Marcia Williams, and Kristen Weissinger delivered apodium presentation titled Randomized Trial of Telehealth Group Intervention to Reduce Perinatal Depressive Symptoms in Diverse Populations
- Dr. Ryoko Kausler, Dr.Gwen Latendresse, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Marcela Smid, Jane Grassley, and Dr. Kathie Supiano presented a poster titled Feasibility andAcceptability of a Remote-Access Intervention among Women with Perinatal Depression/Anxiety and Substance Use Risk.
Dr. Scott Christensen was invited to deliver a podium presentation titled Safety and Violence in the Clinical Workplace at the 18th Annual Hoag Embracing Excellence in Oncology Nursing Practice Conference on June 2-3, 2023 in Huntington Beach, CA.
Dr. Deanna Kepka presented a digital poster titled Higher Levels of HPV Vaccine Hesitancy Among Rural Hispanic Young Adults in The Western U.S. at the 35th International Papillomavirus Conference.
Dr. Christina Wilson, Dr. Sara Bybee, and Land Gardinier presented a poster titled Good Cancer Care is Gender-affirming Care for Transgender Individuals with Gendered Cancers: A Scoping Review at Cleveland Clinic’s 18th Annual Clinical Nursing Research Conference.
Dean Marla De Jong delivered a presentation about the College of Nursing at University of Utah Alumni Luncheon in St. George, UT on April 18, 2023.
Faculty helped plan and presented at the Utah Nurse Practitioners’ (UNP) 28th Annual Pharmacology Conference in Park City, UT.
- Conference Co-Chairs: Dr. Mandy Al-Khudairi and Kim Bayless
- Conference Committee members include Dr. Katie Davis
- Dr. ElLois Bailey delivered a podium presentation titled Exploring an Integrative Medicine Approach to the Treatment of Mental Health Disorders
- Dr. Heidi Vawdrey delivered a podium presentation titled So, what else are you taking? Unraveling the Risks and Benefits of Common OTC Dietary Supplements
- Dr. Heidi Vawdrey delivered a podium presentation titled Workup and Management of Thyroid Disorders in Primary Care
Faculty presented at the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) 49th Annual Conference on April 26-30, 2023 in Orlando, FL. The conference theme was Momentum and Sustainability in Advancing NP Education.
- Dr. Diane Chapman, Dr. Debra Penney, and Dr. Jia-Wen Guo delivered a podium presentation titled Curricular Approaches to Support Refugee Health Mentoring in the Community Setting
- Dr. Tom Rowley, Dr. Diane Chapman, and Dr. Eli Iacob presented a poster titled Augmenting Course Curriculum with Online Health Learning Platforms: An Evaluation of Student Use, Satisfaction, Confidence and Application of Course Material
Faculty, students, and alumni will present at the American College of Nurse-Midwives 68th Annual Meeting & Exhibition on May 7-9, 2023, in Orlando, FL. The conference theme is Reimagine & Rebuild.
- DNP student Lisa Bell, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and Dr. Kimberly Garcia will present a poster titled Pilot Study with Guatemalan Lay Midwives about Acupressure to Encourage or Discourage Labor
- Lisa Bell, Dr. Kimberly Garcia, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and Dr. Buffy Taylor will present a poster titled Primary Care Providers' Experience with Referring Guatemalan Patients for Acupuncture Treatment
Faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students presented at the Society of Behavioral Medicine's 44th Annual Meeting and Scientific Sessions on April 26-29, 2023, in Phoenix, AZ. The conference theme was Translating Science into Impact.
Pre-Conference Course: What You Need to Know about NIH Fellowship Grants (F31, F32): How Trainees and Mentors Can Make the Most of this Funding Opportunity. Tamara Somers, Hannah Fisher, Caroline Dorfman, Felicity Harper, Dr. Lee Ellington
Poster Presentations:
- A Phenomenological Study of Lived Experiences of Individuals with Perinatal Depression and Telehealth Group Interventions. Marcela Smid, Marcia Williams, Kritzia Merced-Morales, Ryoko Pentecost Kausler, Dr. Gwen Latendresse
- Mixed Method Approach to Understanding Participation Barriers in a Perinatal Depression Group Telehealth Intervention Trial. Marcia Williams, Marcela Smid, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ryoko Pentecost Kausler, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Gwen Latendresse
- Vaccine Hesitancy and Effects of Rurality among Young Adults (YAs), Western US, 2020-2021. Ida Tovar, Kaila Christini, Rebecca Richardson, Hannah Aanderud-Tanner, Amanda Petrik, Gloria Coronado, Dr. Deanna Kepka
- Trial of Three Approaches to Promoting the DPP: Effects on Risk Perceptions, Self-Efficacy and Interest in Referral. Bryan Gibson, Dr. Sara Simonsen, David Wetter, Roger Altizer, Yue Zhang, Kelly Lundberg, Jon Barton, Marta Valadez, Nancy Valadez
Podium Presentations:
- Randomized Trial of a Group Telehealth Intervention to Reduce Perinatal Depressive Symptoms. Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Dr. ElLois Bailey, Uma Parameswaran Dorn, Carol Hogue, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ryoko Pentecost Kausler, Kritzia Merced-Morales, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Marcela Smid, Nancy Thompson, Kirsten Weissinger, Marcia Williams
- Crowdfunding Cancer Costs Online and LGBTQ+ Equity. Dr. Echo Warner, Caleb Easterly, Austin Waters, Cindy Turner, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Anne Kirchhoff, Stephen Rains, Dr. Kristin Cloyes
- Concordance of Expected and Perceived Social Support among Cancer Survivors and Their Care Partners during COVID-19 Pandemic. Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Sarah Nowak, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Maija Reblin
- Using Human-centered Design Methods to Adapt an Ehealth Platform for a Young Adult Cancer Survivor Group Intervention. Rina Fox, Terry Badger, Emmanuel Katsanis, Stacy Sanford, David Victorson, Betina Yanez, John Salsman, Dr. Echo Warner, Frank J. Penedo, Michael Antoni, Laura Oswald
- Recorded Research Spotlight: Centering LGBTQ+ Perspectives in Cancer Financial Burden Research. Cindy Turner, Austin Waters, Caleb Easterly, Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Anne Kirchhoff, Stephen Rains, Dr. Echo Warner
April
Rowan Neill – Honors and pre-licensure student and Dr. Linda Edelman’s mentee – presented a poster titled Primary Care
Modules: An Effective Nursing Educational Model? at the 2023 Virtual Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Dr. Youjeong Kang hosted a virtual research seminar titled Utilization of Data Science in Nursing Research for the American
University of Beirut Rafic Hariri School of Nursing.
U Health will host the Evidence-Based Practice and Wellness Champions Poster Fair on April 10-13, 2023, and 26 teams of
multidisciplinary faculty, staff, and students will present team-based improvement and wellness projects conducted throughout U Health. College of Nursing presenters are:
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong: Implementing Wellness Initiatives to Enhance Professional and Personal Well-being of Nursing
Academia Faculty and Staff - Dr. Scott Christensen and Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini: Newly Licensed Nurses’ Transition to Practice during Pandemic
after Participating in Nurse Apprentice Program - Bernadette Kiraly and Dr. Frances Johnson: Building Trust, Fostering Growth: The Power of Core Values and
Psychological Safety
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell, and Wen Tu presented a poster titled Women’s Interest in the
Development of an Integrative Group Medical Visit for the Menopausal Transition at the 2023 Integrative Medicine & Health
Symposium in Chicago, IL.
Dr. Deanna Kepka delivered a podium presentation titled Improving HPV Vaccination Rates in the Mountain West at the
Huntsman Cancer Institute Research Retreat: Discovery, Innovation, and Celebration.
Dr. Djin Tay was invited to present a research talk about non-parental caregiving and its implications for caregivers working in academia. She presented Emotional and Health Impacts of End of Life Caregiving and Bereavement: Implications for Family Caregivers in Academia and STEM at Policies and Practices for Supporting Family Caregivers Working in Science, Engineering, and Medicine: Symposium 2. The symposium, part of a series, provided guidance to an expert committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) who will create a report to provide leaders in academia and government with evidence-based guidance on how to implement policies and programs to support the retention, re-entry, and advancement of students and professionals working in science, engineering, and medicine who have family caregiving responsibilities.
Olivia Frazier, Eden Bennett, and Joshua Nay delivered a presentation about Transformational Gifts at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Nursing Advancement Professional Conference in Washington, DC.
Dean Marla De Jong and Robin Newhouse facilitated the Academic Health Center Like Schools Focused Discussion at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) Deans Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, and presented themes to the AACN Board of Directors.
Christopher Stucky, Felichism Kabo, and Dean Marla De Jong presented a poster titled Associations of Surgical Team Communication with the Layout of Physical Space: A Network Analysis of the Operating Room in a Military Medical Center at the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses Global Surgical Conference & Expo in San Antonio. They won third place for research posters.
March
Dr. Mollie Cummins was a member of the Scientific Program Committee for the 2023 AMIA (American Medical Informatics Association) Informatics Summit.
- Dr. Mollie Cummins Chaired the Social Determinants of Health: Addressing Disparities and Bias session.
- Ram Gouripeddi, Dr. Mollie Cummins, and colleagues presented a poster titled Developing a Metadata Description for Publishing Research Data Resources for Promoting their Reuse.
- Ram Gouripeddi, Jackson Barlocker, Natalya Alekhina, Jace Johnny, Jennifer Lloyd, Haddy Bah, Tina Greimes, and Dr. Mollie Cummins presented a poster titled Performance of Containerized Text De-identification (TiDE) for De-identification of RECOVER EHR Clinical Notes. The Nursing Informatics Conference Engagement Scholarship supported Natalya Alekhina, Jace Johnny, and Jennifer Lloyd’s participation.
The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) invited Dr. Scott Christensen and Chris Snyder, University of Utah Chief of Police (Retired)to present Safety and Violence in Health care on April 26, 2023, at the 48th Annual ONS Congress.
Dr. Shawna Sisler delivered two podium presentations at the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners 44th National Conference on Pediatric Health Care.
- Stephanie Evans and Dr. Shawna Sisler presented Lethal Means Reduction: The What, Why and How of Means Reduction for the Pediatric-focused APRN.
- Dr. Shawn Sisler presented Collaborative Parent-Teen Safety Planning for Suicidal Teens.
Dr. Scott Christensen, Shaun Hansen, and Dr. Barbara Wilson presented Conceptualizing Nurse Emotions with Affective Events Theory: A Scoping Review at the Cleveland Clinic Nursing Institute’s 18th Annual ClinicalNursing Research Conference.
Dr. Djin Tay, Mia Hashibe, and Dr. Lee Ellington presented When Hope is Not Enough: The Relationship between Optimism, Mental Health and Coping among Immunotherapy Patients and Caregivers at the Data Blitz session of the 2023 Palliative Care Research Cooperative Annual Investigator Meeting
Dr. Erin Meyer will present a video poster titled Autism: A Parallel Life in a Three-Dimensional Spectrum, which was selected through a peer-reviewed, competitive process for publication on the YouTube channel for the Conference for Global Transformation, an annual international conference held virtually. If you are interested in attending this conference, contact Dr. Meyer to learn about conference prerequisites. The video stars Rachael Hamilton and will be available starting May 19, 2023.
February
Dr. Deanna Kepka presented an oral presentation titled Higher Levels of HPV Vaccine Hesitancy among Rural Hispanic Young Adults in the Western U.S. at EUROGIN 2023.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was invited to offer introductory remarks at the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Control & Population Sciences’ HPV Cancer Center Consortium, which aims to reconnect cancer centers, researchers, and practitioners in a collaborative environment; discuss increasing uptake of the HPV vaccine and reducing HPV-related cancers, and highlight local issues surrounding HPV vaccination.
Brian Jack, Dr. Andrea Wallace, and Peter Yellowlees are featured speakers at the AHRQ National Webinar Leveraging Digital Technologies to Address the Needs of Underserved Populations panel discussion on February 28, 2023. These experts will share findings from their research on reducing health disparities and improving the quality of care for diverse patients through innovative digital health interventions.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was invited to deliver a presentation titled Successful Technology-based Rural Patient HPV Vaccination Reminder Intervention and Social Media Assessment of Strategies to Reduce HPV Vaccine Misinformation at EUROGIN 2023 in Bilbao, Spain.
Dr. Lauri Linder mentored five students who will present at the Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research (UCUR) on February 17, 2023.
- Sydney Gilliland – Usability of the Revised Color Me Healthy App for Children with Cancer.
- Hakop Kardzhyan – Health Narratives of Children with Cancer Using an mHealth App.
- Brianna Oliveros – Qualitative Usability Evaluation of the Revised Color Me Healthy App: Perceptions of Parents.
- Minahil Usman – Pediatric Oncology Patients’ Conceptualization of Cancer Symptoms.
- Haley Utendorfer – Qualitative Usability Evaluation of the Revised Color Me Healthy App: Perceptions of Children.
In addition, Dr. Kimberly Garcia mentored Ella Baker who will present Improving Neonatal Resuscitation Curriculum Using Demographic Information and Preferred Learning Methods from Guatemalan Lay Midwives.
January
Dr. Mollie Cummins, Ramkiran Gouripeddi, Jackson Barlocker, Sukrut Shishupal, and Mary Beth Scholand presented a poster titled Data Science and Teamwork for Understanding PASC: PCORnet™ RECOVER EHR at the Utah 2023 Data Science Day, which the Utah Center for Data Science and the One Utah Data Science Hub organized.
Dr. Mollie Cummins, Dr. Catherine Ivory, and Dr. Robert Lucero hosted a panel discussion titled Perspectives on Adoption of a Unique Identifier for Nurses at the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) Annual Symposium in Washington D.C. Panel members discussed the following key points: People are hospitalized to receive nursing care, and some care outcomes are perceived to be sensitive to nursing care. Connecting the care provided by the individual nurse to the person receiving the care is rarely accomplished because nursing care is bundled into the person’s daily room charge. The nursing profession proposes adoption of a unique nurse identifier (UNI) that stays with the nurse throughout the nurse’s career. Adoption of a UNI is a necessary step in quantifying the unique contributions of the nurse (the value of nursing care). To maximize adoption of the UNI, associates from various perspectives must be engaged to assure standards for data governance related to the UNI are applied, and processes to mitigate discrimination and bias are implemented. Panel members explored perspectives on implementing a UNI, and proposed solutions.
Dr. Andrea Wallace, Natalie Tedford, and Carolyn Reynolds were panelists for a discussion titled Using the Health System to Address Social Determinants of Child Health at the Pediatric Health Equity Symposium. This conference was designed to share the work on child health equity happening at the University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare.
Faculty, including faculty emeriti, presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Doctoral Education Conference.
- Dr. Jennifer Clifton and Dr. Leissa Roberts presented a poster titled Community Collaboration with Diverse Population Leads to Faculty Practice Expansion.
- Dean Marla De Jong moderated the Life-Schools Discussion for Public Colleges/Universities.
- Dr. Patricia Morton presented a Breakfast Forum titled Strategies to Promote Acceptance of a Manuscript.
- Dr. Rita Picker, Dr. Mary Beth Happ, and Dr. Lee Ellington presented a poster titled Partnerships for Educating Nursing Scientists.
December
Garza-Levitt, SE, MacFarland MM, Ponce Gonzalez K, Supiano KP. Exploring the intersections of college student poverty, grief, and racial/ethnic identity: A scoping review protocol. Syst. Rev. 2023;12:235, https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-023-02407-x
Matovu SN, Ellington L, Watt M, Nakasujja N, Young HM. Grandmothers as primary caregivers for their grandchildren in Uganda: Challenges faced and potential for a sustainable livelihood intervention. Res Gerontol Nurs. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.3928/19404921-20231013-02
Mooney KH, Coombs LA, Whisenant MS, Wilson CM, Moraitis AM, Steinbach MN, Sloss EA, Lloyd JLE, Alekhina N, Berry PH, Kang Y, Iacob E, Donaldson GW. Impact of an automated remote monitoring and coaching intervention in reducing hospice care family caregiver burden. Cancer. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.35131
Wall M, Shiver S, Partola S, Wilson Steffes N, Ojeda R. Racelighting in Utah education: Counterstories across contexts. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-11-2022-0328
Cajavilca MF, Dassel K, Portugal-Bouza G, Utz R, Supiano K. Establishing a Spanish-focused advance care planning educational session for Latina breast cancer survivors. J Canc Educ. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-023-02387-5
Cummins MR, Burr J, Young L, Yeatts SD, Ecklund DJ, Bunnell BE, Dwyer JP, VanBuren JM. Decentralized technology use in multicenter clinical research studies based at U.S. academic research centers. J Clin Transl Sci. In press. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/cts.2023.678
Nava M, Christini K, Kepka D, Kent-Marvick J, Digre KB, Stark LA, Davis FA, Lee D, Mukundente V, Napia E, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Tavake-Pasi OF, Villalta J, Brown H, Simonsen S. Do interventions targeting women impact children’s health behaviors? UWH Review. 2023. DOI: 10.26054/0d-jacn-53wd
Razzaghi H, Forrest C, Hirabayashi K, Allen A, Wu Q, Rao S, Chen Y, Bunnell HT, Chrischilles EA, Cowell LG, Cummins MR, Hanauer DA, Higginbotham MJ, Horne BD, Horowitz CR, Jhaveri R, Kim S, Mishkin A, Muszynski JA, Naggie S, Pajor NM, Paranjape A, Schwenk HT, Sills MR, Tedla YG, Williams DA, Bailey C. (In press, 2023). Vaccine effectiveness against long COVID in children: A report from the RECOVER EHR cohort. Pediatrics. 2023. In press. DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.23296100
Wallace AS, Raaum SE, Johnson EP, Presson AP, Allen CM, Elliott M, Bristol AA, Elmore CE. Impact of COVID-19 visitation policies and hospital capacity on discharge readiness in medicine patients. Discov Health Systems. 2023; 2:45. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44250-023-00060-8
November
Goodwin RM, Utz R, Elmore C, Ornstein K, Tay DL, Ellington L, Smith, K, Stephens C. Leveraging existing datasets to advance family caregiving research: opportunities to measure what matters. J Aging Soc Policy. In press.
Hashibe M, Wei M, Lee CJ, Tao R, Koric A, Wang J, Daud A, Tay D, Shen J, Lee Y-cA, Chang C-PE. Incident cardiovascular disease risk among older Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander breast cancer survivors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2023;OF1–OF10. https://doi.org/10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-23-0679
Linder LA, Challinor J. Pediatric oncology nurse-led research and evidence-based practice: Global exemplars to reduce disparity. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol Nurs. 2023;40(5):281-285. https://doi.org/10.1177/27527530231190371
van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Kaddas HK, Warner EL, Fair DB, Fluchel M, Knackstedt ED, Verma A, Kepka D, Green AL, Smitherman AB, Draper L, Johnson RH, Kirchhoff AC. Vaccination practices of pediatric oncologists from eight states. BMC Health Serv Res. 2023;23(1):1215. doi: 10.1186/s12913-023-10160-z
Hartsell J, Staes C, Allen K, Dunn A, Wilson F, Samore M, Shoaf K. Navigating the landscape: Barriers and facilitators in electronic case reporting implementation across public health agencies. J Public Health Manag Pract. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000001825
Stucky CH, Kabo FW, De Jong MJ, House SL, Wymer JA. Surgical team structure: how familiarity and team size influence communication effectiveness in military surgical teams. Mil Med. 2023;188(S6):232-239. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usad098
Valenti K, Bybee S, Nwakasi C, Kano M, Coats H. Palliative care professionals’ perceptions of communication with sexual and gender minority patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049909123121266
Amos V, LeBaron V, Chuong T, Elmore CE, Hamal PK, Paudel BD, Steen A, Chapagain S. Co-constructing collaboration: An evidence-based approach to advance and evaluate equitable global public health research partnerships. PLOS Glob Public Health. 2023;3(10):e0002481. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0002481
Huntsman-Jones CE, Melini J, Steans T. Starting a follow-up clinic for patients who experience sexual violence. J Nurse Pract. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2023.104817
Huntsman-Jones C, Igweobi L. The rise of serotonin syndrome. J Nurse Life Care Plan. 2023;XXIII(4):30-33.
Staes CJ, Beck AC, Chalkidis G, Scheese CH, Taft T, Guo J-W, Newman MG, Kawamoto K, Sloss EA, McPherson JP. Design of an interface to communicate artificial intelligence-based prognosis for patients with advanced solid tumors: A user-centered approach. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2023; ocad201. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocad201
Van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Kadas HK, Warner EL, Fair DB, Fluchel M, Knackstedt ED, Verma A, Kepka D, Green A, Smitherman AB, Draper L, Johnson R, Kirchhoff AC. Vaccination practices of pediatric oncologists from eight states. BMC Public Health. In press.
Warner EL, Hebdon M, Lai D, Smith K, Xiaou J. Young adult cancer care partners: An emerging generation of millennial caregivers. Int J Environ Public Health. In press.
Waters AR, Turner C, Easterly CW, Tovar I, Mulvaney M, Poquadeck M, Johnston H, Ghazal LV, Rains SA, Cloyes KG, Kirchhoff AC, Warner EL. Exploring online crowdfunding for cancer-related costs among LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus) cancer survivors: Integration of community-engaged and technology-based methodologies. JMIR Cancer. 2023;9:e51605. doi: 10.2196/51605
October
Scheese CH, Nerges J, Sneddon CS, Morton PG. Strategies for transitioning from a clinical position to a faculty role. J Prof Nurs. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2023.09.003
Wawrzynski SE, Cloyes KG, Arasteh K, Guo J-W, Linder L, Reblin M, Alderfer MA. Online experiences, internet-fostered connection, resilience, and adjustment among adolescent siblings of children with cancer. Cancer Nurs. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NCC.0000000000001284
Utz RL, Caserta M, Iacob E, Sparks C, Stark L, Terrill A, Thompson A, Wong B. Maximizing the benefit of respite for dementia caregivers: A study protocol describing the development & evaluation of the time for living & caring (TLC) intervention. OBM Integr Compliment Med. 2023;8(4):040. doi: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304040
September
Warner EL, Hebdon M, Tay DL, Smith K, Welling A, Xu J. Young adult cancer care partners: A theoretical description of an emerging population with unique needs. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023;20(17):6646. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20176646
Kelly BC, Hanson HA, Hollingshaus MS, Meeks H, Tay D, Stephens C, Ornstein K, Ellington L, Utz R. Disparities and determinants of place of death: Insights from the Utah Population Database. Death Studies. In press.
Coaston A, Lee SJ, Johnson J, Hoffman T, Weiss S, Stephens CE. Factors associated with mobile medical clinic use: A retrospective cohort study. Int J Equity Health. In press. Dr. Angel Coaston will present the paper as a poster at the 19th Annual Mobile Health Clinics Conference in Pittsburgh, PA.
Stephens C, Tay D, Iacob E, Hollingshaus M, Goodwin R, Kelly B, Smith K, Ellington L, Utz R, Ornstein K. Family ties at end-of-life: Characteristics of nursing home decedents with and without family. Palliat Med Rep. In press.
August
Sharareh N, Adesoba TP, Wallace AS, Bybee S, Potter LN, Seligman H, Wilson FA. Associations between food insecurity and other social risk factors among U.S. adults. J Gen Intern Med. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-023-08360-8
Alnajar MK, Abdalrahim MS, Mosleh SM, Farhan M, Amro K, and Darawad MW. The need of patients living with cancer for palliative care. Int J Palliat Nurs. 2023;29(5):236-245. doi: 10.12968/ijpn.2023.29.5.236
Mosleh SM, Alnajar MK, Darawad M. The impact of illness perception on delay in seeking medical help in patients with acute chest pain: A cross-sectional study in the United Arab Emirates. Open Nurs J. 2023;17. DOI: 10.2174/18744346-v17-e230407-2022-181
Nassar O, Alshahwan S, Alshahwan R, Halasa S, Alashhab S, Alnajar M. Determinants of parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward childhood vaccination: A national study. Open Nurs J. 2023;17. DOI: 10.2174/18744346-v17-230223-2022-88
Sharareh N, Bybee S, Goldstein E, Jones S, Hess R, Wallace A, Seligman H, Wilson FA. Disparities in food insecurity between sexual minority and heterosexual adults – A higher burden on bisexual individuals. Front Public Health. 2023;11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1237091
In Other News:
Anderson BJ, Zappa M, Glickstein B, Taylor-Swanson L. "The history of Chinese medicine really is very detailed regarding pandemics": A qualitative analysis of evidence-based practice and the use of Chinese herbal medicine by licensed acupuncturists during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. J Integr Complement Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2023.0033
Bybee SG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Cloyes KG, Hiatt SO, Iacob E, Reblin M, Clayton MF, Ellington L. Cancer caregivers at the end-of-life: How much me vs. how much we? PEC Innovation. 2023;3:100193. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100193
Chalkidis G, McPherson JP, Beck A, Newman MG, Guo J-W, Sloss EA, Staes CJ. External validation of a machine learning model to predict 6-month mortality for patients with advanced solid tumors. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(8):e2327193. DOI:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.27193
Christensen SS, Chase-Cantarini S, Li H, Sheng X, Nixon TL, De Jong MJ. Newly licensed nurses’ transition during the pandemic after participating in nurse apprentice program. Collegian. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2023.07.002
Friberg-Felsted K, Caserta M. Essentials to improve the effectiveness of healthy aging programming: Consideration of social determinants and utilization of a theoretical model. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023;20(15):6491. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20156491
Hunsaker S, Garrett L, Merrill K, Rhodes R. Meeting patients where they are: A nurse-driven quality improvement project to provide influenza vaccinations in the emergency department. J Emerg Nurs. 2023;49(4):553-563.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2023.02.002
McDonald J, Graca S, Citkovitz C, Taylor-Swanson L. Turning point: A review of key research and engagement in 2022. J Integr Complement Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2023.0283
Tay DL, Sheng X, Meeks HD, Guo J-W, Ornstein K, Mooney K, Varghese TK, Ellington L, Hashibe M. Risk of inpatient and emergency department visits among lung cancer patients receiving immunotherapies as first line treatment: Findings from a linked population dataset. J Clin Oncol. 2023;41(16_suppl):e18817. 10.1200/JCO.2023.41.16_suppl.e18817
July
Wilczewski H, Ong T, Ivanova J, Soni H, Barrera JF, Cummins MR, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. Telemedicine from home or the office: Perceptions of mental health providers. Telemed J E Health. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0141
Thaweethai T, Jolley SE, Karlson EW, et al. Development of a definition of postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection. JAMA. 2023;329(22):1934-1946. (Consortium collaborator, Cummins MR). doi:10.1001/jama.2023.8823
Dassel K, Utz R, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Carbajal-Salisbury S, Villalta J, Cajavilca M, Solkowski L, Aruscavage N, Supiano K, Iacob E. Health disparities in advance care planning: Development of a Spanish-language LEAD Guide (Life-Planning in Early Alzheimer's and Other Dementias). Health Equity. In press.
Olsen GH, Gee PM, Wolfe D, Winberg C, Carpenter L, Jones C, Jacobs JR, Leither L, Peltan ID, Singer SJ, Asch SM, Grissom CK, Srivastava R, Knighton AJ. Awakening and breathing coordination: A mixed-methods analysis of determinants of implementation. 2023. Ann Am Thorac Soc. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1513/AnnalsATS.202212-1048OC
Stegenga K, Erickson J, Linder L, Macpherson CF, Elswick RK Jr, Ameringer S. Development, validity, and reliability of a new instrument to assess symptom self-management behaviors in adolescents/young adults with cancer. 2023. Palliat Support Care. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1478951523000810
Tay DL, Reblin M, Iacob E, Cloyes KG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Reynaga M, Mooney K, Ellington L. Cancer hospice caregivers' self-care behaviors: The role of caregiving tasks, burden, and mental health. 2023. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000000962
Winn M, Karra P, Freisling H, Gunter MJ, Haaland B, Litchman ML, Doherty JA, Playdon MC, Hardikar S. Metabolic obesity phenotypes and obesity-related cancer risk in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. 2023. Endocrinol Diab Metab. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1002/edm2.433
June
Allen NA, Litchman ML, Greenwood DA, Ng A, Sanchez-Birkhead A. (2023). Hispanic diabetes peer facilitator training needs and connections to Hispanics with type 2 diabetes. Hisp Health Care Int. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/15404153231175998
Als A, Dassel KB, He Y, Allen NA. The association between Medicare annual wellness visits and diabetes outcomes among older adults. World Med Health Policy. In Press
Berg CA, Suchy Y, de Grey RGK, Allen NA, Campbell MS, Munion A, Butner J, Helgeson VS. Cognitive abilities and collaboration in couples in type 1 diabetes management. Diabetes Spectr. 2023;36(1):33-40. https://doi.org/10.2337/ds21-0057
Carroll AJ, Mohanty N, Wallace AS, Langman CB, Smith JD. Perspectives of primary care clinicians on the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric hypertension. Fam Community Health. 2023;46(2):123-127. DOI: 10.1097/FCH.0000000000000358
Helgeson VS, Allen NA, Tracy EL, Butner J, Berg CA. Diabetes stress contagion among romantic partners: A daily diary investigation. J Behav Med. 2022;45(5):716-727. DOI: 10.1007/s10865-022-00337-y
Scheese CH. Coming full circle: A transplant nurse on why tissue donation matters. Am J Nurs. 2023;123(6):64. DOI: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000938760.53953.63
Simonsen SE, Sunada GR, Digre K, Stark LA, Mukundente V, Napia E, Tavake-Pasi F, Villalta J, Lee D, Davis F, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Brown BH, Baron KG. Short sleep duration and interest in sleep improvement in a multi-ethnic cohort of diverse women participating in a community-based wellness intervention: An unmet need for improvement. BMC Women's Health. 2023;23:188. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-023-02341-z
Bybee SG, Wilson CM. Why good cancer care means gender-affirming care for transgender individuals with gendered cancers: Implications for research, policy, and practice. J Clin Oncol. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1200/JCO.22.01857
Chavez-Yenter D, Vagher J, Clayton MF, Rindler M, Shukovich M, Kaphingst KA. "Being proactive, not reactive": exploring perceptions of genetic testing among White, Latinx, and Pacific Islander Populations. J Community Genet. 2021;12(4):617-630. DOI: 10.1007/s12687-021-00542-3
Hiatt RA, Clayton MF, Collins KK, Gold HT, Laiyemo AO, Truesdale KP, Ritzwoller DP. The Pathways to Prevention (P2P) Program: Nutrition as Prevention for Improved Cancer Outcomes. J Natl Cancer Inst. Accepted. https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djad079
Johnson KB, Sharma A, Henry NL, Wei M, Bie B, Hershberger CE, Rhoades EE, Sen A, Johnson RE, Steenblik J, Hockings J, Budd GT, Eng C, Foss J, Rotroff DM. Genetic variations that influence paclitaxel pharmacokinetics and intracellular effects that may contribute to chemotherapy-induced neuropathy: A narrative review. Front Pain Res (Lausanne). 2023;4:1139883. doi: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1139883
Tjia J, Clayton MF, Fromme EK, McPherson ML, DeSanto-Madeya S. Shared Medication PLanning In (SIMPLIfy) home hospice: An educational program to enable goal-concordant prescribing in home hospice. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2021;62(5):1092-1099. DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.05.015
Tjia J, Clayton MF, Chiriboga G, Staples B, Puerto G, Rappaport L, DeSanto-Madeya S. Stakeholder-engaged process for refining the design of a clinical trial in home hospice. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2021;21:92. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-021-01275-0
Eaton J, Neller S, Fernandez Cajavilca M, Johnson JK, Ellington L. Iterative review and revision of the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) intervention. J Alzheimers Dis Rep. 2023;7(1):461-467. https://doi.org/10.3233/ADR-220096
Platt C, Gephart S, Platt B. Middle-range theory of the adapting foster family: Mathematical modeling in nursing science. Nurs Sci Q. 2023;36(3):273-281. doi:10.1177/08943184231169750
Sharareh N, Seligman H, Adesoba TP, Wallace AS, Hess R, Wilson FA. Food Insecurity disparities among immigrants in the United States. AJPM Focus. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.focus.2023.100113
May
Cummins MR, Ong T, Ivanova J, Barrera JF, Wilczewski H, Soni H, Welch BM, Bunnell BE. 2023. Consensus guidelines for
teledermatology: Scoping review. JMIR Dermatol. 2023;6:e46121. doi:10.2196/46121
Guo J-W, Chow M, Amici J, Yu P, and Kuo C. Public opinions about an older adult playing a persuasive game: Based on social
media messages. Aging Health Res. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahr.2023.100145
Guo J-W, Tay D, Weinstein SM, Lyons A, Sward KA. Cancer pain trajectories in the last two years of life. Journal of Taiwan
Association for Medical Informatics. 2023;32(1):41-58. https://www.airitilibrary.com/Publication/alDetailedMesh?DocID=10213155-N202305090006-00005&PublishTypeID=P001
Waters AR, Weir C, Kramer HS, van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Wu Y, Kepka D, Kirchhoff AC. Implementation barriers and considerations for recommending and administering the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in oncology settings. J Cancer Surviv. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1007/s11764-023-01391-4
Miele K, Kim SY, Jones R, Rembert JH, Wachman EM, Shrestha H, Henninger ML, Kimes TM, Schneider PD, Deshmukh VG, Sivaloganathan V, Sward KA, Sanjuan PM, Maxwell JR, Seligman NS, Caveglia S, Louis JM, Wright T, Bennett CC, Green C, George N, Gosdin L, Tran E, Meaney-Delman D, Gilboa SM. Medication for opioid use disorder during pregnancy – Maternal and infant network to understand outcomes associated with use of medication for opioid use disorder during pregnancy (MAT-LINK), 2014-2021. MMWR Surveill Summ. 2023;72(No. SS-3):1-14. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.ss7203a1
Dr. Jacqueline Eaton wrote Portrait of a Caregiver, which was featured in Accelerate. Jacqueline shared an arts-based approach for engaging caregivers of people living with dementia.
Ou JY, Bennion N, Parker K, Fair D, Hanson HA, Kepka D, Warner EL, Ramsay JM, Kaddas HK, Kirchhoff AC. Risk factors and trends for HPV-associated subsequent malignant neoplasms among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-22-0826
Kabo FW, Stucky MJ, De Jong MJ. Associations of surgical team communication with the layout of physical space: a network analysis of the operating room in a military medical center. Health Environments Research & Design Journal. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/19375867231159130
April
Ellis J, Ward K, Garrett K, Taylor E, Clark E, Baksh L, Simonsen S. Changes to birth plans due to COVID-19: A survey of Utah
midwives and doulas. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.13491
Carroll AJ, Tedla YG, Padilla R, Jain A, Segovia E, Moin A, Wallace AS, Sanuade OA, Langman CB, Mohanty N, Smith JD.
Adherence to the 2017 clinical practice guidelines for pediatric hypertension in safety-net clinics. JAMA Netw Open.
2023;6(4):e237043. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.7043
Sharareh N, Wang C-Y, Wallace AS, Butler J. Indications of food insecurity in the content of telephone calls to a community
referral system. PLoS ONE. 2023;18(4):e0284624. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284624
Steenblik J, Jones A, Gold C, Seymour G, Garrett L, Griffith M, Blitch A, Langi S, Crump J, Madsen T. Improving access to
naloxone and opioid resources through the emergency department. Am J Emerg Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2023.04.004
Gee PM, Clift A, Osteyee J, Katz R, Collingridge D. Fall risk instrument for pediatric behavioral health patients (BHFR-P©): A
validity and reliability study. J Pediatr Nurs. 2023;69:118-120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2023.02.011
Starkweather A, Cohen B, Gray TF, Linder L, Zanville N. Cancer-specific health equity metrics in the United States of America: A
scoping review. Cancer Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.5881
March
Christensen SS, Nixon TL, Aguilar RL, Muhamedagic Z, Mahoney K. Using participatory management to empower nurses to identify and prioritize the drivers of their burnout. Int J Healthc Manag. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/20479700.2023.2190251
Dixon BE, StaesC, Acharya J, Allen KS, Hartsell J, Cullen T, Lenert L, Rucker DW, Lehmann H. Enhancing the nation’spublic health information infrastructure: A report from the ACMI symposium. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2023; ocad033. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocad033
Mair CA, Thygesen LC, Aldridge M, Tay DL, Ornstein KA. End-of-life experiences among "kinless" older adults: A nationwide register-based study. J Palliat Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jpm.2022.0490
Neller SA,CloyesKG, Edelman LS,Wong B, Baines B, Towsley GL. Preparing for the future while living in the present: Older adults’ experiences creating a legacy of values.Gerontologist. 2023. Accepted. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnad019
Reblin M, Tay DL,Iacob E, Cloyes KG, Hebdon MCT, Ellington L. Hospice caregivers’ perception of family and non-family social support and stress over time: Associations with reports of general support.Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023;20(6):5009. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20065009
Coats H, Doyon K, Isaacson M, Tay D, Rosa WE, Mayahara M, et al. The 2023-2026 Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association research agenda. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. 2023;25(2). DOI: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000000935
March
Eaton J, Cloyes KG, Paulsen B, Madden C, Ellington L. The development of knowledgeable nursing assistants as creative
caregivers (KNACC). Geriatr Nurs. 2023;51:95-101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.02.015
Eaton J, Cloyes KG, Paulsen B, Wong B, Madden C, Ellington L. Pilot testing the knowledgeable nursing assistants as
creative caregivers (KNACC) guide. Geriatr Nurs. 2023;51:65-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.02.013
Mooney K, Whisenant MS, Wilson CM, Coombs LA, Lloyd J, Alekhina N, Sloss EA, Steinbach M, Moraitis AM, Berry P,
Iacob E, Donaldson G. Technology-assisted mHealth caregiver support to manage cancer patient symptoms: A randomized
controlled trial. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.02.320
Waters AR, Kaddas HK, van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Vaca Lopez PL, Warner EL, Ou JY, Ramsay JM, Palmer A, Ray N, Tsukamoto
T, Fair DB, Lewis MA, Linder L, Gill D, Kirchhoff AC. COVID-19 related employment disruptions and increased financial burden
among survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. 2023. Epub ahead of print.
https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2022.0099
Yang R, Jensen FB, Edelman LS, Cloyes KG, Donaldson GW, Sanders NA, Pepper GA. (2023). “Being careful”: How much
caution is enough? The relational context of fear of older adult falling in older adult-family-caregiver dyads. Geriatr Nurs. 2023;51:129-135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.03.001
February
Brandt HM, Footman A, Adsul P, Ramanadhan S, Kepka D. Implementing interventions to start HPV vaccination at age 9: Using the evidence we have. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2023. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2180250.
Coronado GD, Petrik AF, Slaughter M, Kepka D, Naleway AL. Adolescents who have undergone human papillomavirus vaccination are more likely to get a COVID-19 vaccine. J Adolesc Health. 2023. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.12.022.
Staes C, Yusuf S, Hambly M, Phengphoo S, Guo J-W. Safety risks and workflow implications associated with nursing-related free-text communication orders. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2023; ocad018. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocad018
Warner ZC, Gilbert-Gard K, Reid B, Joseph W, Kepka D, Auguste P, Warner EL. Knowledge and awareness of colorectal cancer among a predominantly Indigenous Caribbean community. BMC Public Health. 2023;23:243. DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14810-5
Warner EL, Wilson AR, Rainbow JG, Ellington L, Kirchhoff AC. Employment of young adult cancer caregivers, other disease caregivers, and non-caregiving adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(14):7452. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147452
Wawrzynski S, Alderfer M, Waters AR, Linder L, Reblin M, Guo J-W, Litchman M, Cloyes K. Technology-mediated support among siblings of children with cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2022.0151
As a part of the American Association of Ambulatory Care Nursing (AAACN) Nurse-Sensitive Indicator Special Interest Group, Dr. Brenda Luther, Honor Martin, and DNP student Krissa Hendricks Nordblad published Leading the Way to Health Equity in AAACN ViewPoint.
Bybee S, Cloyes KG, Mooney K, Supiano K, Baucom BRW, Ellington L. Shoulder-to-shoulder: How cancer affects the intimate relationships of sexual and gender minority and non-SGM couples. Behav Ther. 2023;46(1). Available at https://services.abct.org/i4a/doclibrary/index.cfm?category_id=26.
Dr. Erin Meyer submitted a report titled ‘At Home,’ An Inquiry, that was selected through a peer-reviewed, competitive process for publication on the website for the Conference for Global Transformation, an annual international conference held virtually. If you are interested in attending this conference, contact Dr. Meyer to learn about conference prerequisites. The reports and proceedings will not be published on the website until the conference begins on May 19, 2023.
Waters AR, van Thiel Berghuijs KM, Kaddas HK, Vaca Lopez PL, Chevrier Am, Ray N, Tsukamoto T, Allen K, Fair DB, Lewis MA, Perez GK, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC, Warner EL. Sources of informal financial support among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors: A mixed methods analysis from the HIAYA CHAT study. Support Care Cancer. 2023;31(3):159. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-023-07626-5
Weidner M, Towsley GL. Meaningful connections: An education program to enhance resident-certified nursing assistant relationships. Gerontol Geriatr Educ. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1080/02701960.2023.2174116
Yi J, Younce B, Chung E, Kim MA, Bradbury L. Mothers' bereavement and evolving relationships with their dead child in South Korea. Fam Relat. 2023;1-16. https://doi.org/10.1111/fare.12841
Meek PM, Schmiege SJ, Sood A, Petersen H, Vazquez-Guillamet R, Irshad H, McDonald J, and Tesfaigzi Y. Testing of a novel questionnaire of Household Exposure to Wood Smoke. PLOS Glob Public Health. 2023;3(1): e0001500. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pgph.0001500
January
Brenner R, Cole L, Towsley GL, Farrell TW. Adults without advocates and the unrepresented: A narrative review of terminology and settings. Gerontol Geriatr Med. 2023;9. https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214221142936
Chan GK, Cummins MR, Taylor CS, Rambur B, Auerbach DI, Meadows-Oliver M, Cooke C, Turek EA, Pittman P. An overview and policy implications of national nurse identifier systems: A call for unity and integration. Nurs Outlook. 2023. In press. DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2022.10.005
Charron E, Kent-Marvick J, Gibson T, Taylor E, Bouwman K, Sani GM, Simonsen SE, Stone RH, Kaiser JE, McFarland MM. Barriers to and facilitators of hormonal and long-acting reversible contraception access and use in the US among reproductive-aged women who use opioids: A scoping review. Prev Med Rep. 2023. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102111
Peterson J, Wilson TF, Watt MH, Gruhl J, Davis S, Olsen J, Parsons MW, Kann BH, Swire-Thompson B, Fagerlin A, Warner EL, King AJ, Chino F, Johnson SB. International medical tourism of US cancer patients for alternative cancer treatments: Financial, demographic, and clinical profiles of online crowdfunding campaigns. Cancer Med. 2023. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.5636
Chang C-P, Wilson CM, Rowe K, Snyder J, Dodson M, Deshmukh V, Newman M, Fraser A, Smith K, Date A, Stanford JB, Gaffney D, Mooney K, HashibeM. Sexual dysfunction among gynecologic cancer survivors in a population-based cohort study. Support Care Cancer. 2022;31:51. doi: 10.1007/s00520-022-07469-6
DasselKB,IacobE, UtzRL,SupianoKP, FuhrmannH. Promoting advance care planning for persons with dementia: Study protocol for the LEAD (Life-Planning in Early Alzheimer’s and Dementia) clinical trial. OBM Integrative and Complementary Medicine.2023;8(1):26. doi:10.21926/obm.icm.2301004
Elmore CE, Acharya SC, Dulal S, Enneking-Norton F, Hamal PK, Kattel R, Maurer MA, Paudel D, Paudel BD, Shilpakar R, Shrestha DS, Thapa U, Wilson DT, LeBaron V. Building a 'Virtual Library': Continuing a global collaboration to strengthen research capacity within Nepal and other low-and middle-income countries. Glob Health Action. 2022;15(1):2112415. doi: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2112415
December
Phoebe Judge interviewed Dr. Julie Valentine and others for an episode on sexual assault kits for the podcast Criminal, Episode 246: The Kit. Criminal is an award-winning podcast about true crime, including stories of people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle.
Dr. Lee Ellington wrote an article titled Family Caregiver Month in Utah Spotlights Unsung Heroes for GOOD NOTES Voices of U of U Health. The article discusses Utah's recognition of family caregivers during Family Caregiver Month in November 2023. Governor Spencer Cox declared November 2023 as Family Caregiver Month in Utah, acknowledging the significant contributions of more than 400,000 family caregivers in the state. The Family Caregiving Collaborative at the University of Utah actively supports caregivers by addressing their challenges and advocating for their needs. The collaborative is part of a nationwide effort to support family caregivers, and recently participated in the Caregiver Nation Summit in Washington, D.C. Dr. Ellington challenges Utah to become a national leader in supporting family caregivers.
Dr. Kara Dassel published Opinion: Aging should be top of mind for everyone – especially our policymakers in the Salt Lake Tribune on November 25, 2023. The article urges policymakers to renew critical pieces of bipartisan legislation that continue the government’s focus on Alzheimer’s disease, healthy aging, dementia risk, and health disparities in underrepresented populations.
November
Dr. Deanna Kepka and Dr. B.J. Rimel, members of the Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI), were nominated to represent AACI at the National Roundtable on Cervical Cancer. From their participation, they authored a commentary titled Collaborating to Reduce Disparities in Cervical Cancer, which discusses how lack of public understanding contributes to stigma about cervical cancer and inhibits vaccination and screening. The commentary describes self-sampling as a way to empower patients – particularly for members of historically marginalized groups, those who live in rural communities, and those who have experienced trauma – and stresses the importance of collaborating and leveraging cancer centers to eliminate cervical cancer.
Lindsay Fischer featured Dr. Scott Christensen in the Oncology Nursing News article The Rate of Workplace Violence in Oncology Remains High. Dr. Christensen emphasized the importance of individual measures for nurses to decrease their risk, such as being aware of patient histories and recognizing signs of potential escalation. He highlighted the need for a culture of safety within healthcare institutions, including establishing a zero-tolerance policy for violence, offering regular training on patient de-escalation, implementing engineering controls, and creating efficient reporting processes and follow-up procedures.
The College of Nursing Simulation Center was mentioned in Becker’s Hospital Review for 34 Hospitals and Health Systems with Great Simulation and Education Programs 2023. Becker's named 34 hospitals and health systems with great simulation and education programs, providing students and professionals the opportunity to develop necessary skills in realistic yet controlled environments. Hospitals and health systems with simulation and education programs see improved patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and enhanced patient safety. Programs mentioned offer cutting-edge technologies, lifelike scenarios, and safe environments that build provider confidence through practical application. The article notes that in 2022, the simulation team was nominated for the International Nursing Association of Clinical and Simulation Learning Frontline Simulation Champion Excellence Award.
Dr. Katarina Friberg-Felsted and Dr. Jackie Eaton led work that resulted in the Age-Friendly University Global Network Secretariat designating the University of Utah as an Age-Friendly University. An @theU article titled U receives prestigious Age-Friendly University designation highlights the age-friendly distinction, the University’s commitment to age-friendly initiatives, and quotes Dr. Friberg-Felsted.
Science Friday host Ira Flatow spoke with Dr. Michelle Litchman and Tamiko Rafeek, a member of the Deaf Community Advisory Board, about how board members have provided input and guided development of diabetes education program that works for them. The episode titled How A Deaf Advisory Group Is Changing Healthcare aired on NPR and is available online.
For The Grief of Overdose Death episode of their Addictions Files podcast, Drs. Darlene Peterson and Paula Cook interviewed Dr. Kathie Supiano regarding the grief of overdose death and how loss isolates those involved, including healthcare workers.
October
Jeff Minerd, Contributing Writer for MedPage Today®, wrote Sara Bybee on Transgender Patients With Gendered Cancers, summarizing an interview Dr. Sara Bybee regarding the article Why good cancer care means gender-affirming care for transgender individuals with gendered cancers: implications for research, policy, and practice that she and Christina Wilson published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Danielle Puri and Dr. Joshua Twitchell authored an article titled Providing Culturally Responsive Care for Native Patients for Accelerate. The article highlights the importance of cultural responsiveness in healthcare for Native patients, addresses challenges like healthcare access and health literacy, and shares strategies for building trust. Danielle and Joshua emphasize the need to understand and address to the unique needs of indigenous communities to bridge healthcare gaps and promote well-being.
September
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson’s work developing MENOGAP in collaboration with a Community Advisory Board of racially and ethnically-diverse midlife women was spotlighted in an @theU article titled Illuminating Intersectionality.
Shawna Sisler authored 988 -- THE FEDERAL 3-DIGIT EMERGENCY NUMBER FOR MENTAL HEALTH CRISES: 2023 Update for the National Association for Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Partners for Vulnerable Youth. 988 is built on a three-pillar foundation: 1) Someone to call – when experiencing mental health or substance use-related distress, 2) Someone to come – enhanced crisis response services within all communities to deescalate a crisis when a phone call isn't sufficient, and 3) Somewhere to go – connecting individuals who need additional resources or a higher level of care.
Dr. Elizabeth Jacobs wrote Caring for At-Risk Youth in Utah Correctional Facilities – Part 2 for University of Utah Health GOOD NOTES: Voices of U of U Health. She shared her story and path that led her to adolescent correctional health and its impact on her career. Elizabeth notes, “The partnership between the College of Nursing and the JJYS is shaping health outcomes for this vulnerable community. And it’s developing providers who are dedicated to the field. It’s an honor to be part of a place that upholds these values. We’re fostering the care we want to give.”
August
Nena Schvaneveldt – Associate Librarian at the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, and Library Liaison to the College of Nursing – created a video that details how to identify information type and to cite in accordance with American Psychological Association (APA) style. Each semester Nena delivers a two-part lecture to prelicensure students enrolled in NURS 3300 Professional Roles I: Foundations of Professionalism. She consistently goes above and beyond in being available as a resource to College of Nursing students, staff, and faculty, and all find her contributions beneficial.
The 5 For The Fight Cancer Research Internship is a 10-week summer program that pairs rising freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors from Howard University with scientists at leading cancer research institutes. 2KUTV featured Mya Thomas, a rising senior Biology major with a chemistry minor at Howard University, and her mentor Dr. Deanna Kepka in Utah nonprofit sponsors 10 Black students to intern with Huntsman cancer researchers.
The University of Utah Health Office of Advancement held a special outdoor screening of the Academy Award-winning film CODA at Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre on August 10, 2023. The film was preceded by Language of Care, a short documentary that tells an amazing story of how Deaf patients are co-designing their own care with researchers Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. Murdock Henderson, Nic Miller, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Zach Howes.
Dr. Jen Clifton wrote Caring for At-Risk Youth in Utah Correctional Facilities – Part 1 for University of Utah Health GOOD NOTES: Voices of U of U Health. A team of CON registered nurses and nurse practitioners provide physical and mental health care for youth in eight Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS) facilities throughout Utah. Through the CON-JJYS partnership, youth in custody receive the same quality of care as youth in the general population, and nursing students experience a unique learning environment. In fact, youth often have better access to and receive better health care while in custody than they do on the “outs.” The article mentions CON nurses Althea Martinez, Amy Miller, Alex Hanson, and Dr. Kara Wolf.
June
Dr. Deanna Kepka was featured in a Pulse News article titled Talking to Patients: HPV Vaccination Can Prevent Cancers Later in a Child’s Life. The article emphasizes that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is one of the important vaccines that a child should receive. The HPV can cause at least six types of cancer and genital warts. HPV vaccination rates have dropped nearly 20% in the past 20 months.
ABC4 Daily Dish, hosted by Sariah Farmer interviewed Dr. Joni Lybbert, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner and 2023 College of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) graduate, about an upcoming event – Climb Out of the Darkness® – a Postpartum Support International (PSI) organized event that raises awareness about emotions that women experience during pregnancy and postpartum, and provides a platform for moms to come together, share their experiences, and find solace in the fact that they are not alone. Climb Out of the Darkness® will be held on June 24, 2023 at Wheeler Historic Farm in Salt Lake City. For her DNP scholarly project, Dr. Lybbert created The Sad Moms Club podcast to connect Utah perinatal women, and improve their awareness of, access to, and use of local perinatal mood and anxiety disorder resources. She found that the podcast was a useful, feasible, acceptable, and effective way to engage and reach perinatal mothers in Utah and overcome barriers to care. The podcast led Dr. Lybbert to network with the PSI Utah Chapter. Subsequently, PSI invited Dr. Lybbert to join its Board as Chair of Community Outreach. For the Daily Dish interview, she is working in her new capacity as Chair. Dr. Caroline Stephens served as Chair for Joni’s DNP Scholarly Project.
Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh was featured in the @THEU article “What does anti-Muslim bias look like at the U? A Q&A with Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh” by Matilyn Mortensen in an ongoing series about discrimination and how to prevent it. Dr. Al-Qaaydeh described ways that people can be better allies to Muslim members of the campus community by, for example, asking questions about people rather than making assumptions, not always using students as examples of the underrepresented group they belong to, and realizing that the University has students from a wide variety of backgrounds and life experiences who are Muslim.
May
Dr. Kara Dassel was interviewed for a Lynden Legacy Foundation The Long Goodbye Podcast.In episode 4 – Alzheimer’s Care: From Diagnosis to Daily Life, Here's What You Need to Know–Dr. Dassel shared valuable insights and practical tips on how to diagnose and care for those with Alzheimer's disease. Her advice can help improve the daily lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
In her Health Care Violence Trends And Prevention Strategies podcast, Keira Smith spoke with Dr. Scott Christensen about the Safety and Violence in Healthcare presentation that he delivered at the 48th Annual Oncology Nursing Society Congress in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Christensen outlined the unique safety hazards that nurses face and shares prevention strategies on both the national level and within institutions that can be carried out to protect nursing staff in the workplace.
April
The Society for Women’s Health Research offered a travel award to Dr. Deanna Kepka, enabling her to travel to Washington, DC and help create the #SWHRtalksHPV Video Series. The 10 video series was produced so that experts could share facts about HPV immunization, and help parents and guardians learn about the HPV vaccine and cancer prevention.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was highlighted in the Huntsman Cancer Institute Research Highlights for March 2023for receiving a Merck Investigator StudiesProgram (MISP) grant to study many domains of vaccine hesitancy and confidence in the Mountain West. Dr. Kepka also will use the Utah Statewide Immunization Information System to develop and examine an intervention to build confidence in vaccines with children and young adults enrolled in Utah’s Vaccines for Children Program.
Dr. Kathie Supiano and Laura Bradbury recently completed filming for the Prolonged Grief Group Therapy: Clinician Training project. Caring Connections plans to launch this training in Fall 2023. Special thanks to Debbie Boulter and Sherri Kerney of the Simulation Center; to the project’s videographer and producer, Nate Wichlacz; and to actors Kathie, Laura, Pat, Jack, Elise, Bridger, Bobby, Tiff, Missy, Christa, Simon, and Jamie.
Haley Weiss interviewed Dr. Kara Dassel for the TIME article Losing a Spouse Makes Men 70% More Likely to Die Within a Year. The article describes the widowhood effect – both members of a couple dying in short succession. Regarding reasons for the widowhood effect, Haley quoted Dr. Dassel, “it could be that bereavement at a younger age—since it’s more unusual to lose a spouse so young—creates added stress compared to later in life, when it may be more anticipated.
March
Dr. Sara Bybee presented Bot Detection and Dyadic Surveys for Data Skeptic’s All About Surveys audio podcast. Dr. Bybee described how the threat of bots and individuals misrepresenting themselves in internet-mediated research pertains to her research about understanding LGBTQ couples facing cancer.
The Winter 2023 issue of University of Utah Magazine included an article titled Training Utah’s Rural Nurses, which showcases the College’s Health Resources and Services Administration-funded Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention (NEPQR) program (Project Director Dr. Linda Edelman; Program Manager Harper Vander Hoek), and Josie Moosman, a Doctor of Nursing Practice student and registered nurse who works at the Wayne Community Health Center in Bicknell, Utah. Josie’s career path and leadership in the clinic and community epitomize rural nursing in Utah. Last year, Josie was featured in A Day in the Life of a Rural Nurse (available on the NEPQR website), a film that highlights the importance and varied roles of registered nurses who work in rural communities. College of Nursing faculty at the University of Utah and other nursing schools in the United States now include the film in their nursing curriculum.
February
Dr. Deanna Kepka was featured on Talakoula 90.9FM KRCL radio, a public affairs show for Tongan and Pacific Islanders in Utah and worldwide. In a discussion with pharmacist Siu'ea Kupu from Tala Koula, Dr. Kepka spoke about human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, and the importance of children receiving the HPV vaccine and adults being screened for cervical cancer.
Dr. Danna Kepka was featured in an article titled Teton County has 'room' to vaccinate more kids against cancer: HPV vaccine prevents cancer, particularly if it’s given before kids become sexually active by Billy Arnold in the Jackson Hole News & Guide. According to Dr. Kepka, “The most important demographic that should be getting this vaccine is our 9- to 12-year-olds.”
In her NBC Health News article titled The high cost of diabetes drugs has led to a flourishing black market, Kaitlin Sullivan described Dr. Michelle Litchman’s diabetes research about diabetes trading, and quoted Dr. Litchman, including, “People are priced out of being able to take care of themselves.”
Paula Span, New York Times reporter and New Old Age columnist, contacted Dr. Kathie Supiano, Director of Caring Connections about COVID-19 Grief Support Groups, and with participant permission, interviewed support group members about losing an older family member. In For Older Americans, the Pandemic Is Not Over, Paula quoted participant Vic Caretti who related the story of his 85 year-old father’s COVID death in the ICU.
Dr. Scott Christensen authored an article titled How Nurses and Administrators Can Respond to the Prevalence of Violence in Health Care, for Oncology Nursing Society’s web series ONS Voice.
January
As described in its press release, University of Utah Health proudly presented Language of Care, an incredible story of how a community of Deaf patients are breaking barriers by co-designing their own care with Dr. Michelle Litchman, members of her research team – Dr. Murdock Henderson, Nic Miller, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Shinduk Lee, and Zach Howes – and members of her Community Advisory Board – Lorne Farovitch, Jeremy Quiroga, Dianna Rivas, Tamiko Rafeek, and Michael Tyler. Language of Care premiered on January 23, 2023 at a sponsored event at Filmmaker Lodge in Park City during the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. In the film, and during an accompanying panel discussion, Dr. Litchman described challenges that Deaf patients have navigating health care, and addressed ways to bridge the linguistic and cultural gaps needed to better care for them. An additional screening took place at Broadway Theater in Salt Lake City on January 25, 2023.
As a member of the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) Task Force, Dr. Jennifer Clifton helped revise the 2022 edition of Standards for Health Services in Juvenile Detention and Confinement Facilities. The task force of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and mental health experts from throughout the United States worked for more than 18 months to update the 2015 Juvenile Standards. The revision brings juvenile standards up to date with best practices for evidence-based care of youths, and aligns with NCCHC’s 2018 Standards for Health Services. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners interviewed Dr. Clifton about the changes, how changes pertain to nurse practitioners caring for juveniles in detention and confinement facilities, and the importance of having nurse practitioners contribute to decision-making.
Jacqueline Scheider wrote The RedMed Employee Health Clinic Benefits All U Of U Employees and disseminated it throughout the University. Vianney Alcala provided the photos. RedMed, the University Employee Health Clinic, is located on the ground floor of the A. Ray Olpin University Union. College of Nursing faculty and staff provide urgent care, work injury, immunization, and occupational medicine services at no cost to University employees.
Dr. Nanci McLeskey and Dr. Rebekah Perkins wrote an article titled University of Utah (U of U) College of Nursing (CON) Launches an Innovative, 6-week Undergraduate Geriatric Nursing Course that was included in the January 2023 National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence Newsletter. The article highlighted a new 6-week hybrid Undergraduate Geriatric Nursing Course for second semester CON nursing students in an effort to better prepare them for future practice. Early feedback indicates that the course provides the necessary knowledge and testing practice skills required to successfully master NCLEX questions related to geriatric nursing principles. In addition, the course provide novice nurses the necessary knowledge and confidence to apply foundational nursing principles in caring for older adult clients.
December
Jesika Chavez-England and Amanda Keddington have been appointed Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) Advocacy Leaders,representing the state of Utah. As advocacy leaders, they participate in quarterly conference calls to develop their advocacy skills and become informed on the latest health policy discussions. GNSA Advocacy Leaders create an impact by amplifying the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) policy and advocacy messaging, and provide feedback to AACN staff on policy issues that are important to graduate nursing students.
Dr. Kathie Supiano and Laura Bradbury of Caring Connections spent two days training and supporting behavioral health, health care, and first responders at the Duck Valley Reservation of the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes in Nevada/Idaho, responding to a need for traumatic grief support.
Dr. Deanna Kepka has been invited to serve a three-year term on the American Cancer Society’s Peer Review Committee for Etiology, Screening, and Early Detection.
Erica Fischer-Cartlidge, Chief Clinical Officer of the Oncology Nursing Society, praised Dr. Lauri Linder, writing, “On behalf of the Oncology Nursing Society, I would like to thank you for sharing the talents of Lauri Linder with us as a member of the 2024-2027 Research Priority Setting Task Force. As an ONS volunteer, Lauri is helping us to further the mission and vision of our organization. Volunteers are incredibly important to our success. They are helping to shape the future of oncology nursing and its impact on professional practice and patient care. We rely on their insight and experience to help make everything we do the best it can be for nurses. We greatly appreciate their efforts and hope that you join us in commending her service.”
November
Dr. Lauri Linder was co-guest editor for the September/October 2023 special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing. This special issue addresses global pediatric oncology nursing. Along with co-guest editor Dr. Julia Challinor, Dr. Linder mentored nurses from across the six World Health Organization regions to develop their manuscripts regarding topics ranging from preventing bloodstream infections and addressing care needs of parents, to developing culturally meaningful educational resources.
Dr. Djin Tay and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson were selected to be mentors for University of Utah Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR), which provides undergraduate students with an intensive 10-week research experience under the mentorship of a University of Utah faculty member. SPUR mentees receive a stipend, and have a robust summer experience, including hiring and onboarding, belonging to a cohort of scholars, receiving mentorship and advisement, attending educational programs, presenting research, and publishing their work. Students will work with Dr. Tay on her Economic Burden of Cancer Associated with Long-Term Treatment and at End-of-Life project and Dr. Taylor-Swanson on her MENOGAP: Engaging in Community-Led Development and Testing a Group Medical Visit Intervention project.
Caring Connections team members Dr. Kathie Supiano, Adrienne Bott, Laura Bradbury, Anna Fetzer, and Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez, with support from Dean Marla De Jong, members of the Office of Advancement – Mindy Francis and Miriam Lovin, Systems and Technology – Cole Wandler, and Office Support – Shelli King, held the annual Grief and the Holidays event for the community. This year’s theme was “How the Light Comes.” The Caring Connections Advisory Board, Larkin Mortuary, and Ruby Snap Cookies supported the event. Taryn Hiatt, Utah and Nevada Area Director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, was the featured guest speaker, and Peter Breinholt provided musical performances.
Dr. Ann Butt was chosen as a panelist for the 2024 Educause Horizon Report/Teaching & Learning Edition. This report profiles key trends and emerging technologies and practices shaping the future of teaching and learning, and envisions a number of scenarios and implications for that future. It is based on the perspectives and expertise of a global panel of leaders from across the higher education landscape.
Dr. Catherine Staes is an invited member of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Foundation Data Modernization Initiative Working Group focused on Improving Public Health System Interoperability. The working group includes 10 thought leaders from around the US with diverse experience concerning the public health data ecosystem, and will identify effective pathways to modernize public health information systems and use.
A group of nursing professionals, including deans, chief nursing officers, and faculty members gathered at Brigham Young University for a Lunch & Learn surrounding The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education.
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson opened the event by presenting Introduction to The Essentials.
- Dean Sheryl Steadman from Westminster School of Nursing and Health Sciences presented Academic Practice Partnerships.
- Dr. Gwen Latendresse facilitated a Question & Answer Session.
- Dr. Reinke Holman, Department Chair of the Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing at Weber State University, presented Introduction to Competency-Based Assessment.
- Dr. Julie Gee moderated a panel discussion regarding Work-Ready Graduates, which included panelists Maria Black, Amber Brennan, Benjamin Gawle, and Nicki Roderman.
- Dean Marla De Jong concluded the event by facilitating the Wrap-up and Topics for the Future discussion.
Given the Family Caregiving Collaborative’s impactful work in Utah, Utah was one of six states invited to the first Caregiver Nation Summit on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. The National Alliance for Caregiving hosted the summit at which leaders in caregiving discussed the future of family caregiving, national and state strategies for supporting caregivers, and equity, innovation, and policy change for caregivers. Representatives from Utah included Dr. Becky Utz, Dr. Nancy Allen, and Rob Ence, Executive Director of the Utah Commission on Aging. As part of the summit, they met with Senators Mitt Romney and Mike Lee, Representatives Blake Moore and Burgess Owens, and White House staffers.
Steve Seckinger and Emily Cluff medaled in their respective age categories at the Lauren McCluskey 2nd Annual Race for Campus Safety, an event led event that brought the community together to support campus safety. Proceeds from the fundraiser benefit the Lauren McCluskey Foundation.
Dr. Deanna Kepka partnered with Alliance Community Services to facilitate College of Nursing faculty collaboration with leaders of community-based health organizations and advance the health of underserved communities. The Building Bridges, Transforming Lives: Nursing-Community Collaboration in Action half-day symposium at the WCF Insurance Utah Corporate Headquarters drew in 25 attendees, including Drs. Schola Matovu, Michelle Litchman, and Diane Chapman. By participating in interactive activities like group cafés and a panel discussion, leaders underscored their desire to partner with College of Nursing faculty, and elaborated on the best approaches to begin and maintain successful collaborations.
Health care professionals, members of community organizations, researchers, health department representatives, and others participated in the Mountain West human papillomavirus (HPV) Stakeholder Meeting on October 9, 2023 to discuss the state of the science and latest strategies to prevent HPV cancers. Hosted by Dr. Deanna Kepka’s Mountain West HPV Vaccination Coalition and in partnership with the American Cancer Society, the meeting served as a space for participants to review and understand the latest trends for HPV vaccination, as well as to foster new, cross-sector partnerships for reducing cancers related to HPV. Forty participants attended in person at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, the first in-person Coalition meeting since 2018, and another 29 attended virtually.
October
Dr. Josh Wall was appointed to the Utah Board of Nursing for a 4-year term, which began on October 10, 2023.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA) recognized Amanda Keddington as the GNSA liaison for the University of Utah. The GNSA provides high-value programs, services, and resources to graduate nursing students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs at AACN member schools as they prepare for their future nursing careers.
Dr. Josh Wall recently returned from a 3-week humanitarian deployment to eastern Ukraine. In conjunction with International Medical Corps and Harvard Humanitarian Initiative, Dr. Wall and others taught field trauma fundamentals to physicians, nurses, and combat medics who either work on the frontline or care for those injured on the frontline.
September
Dr. Liz Greene and students in the psychiatric-mental health track of the doctor of nursing practice program – Shelby Montez, Jenni Gonzalez, Nancy Dorny, Kara Ripplinger, Amber Dentino, Bronte Reay, Garrett Schwanke, JT Mosier, Jaricka Ash, and Dallin Bawden – joined Dr. Ann Hutton in volunteering on the compassion committee for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Salt Lake City Walk on September 9, 2023.
RedMed Employee Health Clinic, the University Employee Health Clinic located in the A. Ray Olpin Student Union building, is staffed by CON faculty Dr. Katie Davis and CON staff Dr. Carrie Huntsman-Jones, Dr. Lyndsay Wixom, Dr. Joshua Twitchell, and Morgan West. During the past year, the team has been working to expand clinical services and increase utilization. Compared with the first two months of FY23, RedMed had a 95.75% increase in patient volume in the first two months of FY24. The increase is due, in part, to new clinical services such as annual wellness (WellU) exams, occupational hearing exams, and other new services, as well as new efforts to market the clinic.
September
Dr. Mollie Cummins has been appointed Chair of the External Advisory Board for Columbia University School of Nursing’s NINR-funded T32 Program, Reducing Health Disparities through Informatics (RHeaDI).
August
Dr. Kathie Supiano was selected to serve as a key informant for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s Interventions to Improve Care of Bereaved Persons evidence review.
Dr. Kathie Supiano was selected to serve on the Hospice & Palliative Credentialing Center Exam Development Committee for the Advanced Palliative Hospice Social Worker - Certified Examination.
Dr. Brenda Luther and Dr. Paula Meek learned about Namecoach at the Western Institute of Nursing conference. They shared information about it with Dr. Deborah Keyek-Franssen – Associate Vice President and Dean for University Connected Learning – and recommended that Namecoach be added to Canvas. Namecoach is a web-based tool that allows users to record, listen to, and learn name pronunciations, which promotes inclusion and a sense of belonging in the classroom and workplace. Namecoach is available to all University of Utah faculty, staff, and students in Canvas, and soon will be available as an add-on in Microsoft Outlook and Teams. A Faculty Guide contains instructions for using Namecoach, and faculty can invite students to record their name pronunciation in Canvas.
Mike Brammer serves on the Executive Committee of the University of Utah Staff Council, and recently helped facilitate the Staff Excellence Awards for the Health Academics District. Mike also chairs the newly established New Staff Connections Committee, which serves as a point of contact and engagement for new university staff, including making connections, fostering belonging, increasing awareness of the broader university community, sharing best practices with similar employee groups, finding mentors, and accessing resources.
Dr. Linda Edelman was selected as a coach for the Mid-Career Coaching Program within the Utah Coaching and Advancement Network (UCAN). UCAN provides opportunities for trainees, faculty, and staff to promote professional effectiveness, career advancement, and a culture of caring and collegiality through coaching. Dr. Edelman will coach the Fall 2023 cohort of faculty who participate in the Mid-Career Coaching program, which is for faculty members who are interested in pursuing leadership roles or exploring a new direction, and structured around three conversations: 1) Who am I and who do I want to be?, 2) Where do I want to go?, and 3) How do I get there? What is the next step?
The 2023 Junior League of Salt Lake City Community Assistance and Resource Event (CARE) Fair was held at West High School on July 28-29, 2023. At the CARE Fair, families accessed routine medical, dental, and vision services, and learned about assistance available within the community. Numerous community agencies and medical service providers provided free care at one time and in one place. On both days, College of Nursing volunteers participated in various activities. Faculty volunteers included Dr. Valerie Flattes, Dr. Jennifer Hamilton, Dr. Frances Johnson, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Gillian Tufts, and Dr. Andrea Wallace. Prelicensure student volunteers included Emma Kelzer, Ashlee Nelson, Kaitlin Walton, and Annie Williams.
Students who participated in an Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake youth camp took a field trip to the College of Nursing Simulation Center on July 20, 2023. Dr. Van Gip-Duran, Simulation Center faculty and staff, and camp leaders provided an excellent experience for students. Donna Baluchi, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion librarian, provided a tour of the amazing study materials and exhibits that are available in the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library.
The Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake held a Back-to-School Fair on July 29, 2023. Volunteers included Dr. Van Gip-Duran, Danielle Puri, and Doctor of Nursing Practice students Lesley Hemphill and Amber Schmidt. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson provided information about pursuing a career in nursing, and informed the community about her University of Utah Vice President for Research funded study in which she is collaborating with midlife American Indian and Alaska Native women to adapt an integrative group medical visit intervention – MENOGAP – for peri/menopausal women.
July
Dr. Deanna Kepka has been invited to serve on the ACS National Roundtable on Cervical Cancer (ACS NRTCC). The ACS NRTCC is a national coalition of member organizations that, through collective action, will tackle disparities in cervical cancer prevention, screening, and treatment in order to eliminate cervical cancer and reduce the harms caused by the disease.
Dr. Ann Butt has been selected to serve on the University Teaching Committee for a three-year term ending August 1, 2026. The committee encourages the efforts of faculty members, departments, and colleges to improve individual teaching skill, devises effective teaching techniques, recognizes and rewards superior achievements in teaching, suggests and encourages procedures through which students may improve effectiveness of the teaching process; makes recommendations concerning University Teaching Grants, the Calvin S. & JeNeal N. Hatch Prize in Teaching, John R. Park Teachers’ Fellowships, and Distinguished Teaching Awards; and reports to the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Dr. Teresa Garrett has been selected to serve on the Conflict-of-Interest Committee for a three-year term ending August 1, 2026. The committee serves as an advisory body to the University administration on conflict of interest issues. Upon referral from the designated vice president, it reviews and recommends approval, disapproval, or approval with conditions regarding potential conflicts of interest; distinguishes among unacceptable conflicts of interest, potential conflicts, and actual conflicts that are acceptable without approval or oversight; and reports to the Vice President for Research.
Dr. Julie Gee has been appointed to the University Academic Centers and Institutes (UACI) Committee for a three-year term beginning July 10, 2023. In accordance with University Rule 6-001UACI, the committee reviews and makes recommendations on renewals, discontinuances, and establishment of new UACIs.
Provost Mitzi Montoya appointed Dean Marla De Jong and Holly Godsey as Co-Chairs of the University of Utah Ad Hoc Committee on Career-Line Faculty Matters. The committee will study and address various topics such as reappointment and promotion policies for Career-Line faculty – lecturer, clinical, and research, salary increases associated with academic promotion, workload policies, career advancement opportunities, and job security.
Dr. Van Gip and Leslie Crandall served food at the Family Field and Staff Appreciation Day at the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake.
Sherri Kerney was appointed as a member of the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Committee for the Association of Standardized Patient Educators (ASPE). ASPE is the international organization of educators dedicated to human simulation. The mission of the committee is to promote social justice within educational and healthcare professions and institutions to address systemic social inequities and acknowledge dignity in others, and to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas that can impact social change within healthcare education and practice.
June
Since her retirement in 2021, Dr. Mardie Clayton (Professor Emerita) served as an invited panelist for the National Institutes of Health Pathways to Prevention (P2P) Workshop: Nutrition as Prevention for Improved Cancer Health Outcomes. After the workshop, she and other members of an independent panel wrote a report based on their assessment of the systematic evidence review, expert presentations, and public comments. The panel’s final report, recently accepted for publication in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, summarizes the workshop and outlines research gaps. In April 2023, the report was presented to the Federal Partners Meeting to begin to develop an action plan and implement the recommendations. The report also provides a conceptual framework to help researchers, funders, and policymakers move the field forward.
May
Members of the Green Team – Donnie Benson, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Youjeong Kang, and Dr. Brenda Luther – did yard and garden work at the Valor Apartments, a veteran transition program funded through Veterans Affairs. Given that working for hours next to a donut shop was more difficult than weeding and raking leaves, the team celebrated by enjoying donuts. Look for an invite in the Fall when they willreturn to plant bulbs.
After a long and rigorous nomination review process, the Director of the Center for Scientific Review approved Dr. Kathy Swardas Chair of the Clinical Informatics and Digital Health (CIDH) Study Section. Her first CIDH meeting as Chair will be in September 2023.
In June 2023, Dr. Kara Dassel will serve on two scientific review sections: 1) The National Institute on Aging Pragmatic Trials for Dementia Care and Caregiver Support Scientific Review Group, and 2) the Alzheimer's Association Research Grant to Promote Diversity Scientific Review Group.
Dr. Linda Hofmann was elected to serve on the Senate Consolidated Hearing Committee for a term of 6 years beginning on June 16, 2023. This committee hears grievances and complaints brought against faculty members at the University of Utah or by faculty members asserting rights, including appeals from retention, promotion, and tenure decisions. It is the hearing body for matters initially considered but not resolved by other committees, offices, or individuals.
Members of the UNP Legislative Committee include Dr. Jennifer Clifton and Dr. Tom Rowley. Committee members contributed to legislation that resulted in Utah nurse practitioners receiving full practice authority. Members of the Leadership Committee include Family Nurse Practitioner students Mesa Starkey and Amanda Murray, and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner students Micaela Besser and Tahsha Spackman on the committee for leadership. Committee members led work to raise money for student scholarships.
April
Dr. Diane Chapman was appointed as Utah State Liaison to the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
The College of Nursing hosted Saturday Academies on Saturday, March 18, 2023. Saturday Academies develop and enhance diversity, build and promote an inclusive campus environment, and populate a strong applicant pool for admission into multiple health science fields with historically marginalized and underrepresented populations by providing a mentored pathway to higher education, and specifically focused on education in the health sciences. Grade 1-12 students from across Utah participate in interactive science activities that Health Sciences students from all disciplines organize and lead. College of Nursing baccalaureate students – Michael McCarthy, Emmah Cabca, Junwen Lai, Jordan Williams, Anna Spagnuolo, Janet Munoz, Emily Izazaga, Autumn Hadley, Erik Johnson, Emily Flynn, Carter Johnsen, Elise Huguley, Annie Coleman, and Angie Gamarra; and doctor of nursing practice students – Alex Truong, Molly Sirks, Emilia Gwen, Va Mounga, and Samantha Bolton planned interactive activities that students completed in the College of Nursing Simulation Center. Sherri Kerney, Debbie Boulter, Kristy Gauthier, Yvonne Bass, Vianney Alcala, Angie Fenton, Aarohi Drabu, Dr. Ann Butt, Dr. Valerie Flattes, and Dean Marla De Jong supported students.
Katharine Ullman, Associate Dean of the Graduate School, recognized Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead for contributing to the internal review of the Department of Family and Consumer Studies. “Internal reviewers make a vital contribution to the quality of graduate education and the overall excellence of the University. We recognize that undertaking these reviews represents substantial time commitments from the internal reviewers. The Graduate School acknowledges the significant contribution you have made to our community…”
The National Commission on Correctional Health Care now offers the Certified Correctional Health Professional – Clinical Provider (CCHP-CP) credential, which recognizes the expertise of nurse practitioners, physician associates/assistants, and physicians who practice in the specialized field of correctional health care. Dr. Jennifer Clifton was a member of the task force that created the new certification. Correctional health care clinical providers require a unique set of skills to prescribe, diagnose, and treat patients in correctional environments. Those holding the CCHP-CP credential demonstrate that they understand the clinical needs of the incarcerated population, and know the unique challenges, legal context, and policies and procedures specific to clinical providers who practice in a correctional environment.
Kudos to more than 200 alumni, students, parents, staff, faculty, university leaders, members of the Dean’s Advancement Board, and friends of the College for donating more than $44,230 for student scholarships on U Giving Day! Special thanks to alumna Carol Stowell and her husband Jeff, alumni Dr. Heidi Favero and her husband Silvio, College of Nursing Faculty and Staff, Dr. Michael Good and his wife Danette, and Dean Marla De Jong for providing matching funds, and to Vianney Alcala, Mindy Francis, Mary Wheeler, Christine Moua, Heather Clarkson, Miriam Lovin, Jacque Scheider, and Eden Bennett for their work to organize, publicize, and execute the campaign. Donors were from 11 states and allocated their contributions as follows: undergraduate scholarships 34%, graduate scholarships 7%, gerontology scholarships 6%, PhD scholarships 6%, caregiving scholarships 15%, and ripple/emergency scholarships 32%.
April
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was appointed to the Cochrane Complementary Medicine Research Quality and Integrity Working
Group.
The Academic Consortium for Integrative Medicine & Health (ACIMH) hosted the 2023 Integrative Medicine & Health Symposium: Advancing Together: Meaningful Connection and Strategic Collaboration that was held in Chicago, IL. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson served on the Scientific Review Committee. ACIMH is the international home for academic health centers and health systems with programs in integrative medicine and health.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was invited to serve on St. Jude's HPV Cancer Prevention Program's Rural HPV Vaccination Think Tank.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was a member of the planning committee for the Huntsman Cancer Institute Research Retreat: Discovery,
Innovation, and Celebration that was held on April 4, 2023
March
Carrie Huntsman-Jones was elected Treasurer for the Utah Chapter of the International Association of Forensic Nursing. Carrie is a Family Nurse Practitioner, and works at the RedMed Health Clinic.
February
The system-level Intermountain Health Research & Evidence-Based Council invited Anna Alder and Dr. Rebekah Perkins to be members. The intent is to build academic-practice partnerships in order to align evidence-based practice, knowledge, and culture.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson has been selected as a University of Utah Intersectional Research Fellow. The Transformative Intersectional Collective (TRIC), a Mellon Foundation-funded initiative, housed in the University of Utah School for Cultural and Social Transformation provides Fellows with $2,500 in funding. Dr. Taylor-Swanson will continue working with a community advisory board (CAB) with established shared governance and contribution to menopause research. The CAB will meet twice to discuss intersectionality and what it means to their lived experiences of peri/menopause, and how intersectionality might be included in biomedical menopause research. All CAB members who choose to do so will analyze data and co-author deliverables.
Aarohi Drabu, Mikayla Dalley, Emilee Cluff, and student Nelson Kudilil hosted a table at the Granite Technical Institute (GTI) Career and Technical Education Open House, and spoke with students who are interested in a career in nursing or health care. These staff members connected with certified nursing assistant and other students, including those from groups that have been historically excluded and underrepresented in nursing, and discussed pathways by which GTI students can pursue nursing education.
Dr. Larry Garrett presented a daylong transitions of care seminar at the Southern Utah University Department of Nursing. Content featured students conducting home visits for patients recently discharged from the hospital, and learning coaching, Teach-Back methods, and other nursing skills based on the Care Transitions Intervention model. In partnership with Southern Utah University, Dr. Garrett has taught this seminar for each incoming class of nursing students for the past five years. To date, more than 500 nursing students have attended the seminar.
Dr. Djin Tay (CON assistant professor, and former post-doctoral fellow in the Ellington lab) and Dr. Katherine Doyon (CON adjunct instructor, CON alumna, former CON Interdisciplinary Training in Cancer, Aging, and End-of-Life Care T32 pre-doctoral fellow, and assistant professor at Boise State University) contributed to the Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association’s (HPNA) 2023-2026 Research Agenda. By consulting with HPNA’s members and assessing major trends in hospice and palliative nursing, they and other colleagues identified knowledge gaps and identified five priority areas that require further scientific inquiry: 1) equitable palliative care (led by Dr. Doyon); 2) local, national, and global disaster/emergency response in palliative and hospice care (led by Dr. Tay); 3) pediatric hospice and palliative care research; 4) well-being of hospice and palliative care clinicians: self-care and workforce development; and 5) transitions in care. Collectively, the contributions highlight how College of Nursing faculty are working to advance social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in palliative care research.
February
Dr. Gwen Latendresse and Dr. Jessica Ellis traveled to the University of New Mexico (UNM) campus in Albuquerque, NM, where they worked with a test writing consortium, Southwest Area Educators in Midwifery, to update the College’s mock board exam for midwifery students, and toured the UNM campus. Dr. Ellis also toured Dar A Luz, a community birth center where Dr. Kate Jones, a 2020 graduate from the College’s nurse-midwifery track, works.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Dr. Camille Moreno hosted a menopause session with midlife and elder women from the Calvary Baptist Church. They shared “menopause 101” information about symptoms, stages during the menopausal transition and post-menopause, and integrative health self-care for symptom management. A question and answer session followed the presentation. Community members were overwhelmingly excited about the information, and a follow-up session will be scheduled with a community in the Ogden area
Dr. Djin Tay (CON assistant professor, and former post-doctoral fellow in the Ellington lab) and Dr. Katherine Doyon (CON adjunct instructor, CON alumna, former CON Interdisciplinary Training in Cancer, Aging, and End-of-Life Care T32 pre-doctoral fellow, and assistant professor at Boise State University) contributed to the Hospice & Palliative Nurses Association’s (HPNA) 2023-2026 Research Agenda. By consulting with HPNA’s members and assessing major trends in hospice and palliative nursing, they and other colleagues identified knowledge gaps and identified five priority areas that require further scientific inquiry: 1) equitable palliative care (led by Dr. Doyon); 2) local, national, and global disaster/emergency response in palliative and hospice care (led by Dr. Tay); 3) pediatric hospice and palliative care research; 4) well-being of hospice and palliative care clinicians: self-care and workforce development; and 5) transitions in care. Collectively, the contributions highlight how College of Nursing faculty are working to advance social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in palliative care research.
As president of the Utah Chapter of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Dr. Zoe Robbins organized the Utah Chapter Conference 2023, in which registered nurses and nurse practitioners learned about Utah legislation, E-cigarettes as smoking cessation pharmacotherapy, reproductive psychiatry, depression, suicide prevention, and transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy.
Dr. Zoe Robbins has recently completed a two-year term as Chair of the Utah Telehealth Network (UTN) Advisory Council, whose responsibilities include preparing strategic plans, reviewing budgets and fee structures, recommending policies, advising regarding network member services, and engaging in government relations.
January
The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), a section of The Gerontological Society of America, selected Dr. Kara Dassel to serve as Advancement Chair. The Advancement Committee supports and coordinates the revenue-generating initiatives of AGHE's committees and staff, creates short-term and enduring fiscal resources, and cultivates potential benefactors.
The Office of Undergraduate Studies convened its inaugural class of fellows in August 2022. This talented group of five faculty, includingDr. Cheryl Armstrong, is contributing to several important projects during this academic year, including updating and developing policies and procedures germane to undergraduate education, and shepherding these policies through the faculty governance process. This work will be particularly influential and impactful in advancing the mission of undergraduate education.All five fellows also are elected representatives to the Undergraduate Council.
Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research(FNINR)selected Dr. Youjeong Kangto serve as Ambassador. Ambassadors commit to ongoing contact with and education of Congressional members and staff regarding the importance of nursing research and funding for the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR). They also serve as a resource in supporting NINR’s mission at regional nursing research conferences, and with local policy makers and media to enhance their understanding of the impact of NINR’s intramural and extramural research.
Members of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association elected Dr. Lynn Reinke to serve as President-Elect during 2023, and President during 2024. The Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association was established in 1986 and is the national professional organization that represents the specialty of palliative nursing, which includes hospice and palliative nurses. It supports the profession through education programs, research initiatives, and advocacy.
Kudos from 2022
November
Caring Connections team members Dr. Kathie Supiano, Adrienne Bott, Laura Bradbury, Anna Fetzer, and Kimberly Ponce Gonzalez, with support from members of the Office of Advancement – Eden Bennett and Mindy Francis, Systems and Technology – Cole Wandler, and Communications – Jacqueline Scheider and Vianney Alcala, planned, publicized, and implemented Grief and the Holidays: Growing Through Loss. Guest speakers were Jennifer Morris and Todd Schofield. Cori Connors provided music. In addition, the Caring Connections Advisory Board, Kylene Metzger, Kathy Wilets, Larkin Mortuary, The Rose Shop, and Ruby Snap Cookies supported the event. Laura Bradbury and Dr. Kathie Supiano made media appearances regarding the event with PBS Utah – Contact in the Community, the Salt Lake Tribune, and other outlets.
Dr. Jackie Eaton is a featured investigator for the 2022 Vitae Event, which highlights investigators and their pioneering research programs, and seeds new collaborations and development strategies by humanizing research through story. Presented by Vice Chair for Faculty Affairs and Development, Department of Internal Medicine, Dr. Michael Rubin, on behalf of the Office of the Associate Vice President for Research, the event will be December 1, 2022, from 3-5 PM in the S.J. Quinney College of Law Moot Courtroom.
In collaboration with Association for Utah Community Health, members of the HRSA-funded NEPQR team held a workshop titled RN-Led Women’s Annual Well-Visits and Guideline Development in Ambulatory Settings at the Utah County Department of Health. The face-to-face workshop was open to all community partners, and 12 attendees represented theMoab Free Clinic, Carbon Medical Services, Utah County Health Department, Summit County Health Department, and Intermountain Health. Leslie DiVall and Dr. Kimberly Garcia led conversations about providing health care to women, primary care nurses practicing at the top of their skill and license, and increasing the capacity for students to complete contemporary clinical experiences at primary care settings. In addition, participants reviewed writing a guideline for RN-led care, and applied didactic content to an on-site simulation of women’s health physical exams. Dr. Brenda Luther served as Women’s Annual Well-Visit Curriculum and Simulation Liaison. Dr. Larry Garrett presented about RN-Led Guidelines in Ambulatory Care. Additional team members include research analyst Christopher Hernandez, administration program coordinator Hannah Moerk, program manager Harper Vander Hoek, and project director Dr. Linda Edelman.
Those who planned and produced the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma induction ceremony included: Dr. Jenneth Doria (Chair), Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Julie Gee, Dr. John Nerges, Denise Reeves, Dr. Frances Johnson, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Nancy Allen, Kelly Mansfield, Amanda Keddington, and Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini. Dean Marla De Jong delivered opening remarks regarding Sigma’s 100th anniversary theme – Show Love, Have Courage, and Uphold Honor. Dr. Barbara Wilson delivered a keynote address titled Nursing as a Science; Nursing Leadership as an Art.
At their first Utah Family Caregiving Forum, the Family Caregiving Collaborative (FCC) hosted 90 individuals. During this forum, caregivers, researchers, healthcare professionals, policy advocates, and service providers convened to share, learn, and discuss Utah data on family caregivers, as well as current and proposed caregiving policies. Attendees were excited to engage with individuals who represented broad caregiving interests such as disability, autism, aging, and dementia. Members of the FCC leadership and administrative team, especially Dr. Lee Ellington, Christine Moua, and Deidre Schoenfeld, contributed to the event’s success.
The University of Utah Alpha Chi chapter of Sigma Phi Omega, The International Academic Honor and Professional Society in Gerontology, and AARP Utah partnered to host a moderated focus group with College of Nursing and College of Pharmacy students. AARP Utah sought to understand students’ views on Social Security and retirement, and to provide information and data about Social Security’s history, present, and future. Students were relieved to receive non-biased information about various aspects of Social Security. Shanceline Tebo, a College of Pharmacy student who also is earning a long-term care certificate, is president of Sigma Phi Omega, and Dr. Katarina Felsted is chapter faculty advisor.
October
Eden Bennett and Mindy Francis planned and organized a food truck lunch and tours of the College of Nursing Simulation Center to kick off the College’s 75th Anniversary celebrations. They also sponsored additional Alumni Weekend events, including the Half Century Society Induction Luncheon, Awards Ceremony, bowling, and swag giveaways. Alumni shared their stories, memories, and photos. Vianney Alcala, Yvonne Bass, Debbie Boulter, Sherri Kerney, Mary Neville, Eric Nhem, Jacqueline Scheider, Jeanne Schlater, Amanda Thomson, Janzell Tutor, and Cole Wandler helped plan and conduct the activities.
The College of Nursing Dean’s Advancement Board sponsored three awards.
- The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes College of Nursing alumni who graduated 15 or more years ago and have attained a high level of professional accomplishments and/or have advanced nursing or gerontology through practice, research, education, or administration. Dr. Susan VanBeuge received the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award.
- The Young Alumni Award recognizes College of Nursing alumni who graduated within the last 10 years and have attained a high level of professional accomplishments and/or has advanced nursing or gerontology through practice, research, education, or administration. Dr. Amanda Eckersley received the 2022 Young Alumni Award.
- The Distinguished Service Award recognizes both alumni and non-alumni who have dedicated personal time, talents, and energy to strengthen and improve the community in which they live. Terese Cracroft received the inaugural 2022 Distinguished Service Award.
July
Dr. Nancy Allen, Emilee Cluff, and Dr. Valerie Flattes spearheaded planning of the first 3-day camp for middle school and high school youth who expressed specific interest in becoming a nurse, and who come from groups that have been historically marginalized, minoritized, underrepresented, or excluded in nursing. Funds from the Health Resources and Services Administration Nursing Workforce Diversity grant (PI, Dr. Nancy Allen) were used to offer the camp.
Attendees met with College of Nursing faculty to learn about the profession of nursing; met with nursing advisors from College of Nursing Student Services and admissions advisors from the University of Utah Office of Admissions; met with current students to hear about their pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student; actively participated in three hands-on activities in the College of Nursing Simulation Center; met with representatives from affinity groups; and toured the College of Nursing building, Kahlert Village, Carolyn and Kem Gardner Commons, A. Ray Olpin Student Union, and other areas of main campus. Their parents attended a dinner, toured the College of Nursing Simulation Center, and learned about a nursing student’s pathway to nursing and experience as a nursing student, preparation for college, the admissions process, financial aid, and more.
Many College of Nursing faculty, staff, and students contributed to the success of the camp:
- Vianney Alcala
- Moe Arnes
- Yvonne Bass
- Carly Bonfiglio
- Debbie Boulter
- Dr. Ann Butt
- Mikayla Dalley
- Dean Marla De Jong
- Dr. Jenneth Doria
- Dr. Kathy Sward
- Kristy Gauthier
- Sherri Kerney
- Melanie Hall
- Rachel Hamilton
- Dr. Sara Hart
- Shelli King
- Dr. Maddie Lassche
- Kristen Mahoney
- Yumi Malik
- Maddie Marshall
- Lexi Moratalla
- Carrie Radmall
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead
- Amber Schmidt
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson
- Mandy Thomson
- Megan Whittaker
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson
- Mai See Xiong
- Gracie, the College’s therapy dog
The following University of Utah departments supported the camp:
- American Indian Resource Center
- Asian American Student Association
- Black Cultural Center
- Black Student Union
- Campus Tours
- Commuter Services
- Dream Center
- Housing & Residential Education
- Office of Admissions
- Pacific Islander Student Association
- Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library
- Youth Education
Beyond the University, those who contributed to the camp:
- Community Faces of Utah
- Joan Gallegos
- Utah Area Health Education Centers
A parent of one child e-mailed camp leaders, writing “I wanted to personally thank you and everyone who was involved in this amazing experience. My daughter…has come home each day with nothing but positive things to say about camp…Thank you for igniting a passion in her…College has always been [her] plan and something that we speak about with her regularly but now that dream has lifelike pictures and a beginning knowledge of what that path will look like. These pre-teen, early teen years can be rough. Our family is thankful for programs like this that provide beautiful background music to all of the noise that surrounds our kids. Thank you for giving her the confirmation that her dreams are attainable and although will require hard work, it will be worth it.”
December
Carrie Huntsman-Jones recognized Dr. Jennifer Clifton on the Pulse Employee Recognition page for Making a Difference and Respect. “Jen is one of the best bosses I have ever worked for. She is receptive to ideas & is a great resource for me as a new NP. She is very supportive and always willing to answer questions. Thanks!"
Carrie Huntsman-Jones recognized Dr. Katie Davis on the Pulse Employee Recognition page for Making a Difference. “Katie has been working hard to meet the needs of the RedMed Clinic. She has been an amazing support and resource. She has been putting in extra time so that the clinic can run more smoothly. Thanks!”
Dr. Cristi Creal spearheaded formation of the College of Nursing BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) student group. The group brings BIPOC students together to create an empowering and supportive environment. The group provides peer-to-peer support and mentoring about navigating college, connects students with opportunities to explore their identities and cultures, engages in community service projects, and collaborates with cultural- and identity-based organizations on campus.
Amanda Keddington, Janine Roberts, and Dr. Perry Gee presented a poster titled Community Health Worker Interventions for At-Risk Populations at the 2022 Rural Health Association of Utah (RHAU) conference, and won the RHAU Best of Conference Award. Also, Dr. Linda Edelman advised Amanda. The poster summarized the team’s literature review regarding the impact that Community Health Workers (CHWs) have on at-risk populations, including older and diverse adults who live in rural areas. Use of CHWs may lower readmission rates and emergency department visits, in addition to improving patient satisfaction and self-reported well-being.
Faculty Practice concluded flu shot clinics for 2022 after offering clinics at five locations: Employee Assistance Day, Huntsman Research Center, Comparative Medicine, President’s Cabinet, and the College of Nursing. In all, they gave 1,200 flu shots and 241 COVID vaccines, with faculty/staff and students volunteering 96 and 62 hours, respectively. This was an increase over past years – two clinics in 2020, and four in 2021. As stewards for University of Utah Human Resources, which offers flu shots to all University employees, the clinics provided valuable experiences for nursing students. Those instrumental in planning and conducting the events included Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Donnie Benson, Megan McClure, Dr. Teresa Garrett, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Debra Penney, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Carolyn Scheese, Anna Alder, Colleen Neering, Natasha Ansari, Dr. Catherine Staes, Keyna Oblab, Angie Fenton, and Dr. Kathryn Davis.
Dr. Jessica Ann Ellis and Dr. Kimberly Garcia volunteered at a student recruitment outreach event on campus. On November 15, M.E.Ch.A., a national organization that promotes higher education, culture, and history among all Chicanx Latinx students, hosted 120 high school students at its 27th Annual High School Conference. Dr. Ellis and Dr. Garcia spoke about nursing, pathways to nursing, biases in nursing, applying to the College of Nursing, and resources available on campus and within the College of Nursing.
November
Dr. Kathi Mooney, co-leader of the Cancer Control and Population Sciences Program at Huntsman Cancer Institute and Distinguished Professor in the College of Nursing, and representing the Huntsman at HomeTM team, was selected as one of three finalists for theCancer Community (C2) Catalyst for Care Award. This award is part of the YOUR Cancer Program, which AstraZeneca uses to spotlight new cancer research and exceptional patient care.
Drs. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Se-Hee Jung co-authored a paper that was a finalist for the American Medical Informatics Association’s Harriet H. Werley Award for Best Nursing Informatics Paper. The citation for the paper: Backonja U, Taylor-Swanson L, Miller AD, Jung S-H, Haldar S, Woods NF. "There's a problem, now what's the solution?": Suggestions for technologies to support the menopausal transition from individuals experiencing menopause and healthcare practitioners. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2021;28(2):209-221. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocaa178
The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) is the nation's largest leadership honor society. Students are selected by their college for membership based on either academic standing or leadership potential. The University of Utah’s chapter of NSLS presented Impact Leader Awards to Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Melissa Black, Carly Bonfiglio, Tamara Ekker, and Dr. Rebekah Perkins. Impact Leader Awards recognize faculty members who teach with heart and passion, and motivate students in their pursuit of education.
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma presented awards to College of Nursing faculty.
- Excellence in Leadership – Dr. Cheryl Armstrong and Dr. Rebecca Wilson
- Clinical Educator Legacy Award – Tamara Ekker
- Excellence in Education – Dr. Julie Gee
- Excellence in Research/Scholarship – Dr. Perry Gee
- Excellence in Clinical Practice – Dr. Frances Johnson
- Early Career Nurse Innovator – Dr. Paige Miller
- Excellence in Mentorship – Dr. John Nerges
Drs. Zachary Warner, Rodrigo Alvarez, Juan Gallegos-Orozco, and Echo Warner presented a poster titled Financial Incentives Associated With Hepatitis B Misinformation on Instagram at the American College of Gastroenterology Annual Scientific Meeting & Postgraduate Course and received two awards – Best Poster Presentation and Newsworthy Abstract.
Christopher Stucky, Dean Marla De Jong, and Yuliang Liu presented a poster titled Surgical Team Performance: The Impact of Familiarity and Team Size in Military Surgical Tea
October
Dr. Ann Marie Moraitis was competitively accepted to attend the Harvard Medical School Center for Palliative Care's Research Methods in Supportive Oncology Workshop on January 22-27, 2023.
The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) andThe Gerontological Society of America (GSA) selected Dean Marla De Jong to receive the 2022 AGHE Administrative Leadership Honor. Each year, AGHE honors administrators on AGHE member campuses who have made exceptional efforts in support of gerontology and/or geriatrics education.
Dr. Perry Gee, Emily Stirling, and Dr. Anne Pendo received the Best Overall Poster Award for a poster titled Health System Strategies for Employee Mental Wellbeing During the Persistent COVID-19 Pandemic that they presented at the Third National Summit on Promoting Well-being and Resilience in Healthcare Professionals at The Ohio State University.
Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Djin Tay, Sharon Weinstein, Ann Lyons, and Dr. Kathy Sward received the Best Paper Award for a paper titled Cancer Pain Trajectories in the Last Two Years of Life that they presented at the APAMI (Asia-Pacific Association for Medical Informatics) 2022 12th Biennial Conference of the Asia Pacific Association for Medical Informatics.
Drs. Lesly Kelly, Perry Gee, and Richard Butler received the 2022 Excellence in Practice Award for their publication titled Impact of nurse burnout on organizational and position turnover. The Editorial Board for Nursing Outlook will present the award at the American Academy of Nursing 2022 Health Policy Conference – From Reflection to Impact: Positioning Nursing's Future on October 28, 2022.
Ching-Yu Wang, Laura Heermann Langford, Jim McClay, and Dr. Jia-Wen Guo received the Best Poster Award for a poster titled Identify Standard Data Elements in Social Determinants of Health for Emergency Departments that they presented at the APAMI 2022 12th Biennial Conference of the Asia Pacific Association for Medical Informatics.
The Center for Healthcare Innovation and Leadership at The Ohio State University College of Nursing accepted Dr. Michelle Litchman into its national Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fellowship. The 12-month fellowship is designed to amplify a culture of innovation, address burnout, and enhance well-being. Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fellows work on an innovation project while participating in monthly one-on-one and group coaching sessions with support from mentors. Fellows develop skills and knowledge in innovation competencies, design thinking, emotional intelligence, innovation leadership, creative funding ideas, and business case development.
Dr. Mandy Al-Khudairi supported her teaching colleagues by moving clinical assignments several times in a Family Primary Care practicum course, ensuring faculty availability to teach a didactic course. Mandy demonstrated true professionalism, intelligence, and logical problem-solving as she engaged to make the right thing happen and support students.
Dr. Katerina Friberg Felsted and Dr. Alycia Bristol each will be recognized as a Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing at the virtual National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence Leadership Conference on October 18-20, 2022. Given the rapidly growing older adult population and the urgent need to prepare the future nurse workforce to care for an aging population, it is imperative to have well-prepared nurse educators not only with knowledge and skills in care of older adults, but also with teaching competence so that they can foster positive attitudes toward older adults and actively engage learners at all levels. Distinguished educators hold a masters or higher degree in gerontological nursing, have a minimum of 3 years of experience in gerontological nursing education, and are actively engaged in gerontological/geriatric nursing education.
In partnership with the Roseman University of Health Sciences, Utah Business honors Healthcare Heroes who have made it their mission to improve the state of health in Utah. Dr. Linda Edelman will be recognized in the category of Healthcare Educator at the Healthcare Heroes VIP Reception/Open House on October 17, 2022, and at the Healthcare Heroes Awards Luncheon on October 19, 2022. Utah Business wrote the following about Dr. Edelman: “Dr. Linda S. Edelman, PhD, RN, FAAN, grew up on a small farm in Kansas and is the first in her family to attend high school. Thanks to many mentors along the way, she became a nurse passionate about providing older adults, especially those living in rural areas, access to age-friendly care. Dr. Edelman leads Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funded workforce development programs providing education and training to health care students, providers, and staff across Utah. Under her guidance, the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium has formed academic-clinic-community partnerships to develop innovative online training for providers and staff working in long-term services. Recognizing the need for primary care nurses, she sought HRSA funding to recruit and train nursing students to work in rural and underserved primary care settings.”
Christopher Sneddon coached and helped prepare Anna Alder to have a difficult conversation with a student. As a result of Christopher advising Anna about how to navigate potential scenarios, Anna felt prepared, and the discussion led to a good student outcome. Anna is grateful that the U has a teaching model with amazing mentorship and support for new faculty.
Dr. Lauri Linder, former post-doctoral fellows, and current students Dr. Amy Newman, Dr. Katherine Bernier-Carney, Dr. Sarah Wawrzynski, Se-Hee Jung, Jennifer Farnsworth, Adam Otto, Hakop Kardzhyan, and Dr. Hailey Haffey received the Outstanding Nursing Research Abstract Award for their abstract Children’s Health Narratives Reflected through a Child-Centric mHealth App: A Secondary Analysis, which they presented orally at the International Society of Paediatric Oncology Annual Congress.
U.S. News & World Report ranked 681 Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #29 (tied), and is the highest-ranked BSN program in Utah.
September
Drs. Djin Tay and Echo Warner have been accepted into the 2022-2023 Utah Health Equity Leadership & Mentoring (U-HELM) program. U-HELM provides mentoring and leadership development opportunities to junior faculty members and postdoctoral scholars from underrepresented populations in the health sciences or involved in health equity research and practice. U-HELM fellows complete a yearlong curriculum of monthly seminars and networking events that focus on traditional academic career development as well as topics related to cultural identity and challenges of systemic racism. In addition, fellows are matched with a senior-level faculty mentor to address issues of leadership and cultural identity.
Dr. Lauri Linder is one of six nurses inducted as inaugural fellows in the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses. The FAPHON designation is for nurses who have promoted and advanced the specialty of pediatric hematology/oncology nursing and epitomize the mission of APHON by supporting and advancing nurses in optimizing outcomes for children, adolescents, young adults, and their families throughout the continuum of care for their blood disorders and cancers.
Dr. Lauri Linder received the APHON Counts Writing Award for her 2022 newsletter article titled Using evidence to create a new paradigm for CLABSI prevention in pediatric hematology, oncology, and stem cell transplant.
August
FeedSpot ranked theUniversity of Utah College of Nursing Blog as #6 for the 40 Best Nursing Blogs for Students. Jacqueline Scheider and Vianney Alcala manage the blog and promote the posts.
Dr. Lynn Reinke, the Claire Dumke Ryberg, R.N. Presidential Endowed Chair in End-of Life/Palliative Care, has been accepted into the Spring 2023 cohort of theUniversity of Utah Women in Leadership Certificate Programhosted by the David Eccles School of Business. The 7-session program is designed for women who seek the skills to be effective leaders, and business leaders committed to helping women be successful in leadership roles. Content includes conflict management and assertiveness, mindfulness and interpersonal effectiveness, the power of communication, authentic voice, mentoring, and executive presence.
The 2022-2023 Mountain States Community-Engaged Dissemination & Implementation Science (MS-CEDI) Training Program commenced the first week of August in Midway, UT. Co-sponsored by the College of Nursing, MS-CEDI is a 9-month intensive program bringing together implementation scientists and trainees from the University of Utah and Arizona State University to develop and submit research proposals using dissemination and implementation methods. Dr. Andrea Wallace serves as a program mentor, and this year’s trainees include Drs. Nancy Allen, Shinduk Lee, and Sara Simonsen.
The Presidential Scholar award recognizes the extraordinary academic accomplishments and promise of associate professor faculty members, providing them with financial support to advance their research and teaching. Dr. Lauri Linder has been selected from an exceptional cadre of nominees from Colleges and Schools across the university for this impressive distinction. She will be recognized as a Presidential Scholar for three academic years: 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and 2024-2025.
Deidre Schoenfeld received a Health Academics District Staff Excellence Award, and will be considered for one of eight University-wide awards. Established in 1992, this awards program recognizes superior service and ongoing contributions by full-time staff employees.
July
Dr. Nancy Allen and Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead attended the 2022 Summer Institute and completed the New Leadership Academy Fellows Program. The New Leadership Academy Program changes the expectations that surround leaders, leadership, and leadership development across higher education. Learning strategies are premised on a recognition that the demographic, democratic, and discursive foundations on which modern higher education has been built are changing. The NLA curriculum and learning objectives draw upon traditional leadership theory and contemporary scholarship that investigate the roles of leaders under highly contested and complex conditions. Drs. Allen and Sanchez-Birkhead participated in tailored programs and activities, which included online learning modules and discussions, an interactive case study simulation, written reflections, and coaching sessions.
Based on a formal review of their accomplishments, faculty are being promoted and/or reappointed to the College of Nursing. Included are Career-Line faculty who were previously promoted and/or reappointed but not recognized.
Promotion to Professor, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Kristin Cloyes
- Dr. Linda Edelman
Promotion to Professor (Clinical) and Reappointment to the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Brenda Luther
- Dr. Sara Hart
- Dr. Katie Ward
- Dr. Rebecca Wilson
Promotion to Professor (Clinical), effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Kara Dassel
Promotion to Associate Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Jenneth Doria, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Jessica Ellis, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Linda Hofmann, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Keisha Lynch, effective July 1, 2020
- Dr. Jennifer Macali, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Allison Spolsdoff, effective July 1, 2022
Promotion to Associate Professor (Clinical) and Reappointment to the College of Nursing
- Dr. Valerie Flattes, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Kim Friddle, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Teresa Garrett, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Denise Ward, effective July 1, 2022
Reappointment to the College of Nursing as Associate Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Debra Penney, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Gillian Tufts, effective July 1, 2021
Promotion to Assistant Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. John Nerges, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Zoe Robbins, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Sara Webb, effective July 1, 2021
Promotion to Assistant Professor (Clinical) and Reappointment to the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. ElLois Bailey
Reappointment to the College of Nursing as Assistant Professor (Clinical)
- Dr. Marilyn Rigby, effective July 1, 2021
- Dr. Julianne Schiefelbein, effective July 1, 2022
- Dr. Julie Steele, effective July 1, 2021
Dr. Nancy Allen has been named a Fellow of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, and will use the distinction FADCES. Dr. Allen was recognized for her contributions to diabetes clinical practice, research, and health policy. There are fewer than 100 FADCES in the country.
June
The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education’s AGHExchange newsletter highlighted the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program and the College of Social Work hosting a “Music and Memory” seminar in honor of Careers in Aging Week.
May
Through the Behavioral and Social Science section, the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) named Dr. Jackie Eaton as one of its newest fellows. Through the Social Research, Policy, and Practice section, the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) named Dr. Caroline Stephens as one of its newest fellows. GSA chooses fellows from across its membership sections, and Fellow status is the highest category of membership within the Society, acknowledging outstanding and continuing work in gerontology. GSA will formally recognize Caroline and Jackie at the GSA 2022 Annual Scientific Meeting, which will be held November 2-6, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Camille Spute was nominated for Employee of the Month at Slate Canyon Youth Center. Although ineligible for the award as a College of Nursing rather than Juvenile Justice System employee, Camille was nominated because of her ongoing commitment to Slate Canyon. The person who nominated Camille, indicated that Camille works tirelessly to ensure that the medical needs of the youth are met. For example, she has gone into work on weekends and off-hours to assist with urgent medical concerns. Camille's knowledge and “get it done” attitude is admirable. She is the “defibrillator” for the Slate Canyon Youth Center, keeping the heart of the facility pumping.
Dr. Michelle Litchman was selected as a University of Utah Presidential Societal Impact Scholar. Recognized experts in their respective fields and disciplines, Impact Scholars share and translate their scholarship, research, creative activities, and ideas with opinion leaders, policy makers, the general public, and other audiences outside the university and in ways that can transform society. Their work has a positive impact on people and institutions, and help make our world a better, more equitable, and more enjoyable place in which to live.
Dr. Schola Matovu received the prestigious The Jane Norbeck Distinguished Service Award. For more than three decades, this award has honored remarkable graduates of the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Nursing who have demonstrated service and/or leadership that has contributed to the growth and development of the UCSF School of Nursing and/or the profession. The award is named for Dr. Jane Norbeck, an alumna of the Master's Class of 1971 and PhD Class of 1975, and the Dean of the School of Nursing from 1989 through 2000.
April
Dr. Linda Hofmann was accepted into theAACN-Wharton Executive Leadership Program. This competitive fellowship is designed to advance chief academic administrators to a higher level of leadership. The curriculum provides Fellows with the concepts and tools needed to enhance leadership capacity and hone skills that are essential to thrive and move forward strategically.
Dr. Jennifer Macali was recently accepted as a Fellow in the 2022-2023 cohort of theJohns Hopkins University SOURCE Service -Learning Academy. The SOURCE Service-Learning Academy is a one-year, comprehensive program that equips Fellows with all the necessary tools and methods to develop critical service-learning partnerships and courses. Fellows learn how to become more effective teachers, work equitably with local communities, and advance the civic mission of higher education. In addition, Fellows engage with others on issues of justice, critical reflection, and the purpose of science, health, and education in our world.
Thirteen staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2021 -2022 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the CON’s reputation for excellence.
- Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Allison Spolsdoff
- Faculty Excellence in Scholarship and Research Award: Dr. Jia-Wen Guo
- Faculty Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Deanna Kepka
- Excellence in University Health Partnership Award: Dr. John Nerges
- Faculty Mentoring Award: Dr. Ann Butt
- Faculty Practice Award: Dr. Tek Kilgore
Dr. Caroline Stephens received the 2022 University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) PhD Mentor of the Year Award, which will be presented at the UCSF School of Nursing’s commencement ceremony on June 2, 2022, at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco.
The University of Utah will soon display a new set of banners that recognize faculty who received University teaching awards in 2021 and 2022. When at 1300 East and South Temple, look for Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead’s banner. The University of Utah Teaching Committee awarded the 2021 Community Engaged Teaching and Scholarship Award to Ana.
Dr. Gwen Latendresse has been selected to participate in the 2022-2023 cohort of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Elevating Leaders in Academic Nursing program.
The Western Institute of Nursing (WIN) selected Dr. Linda Edelman for induction into the Western Academy of Nurses (WAN). WIN established WAN to recognize and honor nurses who have been actively engaged in WIN, and have demonstrated excellence in nursing research, practice, and/or education.
TheUtah Organization of Nurse Leaders presented its Nurse Research Award to Dr. Gwen Latendresse.
The Utah Organization of Nurse Leaders presented its Exemplary Nurse Leader Award – Academia to Dean Marla De Jong.
March
Editors at Healthcare Innovation chose Huntsman at Home™ as the winner of the publication’s Top Innovator Award for 2022. Dr. Kathleen Mooney pioneered development and evaluation of the University of Utah Health Huntsman Cancer Institute’s (HCI) Huntsman at Home™ program, the first hospital-at-home service that is oncology-specific. Bringing the high standard and excellence of care patients receive at HCI to their home, the service allows patients to avoid hospitalization or leave the hospital sooner. Huntsman at Home™ teams include HCI physicians and advanced practice registered nurses, and Community Nursing Services’ registered nurses, nursing aides, physical therapists, pharmacists, and social workers who visit patients in their home, and provide acute care, supportive care, and hospice and palliative care.
February
President Randall reappointed Dr. Kathi Mooney as holder of the Louis S. Peery, MD and Janet B. Peery Presidential Endowed Chair in Nursing.
President Randall reappointed Dr. Sara Simonsen as holder of the Annette Poulson Cumming Presidential Endowed Chair in Women's and Reproductive Health.
Kathi Mooney has been selected to receive the University of Utah Distinguished Research Award for 2022! The University began this award in 1965, and Kathi is the first nurse to receive it! This is a tremendous honor for Kathi, recognizing her as a prominent scientist whose sustained program of funded research has improved patient outcomes, lowered cost of care, improved well-being of family caregivers, and transformed models of patient care. Further, the award shines light on the importance and impact of nursing science.
Dr. Erin Johnson Cole, Christina Elmore, Julie King, Peggy Rosati-Allen, Dr. Sara Simonsen, and Dr. Jocelyn Yale will be inducted as Fellows with the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) during a ceremony at the 67th Annual Meeting & Exhibition on May 22, 2022. The Fellowship in the American College of Nurse-Midwives (FACNM) is an honor bestowed upon midwives whose demonstrated leadership within ACNM, clinical excellence, outstanding scholarship, and professional achievement have merited special recognition both within and outside of the midwifery profession. FACNM represents the commitment of the ACNM to honor our own. In light of the vast wealth of expertise and collective wisdom represented within the body of Fellows, its mission is to serve the ACNM in a consultative and advisory capacity. The ACNM Fellowship program was established in 1994, and nearly 600 ACNM members have been inducted as Fellows.
The University of Utah Academy of Health Science Educators (AHSE) Selection Committee chose Drs. Cheryl Armstrong, Sheila Deyette, and Katarina Friberg Felsted to be Fellows of the Academy. Their involvement in the Academy will be instrumental in creating a culture of collaboration and exceptional education within the University of Utah Health. An Induction Ceremony to honor Jenneth, Jennifer, Gillian, Katie, and other new Fellows will be held on April 6, 2022.
The College of Nursing is ranked #28 in National Institutes of Health funding to colleges of nursing. We commend our hard-working and innovative researchers, their collaborators and team members, and the amazing Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center staff who support them.
Tamara Ekker met with a Capstone student Emma Wells on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Huntsman Cancer Hospital. Given that shift change was taking place, eight College of Nursing alumni who Tamara previously taught gathered for an impromptu and joyful reunion (see photo above). Tamara was delighted to hear about her former students’ ongoing and impactful work, and tell them how proud she is of them. In turn, students thanked Tamara for inspiring them to learn, and mentoring them for professional success.
Supported and nominated by Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Djin Tay has been accepted into the Junior Faculty Visiting Professor Program in Palliative Care. The program’s goals are to 1) advance the careers of early-career palliative care researchers and 2) create opportunities for cross-institutional collaborations that advance the science of geriatric palliative care. The program supports visiting professorships for early-career palliative care researchers from a range of disciplines at partner institutions with robust geriatric palliative care research programs. Traditionally reserved for more senior faculty, these visiting professorships provide opportunities for early-career palliative care researchers to learn about unique programs and projects at other institutions, meet individually with methodological and content experts in the field of geriatric palliative care, identify new collaborators, develop their presentation and networking skills, and increase the visibility of their work. Dr. Tay has been paired with Dr. Dio Kavalieratos and his colleagues at Emory University.
January
U.S. News & World Report ranked online Master’s in Nursing programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #38 (tied) of 179 schools, and is the highest-ranked in Utah. High praise for faculty, staff, and preceptors who lead and support the MS program.
U.S. News & World Report ranked online Master’s in Nursing Education programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #9 (tied) of 14 schools, and is the only school in Utah ranked for nursing education. We commend all faculty, staff, and preceptors who lead and support the nursing education track.
The Gerontological Society of America’s Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education recently published the 7th edition of Gerontology and Geriatrics: Curricular Standards and Guidelines in Higher Education. Dr. Kara Dassel served on the Board of Reviewers and reviewed multiple content drafts.
As part of Cervical Health Awareness Month (January 2022), expertscape ranked Dr. Deanna Kepka in the top 0.53% of 19,416 published authors worldwide on papillomavirus vaccines.
Patients submitted comments regarding Dr. Pam Phares’ exceptional work.
“Dr. Phares is an excellent listener, educator, and is knowledgeable. She also is very kind and empathetic.”
“I love this doctor; not only did she talk to me about my diabetes, which is her specialty, but she also looked at my other tests for my heart and kidneys, which not even my PCP will do. She seemed concerned with my overall care, and I love her for it!”
“Pam was exceptional. She was able to tactfully provide information on a sensitive topic in a caring and informative way. She was empathetic to the challenges of the lifestyle changes and provided resources and information on how to succeed.”
“Pam Phares is amazing!”
The Academy of Health Science Educators’ (AHSE) Advancing Excellence in Education Committee selected Dr. Richmond Doxey, Theresa Dvorak, Dr. Amy Locke, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Tricia Petzold, and Jean Zancanella, members of the Culinary Medicine Team, to receive the 2022 Interprofessional Education Team Award. Members of the team worked to create an interdisciplinary course, incorporating food and medicine. The course presents the learners with evidence-based nutrition as it relates to cooking at home. Classes take place in the cooking kitchen on campus or in the home kitchen virtually. The course is open to graduate health-science students. The AHSE will recognize the team at its Induction Ceremony in April.
Sigma invited Drs. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Jia-Wen Guo, and Jackie Eaton to orally present an abstract titled Advancing Interprofessional Telemedicine Education: An Analysis of Student Knowledge, Beliefs, and Attitudes at its 33rd International Nursing Research Congress in Edinburgh, Scotland in July 2022. The reviewers indicated that their submitted abstract is an excellent reflection of current nursing trends and timely issues.
Dr. Kathy Sward was promoted to adjunct Professor in the Department of Biomedical Informatics.
Due to her program of study with Guatemalan lay midwives, the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) selected Dr. Kimberly Garcia to receive the Jeanne Raisler International Award for Midwifery. This award, which honors the memory of Jeanne Raisler, CNM, DrPH, FACNM, and her commitment to midwifery and international women's health issues, supports ACNM members to become involved in global midwifery issues. It enables recipients to gain experience in international midwifery through participation in a project designed to improve the health of women in a developing country.
In the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake (UICSL) January 2022 Newsletter, Maurice "Mo" Smith, Executive Director, praised College of Nursing faculty and staff members, writing “I personally am thankful for the strong working relationship with the dedicated and compassionate nurse providers from the University of Utah's College of Nursing. Our nurse providers are always thinking ahead and routinely go above and beyond to ensure that our American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) benefactors receive both the very best care and an outstanding patient experience. This collaboration and commitment of our entire UICSL team – from medical assistants, nurses, and behavioral health counselors to administrative professionals and environmental service employees – is the lifeblood of our organization and makes me extremely proud and grateful to be a part of it.” College of Nursing clinicians who work at UICSL include Dr. Van Gip, DNP, FNP-C, Danielle Puri, FNP-C, CIC, and Dr. Deven Jennings, DNP, PMHNP-BC. Leslie Crandall, MSN, RN is Nurse Care Manager.
December
Dr. Michelle Litchman received an American Diabetes Association$200,000 grant ($600,000 over three years) for her project titled Deaf Diabetes Can Together (DEDICATE): A Pilot Study. The overarching goal is to increase access of the Deaf or hard of hearing populations (DHH) to diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES), and reduce disparities related to language access justice. The objective is to deliver a DSMES program that linguistically, culturally, and geographically meets the needs of DHH populations living in the United States.
Dr. Djin Tay received an $30,000 American Cancer Society's Institutional Research Grant Award for her project titled A Real-World Examination of Health INequiTies in ImmunE-related adveRSe Events among Cancer paTients: The INTERSECT study. Dr. Tay will 1) Assess the moderating role of minoritized race on the relationship between anxiety and depression, and immune-related adverse events (IrAE) treatment discontinuation, and 2) assess the mediating role of insurance type on the relationship between anxiety and depression, and IrAE-related treatment discontinuation. This research will further understanding of drivers of inequities in health outcomes among patients receiving immunotherapy, and has implications to guide practice and policies to support equitable survivorship and palliative care delivery. Drs. Xiaoming Sheng, Jia-Wen Guo, Lee Ellington, and Mia Hashibe provided scientific mentorship to Dr. Tay.
November
Dr. Scott Christensen received a research grant from the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma to help fund his dissertation research titled Why Nurses Do Not Report: Understanding Nursing Victim Reactions, Attitudes, and Likelihood to Report Patient Aggression.
October
Dr. Djin Tay and Dr. Jia-Wen Guo (MPIs), along with Dr. Xiaoming Sheng and Natalya Alekhina (co-Is) received a $25,000 Flatiron Academic Health Equity Research grant for their project titled Examining Health INequiTies in ImmunE-related adveRSe Events among Cancer paTients: The INTERSECT study. The investigators will leverage a national Flatiron Health electronic health record dataset and expand the existing Utah cancer patient population ImmPETUS (Immunotherapy, Palliative, and End-of-Life Treatment Utilization and Spousal Outcomes) dataset to: 1) identify groups of cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors at greatest risk for moderate to severe immune-related adverse events during the last two years of life, and 2) assess the mediating role of immune-related adverse events on the relationship between clinical and social determinants of health and inpatient and emergency department visits during the last two years of life. The overall objective is to characterize the development of immune-related adverse events over time to provide insight into the timing of focused clinical management and supportive care. In addition, the focus on the social and structural drivers of immune-related adverse events outcomes may provide guidance for practice and policies to address inequities.
Dr. Nancy Allen, program director, received a $1,050,000 Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention (NEPQR)-Registered Nurse Training Program grant titled Advancing Acute Care Nurses to Address and Manage Social Determinants of Health, to be distributed at $350,000 each year for three years, providing fund availability and satisfactory progress. Team members include Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, EDI Director, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Rebecca Wilson, Dr. Dina Drits, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, and Dr. Melody Krahulec. During this 3-year project, the team will award scholarships to racially and ethnically diverse RN to BS students, and create learning modules about health equity, social determinants of health (SDOH), and cultural sensitivity that students will complete. Goals are to increase the number of racially/ethnically diverse undergraduate nurses to mirror the diversity of Utah’s patient population, and improve the competency of nursing students and the acute care nursing workforce in Utah to provide equitable health care that is culturally sensitive and addresses SDOH.
Alumna and adjunct faculty member, Dr. Kate Doyon, was awarded the Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation Hillman Emergent Innovation: Serious Illness and End of Life grant titled A Community-Based, Collaboratively Designed Communication Guide for Clinicians Working with Refugees with Serious Illness. She will collaborate with refugees and clinicians to develop a communication guide to facilitate care for refugees with serious illness. Dr. Doyon will be interviewed on NPR Morning Edition about her work the week of October 10, 2022.
Principal Investigator Dr. Gwen Latendresse and Co-Investigators Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Dr. Marcela Smid, Dr. Uma Dorn, Dr. J.D. Smith, and Dr. Ryoko Pentecost (sub-contract with Boise State University) received a $1.9M National Institutes of Nursing Research R01 grant for their project titled Prevention of Perinatal Depression among at-risk Individuals through Integration of a Multimedia, Web-based Intervention within the Healthcare System. During this 3-year project, the team will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of integrating a remote-access perinatal depression prevention program within a healthcare system and embedded in the existing web-based patient portal YoMingo®. For this type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation project, they will use the Implementation Research Logic Model to evaluate systems and strategies that link intervention determinants, including sociocultural determinants, with implementation outcomes in Latino, underserved (rural), and urban populations. In addition, they will use a randomized preference trial to assess the impact of patient preference and sociocultural factors – geographic residence, race/ethnicity, significant life events, mental health history, mental health stigma – on participation and preliminary outcomes.
Dr. Kathie Supiano (PI), and the Caring Connections team received a two-year extension with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services for $400,000. This contract will allow the team to train clinicians about the Grief of Overdose Death, and to implement the Overdose Grief Support Program in substance use disorder treatment programs and mental health service settings in Utah.
Two of Dr. Kathie Supiano’s mentees received Rita and Alex Hillman Foundation Hillman Emergent Innovation: Serious Illness and End of Life grants.
- Dr. Siobhan Aaron, a recent T-32 post-doctoral fellow and now Assistant Professor at Case Western Reserve School of Nursing, received a grant for her project A Culturally Centered Complicated Grief Group Therapy Intervention for Black Americans. Bereaving Black communities are at heightened risk of Complicated Grief because of historical trauma, systemic racism, mistrust in the healthcare system, and a frequent reluctance to seek mental health care. Dr. Aaron will investigate the experience of Black grievers and use those findings to modify an existing intervention, Complicated Grief Group Therapy, into a culturally centered psychotherapeutic intervention.
- Dr. Abigail Latimer, Assistant Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, received a grant for her project Adapting the Serious Illness Conversation Guide for Older Adults Experiencing Homelessness. The population of homeless older people continues to grow rapidly, and their physical and mental burdens, combined with challenges in receiving adequate care, contribute to shorter life expectancies than their housing-secure peers. Dr. Latimer seeks to adapt the Serious Illness Conversation Guide, which is primarily used to drive values-based conversations between caregivers and oncology patients, for use with older adults experiencing homelessness to recognize and meet their serious illness needs.
September
Dr. Kelley Newlin-Lew – Associate Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Nursing, Dr. Nancy Allen (Co-I), Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead (Consultant), and Dr. Eli Iacob (Consultant) received a $1,669,850 National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases R01 grant for their project titled FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center) Intervention for CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) Uptake in Hispanic Adults with T1D (Type 1 diabetes). During this 4-year study, the investigators will aim to increase the number of Hispanics with Type 1 diabetes seen at FQHCs who use continuous glucose monitoring.
Multiple Principal Investigators Drs. Jonathan Michael Dean, Jamie Dwyer, Katherine Sward, and Kevin Watt received a $604,783 ($8,452,103 over 5 years) National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences grant for their project titled HEAL (Helping to End Addiction Long-term) ERN (Effectiveness Research Network): Data Coordinating Resource Center. The University of Utah Data Coordinating Center is serving as the data coordinating center for the National Institutes of Health HEAL Initiative, HEAL ERN studies. This multi-year project will encompass multiple studies. During year one, researchers will focus on the Optimizing the Use of Ketamine to Reduce Chronic Postsurgical Pain (KALPAS) study, examining the use of ketamine in the immediate post-operative period after mastectomy for breast cancer.
Dr. Sierra E. Carter (PI, Georgia State University), Dr. Vasiliki Michopoulos (Co-I, Emory University), Dr. Sheree Boulet (Co-I, Emory University), Dr. Rasheeta Chandler, (Co-I, Emory University), Dr. Elisabeth Conradt (Co-I, University of Utah College of Social & Behavioral Science), Dr. Sheila Crowell (Co-I, University of Utah College of Social & Behavioral Science), Dr. Anu Asnaani (Co-I, University of Utah College of Social & Behavioral Science) and Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead (Consultant) received a $3,897,476 Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development R01 grant for their project titled Advancing Understanding of Racism-related Health Disparities Beginning before Birth: A Multisite Study with Black and Latina Pregnant Women. During this 5-year, multi-site, and longitudinal study, the investigators will aim to advance understanding of racism-related health disparities as well as modifiable stress-buffering factors in pregnant Black and Latina women and infants.
Multiple principal investigators Dr. Erin Rothwell – Interim Vice President for Research; Professor, University of Utah School of Medicine Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Dr. Aaron Goldenberg – Professor and Vice Chair, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine Department of Bioethics, and co-I Dr. Andrea Wallace received a $3,620,821 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development R01 grant for their project titled Implementing a Novel Consent Process for Biospecimen Research after Newborn Screening in Hospitals Serving Diverse Patients. The investigators will identify determinants, strategies, mechanisms, barriers, and facilitators of consenting quality across hospitals serving diverse and underserved populations for the retention and research use of residual dried bloodspots for the Michigan Biotrust for Health; engage members of underrepresented and non-English speaking communities in Michigan to support implementation of an electronic informed consent intervention (EICI) in diverse hospital settings, and implement and evaluate the EICI consent approach within four major hospitals across the state of Michigan that serve underrepresented persons, Spanish and Arabic speaking participants, and the general population.
Dr. Linda Edelman (co-program director) received a $2,000,000 Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Rural Communities Opioid Response Program – Mental and Behavioral Health grant. Additional CON faculty include Dr. Brenda Luther and Dr. Larry Garrett. Dr. Elizabeth Howell from Addiction Psychiatry is the School of Medicine lead. Kasey Shakespear from the Utah Center for Rural Health/Southern Utah Area Health Education Center is co-program director. During this 4-year project, the team will provide Collaborative Care Training for office-based addiction treatment in health clinics, and support community-based programs for patients and families in Carbon, Emery, and Wayne counties.
Drs. Andrea Wallace and Alycia Bristol (MPIs), along with Drs. Paula Meek, Jia-Wen Guo, and Gary Donaldson (co-Is), received a $1,199,831 Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) R01 grant for their proposal titled Uncovering Caregiver Discharge Readiness for Patient Care Transitions from Hospital to Home: The UCare Study. During this 3-year study, their goal is to develop and test a measure that captures the unique factors important to caregivers’ feelings of readiness to engage in caregiving upon discharge from the hospital. Using a mixed-methods approach, the specific aims of this study are to 1) develop a theoretically grounded and psychometrically sound caregiver hospital discharge readiness scale (FamRHDS-R); 2) establish the psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the FamRHDS-R; and 3) establish whether and how the FamRHDS-R is associated with a range of caregiver and patient outcomes.
Drs. Deanna Kepka (subcontract PI) and Echo Warner (co-I) received a $580,364 National Cancer Institute subcontract award with Drs. David Buller of Klein Buendel, Inc. and Andrew Sussman of University of New Mexico (MPIs) for their proposal titled #4Corners4Health: A Social Media Cancer Prevention Program for Rural Emerging Adults. During this 5-year project, their goal is to decrease cancer risk factors among emerging adults aged 18-26 living in rural counties in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah (i.e., "Four Corners" states), using a social media campaign designed with community advisors.
Dr. Deanna Kepka (PI), along with Drs. Echo Warner, Michelle Litchman, Ben Haaland (co-Is), and Drs. Gloria Coronado and Wendy Birmingham (consultants) received a $305,717 Independent Investigator Award from Merck for their proposal titled Multi-component Assessment of HPV Vaccine Hesitancy in Utah. The purpose of this 2-year project is to uncover disparities in adolescent HPV vaccination hesitancy among rural and religious communities in Utah. They will elicit community feedback about HPV vaccination, social media use, and religiosity. They will also examine the penetration of HPV vaccination misinformation in selected rural and religious communities. These findings will inform HPV vaccination social media campaign messages that integrate local values and perspectives.
Dr. Lynn Reinke (PI) received a $250,000 Cambia Health Foundation grant for her proposal titled Advanced Practice Clinical Palliative Care Fellowship: A Leading Edge Program Responding to Workforce Demands, Underserved Populations, and Rural and Behavioral Health Needs. The goal of this 3-year project is to develop an Advanced Practice Clinical Palliative Care Fellowship, the first such program in the West, and support three fellows at the University of Utah.
Special thanks to members of the pre-award team who supported these scientists – Emily Bailey, Hollie Fuhrmann, Dr. Erin Meyer, and Terri Pianka.
August
Hitachi, Ltd awarded $72,000 in additional funds to Dr. Catherine Staes and her team, including Dr. Caroline Scheese, to continue research about predicting end-of-life among patients with advanced cancer to support shared decision-making.
Dr. Paula Meek received a $372,269 Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Faculty Loan Program award, which will provide loan repayment assistance to our graduate students who will serve as nurse faculty in an eligible school of nursing.
June
The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists Foundation awarded a $20,000 grant to Dr. Michelle Litchman and co-investigators Dr. Nancy Allen and Dr. Shinduk Lee for their project Development of a Diabetes Training for ASL Interpreters. During the upcoming year, these faculty will develop and deliver diabetes training to American Sign Language interpreters to better equip them when translating for diabetes care and education specialists.
The National Institutes of Health National Institute on Aging awarded a $3,070,390 R01 grant to Dr. Kara Dassel and Co-Investigators Dr. Kathie Supiano, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Dr. Rebecca Utz for their project LEADing End-of-Life Dementia Care Conversations. Hollie Fuhrmann was integral to the success of the application. Advance care planning (ACP) is the process that allows individuals to express their future health care values and preferences, so that these wishes can be enacted in the event that they become incapacitated and unable to participate in their own health care decisions. Often, families do not want to engage in these challenging conversations and wait too long, whereby the care recipient with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia (ADRD) no longer has decisional ability to participate in the advance care planning process. The team previously developed “The LEAD Guide” (Life-Planning in Early Alzheimer’s and Dementia) – a tool to help persons with preclinical awareness of ADRD risk and those with early-stage cognitive impairment to begin important conversations with a care partner. With funding from the National Alzheimer’s Association, the investigators created a preliminary interactive LEAD intervention that combines the LEAD Guide with educational materials about the importance of having conversations about, documenting (advance directive), and sharing ACP wishes with other family members and health care providers. During the next five years, the research team will conduct mixed method research to 1) evaluate the usability, acceptability, feasibility, and initial efficacy of the LEAD intervention as a self-administered, dementia-focused web-based tool that can be used to facilitate the ACP process for 60 diverse community-dwelling pairs, consisting of persons in the preclinical or early stage of ADRD and their care partner; 2) assess the initial efficacy of the LEAD intervention on decision-making confidence, relationship quality, subjective well-being, and anxiety in both the care recipient and care partner; and 3) examine the process of ACP congruence (shared understanding of the care recipients’ values and preferences regarding EOL care) as the primary factor related to changes observed during the LEAD intervention. Results have the potential to guide and accelerate the implementation of the LEAD intervention to community and health care practice, where a dementia-focused ACP process is needed.
The Utah Cancer Action Network awarded a $50,000 Utah State Cancer Plan Implementation Opportunity grant to Dr. Deanna Kepka for her project Using Community-based Methods and Vaccine Registry Data to Improve HPV Vaccination Receipt in the Era of COVID-19.
May
Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted was invited to attend the Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR)Writing Retreat, which will be held off campus in June 2022. Given high-quality quantitative data that Katarina compiled during a recent study, she will write a manuscript for publication.
Dr. Katherine Doyon, Dr. Nancy Allen, and Dr. Julie Gee received the inaugural University of Utah VR4 Health Sciences Education grant for their proposal titled Using Cultural Humility Framework to address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)through Virtual Reality. They will receive one year of development services worth $100,000 to build a next-generation training program that will be designed to provide clinicians first-person perspective on the challenges patients may face in seeking health care. Launched in February of 2022, VR4 Health Sciences Education is a collaborative program between the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library and The Therapeutic Games & Applications Lab (The GApp Lab) at the University of Utah, and is supported by the Spencer S. Eccles Family Endowment, a fund established in 1977 for the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library.
Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, PhD student and T32 pre-doctoral fellow (2019-2021), received a three-year F31 fellowship from NIH National Institute of Nursing Research in the amount of $117,112 for her project titled Examining Associations between Social Network Characteristics, Obesity-Related Health Behaviors, and Weight Retention among Racially/Ethnically Diverse Postpartum Women. She will explore the associations between postpartum social networks and diet, activity, and postpartum weight retention (PPWR) by 1) quantitatively investigating how diet, activity, and PPWR at 1-year postpartum are associated with structural and functional features of social networks among a sample of racially/ethnically diverse women, 2) qualitatively exploring mothers’ perceptions about the influence of their social networks on weight-related health behaviors and PPWR, and 3) triangulating qualitative and quantitative data using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. Jacqueline’s mentors include primary mentor Dr. Sara Simonsen, co-mentor Dr. Kayla de le Haye, sponsor Dr. Kristin Cloyes, and advisor Dr. Bob Wong.
The Caring Connections Team received a $10,000 Project grant from the Sorenson Legacy Foundation, and a $1,000 project grant from the Williamsen Family Foundation to fund development of a clinician training program in Prolonged Grief Group Therapy.
The University of Utah Vice-President for Research awarded an $8,447.56 Administrative Supplement to Promote a Diverse Research Community titled Supplement to the SINCERE Study to Retain a Diverse Workforce to Dr. Andrea Wallace. As a supplement to her National Institute of Nursing Research funded R01 research project titled Intensifying Community Referrals for Health: The SINCERE Intervention to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities, these additional funds will enable Dr. Wallace to maintain a study team that includes students from groups that have low representation in the research community.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Geographic Management of Cancer Health Disparities Program (GMaP) Region 6 Research Scholar Pilot Funds Program awarded a $20,000 grant to Dr. Echo Warner to support her research project titled “Cancer Care Crowdfunding among LGBTQ+ Cancer Survivors Study.” Dr. Kristin Cloyes is Echo’s mentor for this project.
April
Members of the Academic Leadership team selected two individuals for Intramural Scholarship Award funding. The College of Nursing developed this funding to support a scholarly project or research study that addresses a significant problem or issue in healthcare, and results in a determined deliverable.
- Dr. Kimberly Garcia will receive $10,000 for her project titled Educational Activity about COVID with Low-Literacy Guatemalan Comadronas in the Remote Peten.
- Dr. Jessica Ellis will receive $10,000 for her project titled A Multi-site Prospective Exploratory Study of Water Birth.
Academic Programs selected three individuals for Global Health Intramural Scholarship funding. Academic Programs established this funding for a faculty scholarly project or research study that addresses a Global Health concern or topic, engages undergraduate and/or graduate students at the College of Nursing, and results in a pre-determined deliverable.
- Dr. Deanna Kepka will receive $30,000 for her project titled Assessment of University of Utah College of Nursing Community Based Partnerships in the Era of COVID-19. Collaborators include Dr. Debra Penney, Dr. Schola Matovu, Dr. Echo Warner, and Sara Carbajal Salisbury.
- Dr. Schola Matovu will receive $30,000 for her project titled Promoting Health Equity Through a Collaborative Transcultural Learning Experience and Leadership Development of Nurses. Collaborators include Dr. Deanna Kepka, Dr. Debra Penny, Linda Gregory, and Joseph Mwizerwa.
- Dr. Kimberly Garcia will receive $30,000 for her project titled One College of Nursing Supporting Guatemalan Women Throughout the Life Span. Collaborators include Dr. Julie Gee, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, and Dr. Keanna Kepka.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Supportive Oncology and Survivorship Center awarded a $10,000 grant to Dr. Djin Tay to support her pilot research project titled “Examining the Role of Palliative Care among Immunotherapy Cancer Patients and their Care Partners using a Multi-Method Approach.” Co-investigators include Drs. Lee Ellington, Mia Hashibe, Jaewhan Kim, and Thomas Varghese Jr.
The College of Nursing’s Family Caregiving Collaborative ([FCC]; Director, Dr. Lee Ellington) was invited to submit a grant proposal to the Center for Consumer Engagement in Health Innovation/Grantmakers in Aging. On behalf of the FCC, FCC Senior Faculty Associates Dr. Debbie Scammon and Dr. Rebecca Utz (College of Nursing Adjunct Associate Professor) led development of the successful proposal titled Changing Conversations in Caregiving. The $15,000 in funding will be used to recruit and train 10 caregivers to serve on the Utah Family Caregiver Advisory Board. These board members will work alongside members of the FCC, and an FCC convened multi-stakeholder committee focused on advocacy for a Utah State Plan for Caregiving. Members of the advisory board will represent four forms of diversity – race-ethnicity, geography, relationship, and condition – and will provide input that contributes to developing policy priorities that meet the unique and shared needs of diverse groups of caregivers.
March
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Center (BGCC) awarded $29,779 to multiple principal investigators Drs. Elissa Ozanne, Deanna Kepka , and Tracy Onega to support their pilot research project titled “Intervening on Social Determinants of Health to Increase Breast Cancer Screening in a Mobile Mammography program.” Funding from the BGCC is provided with the goal of promoting transdisciplinary, collaborative research that will impact understanding, prevention, and/or treatment of breast cancer.
Hitachi, Ltd awarded $120,000 in additional funds to Dr. Catherine Staes and her team, including Dr. Caroline Scheese, and collaborators from Biomedical Informatics and the Huntsman Cancer Institute, to continue research related to “Data Analytics to Improve End-of-Life Care.” The investigators developed a predictive survival model and visualization to support provider, patient, and caregiver decision making, and are assessing impact on information needs from these different perspectives.
Drs. Michelle Litchman (PI) and Murdock Henderson (Research Associate) received the University of Utah Office of the Vice President for Research Administrative Supplement to Promote a Diverse Research Community award in the amount of $105,000. These funds will support work to 1) adapt, refine, and test a diabetes education program for Deaf and hard of hearing populations and their care partners; and 2) translate validated diabetes measures into American Sign Language. Collaborators include Drs. Nancy Allen, Shinduk Lee, and Eli Iacob.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Center (BGCC) awarded $30,000 to Dr. Deanna Kepka to support her pilot research project titled “Multi-state Assessment of Attitudes about Vaccines for Primary Cancer Prevention in Adolescents and Young Adults with Inherited Cancer Predisposition.” Funding from the BGCC is provided with the goal of promoting transdisciplinary, collaborative research that will impact understanding, prevention, and/or treatment of breast cancer. Collaborators include Wendy Kohlmann, and Dr. Anne Kirchhoff.
February
Dr. Elizabeth Sloss, Post-doctoral Fellow, was appointed to the Family Well-Being Research Network(FAM-NET) Scholar Corps, and awarded $4,000 for her project “Natural experimentation approaches to explore family well-being: A scoping review.” FAM-NET is a collaborative project to support and advance research on measurement of family well-being and pediatric quality of life and is supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. FAM-NET builds knowledge by funding new research, supporting and mentoring the next generation of scholars, and providing education and training. Under the mentorship of Drs. Kathy Sward (primary mentor), Djin Tay, Echo Warner, and Megan Thomas Hebdon, Elizabeth will conduct a scoping review focused on using natural experimentation to study family well-being. She will identify longitudinal, population-level datasets that can be used in natural experimentation studies, as well as measures that are collected in population-level datasets for quantification or measurement of family well-being. Elizabeth will build upon findings from this scoping review to conduct a pilot study using population-level data and natural experimentation methods to explore the impact of unexpected death on mental health outcomes of young family caregivers.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson received $35,000 in seed funding from the University of Utah Research Incentive Seed Grant Program for her study titled “American Indian and Alaska Native Midlife Women's Symptom Experience and Access to Medical and Integrative Health Care: Developing a Culturally-Informed Integrative Group Medical Visit.” Co-investigators include Drs. Sharon Austin, Jessica Ellis, Sara Simonsen, Isabel Dulfano, Julie Fritz, Paula Gardiner, and Mary Koithan. The team will design and test an integrative medicine group visit for midlife American Indian and Alaska Native women, teaching integrative health self-care to decrease vasomotor symptoms, provide disease information and medical care, and screen for diabetes and heart disease, and breast, colorectal and ovarian cancers.
January
Huntsman Cancer Institute awarded a $30,000 American Cancer Society Investigator Research Grant to Dr. Echo Warner for her project titled “Cancer misinformation exposure measurement among cancer patients.” Echo will test automated website monitoring tools to document and record patient exposure to cancer misinformation. This will make it possible to accurately measure exposure using an existing Artificial Intelligence prototype to reduce the impact of cancer misinformation on cancer patients. The protype will be tested in a future randomized trial.
The Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University awarded a $273,801 subcontract award to Dr. Mollie Cummins for her project “Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative.” This award is part of a NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-funded consortium project – The RECOVER Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) Electronic Health Record (EHR) Cohort Study.
The Utah Department of Health awarded two sub-contracts for a total of $60,000 to Dr. Deanna Kepka.
- Improving HPV Vaccination Rates in the Era of COVID-19 – Team members will use a multi-pronged approach to partner with a large healthcare system in Utah to assess, implement, and evaluate evidence-based HPV vaccination strategies.
- Utah School Nurse Providers Project for Improving HPV Vaccination Rates – Team members will conduct an environmental scan of school nurses to assess barriers to HPV vaccination in Utah, and partner with school nurses to test and evaluate the implementation of evidence-based strategies to improve HPV vaccination in school settings.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute Breast and Gynecologic Cancers Center awarded $20,000 to Dr. Deanna Kepka to support the Intermountain West HPV Vaccination Coalition during FY22.
Dr. Catherine Staes and Dr. Carolyn Scheese, in collaboration with Damian Borbolla from the Department of Biomedical Informatics secured, $50,000 in Utah Department of Health funding for a Graduate Assistant Special Project. They and team members will collaborate to build and document the Chronic Disease Surveillance System, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the current electronic case reporting infrastructure for chronic disease reporting in Utah.
The University of Utah Academy of Health Science Educators awarded a $3,750 grant to Dr. Jia-Wen Guo and Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini for their GENIE project. They will develop a Gamified Asynchronous LEarNing of IPE TElehealth course that will create an engaged learning environment by applying gamification concepts, and pilot it during Fall Semester 2022. The reviewers found the proposal to be a novel approach to interprofessional education, and were intrigued by its potential application to a broader context.
December
Jeanne Schlater earned the Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) through the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP). Coursework covered interpersonal communication, task & project management, computer & internet technology, and management skills, enabling executive assistants to expand skillsets and navigate today’s evolving business climate. The opportunity was possible thanks to generous donors who provided funds for staff development.
October
Shelli King is the College of Nursing’s inaugural Clean Air Champion. Taking public transportation to work five days per week, Shelli travels 33 miles each day, eliminating more than 8,000 miles of auto traffic on the road. A Clean Air Champion is a College of Nursing community member who stewards sustainability and combats climate change through advocacy or a simple lifestyle routine.
September
Lynn Dixon received the Utah Association of CPAs and American Institute of CPAs Women to Watch: Experienced Leader Award for 2022. Three categories of Women to Watch awards highlight the accomplishments of women in the profession and demonstrates to emerging female leaders that success is not out of reach. Specifically, the Experienced Leader award honors a professional who has advanced to a high level or leadership position, including partners, owners, executives, and elected officials.
Hollie Fuhrmann was accepted, through a competitive selection process, to participate in the 2022-2023 Cohort of the Leadership, Engagement, and Development (LEAD) program offered through the National Organization of Research Development Professionals (NORPD). LEAD helps illuminate pathways for member engagement, service, and leadership throughout NORDP and within the research development profession. Programming will focus on helping participants understand different leadership strengths and styles; plan for professional growth; and learn about opportunities for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in research development. Participants also will learn about NORDP’s operations and structure, serving on the NORDP or other non-profit boards, and opportunities for service throughout the organization.
April
Thirteen staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2021 -2022 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the CON’s reputation for excellence.
- Staff Excellence Award: Monica Lund, Adrienne Bott, Harper Vander Hoek, Hollie Fuhrmann, Alexandra Hanson, and Rachel Hamilton
March
Jane Price received a prestigious University of Utah Staff Excellence Award during an awards ceremony on March 4, 2022 at the Officers’ Club. Jane received the award specifically within the University of Utah Academic Health Sciences District. From her nomination letters of support: “Jane’s performance aligns well with two of the University’s major strategic goals, specifically ‘promote student success to transform lives’ and ‘ensure long-term viability of the University.’ Jane has moved the CON, and therefore the University, significantly forward in achieving those strategic goals, particularly through her stellar contributions to technology-assisted education in both synchronous and asynchronous courses. Jane receives frequent praise and gratitude from both students and course instructors on a regular basis.”
January
Faculty much appreciate Jane Price for her knowledge, incredible helpfulness, and willingness to take extra steps to support faculty that extend beyond course design. “Her abilities, collaborative relationship, and quick responses are of great help. Jane, we appreciate you!”
Village Book Builders focuses on empowering villages in disadvantaged communities worldwide to end the cycle of poverty through education. This non-profit organization builds libraries to create a space dedicated to learning. During the University-wide book drive, which Shelli King facilitated, College of Nursing faculty and staff donated more than 20 boxes of boxes, the largest number on campus.
November
Baccalaureate students inducted into Sigma included:
- Saja Alsarrieh
- Ella Baker
- Elaina Briscoe
- Kendal Cervantes
- Melinda Dillard
- Ella Evans
- Gabriella Fagan
- Megan Fehn
- Selina Gao
- Sydney Gilliland
- Grace Green
- Jenna Griggs
- Kennadee Harris
- Caroline Howell
- Grace Kennedy
- Kenedee Le Prey
- Charis Mariger
- Alexa Mills
- Sarah Orme
- Olivia Paulsen
- Karina Perez-Rojas
- Alyssa Pham
- Bianca Porras Laura
- Heaven Rauch
- Julia Schoonover
- Tanmay Sheokand
- Jayne Smith
Master’s students inducted into Sigma included:
- Jessica Gomez
- William Patzke
Doctor of Nursing Practice students inducted into Sigma included:
- Rebecca Brim
- Merica Chapple
- Lesley Hemphill
- Cheryl Sherman
Doctor of Philosophy student inducted into Sigma included:
- Natasha Ansari
October
Student members of the Sigma Alpha Pi – known as the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), and the nation’s largest leadership honor society – nominated Tamara Ekker as a faculty member who teaches with heart and passion, and who has motivated students in their pursuit of education. Tamara will be presented with an award at the NSLS Induction and Awards Ceremony on November 7, 2022.
May
Congratulations to all College of Nursing graduates who earned Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, or Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Nursing, a Master of Science degree in Gerontology, and/or a certificate in nursing or gerontology. We celebrate your academic accomplishments, and look forward to hearing about your contributions as you promote wellness and prevent illness, reduce health disparities, shape the future of healthcare to be equitable, and improve health outcomes for persons and communities.
Commendation to all faculty, staff, preceptors, and community partners who supported and positioned students for academic success during their programs of study.
Acclamation to all College of Nursing staff who prepared for and carried out Convocation. What a delight to celebrate the academic achievements of College of Nursing graduates in person!
Dr. Jeff Atkinson earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in direct care, from the University of Utah.
Dr. Christina Creal earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in nurse-midwifery, and a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education from the University of Utah. In addition, she received the Outstanding Doctor of Nursing Practice Student Award. This award is presented to a student who was outstanding in their area of focus, contributed to new knowledge, or developed innovations to facilitate practice.
Dr. William Hull earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree from the University of Utah.
Dr. Frances Johnson earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in direct care, from the University of Utah. In addition, she received the Outstanding Post-Masters to Doctor of Nursing Practice Student Award. This award is presented to a student who excelled in both academics and contributions to practice in their chosen specialty area.
Dr. Shawna Sisler earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree, and a Graduate Certificate in Informatics from the University of Utah.
Dr. Sisler also is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi .
March
Casey McFarland (Mentor: Dr. Jenny Alderden) was named as the 2022 Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher for the Honors College.
Kari Stoddard (Mentor: Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson) was named as the 2022 Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher for the College of Nursing.
December
Dr. Valerie Flattes shared her personal and professional story, Being Black in America, with the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS).
Dr. Sara Bybee, Nasser Sharareh, Ching-Yu (Samuel) Wang, Dr. Bob Wong, Ernest Grigorian, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Brenda Luther, and Dr. Andrea Wallace will present an abstract titled Social Needs Screening and Resource Referrals: A Temporary Dam to Upstream Issues? at the TL1 Visiting Scientist (William Schnaper Visiting Scientist Program) Mini Symposium: Circumventing Roadblocks in Clinical and Translational Science.
Anna Alder and Karen Stutzerwith will deliver a presentation titled Healthy Work Environments and the Multigenerational Workforce: Trends, Gaps, and Opportunities at the Creating Healthy Work Environments 2023 Sigma event.
November
Dr. Scott Christensen, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Hui Li, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Tracey Nixon, and Dean Marla De Jong will deliver a presentation titled New Registered Nurse Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Comparing Nurse Apprenticeship to Traditional Graduates at the Creating Healthy Work Environments 2023 Sigma event.
Drs. Kimberly Garcia, Deanna Kepka, and Eli Jacob, and students Emily Holland Royce and Maria Dean Smith will deliver two podium presentations at the EUROGIN 2023. Presentation titles are Barriers to Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control in Guatemala, and Low Levels of Lifetime Pap Test Receipt Among Vulnerable Patient Populations in Guatemala.
Through a peer-reviewed, competitive process Dr. Erin Meyer was selected to present a workshop titled A Quirky Conversation: The Impact of Quirkiness in Life at the Conference for Global Transformation, an international conference that will be held virtually May 21-23, 2023. If you are interested in attending, contact Dr. Meyer.
Dr. Kara Dassel presented Care Across the Dementia Trajectory to 30 dementia caregivers at the Tooele Department of Health.
Dr. Sara Hart led a panel presentation titled Community Engagement at Academic Health Systems: Recent Challenges and Preparing for the Future at the 2022 Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities Annual Conference, The Essential Role of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. During the interactive session, Jennifer Elliott, Melissa Yack, Joseph Allen, Logan Vetrovec, and David Line highlighted several of the community-engaged partnerships shared in the Community Engagement at Academic Health Centers themed issue of Metropolitan Universities that Joseph Allen, Melissa Yack, and Dr. Sara Hart guest-edited.
University of Notre Dame Australia’s National School of Nursing, Midwifery, Health Sciences & Physiotherapy and National School of Medicine jointly sponsor a weekly Research Seminar Series. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson delivered a talk titled Theory and Patient-Informed Development of an Integrative Group Medical Visit for the Menopausal Transition.
Faculty, students, and alumni will present at the American Public Health Association’s 2022 Annual Meeting & Expo and 150th anniversary celebration on November 6-9, 2022, in Boston, MA.
- Dr. Teresa Garrett, Kimberley Shoaf, Kristine Snyder, Mary Hill, and Linda Bogdanow will present a poster titled Academic-Local Public Health Partnership to Control COVID-19.
- Dr. Sara Hart and Kyle Turner will present a poster titled Interprofessional Education Simulation to Address Complex Health and Social Needs.
- Dr. Sara Hart and Kathryn Sexson will present a poster titled Consortium to Advance Family Caregiving Competencies in Nursing Education.
- Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Dr. Kristin Cloyes, Dr. Paula Meek, and Dr. Sara Simonsen will present a poster titled Addressing Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Postpartum Weight Retention Requires Multi-Domain, Multi-Level Intersectional Approaches.
- Dr. Shinduk Lee, Matthew Lee Smith, Dr. Nancy Allen, Gang Han, Chung Lin Kew, and Marcia Ory will present a poster titled Diabetes Self-Care Activities among People Living with Dementia and Diabetes: Proxy Responses from Caregivers.
- Kristine Snyder, Kimberly Shoaf, and Dr. Teresa Garrett will deliver an oral presentation titled Active Symptom Monitoring Prevents Hundreds of COVID-19 Cases on the University of Utah Campus.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Paula Gardiner, Julie Fritz, Kari Denae Stoddard, and Nancy Fugate Woods will deliver an oral presentation titled Women’s Interest in the Development of an Integrative Group Medical Visit for the Menopausal Transition.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Katherine Taromina, Craig Mitchell, Daniel Altschuler, and Lisa Conboy will deliver an oral presentation titled Chinese Herbal Medicine Telehealth Outcomes for Symptoms Possibly Related to COVID-19.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Mary Koithan will present a poster titled Developing an Explanatory Middle Range Theory of Midlife Women’s Health and Wellness.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Athena Sdrales, Rana Ali, Belinda Anderson, Lisa Conboy, Melissa Cortez, Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, Cynthia Price, Nancy Fugate Woods, Julie Fritz, and Paula Gardiner will present a poster titled A Systematic Review of the Effects of Traditional East Asian Medicine on Symptom Clusters during the Menopausal Transition and Early Post-Menopause.
Faculty organized and led special interest group meetings at the Gerontological Society of America 2022 Annual Scientific Meeting in Indianapolis, IN.
- Dr. Sara Bybee – Rainbow Research Group
- Dr. Katarina Felsted – Fitness, Exercise, and Wellness
- Dr. Gail Towsley – Hospice, Palliative, and End-of-Life Care
October
Dr. Jacob Steenblik presented The Importance of Opioid & Naloxone Education in the Emergency Department for High-Risk Age Groups, his Doctor of Nursing Practice scholarly project work, at the American College of Emergency Physicians ACEP22 Scientific Assembly in San Francisco. Colleagues who contributed to the project included Dr. Larry Garrett, Alejandro Blitch, Andrew Jones, Gerrit Seymour, Marina Griffith, Sikoti Langi, Jonathan Crump, Carrie Gold, and Troy Madsen.
Dr. Michelle Litchman presented Adapting and Assessing the Feasibility of a Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Telehealth Intervention for Rural Populations to Reduce Disparities in Diabetes Care, her R56 work, at the NINR Rural Health Workshop on October 12, 2022.
Faculty will present at the upcoming AMIA 2022 Annual Symposium in Washington, DC on November 5-9, 2022.
- Dr. Kathy Sward, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, and Dr. William Hull will present a poster titled Pain and Opioid Research Evidence Base: NIH Heal CDEs.
- Catherine Ivory, Dr. Mollie Cummins, and Robert Lucero will present a panel presentation titled Perspectives on Adoption of a Unique Identifier for Nurses.
- Brian Dixon, Dr. Catherine Staes, Jesse Goodell, and Harold Lehmann will present a panel presentation titled Rebuilding the Nation's Public Health Informatics Infrastructure: Recommendations from the 2022 ACMI Symposium.
Dr. Michelle Litchman was invited to present the body of her digital health research at the BioHive Summit on November 10, 2022.
Dr. Jackie Eaton’s research-based play, Portrait of a Caregiver, will be performed four times during October. Sponsored by the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium and the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, three performances will be at the Dementia Caregiver Conference offered during the Senior Expo in Sandy (October 6), Layton (October 12), and St. George (October 19). In addition, Utah State University is sponsoring a performance on October 7, 2022.
Faculty, students, and alumni will present at the North American Menopause Society Annual Scientific Meeting in Atlanta, GA.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Doctor of Nursing Practice student Cinnamon Geppelt, recent bachelor of science graduate Kari Stoddard, and 18 collaborators will present a poster titled Midlife Women’s Symptom Experience and Access to Medical and Integrative Health Care: Informing the Adaptations of an Integrative Medical Group Visit for Peri- and Post-Menopause. Collaborators include eight perimenopausal women who are members of a Community Advisory Board, and faculty from the University of Utah College of Health and School of Medicine, Pace University, UMass Chan Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard Medical School.
- Drs. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Julie Fritz, Belinda "Beau" Anderson, Camille Moreno, and Paula Gardiner will present a poster titled Designing and Delivering a Feminist Research-Informed Return of Results with Midlife Women: A Method to Understand and ‘Foreground’ Marginalized Voices.
Drs. Youjeong Kang, Xiangyang Ye, Josef Stehlik, Jincheng Shen, and Kathi Mooney presented a poster titled Charlson Co-morbidity Index Score and 30-day Rehospitalization in Heart Failure Patients at the Heart Failure Society of America Annual Scientific Meeting 2022 in Washington DC.
The Palliative Care: Building Communities, Expanding Boundaries symposium, to be held on October 5-6, will bring together individuals and communities of interest locally, statewide, and globally, to learn about approaches to improve access to palliative care. Aiming to create a blueprint that fosters palliative care collaborations across communities and cultures, the symposium will feature national palliative care leaders and emphasize engagement of all attendees – stakeholders of palliative care. Among those presenting, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Claire Dumke Ryberg, RN, Presidential Endowed Chair in End-of-Life/Palliative Care, will deliver a podium presentation titled Utah Frontier: A Vision for Building Communities and Expanding Boundaries for Palliative Care. Dr. Lynn Reinke will moderate a Utah Program Highlights, Revisiting Vision, & Next Steps panel discussion that includes Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Nancy McLeskey, Dr. Holli Martinez, and Dr. Kathi Mooney. Those who helped plan, organize, and support the two-day event include Dr. Gail Towsley, Dr. Lynn Reinke, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Christine Moua, Lynn Dixon, Mindy Francis, Vianney Alcala, Jacqueline Scheider, Colleen Neering, and members of College of Nursing Systems and Technology.
September
Dr. Cara Wolf and Dr. Paula Braverman presented a National Commission on Correctional Health Care webinar titled STI Treatment Guidelines: Update on the 2021 Recommendations and Juvenile Considerations.
Dr. Linda Edelman and Dr. Valerie Greer (Assistant Professor in the College of Architecture and Planning) co-hosted the Age Friendly Communities Symposium. More than 100 people – including researchers, clinicians, policymakers, architects and planners, state and local aging services administrators, and others – from 25 states attended the virtual symposium. Dr. Terry Fulmer from the John A. Hartford Foundation provided the keynote address Creating an Age-Friendly Ecosystem. National content experts on age friendly neighborhoods, campuses and health systems participated in panels. The symposium culminated in a World Café where attendees discussed barriers and opportunities to age-friendly communities in the Intermountain West. Dr. Katarina Felsted led panel discussions, Dr. Gail Towsley, Dr. Jackie Eaton, Jacqueline Telonidis, Andrea Harris, and Harper Vander Hoek facilitated breakout discussions, and Dr. Kara Dassel led World Café sessions. Ashley Cadiz, Academic Program Manager for the College of Nursing Master of Science Program and Gerontology Master’s student, led a student “Koi Pond” competition, in which 13 teams from a number of schools and colleges competed and proposed solutions to age friendly challenges. The Utah Geriatric Education Consortium supported the symposium, and its staff – Megan McClure, Christopher Hernandez, Harper Vander Hoek, Jacqueline Telonidis, and Andrea Harris – are credited for planning and delivering an amazing virtual experience.
Drs. Ken Jameson and Katarina Felsted presented The Age Friendly University Network and the University of Utah for an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute-sponsored Lunch & Learn Lecture.
Dr. Shipra Bansal, Dr. Richmond Doxey, Amy Reeder, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson were invited panelists at the Food is Medicine Conference 2022. Dr. Amy Locke moderated their panel discussion titled Facilitating Change with an SMA (Shared Medical Appointment) Panel. Hosted by the University of Utah Center for Community Nutrition, the continuing education conference was designed for healthcare professionals who want to better incorporate nutrition into patient care.
Dr. Rebecca Wilson moderated the Academy of Health Science Educators' (AHSE) 9th Annual Education Symposium. Dr. Mary Ann Villarreal, Vice President for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Utah, was the keynote speaker. Several College of Nursing faculty and a PhD student also presented.
- Dr. Katarina Felsted and Dr. Jackie Eaton presented Path to Age-Friendly University Endorsement at the University of Utah and Beyond.
- PhD Student, Samantha Greenberg, delivered a TED Talk entitled, How to Use the Silver Linings from COVID to Increase Engagement: Past, Present, and Future Approaches to Clinical Skills Education.
- Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Dr. Jenneth Doria, Dr. Jennifer Macali, and Dr. Katie Ward, members of the AHSE Mentorship Committee, along with Dr. Megan Fix and Dr. Katherine Anderson, facilitated the workshop Don’t Reinvent the Wheel: Connecting Your Mentees with the Resources They Need to Succeed.
Dr. Lauri Linder and colleagues Kristin Stegenga, Jeanne Erickson, Catherine Fiona Macpherson, and Suzanne Ameringer delivered an oral presentation titled Symptom Experience, Self-Efficacy, and Self-Management Behaviors Reported by Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer at the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses 46th Annual Conference.
Dr. Lauri Linder presented a poster titled CLABSI prevention: A Multiple Case Report of Potentially Modifiable Risk Factors External to the Line at the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses 46th Annual Conference.
Deans Elizabeth Kronk Warner and Marla De Jong moderated a panel discussion titled What Does the Dobbs Decision Mean for Medical Professionals? Panelists included Drs. Leslie Francis, Misha Pangasa, Jessica Sanders, and Sara Simonsen.
College of Nursing faculty, a postdoctoral fellow, a PhD student, and staff will present at the 2022 State of the Science Congress on Nursing Research: Social & Structural Determinants of Health in Washington, DC.
- Dr. Catherine Elmore, Katie Feldner, Mackenzie Elliott, Kristin Flores, Dr. Alycia Bristol, Dr. Erin Johnson, and Dr. Andrea Wallace will present a symposium.
- Exploring the Role of Social Needs and Support in Discharge Planning (Andrea Wallace)
- Associations Between Social Support, Readmission Risk and Patient Discharge Readiness: Exploratory Findings from Secondary Data (Catherine Elmore)
- Discharge Team Social Resource Determination: Association with Perceived Discharge Readiness (Katie Feldner)
- Social Resource Assessment and Discharge Destination (Alycia Bristol)
- Implementation of Social Needs Screening in Inpatient Care during COVID (Mackenzie Elliott)
- Dr. Nancy Allen will present Emotional/Social/Cultural Distress in the Era of COVID 19 among Hispanic Individuals with Chronic Illness.
- Dr. Youjeong Kang will present Social Determinants of Health and 30-day Rehospitalization in Medicare Beneficiaries with Heart Failure.
- Samuel Wang will present Factors Associated with Patients Not Receiving Community Social Resources.
August
Several CON Faculty members participated in the Martha Bradley Evans Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) Annual Teaching Symposium. CTE focuses on supporting and emphasizing cutting-edge pedagogical practices and strategies for teaching in higher education. Jane Price presented Easy Tips to Make Your Canvas Course Accessible and Dr. Rebecca Wilson presented Lesson Planning for Learning.
Several faculty, staff, and previous postdoctoral fellows presented at the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists Conference in Baltimore
- Litchman ML, Henderson M, Lee S, Iacob E, Miller N, Canela S, Allen NA. Experiences of Deaf People Receiving Diabetes Education: The Need for Language Access.
- Litchman ML, Campbell MS, Porter M, Tracy E, Allen NA, Berg CA. Diabetes Education Needs When Multiple Family Members Have Type 1 Diabetes.
- Allen NA, Litchman ML, Walker HR, Greenwood D, Ng A, Sanchez-Birkhead A. Hispanic Diabetes Peer Facilitator Training Needs and Connections to Hispanic with Type 2 Diabetes.
- Blanchette JE, Litchman ML, Allen NA.A Financial and Health Insurance Education Toolkit for Emerging Adults with Type 1 Diabetes.
Dr. Jennifer Clifton served on the Planning Committee for the 46th Annual Utah Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner Conference. Faculty presenters included:
- Dr. Amanda Al-Khudairi – Pregnancy Considerations in Primary Care
- Dr. Jennifer Hamilton – Advanced Practice Providers on Quality Improvement Committees
- Dr. Keisa Lynch – Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
July
Dr. Djin Tay presented Examining the Impact of Novel Cancer Therapies on Palliative Care Needs and Utilization: Implication for Patient and Caregiver Outcomes for Research and Quality Grand Rounds at the Emory Palliative Care Center. She based the presentation on her current research for the University of Pittsburgh Palliative Research Center’s Junior Faculty Visiting Professor program.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Thought Leaders Assembly invited Drs. Perry Gee, and Anne Pendo to lead an all-day panel on the Current Landscape of Well-being Within Clinical Practice. Drs. Gee and Pendo shared insight they have gained during the past three years, working as partners to support the mental well-being of caregivers of all disciplines. They described how practice and academic institutions can partner to promote nurse well-being, starting in the education setting and transitioning through to the practice environment. The discussion aligned with the concept of well-being as presented in The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (AACN, 2021).
June
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Advanced Nursing Education Workforce (ANEW) team (Project Director: Dr. Gwen Latendresse) at the College of Nursing (CON), and the HRSA Utah Medical Education for Underserved Populations team (Project Director: Ty Dickerson) at the School of Medicine co-sponsored the first interprofessional Continuing Education for Community Clinicians Conference in Salt Lake City on June 3-5, 2022. The sponsors invited primary care clinical preceptors from rural, tribal, and underserved communities to attend, supporting their continuing education and showing appreciation for their valuable contributions to University of Utah Health HRSA trainees, and nurse practitioner, nurse-midwife, and medical students. Several CON faculty delivered presentations:
- Robbins Z, Kilgore T, Tufts G. Advancing Behavioral Health in Primary Care: Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use. Podium presentation.
- Robinson J, Sanseau E, Lassche M, Morgan M. Telesimulation: Advancing the Quality of Urgent & Emergency Care in Rural & Remote Settings. Podium presentation.
- Wilson R. Giving Feedback in Difficult Situations. Podium presentation.
- Flattes V, Marshall I, Backman R, Kieffer M, Bonilla M. Strategies for Clinicians in Resolving Problematic Interactions between Learners, Patients, & Preceptors. Panel discussion.
- Latendresse G. None of us is Smarter than All of Us. Departing address.
The Utah Navajo Health System sponsored the Women’s Health Fair “Catch the Wellness Wave” in Blanding, Utah, on May 13, 2022. The sponsors invited Dr. Gwen Latendresse to address and provide information about perinatal mental health and resources. This presentation was part of an outreach effort for her Utah Department of Health funded maternal mental health project for the state of Utah. A photo above includes Dr. Latendresse and Yikanee Sampson, a CON student in the dual midwifery/women’s health track of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program who lives in Montezuma Creek, and is an HRSA ANEW trainee.
CON faculty, staff, and students presented at the American College of Nurse-Midwives ACNM 67th Annual Meeting & Exposition in Chicago, IL on May 20-25, 2022.
- Induction of Labor: Navigating ACNM’s Clinical Bulletin – Nicole Carlson, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Alexis Dunn-Amore, Katie Paige, and Robyn Schafer. Podium presentation.
- Creating Bonds to Break Bonds: The Implications of Human Trafficking and Women’s Health – Leah Moses, Quinta Johnson, and Dr. Jessica Ellis. Podium presentation.
- Outpatient Cervical Ripening in an Academic Midwifery Practice – Dr. Jessica Ellis and Abigail Rizk. Poster presentation.
- Outcomes of a Multi-site Hospital-based Waterbirth Study – Dr. Jessica Ellis, Angela Anderson, Alyssa Moxley, and Dr. Gwen Latendresse. Podium presentation.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Treatment and Monitoring with IV Iron – Christi Elmore and Dr. Jessica Ellis. Podium presentation.
- Number of Significant Life Events & Perinatal Depression in a Diverse Rural Population. Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Dr. Eli Iacob, Ryoko Pentecost, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Marcia Williams, Marcela Smid, Uma Dorn, and Dr. Xiaoming Sheng. Poster presentation.
CON faculty and alumni received American College of Nurse-Midwives awards at the ACNM 67th Annual Meeting & Exposition in Chicago, IL on May 20-25, 2022.
- Excellence in Teaching Award: Christi Elmore
- Excellence in Clinical Precepting: Dr. Dixie Rasmussen and Dr. Sadie Dahlsrud
- Best Review Article of the Year Award: Carlson N, Ellis J, Page K, Dunn Amore A, Phillippi J. Review of evidence‐based methods for successful labor induction. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13238
Dr. Kara Dassel delivered the keynote presentation Embracing the Present and Planning for the Future at the inaugural Lynden Legacy Caregiver Conference in Sandy, Utah.
Dr. Kara Dassel presented Caregiving Stress: Preventing Burnout at the Cache County Caregiver Coalition Conference in Logan, Utah.
Dr. Zoe Robbins participated in a panel discussion titled Our Future – Our Providers: What’s Happening in Post-Secondary Education? at the 6th Annual Addictions Update: Science, Policy, & Treatment in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Faculty and recent graduates presented posters at the 2022 International Congress on Integrative Medicine and Health in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Paula Gardiner, Julie Fritz, Kari Denae Stoddard, and Nancy Fugate Woods presented Diverse Perimenopausal Women’s Attitudes About and Interest in an Integrative Group Medical Visit.
- Belinda J. Anderson, Melissa Zappa, Brent D. Leininger, and Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson presented Licensed Acupuncturists’ Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in the US: Sources and Use of Evidence to Guide Treatment With Chinese Herbal Medicine.
- Dr. Shelley White, Dr. Gary Donaldson, Debra Burns, Dr. Lee Ellington, Jared Rawlings, and Dr. Kathi Mooney presented A Pilot Feasibility Study of a Virtual Group Drumming Intervention for Cancer-related Fatigue and Anxiety.
Faculty, staff, a student, and alumni presented at the 2022 ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) in Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois.
- Dr. Kathi Mooney, Dr. Mary Gullatte, Dr. Eli Iacob, Christina Echeverria, Kimberly Brown, and Dr. Gary Donaldson presented a podium presentation titled A Randomized Control Trial to Determine Necessary Intervention Elements to Achieve Optimal Symptom Outcomes for a Remote Symptom Management System.
- Dr. Kathi Mooney, Kimberly Dumas, Angie Fausett, Chaz Davis, Marcene Littledike, Cornelia Ulrich, and Karen Titchener presented a poster titled The Huntsman at Home Rural Experience.
Several faculty and students presented at the 2022 U Center on Aging Research Retreat.
Dr. Caroline Stephens moderated the Caregiving session during which the following faculty presented:
- Dr. Kara Dassel – The Intersectionality of Decision-Making and Dementia Advance Care Planning.
- Dr. Jackie Eaton – Enhancing Active Caregiver Training.
- Dr. Caroline Stephens – From Secondary Data to Clinical Interventions: Supporting Formal & Informal Caregivers of Palliative Care Eligible Nursing Home Residents.
- Dr. Katherine Supiano – Pre Loss Grief Support for Dementia Family Care Partners at Risk for Problematic Grief.
- Dr. Rebecca Utz – Supporting Families at End of Life through Intervention, Data, and Policy.
Ponce Gonzalez K, Supiano K. Nursing Home Administrators Perceptions of the Emotional Care Needs of Dementia Family Care Partners.
Savage K, Chow MC, Butler J, Towsley GL, Edelman LS. Another Blow to LTSS Nursing Workforce Challenges.
Stephens C, Flint L, Baraldi C, Utz R, Mooney K, Rajeev D, McClure M, Barrientos P, Edelman LS. What a Difference A Pandemic Makes! Nursing Home Stakeholder Telehealth Utilization & Perceptions during the COVID-19 Pandemic Informs Palliative Care Telehealth Intervention Development.
Stephens C, McClure M, Edelman LS, Barrientos P. "Your heart goes black:” The Emotional Toll of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Nursing Home Staff.
As members of the plenary panel, Dean Marla De Jong and Dr. Valerie Flattes presented Leading as Your Authentic Self at the University of Utah Health Women’s Leadership Day.
May
The 2022 Utah Geriatric Education Consortium (UGEC)virtual caregiver conference and retreat, Surviving and Thriving During COVID, was held May 19 and 21, with support from the Family Caregiving Collaborative. UGEC faculty and staff – Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Kara Dassel, Cherie Brunker, Dr. Nanci McLeskey, Dr. Lee Ellington, Megan McClure, Jacquie Telonidis, Christopher Hernandez and Harper Vander Hoek – planned and hosted the retreat. During the caregiving conference, which Dr. Kara Dassel facilitated, Dr. Kathie Supiano and Dr. Heather Snyder, Vice President of Medical & Scientific Relations at the Alzheimer’s Association, showcased the impact of COVID-19 on caregivers, and the resilience tools of getting past COVID. In addition, attendees shared their COVID-19 stories on a Jamboard. During the UGEC Retreat, Dr. Linda Edelman delivered opening and closing remarks. Dr. Kathie Supiano facilitated a panel discussion titled Post-Acute COVID Sequelae Discussion with Experts from Cardiology/Pulmonary, Neuropsychology, Geriatrics, and Patient Perspectives with Dr. Jeanette Brown, Dr. Kelly Davis Garrett, and Jose Stone RN. Dr. Susan Butterworth led panelists Andrea Harris, a College of Nursing alumna, Amy Hartman, a College of Nursing alumna and member of the Dean’s Advancement Board, Dr. Cameron Petersen, and Scott Monson to explore workforce stories in primary care and long-term services and supports settings. The retreat ended with a presentation on how Cascades Health Care is building the workforce since COVID. Recordings of the presentations will be available on the UGEC website.
Anna Alder presented at the National Teaching Institute (NTI) 2022 in Houston, Texas.
- She was a panelist for a concurrent session titled Creating Healthy Work Environments: The Multigenerational Workforce.
- She presented a concurrent session titled Power of Poop: Fecal Transplants and the Future of Medicine.
Dr. Carma Miller, Department Head of Nursing at Utah State University, invited Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted to speak at the Department of Nursing’s end-of-year Faculty Retreat on May 9, 2022. Katarina’s presentation was titled Where Did I Go? Finding Ways to Return to Wellness.
Marcia Potter, Cindy Garrett, Faith Jones, Annette Hamlin, and Dr. Brenda Luther presented The Fundamentals of Nursing-Sensitive Indicators: "What Nurses Know or Need to Know" at the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing 47th Annual Conference in Las Vegas.
Utah Geriatric Education Consortium faculty and staff presented at the American Geriatrics Society 2022 Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando, Florida.
- Stephens C, Flint L, Baraldi C, Utz R, Mooney K, Rajeev D, McClure M, Barrientos P, Goodwin R, Edelman L. What a Difference A Pandemic Makes! Nursing Home Stakeholder Telehealth Utilization & Perceptions During the COVID-19 Pandemic Informs Palliative Care Telehealth Intervention Development. Poster presentation.
- Stephens C, McClure M, Barrientos P, Goodwin R, Edelman L. "Your heart goes black:” The Emotional Toll of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Nursing Home Staff. Poster presentation.
- Savage K, Chow MC, Butler J, Towsley GL, Edelman LS. COVID – Another Blow to LTSS Nursing Workforce Challenges. Poster presentation.
- Carrico C, McKibbin C, Bennett K, Brunker C, Thompson K, Caprio TV, Faul A. ECHO in Action: Impact, Barriers, and Lessons Learned Across Six Age-Friendly Geriatric ECHOs. Paper and poster presentation. The Utah Geriatric Education Consortium (UGEC) was a contributing Extension for Community HealthCare Outcomes site, and Jacqueline Telonidis represented the UGEC for these presentations.
College of Nursing faculty presented at the 2022 Symposium: A To Z Equity & Inclusion in Sex, Gender, & Women's Health. Dr. Sara Simonsen Introduced the Equity and Inclusion session, which included the following presentations:
- Dr. Deanna Kepka presented Vaccine Access and Hesitancy.
- Dr. Andrea Wallace presented Social Determinants, Risks, and Needs – Implications for Promoting Health, Equity, and Inclusion.
- Dr. Valerie Flattes presented Disproportionate Impact of a Pandemic on Women and Underserved Communities.
Dr. Kathy Sward, Jeri Burr of the Utah Trial Innovation Center, and Ann Johnson of the Institutional Review Board and Human Research Protection Program presented a panel presentation titled eSolutions to Improve Informed Consent at the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) conference in Orlando.
Dr. Kathie Supiano and Troy Andersen delivered the Keynote Address Holding the Liminal Space: Balancing Uncertainty and Rejuvenation at the Social Work Hospice and Palliative Network 2022 General Assembly in Santa Fe.
Dr. Kathie Supiano and Cathy Davis of the Utah State Board of Education delivered the podium presentation Suicide Grief Support Training for School Mental Health Clinicians at the AAS22, the American Association of Suicidology’s 55th Annual Conference, in Chicago.
April
Dr. Scott Christensen was invited to present Responding to Crisis: Examples and Advice for Working with Aggressive Patients at the Tandem Meetings: Transplantation & Cellular Therapy Meetings of ASTCT™ (American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy) and CIBMTR® (Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research).
Dr. Mollie Cummins was a featured speaker at the UHealth Immunology, Inflammation, & Infectious Disease (3i) Initiative Community Research Event. Her presentation was titled Big Data and Teamwork for Insight into Long COVID: PCORnet RECOVER EHR.
Dr. Deanna Kepka, along with colleagues Kaila Christini, Amy Chai, Esther Chang, Anne C. Kirchhoff, Austin Waters, Sara Mann, Jacob Lipscomb, Katherine Harris, and Mia Hashibe, recently presented Intention to Receive COVID-19 Vaccination Relates to HPV Vaccination Receipt among Young Adults Ages 18-26 Years in the Western Region of the USA at EUROGIN 2022in Düsseldorf, Germany.
The College of Nursing was well-represented at the Spring Undergraduate Research Symposium held on April 5, 2022. The following students presented posters:
- Alejandra Tellez-Montenegro: Breast Cancer Experiences in Hispanic Women (faculty mentor: Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead)
- Kari Stoddard: Racially and Ethnically Diverse Midlife Women’s Health Needs and Symptom Experience during the Menopausal Transition (faculty mentor: Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson)
- Kimberly Ponce-Gonzalez: Nursing Home Administrators Perceptions of the Emotional Care Needs of Dementia Family Care Partners (faculty mentor: Dr. Kathie Supiano)
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) held its Graduate Nursing Admissions Professional (GNAP) Conference on April 4-6, 2022 in Salt Lake City. GNAP provides a platform for members to share best practices and expert advice, and discuss innovations and practical solutions to everyday challenges that nursing admissions professionals encounter.
- As a member of the GNAP Steering Committee, Carrie Radmall planned the GNAP Conference. According to Beth Aronson, Director of Membership and Business Development for AACN, “Carrie has led AACN’s Graduate Nursing Admissions Professionals Leadership Network, by example, through her hard work, dedication, and never-ending kindness. The energy and professionalism Carrie brings to the table has sparked unique ideas and more diverse conversations, engaged the newest members, and helped to unify both the steering committee and the membership at large.”
- Dr. Valerie Flattes presented Setting the Tone for Applicants: Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in Nursing .
- Dean Marla De Jong presented Future of Nursing: Leadership, Excellence, and Inclusion.
Numerous faculty, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students presented at the 43rd Annual Meeting and Scientific Sessions of the Society of Behavioral Medicine.
Dr. Ann Marie Moraitis, Memnun Seven, John Siraard, Rachel K Walker. Expert Consensus on Physical Activity Use in Young Adult Cancer Survivors’ Biopsychosocial Health: A Modified Delphi Study
Sarah Wawrzynski, Melissa A. Alderfer Wil, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Michelle L. Litchman, Maija Reblin, Austin R. Waters. Prevalence of Social Media Use and Technology-Mediated Support within the Social Networks of Siblings of Children with Cancer
Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Eric C. Jones, Kelly J. Mansfield, Sarah E. Wawrzynski, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes. Effects of Social Network Size and Heterogeneity on Support for Cancer Survivors and Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Dr. Sara Bybee, Brian R. W. Baucom, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes, Dr. Lee Ellington, Dr. Kathi Mooney, Dr. Katherine Supiano. The Role of Life Course Stress and Posttraumatic Growth on Wellbeing among Couples Facing Cancer
Dr. Sara Bybee, Keely K. Smith, Austin R. Waters, Dr. Echo L. Warner. When Prevailing, Supplications, & Platitudes Fall Flat: Toxic Positivity in Young Adult Cancer Caregivers’ Social Media Posts
Austin R. Waters, Dr. Sara Bybee, Heydon K. Kaddas, Erin E. Kent, Anne C Kirchhoff, Dr. Echo L. Warner. Financial Burden and Psychological Distress among LGBTQIA+ Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors during COVID -19
Nathan Caines, Dr. Lee Ellington, Jordan Muehlberger, Dr. Djin Tay. Collaborative Communication between Patients and Caregivers for End of Life Decisions
Dr. Linda Hofmann is Board Member of the Utah Organization of Nurse Leaders (UONL). As Chair of the Leadership Cultivation Committee, she planned the UONL Virtual Spring Conference, at which two College of Nursing faculty presented.
- Future of Nursing Report & Utah Action Coalition. Dr. Teresa Garrett, Joan Gallegos
- Women Leading Self, Women Leading With Others, Women Leading Change. Dr. Schola Matovu
Numerous faculty, staff, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and students will present at the 2022 Western Institute of Nursing Conference on April 6-9, 2022. The conference theme is Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI): Creating a Nursing Forcefor Change.
Preconference – Strategies to Reduce Burnout among Nursing Academia Faculty and Staff: Reflecting on Lessons Learned during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Katarina Felsted, Dr. Jennifer Clifton
Preconference – Writing a WINning Abstract and Delivering a 10-Minute Presentation. Moderator: Dr. Paula M. Meek
Preconference – Moderating Podium Presentations at a Professional Conference: Nuts and Bolts. Moderator: Dr. Linda S.
Edelman
Advances in Pediatric Health Session. Moderator: Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
Social Networks and Resources Session
- Hospital Discharge during COVID-19: The Role of Social Resources. Dr. Kirsten Schmutz, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Dr. Alycia A. Bristol, Dr. Erin Phinney Johnson, Dr. Sonja Raaum
- Facilitators and Barriers to Implementation of a Social Needs Assessment Screener. Robyn Haynes, Dr. Rebekah Perkins, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Erin P. Johnson, Dr. Andrea Wallace
State of the Science Address in Research. Moderator: Dr. Paula M. Meek Topics in Education Session
- Primary Care Experiences for Baccalaureate Nursing Students in Rural Communities. Dr. Larry Garrett, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Linda S. Edelman
- Using Virtual Reality for Urinary Catheter Insertion Mastery Learning. Dr. Madeline L. Lassche, Dr. Ann L. Butt
Associate Deans and Directors for Research Session. Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
2022 Distinguished Research Lectureship. Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
DNP/PhD Collaboration and Clinical Networking Special Interest Group. Moderator: Dr. Perry Gee
Symposium – Building Primary Care Nursing Capacity: The Nurse, Education, Practice, Quality and Retention Program. Moderator: Dr. Linda S. Edelman
- Overview: Building Primary Care Nursing Capacity through Education. Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Susan Moyer, Dr. Mayumi Willgerodt, Dr. Laura S. Larsson, Dr. Patricia Ann Barfield
- Enhancing Primary Care Nursing in Rural and Underserved Areas of Utah. Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Larry Garrett, Harper Vander Hoek, Kirstie Savage, Dr. Jorie Butler
Impact of COVID-19 on Nursing Session
- Strategies to Reduce Burnout among Nursing Faculty and Staff Affected By COVID-19.Dr. Cheryl Armstrong, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Jennifer Macali, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Katarina Felsted
Topics in Adult and Elder Care Session
- An Interpretive Description of Older Adults’ Experience Creating a Legacy of Values.Sarah A. Neller, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes, Dr. Gail L. Towsley
- Time to First Rehospitalization in Medicare Recipients with Heart Failure. Dr. Youjeong Kang, Dr. Kathryn Bowles
Focus on LGBTQ+ Health Session. Moderator: Natasha Ansari
Perspectives in Adult Health & Wellness Session
- Midlife Women’s Health and Wellness: A Descriptive Middle Range Theory.Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson Poster Presentations:
Take a Breath: Partnering with Cambodian People to Reduce Neonatal Mortality.Dr. Julie Peila Gee, Julie Rhodes, Janelle Gardiner, Kris Bouwhuis, Chhour Seng, Tressa Quayle, Dr. Perry Gee
A Sustainable Multifaceted Approach to Improve Incentive Spirometry Use. Dr. Kirsten Schmutz
Care Partner Attendance in Diabetes Education & Support Depends on Program Length.Linda Sossenheimer, Xuechen Wang, Dr. Alistair Thorpe, Julie Neuberger, Dr. Michelle L. Litchman
Improving Referral Rates of Hispanics with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus to the Ideas Program. Anastasia Roundy, Dr. Kimberly Susanne Garcia
End-Stage Liver Disease Patient-Caregiver Dyad Perceptions of Symptoms. Susan J. Rosenkranz, Lissi Hansen, Shirin O. Hiatt, Debora Burger, Sally Sutton
Using Digital Badges to Engage Baccalaureate Students in Primary Care Nursing. Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Linda S. Edelman, Dr. Larry Garrett
Effects of Multimorbidity on Caregivers of Patients with End-Stage Liver Disease.Shirin O. Hiatt, Dr. Paula Meek, Lissi Hansen This Is the Place: Expanding Diversity in Nursing through Holistic Admissions. Denise Reeves
The Lived Experience of Lay Midwives’ Experience with Preeclampsia in Urban Guatemala. Dr. Kimberly Susanne Garcia
Improving Diabetes Education for Native Hawaiian/Pacific Island Patients. Tumu (Jeremy) Asuao, Adonica I. Kauwe Tuitama, Dr. Katherine Doyon, Dr. Michelle L. Litchman
Palliative Care Referrals in Patients with Advanced Gastrointestinal Cancer. Valkyria Bayer, Dr. Julie P. Gee
Improving Referrals to Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs. Jessica M. McCulloch, Dr. Nancy A. Allen, Julie Neuberger, Dr. Michelle L. Litchman
Development of a Mentorship Framework for New Nurse Practitioners in Utah. Shauna Olsen, Dr. Sara E. Hart, Julie Balk
Factors Associated with Patients Not Receiving Community Social Resources. Ching-Yu (Samuel) Wang, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Andrea S. Wallace, Dr. Bob Wong, Ernest Grigorian
Online Experiences and Stress Symptoms in Siblings of Children with Cancer. Sarah E. Wawrzynski, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Melissa A. Alderfer, Dr. Lauri Linder, Maija Reblin, Dr. Kristin G. Cloyes
Development and Evaluation of a Toolkit for Caregivers of Children with PANS.Samantha Whitehead, Dr. Gillian Tufts, Dr. Heidi Vawdrey, Dr. Julie Peila Gee
Endorsed and Anticipated Stigma Inventory in Rural Agricultural Childbearing Women.Marcia R. Williams, Dr. Jia-Wen Guo, Dr. Gwen Latendresse
March
As part of St. Jude HPV Cancer Prevention Program International HPV Awareness Day 2022, Drs. Ronny Bell, Marvella Ford, Deanna Kepka, and Jesse Nodora spoke at a seminar titled Addressing Inequities in HPV Vaccination Coverage and HPV Cancers. The seminar featured an in-depth conversation that addressed the disparities associated with human papillomavirus vaccination coverage across Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and rural communities.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was keynote speaker and judge for the University of Utah School of Medicine Fifth Annual Global Health Case Competition. The title of her presentation was Vaccines, the Solution; Vaccine Access & Hesitancy, the Challenge.
Drs. Andrea Wallace and Alycia Bristol spoke at the 2022 National Nursing Research Roundtable. Dr. Wallace presented “Implementing a Social Determinants Screening and Referral Infrastructure During Routine Emergency Department Visits,” and Dr. Bristol presented “Care Transitions in the Emergency Department: Assessing Social Needs and Involving Caregivers”. The virtual meeting, “From Context to Care: Understanding the Convergence of Social Factors and Emergency Department Care,” brought together individuals representing nursing organizations – spanning science, education, and practice – to discuss and disseminate research findings relevant to nursing science and practice that are designed to improve client outcomes.
February
College of Nursing faculty and colleagues presented at the virtual State of the Science in Hospice and Palliative Care Conference.
- Kates J, Whitehead PB, Frechman EL, Johnstone-Petty M, Tay DL, DeSanto K, Fink R. A Scoping-Review of Nurse-Led Research to Improve Advance Care Planning: A Call to Action. Poster presentation.
- Mair C, Thygesen LC, Aldridge M, Tay DL, Ornstein K. End-of-Life Experiences among “Kinless” Older Adults: The Case of Denmark. Paper session.
- Mayahara M, Tay DL, Kates K, Rosa W. “No More Blah Blah Blah”: The Impact of Climate Change on Hospice and Palliative Care is Happening Now. Poster presentation.
- Tay D L, Iacob E, Reblin Ma, Thomas Hebdon MC, Cloyes KG, Jones M, Beck AC, Mooney K, Ellington L. Cancer Hospice Caregivers’ Self-care Behaviors: The Role of Mental Health, Burden, and Perceptions of Competency. Poster presentation.
- Xu J, Thomas Hebdon MC, Beck AC, Cloyes KG, Mooney KM, Tay DL, Ellington L. Hospice Family Caregiver Burden and Well-being: Employment as a Moderator. Poster presentation.
Tay DL, Iacob E, Reblin M, Cloyes KG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Jones M, Beck AC, Mooney K, Ellington L. Cancer Hospice Caregivers’ Self-Care Behaviors: The Role of Mental Health, Burden, and Perceptions of Competency. Virtual Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Care. On-demand paper session.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson is one of three speakers for a Society for Acupuncture Research (SAR) 5-hour distance learning course about interoception. This is the first in a series of SAR-sponsored courses in which participants can earn continuing education credits. Interoception is a new area of research for NIH, and may be a mechanism of acupuncture action.
Dr. Caroline Stephens, Dr. Kathi Mooney, Megan McClure, Pamela Barrientos, and Dr. Linda Edelman will present a poster titled What a Difference a Pandemic Makes! Nursing Home Stakeholder Telehealth Utilization & Perceptions During the Covid-19 Pandemic Informs Palliative Care Telehealth Intervention Development at the American Geriatrics Society 2022 Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando, FL.
Dr. Caroline Stephens, Megan McClure, Pamela Barrientos, and Dr. Linda Edelman will present a poster titled “Your Heart Goes Black”: The Emotional Toll of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Nursing Home Staff at the American Geriatrics Society 2022 Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando, FL.
Dr. Scott Christensen will deliver an invited virtual presentation titled Ideas and Examples for Advancing Nurse Careers, Practice, and Dissemination at the 2022 Spring Summit (Virtual): Diverse Perspectives of Holistic Nursing, which the Omega Omicron Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, MN is sponsoring.
January
Dr. Kimberly Garcia will present three data-based posters at the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) 67th Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Chicago, IL.
- Anti-racism Toolkit for Midwifery Education
- Factors Influencing HPV Self-collection and Cervical Cancer Follow Up in Urban Guatemala
- Teaching Lay Midwives about Preeclampsia in Urban Guatemala
Dr. Kimberly Garcia will present a data-based. oral virtual presentation titled Developing a Program of Study Abroad at the Physician Assistants for Global Health Annual Conference on March 31, 2022.
Frances Johnson, Family Nurse Practitioner and DNP Student, and Dr. Julie Gee will present a poster titled Diabetic Bundle Implementation to Improve Clinical Quality Measures and Patient Outcomes at the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine conference in Indianapolis, IN.
Dr. Deanna Kepka presented an e-poster titled Successful Multi-Level HPV Vaccination Intervention at a Rural Healthcare Center in the Era of COVID-19 at the 34th International Papillomavirus Conference - IPVC 2021 that took place virtually on November 15-19, 2021.
Dr. Deanna Kepka will present a poster titled COVID-19 Vaccination Intent, HPV Vaccination Receipt, and Dimensions of Vaccine Hesitancy at the American Society of Preventive Oncology 46th Annual Meeting, which will be held on March 13-15, 2022 in Tucson, AZ.
Dr. Deanna Kepka will deliver a podium presentation titled Intention to Receive COVID-19 Vaccination Relates to HPV Vaccination Receipt among Young Adults Ages 18-26 Years in the Western Region of the United States at the EUROGIN (EUropean Research Organisation on Genital Infection and Neoplasia) International Multidisciplinary HPV Congress, which will be held on April 10-12, 2022, in Düsseldorf, Germany.
December
Cloyes KG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Vega M, Rosenkranz SJ, Tay D, Reblin M, Mooney K, Ellington L. Home hospice family caregivers' use of audio diaries and reported prevalence of patient and caregiver symptoms. J Pain Symptom Manage. 2022. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.11.023
Coombs LA, Neller S, Wilson C, Mihas P, Reuland D, Muss H, Mooney K. Treatment decision conversations, symptoms, and functional status in older adults with advanced cancer: An exploratory study utilizing mixed methods. J Geriatr Oncol. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgo.2022.12.002
Ou JY, Bennion N, Parker K, Fair D, Hanson HA, Kepka D, Warner EL, Ramsay JM, Kaddas HK, Kirchhoff AC, Risk factors for HPV-associated subsequent malignant neoplasms among adolescent and young adult survivors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. In press.
Rangel TL, Saul T, Bindler R, Roney JK, Penders RA, Faulkner R, Miller L, Sperry M, James L, Wilson ML. Exercise, diet, and sleep habits of nurses working full-time during the COVID-19 pandemic: An observational study. Appl Nurs Res. 2023;69:151665. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apnr.2022.151665
Sanft T, Day A, Peterson L, Rodriguez MA, Ansbaugh S, Armenian S, Baker KS, Ballinger T, Broderick G, Demark-Wahnefried W, Dickinson K, Fairman NP, Friedman DL, Goldman M, Henry NL, Hill-Kayser C, Hudson M, Khakpour N, Koura D, McDonough AL, Melisko M, Mooney K, Moore HCF, Moryl N, Neuman H, O’Connor T, Overholser L, Paskett ED, Patel C, Pirl W, Porpiglia A, Ruddy KJ, Schapira L, Shockney L, Smith S, Syrjala KL, Tevaarwerk A, Yang EH, Zee P, McMillian NR, Freedman-Cass DA. NCCN Guidelines® Insights: Survivorship, Version 1.2022. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2022;20(10):1080-1090. https://doi.org/10.6004/jnccn.2022.0052
Tracy EL, Berg CA, Butner JE, de Grey RGK, Allen NA, Porter ME, Helgeson VS. Relationship satisfaction moderates links between poor sleep quality and psychological distress among couples coping with type 1 diabetes. Sleep Health. 2022;8(6):705-713 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2022.09.004
Vaca Lopez PL, Warner EL, Waters AR, Mann K, Anderson JS, Fair DB, Lewis MA, Ray N, Tsukamoto T, Perez GK., Yancey J, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC. Adaptation and development of a health insurance education program for adolescent and young adult cancer patients. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. In press.
Warner ZC, Reid B, Auguste P, Kepka D, Warner EL. Colorectal cancer screening opportunities and barriers in an Indigenous Caribbean community. BMC Public Health. In Press.
Umberfield EE, Staes CJ, Morgan TP, Mamlin BW, Grout RW, Dixon BE. Syntactic interoperability and the role of syntactic standards in health information exchange. In Dixon BE, ed. Health Information Exchange: Navigating and Managing a Network of Health Information Systems, 2nd ed. San Diego: Elsevier Science & Technology. 2022.
November
Editor Jacqueline Scheider published the College of Nursing insights magazine. Key collaborators included Vianney Alcala, Eden Bennett, Mindy Francis, Dean Marla De Jong, and many donors, alumni, students, staff, and faculty.
Linder LA, Gerdy C, Jo Y, Stark C, and Wilson A. Changes in central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates following implementation of levofloxacin prophylaxis for children and adolescents with high-risk leukemia. 2022. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol Nurs. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/27527530221122683
Linder LA. Cancer in children. In Rogers JL, Brashers VL, eds. McCance & Huether’s Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children. 9th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier, 2023:430-440.
Linder LA, Harvey A. Alterations of hematologic function in children. In Rogers JL, Brashers VL, eds. McCance & Huether’s Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children. 9th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier, 2023:987-1019.
October
Moraitis AM, Seven M, Sirard J, Walker R. Clinical relevance and implementation considerations of physical activity in young adult cancer survivorship: An expert consensus study. 2022. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2022.0044
Taylor-Swanson L, Levett K. Leveraging interprofessional collaboration to collect agreed common outcomes in everyday clinical practice. 2022. J Integr Complement Med. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jicm.2022.0733
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson served as Guest Editor for a special issue of Medical Acupuncture regarding women in acupuncture. She co-authored one paper: Taylor-Swanson L, Stone JA. Women in acupuncture research: Interviews with leaders of the field. Med Acupunct. 2022;34(5):285-293. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2022.29217.int
Kaddas HK, Ramsay JM, Ou JY, Fair D, Kepka D, Kirchhoff AC. HPV vaccination initiation and completion among pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors and a comparison population sample receiving primary care. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2022. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000002484
Reeve BB, Hernandez A, Freyer DR, Linder LA, Embry L, Leahy AB, Baker JN, Mack JW, McFatrich M, Henke DM, Mowbray C, Jacobs SS, Maurer SH, Gold SH, Hinds PS. Capturing the young child’s reports of cancer treatment tolerability: Does our practice reflect an assumption that they cannot report? Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pbc.30028
Sharareh N, Wallace AS, Brintz BJ, Wan N, Guo J-W, Wong B. Associated factors with patient-reported unmet food needs among emergency department adult patients – A social need perspective. Prev Med Rep. 2022;29:101974. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101974
Garcia K. Observational study of teaching methods with low-literacy comadronas in urban Guatemala. CJMRP. In press.
Horvat CM, Fabio A, Nagin DS, Banks RK, Qin Y, Park H-J, Kernan KF, Canna SW, Berg RA, Wessel D, Pollack MM, Meert K, Hall M, Newth C, Lin JC, Doctor A, Shanley T, Cornell T, Harrison RE, Zuppa AF, Reeder RW, Sward K, Holubkov R, Notterman DA, Dean JM, Carcillo JA on behalf of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network. Mortality risk in pediatric sepsis based on C-reactive protein and ferritin levels. Pediatr Crit Care Med. 2022. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/PCC.0000000000003074
Penney D. Iraqi Muslim women and primary healthcare providers’ perspectives and experiences in the clinic visit in the Western United States. Qual Health Res. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/10497323221130843
Sullivan DR, Iyer AS, Enguidanos S, Cox CE, Farquhar M, Janssen DJA, Lindell KO, Mularski RA, Smallwood N, Turnbull AE, Wilkinson AM, Courtright KR, Maddocks M, McPherson ML, Thornton JD, Campbell ML, Fasolino TK, Fogelman PM, Gershon L, Gershon T, Hartog C, Luther J, Meier DE, Nelson JE, Rabinowitz E, Rushton CH, Sloan DH, Kross EK, Reinke LF on behalf of the American Thoracic Society, American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association, and Social Work Hospice and Palliative Care Network. Palliative care early in the care continuum among patients with serious respiratory illness: An Official ATS/AAHPM/HPNA/SWHPN Policy Statement. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2022;206(6):e44-e69. DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202207-1262ST
Bybee S, Cloyes KG, Mooney K, Supiano KP, Baucom BRW, Ellington L. Posttraumatic growth and life course stress predict dyadic wellbeing among sexual and gender minority (SGM) and non-SGM couples facing cancer. Psycho-ooncology. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1002/pon.6036
September
Tay DL, Thygesen LC, Kozlov E, Ornstein KA. Serious mental illness exacerbation post-bereavement: A population-based study of partners and adult children. Clin Epidemiol. 2022;14:1065-1077. https://doi.org/10.2147/CLEP.S372936
Bristol AA, Elmore CE, Weiss ME, Barry LA, Iacob E, Johnson EP, Wallace AS. Mixed-methods study examining family carers' perceptions of the relationship between intrahospital transitions and patient readiness for discharge. BMJ Quality & Safety. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjqs-2022-015120
Engh EP, Freedenberg V, Ring LM, Lafond DA, Agazio J, Geiger-Brown J, Hinds PS. Creating interdisciplinary engagement through a hospital-based endowed chair in nursing research: The "Conway Chair Conversations." Nurs. Adm Q. 2022;46(4):324-332. DOI: 10.1097/naq.0000000000000511
Bromley FA, Taylor-Swanson LJ, Chao MT. Room for all: Inclusive diversity, equity, and access in acupuncture practice, education, and research. EXPLORE. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2022.08.013
Kent-Marvick J, Simonsen S, Pentecost R, Taylor E, McFarland MM. Loneliness in pregnant and postpartum people and parents of children aged 5 years or younger: A scoping review. Sys Rev. 2022;11:196. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-022-02065-5
August
Blanchette JE, Aaron SP, Allen NA, Litchman ML. Equity in the provision of diabetes self-management and support. Diabetes Spectr. 2022;35(3):284-294. https://doi.org/10.2337/dsi22-0005
Elmore CE, Blackstone SR, Carpenter EL, Ivey de Cortez P, O’Donnell C, Uhlmann E, Vesser J, Hauck FR. Advancing COVID-19 vaccination equity among the refugee community: An innovative multi-sector collaborative outreach program. J Health Care Poor Underserved. In press – expected to be published in the November 2022 supplement issue on public-private partnerships and health equity. Dr. Andrea Wallace mentors T32 Post-doctoral Fellow Catherine Elmore.
Litchman ML, Kwan BM, Zittleman L, Simonetti J, Iacob E, Curcija K, Neuberger J, Latendresse G, Oser TK. A telehealth diabetes intervention for rural populations: Protocol for a randomized control trial. JMIR Res Protoc. 2022;11(6):e34255. doi: 10.2196/34255
Mansfield KJ, Colicchio VD, Kauwe Tuitama AI, Tracey EL, Neuberger JD, Litchman ML. Care partner support following a diabetes self-management education and support intervention. The Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care. 2022;48(4):235-246. https://doi.org/10.1177/26350106221099872
Stephens CE, Allison TA, Flint LA, David D, Wertz V, Halifax E, Barrientos P, Ritchie CS. Assessing technical feasibility and acceptability of telehealth palliative care in nursing homes. PMR. 2022; 3(1):181-185. http://doi.org/10.1089/pmr.2022.0002
Winn M, Karra P, Haaland B, Doherty JA, Summers SA, Litchman ML, Gunter MJ, Playdon MC, Hardikar S. Metabolic dysfunction and obesity-related cancer: Results from a cross-sectional national health and nutrition examination survey. Cancer Med. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cam4.4912
Elmore CE, Mitchell EM, Debnam K, Keim-Malpass J, Laughon K, Tanabe KO, Hauck FR. Predictors of cervical cancer screening for refugee women attending an international family medicine clinic in the United States. Cancer Causes Control. Doi: 10.1007/s10552-022-01612-8. In press.
Elmore CE, Keim-Malpass J, Mitchell EM. Health inequity in cervical cancer control among refugee women in the United States by country of origin. Health Equity. 2021;5(1):119-123. doi: 10.1089/heq.2020.0108
Elmore CE, Laughon K, Mitchell EM. Self-collection of samples for HPV testing to increase participation in cervical cancer screening by immigrant women: An integrative review. Public Health Nurs. 2020;37(5):677-695.doi: 10.1111/phn.12782
Reinke LF, Sullivan DR, Slatore C, Dransfield MT, Ruedebusch S, Smith P, Rise PJ, Tartaglione EV, Vig EK, Au DH. A randomized trial of a nurse-led palliative care intervention for patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer. J Palliat Med. 2022. Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0008
Okang EN, Aaron S, Supiano K, Osman A. Aging services workers in the pandemic: Voiced experience of senior center staff and case workers. J Gerontol Geriatr. 2022;8:1-5. https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214221116470
Sward KA, Enriquez R, Burr J, Ozier J, Roebuck M, Elliott C, Dean JM. Consent Builder: An innovative tool for creating research informed consent documents. JAMIA Open. 2022;5(3):ooac069. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamiaopen/ooac069
July
Reynaga M, Bybee S, Gettens C, Tay DL, Reblin M, Ellington L, Cloyes KG. "We Treat Everyone Equally": Hospice care team members' language use regarding sexual and gender minority patients and caregivers. Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2022 doi: 10.1177/10499091221116634. Epub ahead of print.
Hernandez JM, Danielson MD, Sanchez ML, Christensen SS. Frontline nurse leader development program: Keys to success. In Latimer K, Oinonen M. Unite 2020NE–Respect, Inspire, Serve: The 2021 Vizient Connections Summit Report. Am J Med Qual. 2022;37(Suppl 3S):S76-S77. https://doi.org/10.1097/jmq.0000000000000056
June
Drs. Joseph Allen, Melissa Yack, and Sara Hart guest edited a Special Issue of Metropolitan Universities titled Community Engagement at Academic Health Centers. Dr. Hart and colleagues wrote an editorial and a paper for the Special Issue.
- Allen JA, Yack M, Hart SE. Community engagement at academic health centers: An introduction to this special issue Metropolitan Universities. 2022;33(3):3-9. DOI: 10.18060/26312
- Kuttner P, Antunes A, Cachelin A, Fitisemanu L, Folau M, Hart S, Salcedo A. Establishing principles for community-based research: Story & power in the community research collaborative. Metropolitan Universities. 2022;33(3):52-68. DOI: 10.18060/25819
Cloyes KG, Jones M, Gettens C, Wawrzynski SE, Bybee S, Tay DL, Reblin M, Ellington L. Providing home hospice care for LGBTQ+ patients and caregivers: Perceptions and opinions of hospice interdisciplinary care team providers. Palliat Support Care. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1478951522000657
Reblin M, Iacob E, Tay DL, Li H, Thomas Hebdon MC, Beck A, Donaldson G, Cloyes KG, Ellington L. Family caregiver reports of their own and patient symptoms in cancer home hospice approaching end-of-life. Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2022. Epub ahead of print.https://doi.org/10.1177/10499091221108119
Nielsen A, Dusek JA, Taylor-Swanson L, Tick H. Acupuncture therapy as an evidence-based nonpharmacologic strategy for comprehensive acute pain care: The Academic Consortium Pain Task Force white paper update.Pain Med. 2022; pnac056. doi.org/10.1093/pm/pnac056
Mann S, Christini K, Chai A, Chang C-P, Hashibe M, Kepka D. Vaccine hesitancy and COVID-19 immunization among rural young adults. Prev Med Rep. 2022; 28:101845.doi: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101845
Supiano KP, Boudreaux J. Palliative and hospice care for incarcerated persons. In Altilio T, Otis-Green S, Cagle JG, eds. The Oxford Textbook of Palliative Care Social Work. 2nd ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 2022:404-413.
Topham EW, Bristol A, Luther B, Elmore CE, Johnson E, Wallace AS. Caregiver inclusion in IDEAL discharge teaching: Implications for transitions from hospital to home. Prof Case Manag. 2022;27(4):181-193. doi: 10.1097/NCM.0000000000000563
Towsley GL, Wittenberg G, Reddy A, Baier RR. Me & My Wishes: An efficacy trial of long-term care residents with Alzheimer's disease using videos to communicate care preferences with caregivers. Issue Brief #6. 2022. Brown University School of Public Health, Center for Long-term Care Quality and Innovation.
Christensen SS, Wilson BL, Hansen SD. Using affective events theory to conceptualise nurses’ emotional behaviour: A scoping review. Collegian. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2022.05.010 In press.
Clifton J, Maruca AT, Loeb SJ, Zucker DM, Muse M, Shelton D. Nurse academic-practice partnerships in justice systems: Building upon the evidence. J Prof Nurs. 2022;40:20-27. doi: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2022.02.006
Ko LK, Scarinci IC, Bouchard EG, Drake BF, Rodriguez EM, Chen MS, Kepka D, Kruse-Diehr AJ, Befort C, Shannon J, Farris PE, Trentham-Dietz A, Onega T. A framework for equitable partnerships to promote cancer prevention and control in rural settings. JNCI Cancer Spectr. 2022;6(2):pkac017. doi: 10.1093/jncics/pkac017
Lyons AM, Dimas J, Richardson SJ, Sward K. Assessing EHR data for use in clinical improvement and research. Am J Nurs. 2022;122(6):32-41. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000832728.09164.3f
Zucker DM, Reagan L, Clifton J, Abdulhamed A, Roscoe LE, Wright RM, Penix D, Shelton D, Loeb SJ. NPs caring for people who are incarcerated and negatively impacted by social determinants of health. Nurse Pract. 2022;47(6):38-46. doi: 10.1097/01.NPR.0000829804.16627.7b
May
Warner ZC, Reid B, Auguste P, Joseph W, Kepka D, Warner EL. Awareness and knowledge of HPV, HPV vaccination, and cervical cancer among an Indigenous Caribbean Community. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022;19(9):5694. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095694
Ou JY, Waters AR, Kaddas HK, Warner EL, Perla L, Vaca Lopez PL, Mann K, Anderson JS, Ray N, Tsukamoto T, Gill D, Linder L, Fair D, Kirchhoff AC. Financial and employment factors related to healthcare utilization disruption among survivors of adolescent and young adult cancers during COVID-19. J Cancer Surviv. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-022-01214-y
Farrell TW, Butler JM, Towsley GL, Telonidis JS, Supiano KP, Stephens CE, Nelson NM, May AL, Edelman LS.
Communication disparities between nursing home team members. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022;19(10):5975. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105975
Seven M, Moraitis AM. Community-based interventions designed to optimize health behaviors among cancer survivors: An integrative systematic review. Support Care Cancer. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-022-07097-0
Gonzales BR, Litchman ML, Wawrzynski SE, Gomez Hoyos M, Ferrer M, Sun Y. Salud Latina: feasibility of a synchronous online chat for Latinos at risk for type 2 diabetes. Inform Health Soc Care. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/17538157.2022.2069029
Linder LA, Lulloff AJ. Using evidence to create a new paradigm for CLABSI prevention in pediatric hematology, oncology, and stem cell transplant. APHON Counts. Spring 2022.
Linder LA, Newman A, Bernier Carney K, Wawrzynski S, Stegenga K, Chiu Y-S, Jung S-H, Iacob E, Lewis M, Linder C, Fox K, Altizer R. Symptoms and daily experiences reported by children with cancer using a game-based app. J Pediatr Nurs. 2022;65:33-43.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2022.04.013
Tanner CT, Clayton MF, Llanque S, Utley M, DiDonna K, Christenson J. With all due respect: Paving the way for nursing students with disabilities. J Prof Nurs. 2021;37(6):A3-A5. DOI: 10.1016/j.profnurs.2021.09.001
Wilson CM, Gee A, Mooney K. Clinician and patient communication on body image, sexuality, and sexual function in gynecologic cancer: An integrative review. Sex Disabil. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11195-022-09736-0
April
Christensen SS, Wilson BL. Why nurses do not report patient aggression: A review and appraisal of the literature. J Nurs Manag. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jonm.13618
Cummins M, Turcotte C, McFarland MM, Staes C. Research outcomes of linked prescription drug monitoring program data: A scoping review protocol. BMJ Open. 2022; 12(4):e055290. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055290.
Elmore C, Ellis J. Screening, treatment, and monitoring of peripartum iron deficiency anemia. J Midwifery Womens Health. DOI:10.1111/jmwh.13370. In press.
Hughes R, Hooper V, Kennedy R, Cummins M, Lake E, Carrington J. Interoperability explained. American Nurse Journal. 2022;17(4):56-58.
Ansari N, Wilson CM, Heneghan MB, Supiano K, Mooney K. (2022). How technology can improve communication and health outcomes in patients with advanced cancer: an integrative review. Support Care Cancer. 2022. Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-022-07037-y
Drury Z, Kotobalavu C, Hofmann L, Austria M-J. Examining the effects of a structured mentorship program on the nurse mentor: A pilot study engaging oncology nurses. Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2022;26(1):27-30. DOI: 10.1188/22.CJON.27-30
Felsted KF, Supiano KP, Guo J-W. Designing rigorous methods in integrative research: Comparing Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction with the Health Enhancement Program in the treatment of urge urinary incontinence in older adult women. British Journal of Healthcare and Medical Research. 2022;9(2):31-43. https://doi.org/10.14738/jbemi.92.11949
Bybee S, Supiano K, Wilson R. Utility and acceptability of a peer assessment rubric to improve interprofessional learning. J Nurs Educ. 2022;61(4):213-216. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20211128-07.
Cloyes KG, Guo J-W, Tennant KE, McCormick R, Mansfield KJ, Wawrzynski SE, Classen SC, Jones EC, Reblin M. Exploring social support networks and interactions of young adult and LGBTQIA+ cancer survivors and care partners. Front Oncol. 2022;12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2022.852267
Radloff CL, Bennett H, Staes CJ. Utility of poison control center data for automated opioid overdose surveillance. J Public Health Manag Pract. 2022;28(3):272-281. doi: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000001494
Blanchette JE, Aaron SP, Allen NA, Litchman ML. Health equity in diabetes: Equity in the provision of diabetes self-management education and support. Diabetes Spectr. In press.
Blanchette JE, Tran MJ, Grigorian E, Iacob E, Edelman L, Oser T, Litchman ML. “GoFundMe isn’t a medical plan”: An ecological study of crowdfunding insulin success. JMIR Diabetes. In press.
Litchman ML, Allen NA, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Ng AH, Rodriguez-Gonzales B, Iacob E, Greenwood DA. A continuous glucose monitor + online peer support community reinforces healthy behaviors in Hispanic adults with T2D. Diabetes Spectr. In press.
Litchman ML, Kwan BM, Zittleman L, Simonetti J, Iacob E, Curcija K, Neuberger J, Latendresse G, Oser TK. A telehealth diabetes intervention for rural populations: Protocol for a randomized control trial. JMIR Protocols. In press.
Litchman ML, Moreland C, Fagerlin A, Kushalnagar P. Limited diabetes education in American sign language. Diabetes Spectr. In press.
Oser TK, Zittleman L, Curcija K, Kwan BM, Burke S, Gonzalez S, Huss K, Johnson M, Sanchez N, Neuberger J, Iacob E, Simonetti J, Litchman ML. Adaptation of a diabetes self-management education and support intervention to inform a randomized control trial in rural populations. JMIR Diabetes. In press.
Waters AR, Anderson JS, Mann K, Lopez PLV, Kepka D, Kirchhoff AC, Warner EL. Drivers of COVID-19 vaccine intent among survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer: A mixed method study. J Cancer Educ. 2022; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-022-02155-x
The Editorial Board for Orthopaedic Nursing and the current and incoming president of the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON) coordinated a special issue for Orthopaedic Nursing that focused on health equity, bias, and disparities in orthopaedic care. Members of the board invited national experts in disparity, inclusion, bias, and social determinants to author papers, and wrote papers themselves. Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Valeria Flattes, and Dr. Andrea Wallace authored the following papers:
- Luther B, Flattes V. Bias and the psychological safety in healthcare teams. Orthop Nurs. 2022;41(2):118-122. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0000000000000831
- Johnson CB, Luther B, Wallace AS, Kulesa MG. Social determinants of health: What are they and how do we screen. Orthop Nurs. 2022;41(2):88-100. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0000000000000829
- Sedlak CA, Kujath AS, Luther B. The future of nursing: Application of health equity in orthopaedics. Orthop Nurs. 2022;41(2):160-169. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0000000000000835
As a follow-up to this special issue, Susan Salmond, Mary Rodts, Amber Kujath, and Dr. Brenda Luther will deliver a podium presentation at the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses 42nd Annual Congress in Reno in May, outlining highlights of the articles.
March
Allen NA, Bristol A, Grigorian EG, Iacob E, Berg CA, Litchman ML. SHARE plus: Delivering a telehealth CGM data-sharing intervention to older adults and their care partners. Diabetes Spectr. 2022;35(1):16–25. doi.org/10.2337/dsi21-0016
Allen NA, Litchman ML, Chamberlain J, Grigorian EG, Iacob E, Berg CA. Continuous glucose monitoring data sharing in older adults with type 1 diabetes: Pilot intervention study. JMIR Diabetes. 2022;7(1):e35687. doi:10.2196/35687
Chalkidis G, McPherson J, Beck A, Newman M, Yui S, Staes C. Development of a machine learning model using limited features to predict 6-month mortality at treatment decision points for patients with advanced solid tumors. JCO Clin Cancer Inform. 2022; Epub ahead of print.
Johnson CB, Luther B, Wallace AS, Kulesa M. Social determinants of health: An overview.Orthop Nurs. In press.
Pinzon LM, Velazquez A, Rutkoski H, Tay DL, Martel L, Drury C, Ayres S, Dixon B, Winkler JR, Kepka D. Cross-cultural adaptation of a Spanish version of a previously validated HPV survey that evaluates dental students’ knowledge, perception and clinical practices in Latin America. BMC Oral Health. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-022-02108-2
Schmutz KE, Wallace AS, Bristol AA, Johnson EP, Raaum SE. Hospital discharge during COVID-19: The role of social resources. Clin Nurs Res. 2022. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1177/10547738221075760
Sharareh N, Wallace AS. Applying a health access framework to understand and address food insecurity. Healthcare. 2022;10(2):380. doi: 10.3390/healthcare10020380
Steele JS, Gargaro E, Hines L. Foster care. Medical Home Portal.
Topham E, Bristol A, Luther B, Elmore C, Johnson E, Wallace AS. Caregiver inclusion in IDEAL discharge teaching: Implications for transitions from hospital to home. Prof Case Manag. In press.
Utz RL, Warner EL. Caregiver burden among diverse caregivers. Cancer. 2022. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1002/cncr.34171
Wallace AS, Wang C-Y, Flake N, Bristol AA, Altizer R. Feasibility and usefulness of the going home toolkit, an mhealth app, during hospital discharge: Patient and clinician perspectives. Inform Health Soc Care. 2022. Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1080/17538157.2022.2043330
Eaton J. Let us progress! Implementing professionally led arts-based programming in senior centers. Educ Gerontol. 2022; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1080/03601277.2022.2045536
February
Gee PM, Weston MJ, Harshman T, Kelly LA. Beyond burnout and resilience: The disillusionment phase of COVID-19. AACN Adv Crit Care. 2022; e1-e9. https://doi.org/10.4037/aacnacc2022248
Ko LK, Scarini IC, Bouchard EG, Drake BF, Rodriguez EM, Chen MS, Kepka D, Kruse-Diehr AJ, Befort C, Shannon J, Farris PE, Trentham-Dietz A, Onega T. A framework for equitable partnerships to promote cancer prevention and control in rural settings. JNCI Cancer Spectrum. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbi.2022.104014
Kukhareva PV, Weir C, Del Fiol G, Aarons GA, Taft TY, Schlechter CR, Reese TJ, Curran RL, Nanjo C, Borbolla D, Staes CJ, Morgan KL, Kramer HS, Stipelman CH, Shakib JH, Flynn MC, Kawamoto K. Evaluation in Life Cycle of Information Technology (ELICIT) framework: Supporting the innovation life cycle from business case assessment to summative evaluation. J Biomed Inform. 2022; Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1016/j.jbi.2022.104014
Pruitt SL, Tiro JA, Kepka D, Henry K. Missed vaccination opportunities among U.S. adolescents by area characteristics. Am J Prev Med. 2022; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2021.10.014
Taylor-Swanson L, Altschuler D, Taromina K, Anderson B, Bensky D, Cohen M, Huang H, Ma S, Majd I, Mitchell C, Schnyer RN, Conboy L (2022). SEAttle-based research of Chinese herbs for COVID-19 study: A whole health perspective on Chinese herbal medicine for symptoms that may be related to COVID-19. Glob Adv Health Med. 2022;11, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1177/21649561211070483
Coaston A, Lee SJ, Johnson J, Hardy-Peterson MH, Weiss S, Stephens C. Mobile medical clinics in the United States post-Affordable Care Act: An integrative review. Popul Health Manag. In press.
Egger MJ, Sanchez-Birkhead AC, Clark L, Curiel R, Garcia G, Fernandez C, Nygaard IE. Pelvic floor sensations after the first vaginal delivery: A qualitative study. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg. 2021;27(1), e234–e246. https://doi.org/10.1097/SPV.0000000000000742
Oser TK, Litchman ML, Allen NA, Kwan BM, Fisher L, Jortberg BT, Polonsky WH, Oser SM. Personal continuous glucose monitoring use among adults with type 2 diabetes: Clinical efficacy and economic impacts. Curr Diab Rep. 2021;21, 49. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-021-01408-1
Pentecost R, Latendresse G, Smid M. Scoping review of the associations between perinatal substance use and perinatal depression and anxiety. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2021;50(4):382-391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogn.2021.02.008
Tevaarwerk A, Denlinger CS, Sanft T, … Mooney K, Moore HCF… Survivorship, Version 1.2021. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2021;19(6):676-685. https://doi.org/10.6004/jnccn.2021.0028
January
Waters AR, Mann K, Warner EL, Vaca Lopez PL, Kaddas HK, Ray N, Tsukamoto T, Fair DB, Lewis MA, Perez GK, Park ER, Kirchhoff AC. “I thought there would be more I understood:” Health insurance literacy among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer. In press.
Gee JP, Palmer M, Friel BA, Collingridge DS. Challenging tradition: Nurses' attitudes toward single checking of subcutaneous insulin. Nursing2022. 2022;52(1):52-57. DOI: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000803528.94354.6d
Guo J-W, Kimmel J, Linder L. Text analysis of suicide risk in adolescents and young adults. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc. Accepted.
Kang Y, Topaz M, Dunbar SB, Stehlik J, Hurdle J. The utility of nursing notes among Medicare patients with heart failure to predict 30-day rehospitalization: a pilot study. J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2021; Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1097/JCN.0000000000000871
Ramsay JM, Kaddas HK, Ou JY, Kepka D, Kirchhoff AC. Missed opportunities for concomitant HPV vaccination among childhood cancer survivors. Cancer Med. 2022;00:1-11. DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4492.
Reblin M, McCormick R, Mansfield KJ, Wawrzynski SE, Ketcher D, Tennant KE, Guo J-W, Jones EC, Cloyes KG. Feasibility, usability, and acceptability of a personalized web-based assessment of social network and daily social support interactions over time. J Cancer Surviv. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11764-021-01083-x.
Umberfield EE, Staes CJ, Morgan TP, Mamlin BW, Grout RW, Dixon BE. Syntactic interoperability and the role of syntactic standards in health information exchange. In Dixon BE, ed. Health Information Exchange: Navigating and Managing a Network of Health Information Systems. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2022.
Wawrzynski SE, Alderfer MA, Kvistad W, Linder L, Reblin M, Guo J-W, Cloyes KG. The social networks and social support of siblings of children with cancer. Children. 2022;9(1). doi.org/10.3390/children9010113
Stucky CH, De Jong MJ, Kabo FW. The paradox of network inequality: differential impacts of status and influence on surgical team communication. Med J. 2022; Jan-Mar:56-63. PMID: 34940969
Friel BA, Sieradzan R, Jones C, Katz RA, Smith CM, Trenery A, Gee J. Leveraging partnerships to reduce insulin needlestick injuries: Nurse-led system-wide quality improvement project. J Nurs Care Qual. 2022;37(1):14-20. DOI: 10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000592
Van De Graaff M, Hopkins RO, Gee J, Beesley SJ, Butler J, Richards T, Crowley A, Lappe D, Brown SM. Partners in Healing: Redesign and expansion of family involvement in inpatient nursing care. Nursing. 2021;51(11):64-68. DOI: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000795328.29869.94
Moraitis AM, Seven M, Sirard J, Walker R. Expert consensus on physical activity use for young adult cancer survivors' biopsychosocial health: A modified Delphi study. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2021.0109
Towsley GL, Neller S, Baier RR, Wong B. Me & My Wishes: Concordance of end-of-life preferences between residents with dementia, family, and staff. J Palliat Med. 2021; Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0111
November
Dr. Joanne Montepare, the editor of the Gerontological Society of America’s Advancing Age Inclusivity in Higher Education newsletter invited Dr. Katarina Friberg Felsted and Dr. Jackie Eaton to write a feature article titled Enhancing age-friendly initiatives through the intersection of university, community, and health systems at the University of Utah. Co-authors include Dr. Linda Edelman and Valerie Greer.
Dr. Deanna Kepka’s research and policy work focuses on improving the quality of primary health care services for cancer prevention and control among underserved populations, locally and globally. A health services researcher with expertise in HPV vaccination, HPV-related cancer prevention, and health equity research; and founder and director of the Intermountain West HPV Vaccination Coalition, Dr. Kepka has been working to improve HPV vaccination rates. Recent, HPV vaccination rates for adolescents who live in Utah have increased markedly. Members of the media interviewed and quoted Dr. Kepka in the following news stories:
- CDC data suggests attitudes are shifting about the HPV vaccine: Utah vaccine rates among teens increased more than 16%
- Here’s a vaccine Utahns have heartily embraced
- HPV vaccine rate for Utah teens increasing
Qiological features podcast discussions that reveal and examine the landscape of East Asian medicine as it unfolds in modern days. When interviewed for a podcast titled Interoceptive Awareness, Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Elisabeth Osgood-Campbell, and Nick Lowe discussed the ability to attend to bodily sensations, and use cutting-edge technologies to track clinical outcomes in practice settings.
October
On behalf of the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake, Danielle Puri attended an event with First Lady Abby Cox and Tammy Snyder Murphy, the First Lady of New Jersey. As part of the National Governor’s Association conference, the first ladies hosted a listening session with officials from Sacred Circle Healthcare to hear how governors across the United States can improve policy to support maternal and infant health, particularly for the Native American population. KSL.com summarized the event, and included Danielle in a photo. According to Danielle, the discussion was incredibly powerful and moving, and a highlight of her year.
The American Nurses Foundation, through the generous support of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy’s Disaster Recovery Fund, sponsored the Derek Bell Wellness podcast titled American Nurses Foundation Gratitude Podcast – Creating a Culture of Self-care and Gratitude. Derek Bell and Dr. Perry Gee described the value of self-compassion as a pathway to discovering how persons can improve gratitude practices, and how this translates into a culture of self-care and gratitude at work and in life.
September
Dr. Schola Matovu was interviewed for Mental Health Trailblazers – Psychiatric Nurses Speak Up! – the American Nurses Association’s Minority Fellowship Program’s podcast, which features the groundbreaking journeys of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color psychiatric mental health nurses in their quest to meet the urgent and unmet needs of under-represented communities in America.
In its September 2022 newsletter, Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake featured registered nurse Leslie Crandall in a photo, and provided information about obtaining free COVID-19 test kits.
August
Dr. Jennifer Clifton authored a blog titled Moving from “What’s Wrong with Them?” to “What Happened to Them?” regarding National Commission on Correctional Health Care's position statement Trauma-Responsive Care for Youths in Correctional Facilities.
Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Larry Garrett, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Jennifer Macali, and Harper Vander Hoek, and Bicknell, Utah-based Wayne Community Health Center created the film Day in the Life of a Rural Nurse, which features Josie Moosman, BSN, RN. A registered nurse at Wayne Community Health Center, Josie and her team were the #1 Nurse Education, Practice, Quality & Retention (NEPQR) preceptors for the last four years, and worked closely with College of Nursing faculty on monthly webinars. During Fall Semester 2022, and as an Advanced Nursing Education Workforce (ANEW) trainee, Josie will begin the College of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice Program, and specialize in primary care.
On its news website and using an Ask an Expert approach, Huntsman Cancer Institute featured Drs. Catherine Staes, Anna Beck, and Jordan McPherson’s ongoing work to support decision-making for providers and patients with advanced cancer.
Dr. Echo Warner and Dr. Skyler Johnson were featured in OncLive.com. In their article titled Fellows Can Join the Fight Against Cancer Misinformation Online, they discuss that although organizations acknowledge a need for innovative uses of social technology to improve cancer-related support and provide information, there is much cancer misinformation on the internet. In addition, they provide strategies to mitigate online cancer misinformation.
July
Dr. Kathi Mooney presented an Oncology Data Advisor podcast titled Managing Cancer Care at Home.
June
SAGE for Nursing and Other Health Specialties offers a free podcast site. In JAG Podcast 2022 – EP2, Dr. Kara Dassel discussed the article “I worry about this patient EVERY day:” Geriatrics clinicians’ challenges in caring for unrepresented older adults, which she, Dr. Linda Edelman, Jennifer Moye, Casey Catlin, and Timothy Farrell authored.
May
In her Verywell health article Beware of Misleading Cancer Nutrition Claims on Pinterest, Researchers Say, Stephanie Brown cited Dr. Echo Warner, “We were surprised to find out that even though social media can be a source of support and encouragement, a lot of the information about cancer online is misleading and incorrect, which can be pretty distressing to cancer patients and care partners.”
Forbes named the University of Utah Health one of the best employers for diversity in 2022. U of U Health ranks 41st out of 500 recognized organizations in the nation—up from 98th in 2021—and is also the only health care provider from the state of Utah to receive the designation. “We know that to provide the highest quality of care for everyone, we must value a workplace that is diverse, with people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences who can contribute to the most comprehensive care for our patients,” said José Rodríguez, Associate Vice President for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at U of U Health. “Even with this recognition, we know we have employees from underrepresented backgrounds who still don’t feel seen or heard, and we will never stop our work until everyone in our organization feels valued,” Rodríguez added.
Overcoming difficult circumstances, Dr. Annette Klinger earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, specializing in direct care, from the University of Utah. Her scholarly project was titled The Families Resilience Toolkit: Promoting Family Resiliency After Homelessness, and Dr. Julie Gee Chaired her committee. KSL featured Dr. Klinger’s remarkable story through broadcast and online news stories titled Crash survivor beats odds, graduates with doctorate.
April
Mary Dickson from PBS Utah interviewed Dr. Kathie Supiano regarding Caring Connections: A Hope in Comfort and Grief Program’s Seeds of Remembrance 2022 event, which will be held on May 10, 2022, at 6:30 PM at the College of Nursing. The theme of this year’s event is “When the Sun Comes Out,” and it will address COVID grief and the difficulties that all grievers faced during the pandemic.
The media covered the College of Nursing’s plans to increase enrollment in its baccalaureate program.
- ABC4 News – University of Utah nursing to increase enrollment by 25%
- Gephardt Daily – U of U College of Nursing to expand enrollment
- KSL.com – Summer enrollment options added to U. nursing college to address Utah’s nursing shortage
- KSL News Radio – Nursing program at U of U to expand
- KUER – University of Utah expanding nursing school enrollment
March
In an Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists sponsored The Huddle podcast titled “Identifying Gaps in Your Diabetes Services to Improve Reach and Impact,” Drs. Nancy Allen and Ana Sanchez-Birkhead shared their expertise and perspectives on identifying gaps in diabetes services, and bridging these gaps using innovative solutions and new members of the care team, like peer facilitators.
Funded by a 1U4U grant, Dr. Sara Simonsen and Dr. Akiko Kamimura (Sociology) produced two films: one about preconception healthcare, and one about intimate partner violence for members of the Central African Immigrant/Refugee community. Members of the community helped write the scripts and performed as actors and actresses. Playing the role of a healthcare provider who was counseling a couple about optimizing their health to prepare for pregnancy, Julie King was the only actress from outside the African community. Julie generously shared her expertise, dedicated an entire Saturday to filming, and was an excellent actress! Sara’s team will share the films with the community at an upcoming event and assess their impact on persons’ knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about preconception care and intimate partner violence. In addition, the team will submit the films to the American Public Health Association film festival.
Drs. Caroline Stephens, Joan Carpenter, Ruth Palan Lopez, and Lauren Hunt produced a GeriPal Podcast titled “Understanding the Variability in Care of Nursing Home Residents with Advanced Dementia.” They highlighted an article that Ruth Palan Lopez published in JAMA Intern Med titled Association of Nursing Home Organizational Culture and Staff Perspectives With Variability in Advanced Dementia Care: The ADVANCE Study, and had a panel discussion that Lauren Hunt moderated. The podcast has been edited, transcribed, and posted onGeriPal, Libsyn,YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In addition, the episode has been propagated to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher.
February
Dr. Kathie Supiano, in collaboration with the College of Nursing Simulation Center staff and standardized patient actors Sherri Kerney, Debbie Boulter, Elle Oldfield, and Maddie Lassche, and videographer Nathan Wichlacz, and with support from Adrienne Bott, Gloria Hammond, and co-I Troy Andersen, recorded a training video for the PreLoss Grief Support intervention for dementia family caregivers at risk for complicated grief, a project funded by theAlzheimer’s Association.
In her article As Covid Slogs On, Seniors Find Fortitude Waning and Malaise Growing, Judith Graham of Kaiser Health News quoted Dr. Kathie Supiano saying that older adults’ ability to bounce back from setbacks shouldn’t be discounted. “This isn’t their first rodeo. Many people remember polio and the AIDs epidemic. They’ve been through a lot and know how to put things in perspective.”
In its Digital Healthcare Research bulletin, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality included the Impact Story Low-Cost Screening in the Emergency Department Helps Address Social Determinants of Health, which features Dr. Andrea Wallace and her team. The article describes members of the research team, which includes community partners, using low-cost technology to develop a 10-item electronic social needs screener, and integrating it into the emergency department workflow. Food, housing, utilities, and household items were the most common reasons for referrals.
Dr. Andra Davis, Associate Professor at the University of Portland School of Nursing and University of Utah College of Nursing alumna (PhD 2014), interviewed Dr. Nanci McLeskey regarding the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC) project, a national and international education initiative to improve palliative care. Consortium leaders have begun spotlighting faculty who have incorporated the six Undergraduate ELNEC modules – 1) Introduction to Palliative Nursing, 2) Communication in Palliative Care, 3) Pain Management in Palliative Care, 4) Symptom Management in Palliative Care, 5) Loss, Grief, and Bereavement, and 6) Final Hours of Life – into their nursing programs. The purpose of the interviews is to share information that will help other colleges add the modules to their curriculum. During the interview, Nanci described leading work to fully integrate the ELNEC modules into an existing course – NURS 3305 Foundations of Clinical Nursing Care, a required course for first semester pre-licensure students. Faculty sequenced the ELNEC modules to align with and supplement content that students already learned, and students complete a simulation to apply the principles of what they learned.
January
In her contribution to Good Notes: Voices of U of U Health, Dr. Wendy Hobson-Rohrer wrote about the enjoyment of living and working in Utah, and highlighted two College of Nursing faculty members. As Dr. Valerie Flattes reflected on living and working in Utah, she indicated that she “… had no intention to stay in Utah after I became a nurse practitioner, but because of the strong support and mentoring I received, I stayed here and have no regrets. An added bonus for me is that, as faculty, I have found great joy in teaching. My students give me the inspiration to continue to develop as a master teacher ...” Dr. Michelle Litchman underscored that “… At the University of Utah, ‘One U’ isn’t just a tagline. Scientists of many disciplines are working together to find cross-cutting answers to scientific problems. To enable the translation of research to benefit a wide range of people, we are breaking down typical organizational silos, working alongside citizen scientists and community organizations.”
December
Drs. Deanna Kepka, Schola Matovu, and Debra Penney hosted a Human Papillomavirus Vaccination and Cervical Cancer Prevention Bootcamp Training Workshop at Clarke International University in Kampala, Uganda for approximately 100 persons. Participants attended in person and by zoom. Engaging discussions focused on potential strategies to eliminate cervical cancer in Uganda, where, among women, cervical cancer has the highest cancer-related incidence and mortality. Numerous faculty, nursing students, and clinical medicine students were highly engaged and motivated to learn more and become involved. The team facilitated three interactive small group discussions, and collected data using pre-training and post-training surveys.
Alumna Chelsea Gamero invited Marissa Smith, Kristen Mahoney, Sonja Jensen, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, and Dean Marla De Jong to brief nursing and education representatives from the University of Utah Health Affiliate Network about topics such as, but not limited to, the College of Nursing’s academic programs, programs of study for the pre-licensure and RN-BS tracks, pathways to nursing, the Acute Care RN-BS Diversity Scholars Program, admission requirements, tuition rates, availability of scholarships and financial support, and tracks that the College offers online. In addition, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini described the College’s inaugural summer camp for racially and ethnically diverse middle schoolers.
The University of Utah and the University of Utah Health welcomed a delegation from Perú, including Utah’s Peruvian Counselor, Perú’s Minister of Health, five members of Peru’s Congress, five Peruvian university presidents, and six Peruvian business leaders. The Office for Global Engagement invited Dr. Kimberly Garcia to participate in a round table discussion about potentially establishing partnerships among the University of Utah and Peruvian universities, offering faculty exchanges and educational mentoring, conducting and publishing academic studies, and working on public health projects such as self-testing for human papillomavirus in Perú. Attendees from the University of Utah included Dr. Brian Gibson, Juan Carlos Negrette, Emma Huston, Dr. Martell Teasley, and Dr. José Rodriguez.
November
Dr. Djin Tay was selected to be a mentor for University of Utah Summer Program for Undergraduate Research (SPUR), which provides undergraduate students with an intensive 10-week research experience under the mentorship of a University of Utah faculty member. SPUR mentees receive a stipend, and have a robust summer experience, including hiring and onboarding, belonging to a cohort of scholars, receiving mentorship and advisement, attending educational programs, presenting research, and publishing their work. Students will work with Dr. Tay on her The Impact of Immunotherapy on Palliative Care Needs for Patients and their Caregivers project.
The University of Utah Alpha Chi chapter of Sigma Phi Omega, The International Academic Honor and Professional Society in Gerontology, and AARP Utah partnered to host a moderated focus group with College of Nursing and College of Pharmacy students. AARP Utah sought to understand students’ views on Social Security and retirement, and to provide information and data about Social Security’s history, present, and future. Students were relieved to receive non-biased information about various aspects of Social Security. Shanceline Tebo, a College of Pharmacy student who also is earning a Pharmacy Long-Term Services and Support Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program Graduate Certificate, is president of Sigma Phi Omega, and Dr. Katarina Felsted is chapter faculty advisor.
Alumna Kalin Organ teaches in the Jordan Academy for Technology and Careers Medical Assistant Program and arranged for the College of Nursing Simulation Center to host 110 high school seniors who are considering a career in health sciences. Moe Arnes, Yvonne Bass, Carly Bonfiglio, Sherri Kerney, Mandy Thomson, Debbie Boulter, and Dr. Ann Butt made a “tour” into an “experience” for the students. Students met patients, used moulage to create bruises, learned how to safely transfer patients, and practiced cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Members of the simulation team collaborated with Dr. Allison Spolsdoff, Sonja Jensen, and Marissa Smith to arrange a question and answer session with current students Caroline Howell, Elaina Briscoe, Karina Perez, and with Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library librarians Brandon Patterson and Donna Baluchi who shared information and showcased resources that are available to College of Nursing students.
To help community partners expand access to care, and at the request of rural clinic partners, members of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention (NEPQR) team (project director Dr. Linda Edelman) developed a four-module course titled RN-Led Women’s Well Visit Training. Content experts in women’s health – Leslie DiVall and Kellie Morrow – wrote the modules, which include simulation and provide nursing contact hours.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to serve as a Review Editor on the Editorial Board of Menopause, a specialty section of Frontiers in Reproductive Health.
Dr. Victoria Tiase was elected to a 2nd term on the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) Board of Directors. AMIA is a community committed to the vision of a world where informatics transforms people’s care.
Danielle Puri, Leslie Crandall, Dr. Van Gip, and student volunteers – BSN student Elaina Briscoe and DNP student Emily Royce – administered shots at the annual Boo to the Flu Clinic.
Dean Marla De Jong was invited to Co-Chair the American Academy of Nursing Fellow Selection Committee. She will serve as Co-Chair in 2023, Chair in 2024, and Advisor in 2025.
October
On October 27, 2022, Dr. Deanna Kepka served on theSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital HPV Cancer Prevention Program’s Expert Panel regarding HPV vaccination policy recommendations.
Dr. Deanna Kepka was invited to serve on the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) HPV Vaccine Education Working Group. SWHR is a national nonprofit organization and recognized leader with a mission to promote research on biological sex differences and improve women’s health through science, policy, and education.
Dr. Renée Mulder, senior scientist and guideline specialist, invited Dr. Ann Marie Moraitis to serve on the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group guideline panel related to health promotion.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to join the Advisory Board of EXPLORE: The Journal of Science & Healing as Associate Editor. EXPLORE is an interdisciplinary journal that publishes papers about conventional, alternative, and cross-cultural medicine.
Dean Marla De Jong and Dr. Edmund Fong are Co-Chairing the Search Committee for a new Dean for the University of Utah School for Cultural and Social Transformation.
Dr. Sharifa Al-Quaaydeh was elected First Vice President, and Dr. Josh Wall was elected Director at Large for the Utah Nurses Association (UNA) Board of Directors.
Dr. Kara Dassel was selected to serve as a Delegate of the Utah Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at the Alzheimer's Community Leaders Summit, which will be held on January 26-28, 2023, in San Diego. “The Alzheimer’s Association Community Leaders Summit convenes community leaders to experience and be inspired by our shared vision of a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Attending leadership volunteers and staff delegates will understand the Association’s role in communities and as the leader in Alzheimer’s care, support, advocacy, and research. Delegates will be educated and empowered to play an important role in delivering locally on the mission and leading others to help the Association increase impact within their communities and for the overall Association.”
Faculty, staff, and students administered 956 flu shots and 150 COVID booster vaccines at the University of Utah Employee Appreciation Day. Those who organized the clinic and administered immunizations included Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Anna Alder, Donnie Benson, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Teressa Garrett, Dr. Brenda Luther, Dr. Debra Penney, Dr. Carolyn Scheese, Dr. Catherine Staes, and many College of Nursing Students. An employee wrote, “I wanted to write and thank you for putting on EAD. This year I especially appreciated being able to get my flu shot and covid booster (and have them reported to work wellness). Both of the people who gave me a shot were great! There’s a range of how physically comfortable shots are to get, and I really appreciate the skilled and (very nearly) painless delivery.” Wendy Poppleton, Director of Benefits at the University of Utah wrote, “It was a fabulous day and everything went so smoothly and quickly! I heard from several people that the flu clinic is really the reason they come to EAD – it’s so easy. Thanks everyone!!!” Dr. Brenda Luther and students also administered flu shots at Huntsman Cancer Research.
Moniqa Arnes provided a tour of the College of Nursing Simulation Center for Dr. Aghadeer Jheiwan. Dr. Jheiwan is the founder and General Director of the Princess Taghrid institute for Development and Training in Jordan, a non-governmental organization established in 2010 to rehabilitate, educate, and employ orphaned and abandoned youth, especially young women in abusive situations. During her visit to University of Utah Health’s Global Health Office, Dr. Jheiwan wanted to visit the College of Nursing and its Simulation Center. Dr. Jenneth Doria, Dr. Debra Penney, and Dr. Jennifer Macali met with Dr. Jheiwan and guided her group.
Dr. Jenneth Doria, Dr. Debra Penney, and Dean Marla De Jong led a tour for Dr. Freddy Elbaiady, founder and CEO of the Salam Medical Center in Egypt, and elected member of the Egyptian Parliament (House of Representatives). Dr. Ann Butt provided a tour of the College of Nursing Simulation Center. Salam Medical Center is a unique health care delivery system with peacemaking at its core, promoting and building positive relations among people of different faiths while providing high-quality health care to the people who live in and near El-Qanatir Elkhaireya, Egypt. Dr. Elbaiady is interested in finding ways to improve training for nurses and nurse assistants who work at Salam Medical Center.
September
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services appointed Dr. Teresa Garrett as a member of the Health Workforce Advisory Council. Dr. Garrett was selected for a 4-year term based on her knowledge of and experience in the healthcare workforce, and much-needed perspective that will enable the council to make recommendations and modifications to improve and strengthen Utah’s healthcare workforce.
The National Academies’ Standing Committee on Evidence Synthesis and Communications in Diet and Chronic Disease Relationships will hold an open public meeting on best practices for effective nutrition communications on September 21, 2022. The webinar will explore key considerations about effective science and nutrition communications as they pertain to the message, messenger, mode, and audience. Dr. Echo Warner will serve on the social media panel.
Leaders from Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS) contacted Dr. Jennifer Clifton asking to help the Department of Corrections (DOC) staff at the adult prison when the prison electronic health record (EHR) inaccurately transcribed medications from the previous EHR, resulting in many persons missing doses of medications. Chase Roberts quickly drafted a Memo of Understanding, and Alex Hanson, Nurse Manager, immediately recruited nurses from the College’s team who work at JJYS facilities to help at the adult prison. Providing this administrative assistance eased the burden on DOC staff, and helped restore correct administration of medications to individuals incarcerated at the new jail. Dr. Clifton received the following email:
- “I just want to express an extra thank you to our CoN partners for helping out with this project. I know it was an extraordinary effort that ensured people who need medication get it. I am proud to be partner with such great people. Be well, Reg Garff, UDHHS Program Director, Office of Operational Policy & Special Projects”
Dr. Kimberly Garcia, in partnership with the local Ministry of Health (MOH) and with support from a CON Intramural grant, spent two weeks in a remote region of Guatemala educating lay midwives about COVID. More than 200 lay midwives, who attend the majority of births at home in their country, participated in educational sessions in 11 locations throughout the Petén Department. Dr. Garcia taught low-literacy lay midwives signs and symptoms of COVID, what to do if a pregnant patient has COVID, the risks of the virus to the pregnant patient and fetus, the benefits of the vaccine for the pregnant patient and fetus, and the timing of vaccines. She gave lay midwives necessary birth supplies, such as fetoscopes, exam gloves, umbilical cord tape, scissors, measuring tapes, chux, cleansers, KN95 face masks, and bulb syringes. Lay midwives and MOH nurses were abundantly grateful for the support from their colleagues at the University of Utah College of Nursing.
August
Dr. Jennifer Clifton and Dr. Kristen Stucki authored the position statement Trauma-Responsive Care for Youths in Correctional Facilities, which the National Commission on Correctional Health Care adopted in the interest of improved health, safety, and satisfaction for all youth and staff.
Dr. Julie Gee accepted a Board Member position at Neonatal Rescue, a Utah-based nonprofit social and medical venture that developed low cost, easy to use continuous positive airway pressure and pressure control ventilators for low resource countries. In the developing world, nearly 25% of neonatal mortality could be eliminated if healthcare providers had access to ventilators and proper training. Neonatal Rescue partners with developing countries (e.g., Cambodia, Zambia, Madagascar, Guatemala) to change healthcare systems, distribute NeoLife and AdultLife ventilators, educate healthcare providers, empower patients and healthcare providers, and improve health outcomes.
Dr. Gwen Latendresse was invited to serve on a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Telehealth Strategies for the Delivery of Maternal Health Care Technical Expert Panel. Outcomes included a 158-page report, and a paper published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Four faculty members and an alumna are working in Guatemala to improve women's health across the lifespan. With support from two College of Nursing intramural grants, Drs. Kimberly Garcia, Julie Gee, Deanna Kepka, and Lisa Taylor-Swanson conducted three studies in San Raymundo.
- Drs. Garcia and Gee taught lay midwives and firefighters about neonatal resuscitation.
- Drs. Kepka and Garcia conducted focus groups on cervical cancer screening, including self-testing for human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV causes cervical cancer, the leading cause of female death in Latin America.
- Drs. Garcia and Taylor-Swanson taught lay midwives about acupressure for labor promotion, and for support during threatened preterm labor.
Dr. Garcia is conducting an additional study in Petén, teaching 250 lay midwives about COVID. Dr. Garcia, co-founder of Madre y Niño, collaborates with the Guatemalan Ministry of Health regarding her studies with lay midwives.
Faculty and alumna Dr. Buffy Taylor (Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, 2022; Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner) provided direct patient care, educated patients, and conducted studies during a Refuge International health clinic. A first for the clinic, Drs. Taylor-Swanson and Taylor provided acupuncture services. Team members transported and distributed supplies such as KN95 masks from the College of Nursing, herbal sitz baths from BirthCare HealthCare, bags and masks from Refuge International, and neonatal mannequins from Neonatal Resuscitation.
During Spring Semester 2022, nearly 20 College of Nursing students, including then student Buffy Taylor, collaborated with faculty to design and plan the studies.
The 2022 Junior League of Salt Lake City Community Assistance and Resource Event (CARE) Fair was held at the Horizonte Instruction and Learning Center on July 29-30. At the CARE Fair, families accessed routine medical, dental, and vision services, and learned about assistance available within the community. Numerous community agencies and medical service providers provided free care at one time and in one place. On July 29, Dr. Valerie Flattes precepted University of Utah Health Sciences students who provided care.
July
Dr. Paula Meek was selected to represent the College of Nursing on the University of Utah Graduate Council. The Graduate Council, composed of faculty from all colleges on campus as well as student representatives, establishes policy and procedures for graduate students, reviews proposals for new programs, and evaluates existing degree programs.
Dr. Gillian Tufts was elected Secretary of the Board of Directors for the University of Utah Faculty Club. The Faculty Club at the University of Utah is a longstanding tradition that allows faculty from across campus to meet, mingle, and enjoy a variety of social activities. It's a great way for faculty to broaden their social circle, learn about other faculty members' research interests, discuss issues, and get involved in the University.
Dean Marla De Jong has been selected to Chair, the Center on Aging Board. The Center on Agingprovides educational and research programs in gerontology at the University of Utah. It sponsors undergraduate and graduate gerontology certificate programs as well as a Master’s degree program in Gerontology. In addition to its strengths in gerontology education, it is recognized for well-established interdisciplinary research focused on bereavement, coping with loss of a spouse, and caregiving.
As part of the shared governance structure at the University, there are a host of University Committees that are created and appointed by the President of the University to address an array of campus-wide functions and issues. The following CON faculty have been appointed to University Committees.
- Dr. Diane Chapman has been selected to serve on the University Student Behavior Committee for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Erin Johnson Cole has been selected to serve on the University Teaching Committee, and the Senate Advisory Committee on Student Course Feedback, both for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Sheila Deyette has been selected to serve on the University Studies Committee for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Katarina Felsted has been selected to serve on the University Interdisciplinary Teaching Committee for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Brenda Luther has been selected to serve on the University Academic Appeals and Misconduct Committee for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Xiaoming Sheng has been selected to serve on the University Parking Violations Appeals Committee for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
- Dr. Gail Towsley has been selected to serve on the University Research Committee, and the University Conflict of Interest Committee, both for a term of 3 years ending on August 1, 2025.
June
The College Student Council held a "Cookies and Community Service" event on June 22, 2022. While students assembled more than 70 hygiene kits for donation to the Rescue Mission of Salt Lake, they enjoyed each other's company, and delicious cookies.
May
Jefferson Clark, Elementary Counseling Specialist for the Alpine School District, wrote Dean Marla De Jong to commend Dr. Kathie Supiano, Adrienne Bott, and Gloria Hammond. “I work with the counselors and other service providers here in Alpine School District. I just wanted to tell you how much we appreciate the materials and resources you help provide for us. It is so helpful for us and the work we do in our community. I just wanted to let you know how great Adrienne Bott and Gloria were to work with as well. They helped us get the Dealing with Sudden and Unexpected Death Handbooks for our service providers and crisis team members. It is a tremendous resource.”
During the Academic Senate meeting on May 2, 2022, Dr. Sara Hart was elected to serve on the Senate Executive Committee for one year, beginning on May 15, 2022.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing appointed Dean Marla De Jong to its Government Affairs Committee.
During the Academic Senate elections in April 2022, College of Nursing faculty were elected to serve on the following committees:
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong will serve on the Senate Faculty Review Standards Committee. Membership is for four years beginning on June 16, 2022.
- Dr. Erin Johnson Cole will serve on the Senate Advisory Committee on Student Course Feedback. Membership is for three years beginning on August 1, 2022.
- Dr. Xiaoming Sheng will serve on the Senate Consolidated Hearing Committee. Membership is for six years beginning on June 16, 2022.
Dr. Catherine Staes co-chaired the 3-day 2022 ACMI (American Medical Informatics Association) Symposium. The theme of the symposium was “Rebuilding the Nation's Public Health Informatics Infrastructure, and the objective was to “Leverage the experience and expertise of public health as well as informatics leaders and researchers and to formulate initiatives and strategies that will strengthen the U.S. public health informatics infrastructure post-pandemic.”
April
Dr. Kara Dassel has been invited to serve on the National Institutes of Health Neurological, Aging and Musculoskeletal Epidemiology (NAME) Study Section that will meet in June 2022. This study section reviews applications on epidemiologic research on neurological disorders, conditions related to aging, musculoskeletal conditions, and communication and visual disorders.
Dr. Katharine Ullman, Associate Dean of the Graduate School, commended Dr. Sara Hart for contributing to review of the Department of Nutrition & Integrative Physiology. “Internal reviewers make a vital contribution to the quality of graduate education and the overall excellence of the University. We recognize that undertaking these reviews represents substantial time commitments from the internal reviewers. The Graduate School acknowledges the significant contribution you have made to our community and, in thanking you, would like to bring this important service to the attention of your College Dean as well.
Given her expertise in nursing informatics, Dr. Mollie Cummins was invited to join the working group for the DELPHI (Data Exploration and Learning for Precision Health Intelligence) initiative.
Dr. Catherine Staes was a member on an expert panel to achieve consensus for public health reporting measures for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Promoting Interoperability Program. MedStar Health National Center for Human Factors in Healthcare and The Pew Charitable Trusts collaborated to convene the panel.
March
Dr. Kimberly Garcia accepted an invitation to be an assistant editor for Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care, a multidisciplinary, refereed journal devoted to issues and practices in the care of childbearing women, infants, and families across the world. It is written by and for professionals in maternal and neonatal health, nurses, midwives, physicians, public health workers, doulas, social scientists, childbirth educators, lactation counselors, epidemiologists, and other health caregivers and policymakers in perinatal care.
Dr. Deanna Kepka accepted an invitation to be an Associate Editor for Connected Health, a specialty section ofFrontiers in Digital Health.
Dr. Bob Wong accepted President Taylor Randall’s invitation to serve on the University of Utah Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Search Committee, representing the College of Nursing.
Kudos to 238 alumni, students, parents, staff, faculty, university leaders, members of the Dean’s Advancement Board, and friends of the College for donating more than $42,220 for student scholarships on U Giving Day! Special thanks to alumna Carol Stowell and her husband Jeff, Dr. Michael Good and his wife Danette, alumns Dr. Heidi Favero and her husband Silvio, and Dean Marla De Jong for providing matching funds, and to Korinne Pickett, Vianney Alcala, Jacque Scheider, Mindy Francis, and Eden Bennett for their work to organize, publicize, and execute the campaign. Donors were from 17 states. As compared to Giving Day 2021, there was a 343% increase in student donors, 66% increase in alumni donors, 57% increase in total donors, and 26% increase in total funds raised during Giving Day 2022. Donors allocated their contributions as follows: undergraduate 47%, hardship/emergency funding 33%, graduate 10%, and PhD 100%.
February
Dr. Kara Dassel has been invited to serve on a National Institutes of Health review committee. She will participate on the Center for Scientific Review Special Emphasis Panel covering topics related to mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Paula Meek has been re-elected as the Governor Representative of Nursing Research for the Western Institute of Nursing.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson has been named an Associate Editor for the journal Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing. Explore, an Elsevier journal, addresses the scientific principles behind, and applications of, evidence-based healing practices from a wide variety of sources, including conventional, alternative, and cross-cultural medicine. It is an interdisciplinary journal that explores the healing arts, consciousness, spirituality, eco-environmental issues, and basic science as all these fields relate tohealth.
Lynn Livingood Dixon serves as treasurer on the board of the new nonprofit, Clean Slate Utah. The mission of Clean Slate Utah is to help people clear old criminal records and access opportunities for employment, housing, and education, providing Utahns with the meaningful second chances they deserve to rebuild their lives, take care of their families, and contribute to their communities. @THEU recently described Utah’s Clean Slate Law.
Zoë Robbins is the newest member of the Impact Mental Health Board. The mission of Impact Mental Health is to provide rapid, transformational whole-person psychiatric care to uninsured, low-income Utahns with serious mental illnesses. Its co-equal mission is to provide state-of-the-art integrative community-oriented clinical education for future mental health clinicians who can sustain the impact for future generations.
January
McKinley Withers, Ed.D., M.Ed. from Health and Wellness at the Jordan School District wrote Dean Marla De Jong to commend Dr. Kathie Supiano and Caring Connections.
“I just wanted to reach out to thank you for supporting Kathie Supiano's work in supporting our schools through the amazing grief training she has been doing in partnership with USBE [Utah State Board of Education]. It has healed many hearts. She has taken the time to train all of our school-based mental health staff on grief and we have received so much positive feedback about the healing that this will allow.
Today, at South Hills Middle School, Kathie did an amazing job helping that school heal… I am so grateful that we have been able to lean on Caring Connections through very difficult circumstances… For those of us working in the schools, we hope that this support and partnership will be able to continue.”
Adrienne Bott provides tremendous administrative support for Caring Connections, giving Kathie the flexibility to rapidly respond to acute situations. Lynn Dixon helped quickly generate budgets and plans when the state provided additional funding, enabling Kathie to continue work with community health workers and schools.
During orientation for NURS 3410 Acute Care Nursing Practicum, fourth semester pre-licensure students Cathryn Boyle, Eliana Crabtree, Stephen Lander, and Ben Paxman spent 45 minutes offering guidance and advice to second semester pre-licensure students. The second semester students are raving about the experience. Course faculty include Dr. John Nerges (course lead), Melissa Black, Tamara Ekker, Lynn Parker, Eryka Pawlak, Christopher Sneddon, and Dr. Jacob Steenblik, and teaching assistant Jenifer Cosentino, a 3rd year DNP student.
Kudos from 2021
December
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing accepted Dr. Valerie Flattes as a participant in the 2022 AACN Diversity Leadership Institute. The central focus of the Diversity Leadership Institute is to provide an overview of the evolution of diversity and inclusion and the role of Diversity Officers in academic nursing and nursing practice. It frames diversity within the context of higher education and academic nursing while presenting high-involvement diversity practices in teams and leaders. As a participant, Val will develop a diversity plan designed to drive excellence specifically tailored to the College of Nursing.
September
The Lamp of Learning ceremony was held on August 31. The ceremony is a tradition in which we recognize incoming pre-licensure students and acknowledge their decision to enter the profession of nursing. Maddie Marshall – Student Services Pre-Licensure Program Manager – planned and directed the ceremony. Our Fall 2021 pre-licensure cohort and their invited family and friends met in the Student Union Ballroom for a meaningful evening that included hearing from Dean Marla De Jong, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Valerie Flattes, Dr. Amanda Eckersley (President of the Alumni Association; Member of the Dean’s Advancement Board), Chris Sneddon, and Dr. Melody Krahulec. Carrie Radmall, Angel Burton, Kristen Mahoney, Mike McIntosh, Korinne Pickett, Mindy Francis, and Vianney Alcala supported Maddie and the event.
The University Sophomore Rise Celebration was held on the J. Willard Marriott Library Plaza. Carrie Radmall, Savannah Manwill, and Dean Marla De Jong were there congratulating students on their return to campus, and speaking with pre-nursing students about the pre-licensure and nursing early assurance tracks, pre-requisite courses, and the application process. Students also enjoyed free lunch and received a T-shirt.
March
Kudos to 152 alumni, students, parents, staff, faculty, university leaders, members of the Dean’s Advancement Board, and other friends of the College for donating more than $33,400 for student scholarships on U Giving Day! Of the 72 campaigns, the CON ranked 7 for the most money raised. Special thanks to alumna Carol Stowell and her husband Jeff, Coach Larry Krystkowiak, Dr. Good and his wife Danette, and Dr. Heidi Favero and her husband Silvio for providing matching funds, and to Eden Bennett, Janzell Tutor, Jacque Scheider, and DNP students Jen Cosentino and Heather Barney for their work to organize, publicize, and execute the campaign
February
Kudos for U Giving Day and student scholarships. U Giving Day 2021 is a 1,850-minute fundraising and celebration effort that will be held on February 23-24, 2021. The 3rd annual university-wide giving event challenges students, alumni, staff, faculty, parents, patients, and friends to imagine more for the University of Utah and the programs dear to their hearts. Please consider donating to the Imagine More Nurses, Fund the Future campaign in which contributions will directly support undergraduate, graduate, PhD, nursing alumni, and ripple (hardship/emergency funding) scholarships, making programs accessible to students and positioning them for academic success. Thank you for your support!
December
Dr. Sheila Deyette was a shining star in my graduate school experience; "As I reflect on what obtaining my Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Psychiatry means to me, the overarching theme is how grateful I feel. I have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with my clients and explore their unique personal growth. I’m not sure there is a better career than that. Being a psychiatric provider, for me, has been an incredible growth-promoting experience. A little over a year after graduation, I left the clinical setting and started my own private practice. One year! I sometimes have a hard time believing it myself. This endeavor is possible because of the DNP degree I obtained at the University of Utah. The confidence I needed to strike out on my own, well, that was planted in me by the wonderful professors that assisted me along the way and the first-class education they provided. I feel more effective and creative as an autonomous provider—I can be myself."
The College of Nursing submitted a Continuous Improvement Progress Report for the Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post-Graduate Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate programs to its accreditation agency, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Special thanks to Dr. Gillian Tufts and Dr. Gwen Latendresse for leading the work, and to Sarah Brown, Dr. Erin Cole, Dr. Sheila Deyette, Jesse Diener, Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Valerie Flattes, Dr. Kim Friddle, Dr. Teresa Garrett, Shelley Kern, Dr. Tek Kilgore, Dr. Robert Sylvester, Brent Vawdrey, and Dr. Denise Ward for making substantial contributions to the report.
The Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health (JMWH), the official journal of the American College of Nurse-Midwives, which presents new research and current knowledge across a broad range of clinical and interdisciplinary topics, including maternity care, gynecology, primary care for women and newborns, public health, health care policy, and global health, has created a new Outstanding Peer Reviewer Award. Dr. Debra Penney is one of 16 inaugural awardees who were recognized for providing the highest quality and quantity of reviews during the past decade (2011-2020).
November
During the first day of orientation at the People’s Health Clinic, Carrie Huntsman, a Family Nurse Practitioner within the College of Nursing Faculty Practice, managed the patient caseload of a provider who was urgently called away from clinic. “Carrie didn’t miss a beat,” according to the nurse practitioner orienting her. Thanks to Carrie, patient care was not disrupted. Leaders of People’s Health Clinic were extremely grateful, and are eager to have Carrie back in clinic!
Elizabeth Jacobsen, a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with the College of Nursing Faculty Practice, impressed her patient. "Thank you, Elizabeth. You have the best bed-side manner I have ever seen. You should be on the clinic's all-star team."
College of Nursing Education:
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Board of Commissioners granted accreditation to the College of Nursing Baccalaureate and Master’s Programs in Nursing for 10 years, extending to December 31, 2031.
Best Accredited Colleges ranked the College of Nursing's Master of Science in Nursing Informatics track #2 in the United States.
University Connected Learning approved the College of Nursing's Master of Science in Nursing Informatics track as an official UOnline program.
The Vice President’s Clinical & Translational (VPCAT) Research Scholars Program accepted Dr. Schola Matovu and Dr. Echo Warner as VPCAT Scholars for January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2023. Dr. Lisa Aspinwall and Dr. Lee Ellington will serve as Dr. Matovu’s Scientific Mentor and VPCAT Senior Mentor, respectively. Dr. Michael Varner and Dr. Kristin Cloyes will serve as Dr. Warner’s Scientific Mentor and VPCAT Senior Mentor, respectively. A key objective of the program is to provide a cohesive learning experience that will expand scholars’ research knowledge and skills, and prepare them for transition to independence. The VPCAT curriculum, delivered in multiple formats, offers training that aligns with three key mission themes – scientific career development, grant writing and management, and leadership.
A patient commended Emily Dubois Hollande for providing exceptional care. “The first time that I met Emily Dubois Hollande was during the labor of my first baby. I didn't have the chance to meet with her during my previous appointments at the clinic and after meeting her I wished I had more time with her during my pregnancy. She is definitely amazing! After giving birth I saw her in every appointment and she helped me more than I believe she knows. My recovery was great and I felt listened to every single time… It feels so good to see her every appointment now. Even now I know a little bit more of what to expect, it still is a rollercoaster of emotions being pregnant and Emily understands that better than anyone, even myself. The conversation is always light, she is always super friendly, a loving person and genuinely interested about my overall life, not just specifically about the new baby. I wish all my pregnant friends could have the opportunity to work with Emily throughout their pregnancies. I couldn't recommend a better person! Now I'm just hoping that I'll be lucky enough to have her with me for this second birth. Fingers crossed!”
Dr. Ann Butt worked with Ashley Farmer at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts to organize an "Art of Nursing" field trip. Undergraduate nursing students sketched (communication, listening), learned, and practiced the "Visual Thinking Strategy" of slow looking (assessment, communication/SBAR [Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation]), and found a piece of art in the gallery that relates to their developing professional identity. Students made connections between art and nursing, and shared the piece of art that they chose in the class gallery. The class incorporated a “mindfulness moment” and self-care while walking to the gallery on main campus, and had a great discussion about what they saw and learned.
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma presented excellence awards to College of Nursing faculty.
- Excellence in Clinical Practice – Dr. Erin Johnson Cole
- Excellence in Education – Dr. Nancy Allen and Dr. Ann Butt
- Excellence in Leadership – Dr. Jennifer Macali
- Excellence in Mentorship – Dr. Brenda Luther
- Excellence in Research and Scholarship – Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson
In partnership with the Roseman University of Health Sciences, Utah Business honored those who have made it their mission to improve the state of health in Utah. During the annual Healthcare Heroes event, Dr. Andrea Wallace was honored for her work that focuses on implementing patient-centered strategies for assessing social resources during health care visits, empowers health teams to incorporate patients’ social resources in their decision-making processes, and connects patients with social resource needs to services in their home communities.
October
The Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) Evidence-Based Practice/Research Committee selected Dr. Laurie Linder as the recipient of the 2021 Distinguished Researcher Award. This award was created to recognize an APHON member who has excelled as a nurse scientist. In addition, APHON leadership chose Dr. Lauri Linder to receive the Dr. Patricia Greene Leadership Award. Dr. Linder will receive her awards on October 29, 2021 at the 45th Annual Conference and Exhibit: A Virtual Experience.
Dr. Paula Meek was elected to serve a 3-year term on the American Academy of Nursing (AAN) Fellow Selection Committee. The Fellow Selection Committee disseminates information to potential candidates and sponsors regarding procedure and qualifications; reviews applications and selects new fellows in accordance with the Academy bylaws; and reviews the application forms, selection criteria, and selection procedures and recommends changes to the board of directors.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to join the Executive Committee of the Society for Acupuncture Research (SAR) as Secretary. SAR is the leading international acupuncture research organization. This leadership position will allow Dr. Taylor-Swanson to provide input regarding the organization's future direction and initiatives.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to serve as Guest Editor of a special issue of Medical Acupuncture tentatively titled Special Focus: Women in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Articles will highlight, among other notable scientific and clinical leaders, the careers of Dr. Helene Langevin, Director of the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Health, and whose pioneering work elucidated the roles of connective tissue in chronic musculoskeletal pain, effects of stretching connective tissue on inflammation, and mechanisms of acupuncture needle effects, and Dr. Tu Youyou, who received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015. Dr. Tu reviewed classical texts of Chinese herbal medicine to identify Qing Hao (artemisia annua), from which she extracted artemisinin, a compound that has saved millions of lives from malaria as a first-line intervention. She is the first mainland Chinese scientist to have received a Nobel Prize in a scientific category. She did so without a doctorate, a medical degree, or training abroad.
Drs. Timothy Farrell, Director of the University of Utah Health Interprofessional Education (IPE) Program, and Sarah Canham, Associate Director of the IPE Program, wrote a letter of appreciation, expressing deep appreciation for Tamara Ekker’s outstanding contributions to the IPE Program’s Ambulatory Diabetes course. Health professions students from the Colleges of Health, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Social Work, as well as the Physician Assistant Program take the course. As faculty lead, Tamara implemented a course redesign process to facilitate conversion from an in-person format to a synchronous online format. She worked with IPE Program and Clinical Center staff to record a standardized patient interaction that is foundational to the course, and directed implementation of updates to the course pre-work and the core diabetes content included in the case scenario. The change in course delivery format maintained essential course content, while reducing costs for standardized patients. Initial student and faculty facilitator feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Drs. Timothy Farrell, Director of the University of Utah Health Interprofessional Education (IPE) Program, and Sarah Canham, Associate Director of the IPE Program, wrote a letter of appreciation, expressing deep appreciation for Dr. Madeline Lassche’s outstanding contributions to the IPE Program’s Disaster Preparedness course. Health professions students from the School of Medicine, Physician Assistant Program, and the Colleges of Health, Nursing, and Pharmacy take the course. Making significant contributions to planning and implementing a complete course redesign, Dr. Lassche’s extensive knowledge of simulation education was integral to creating a curriculum that directly emphasizes communication among health professionals in the aftermath of a disaster. Initial student and faculty facilitator feedback has been outstanding. Dr. Lassche’s efforts will make it possible for University of Utah Health to be considered as a national leader in IPE regarding disaster preparedness, a topic with ever-increasing relevance to the health sciences community and the nation.
Members of the BirthCare HealthCare (BCHC) faculty practice achieved outstanding outcomes! The American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM) provides annual benchmarking of midwifery practices across the United States. Practices are compared based on number of births per year. BCHC is considered a high-volume practice, having greater than 500 births per year. For calendar year 2020, ACNM recognized BCHC for being one of the top three practices for a high rate of women who attended their 6-week postpartum visit, and for low 3rd and 4th degree laceration rates. The practice also earned the “Triple Aim” distinction, which recognizes practices that meet the Institute for Healthcare Improvement “Triple Aim” of improving the patient experience, reducing cost of care, and improving the health of populations. For ACNM, this is demonstrated by high breastfeeding rates, low preterm birth and cesarean rates, and reporting fiscal variables.
Dr. Jennifer Hamilton has been accepted into the TIGER - Translation and Integration of Genomics is Essential in Doctoral NuRsing training program. The goal of the program is to equip doctoral nursing faculty with foundational knowledge in genetics and genomics. The program will allow Jennifer to deepen her understanding of genetics and best practices, refine her skills so that she can enhance student engagement and teach genetics in an accessible manner, and expand her knowledge about genomic issues that affect racial and ethnic minority groups.
September
Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) selected the Gamma Rho Chapter to receive the 2021 Ethel Palmer Clarke Founders Award for Chapter Excellence. The award recognizes extraordinary chapter excellence. Chapters must demonstrate superior achievement in leadership, knowledge, service, community, and sustainability. STTI will present the award to Gamma Rho President Dr. Cheryl Armstrong during the Opening Plenary Session at the 46th Biennial Convention on November 6, 2021.
The American Heart Association recognized the University of Utah Health Cardiology team, including Dr. Youjeong Kang, with the Get With The Guidelines® - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award (zoom group photo above). The Gold Plus award is the highest level of Get with the Guidelines® award that a hospital can receive.
Presentations:
For the first time, U.S. News & World Report ranked 694 BSN programs. The College of Nursing is ranked #31 (tied), and is the highest-ranking BSN program in Utah.
Dr. Catherine Staes, Director of the Nursing Informatics specialty track, was awarded the Reed M. Gardner Award for Faculty Excellence for 2021. Students in the Department of Biomedical Informatics and Nursing Informatics specialty track created this award to acknowledge the achievements of faculty members in the areas of teaching, mentoring, and service to the departments. The award is given annually after a competitive nomination and decision process supervised by a committee of students. The late Dr. Reed M. Gardner was Emeritus Professor, and previous Chair of the Department of Biomedical Informatics. A noted national leader in biomedical informatics, his primary academic and research interests were broad and groundbreaking, including hospital informatics systems, computerized medical decision-making, computerization of critical care, automation of clinical processes, medical informatics education, and public health informatics. He was one of the principal developers and evaluators of the medical expert system known as HELP (Health Evaluation through Logical Processing), and served as co-director of medical computing at LDS, Cottonwood, and Alta View Hospitals.
Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) selected the Gamma Rho Chapter to receive the 2021 Chapter Key Award. According to STTI President Dr. Richard Ricciardi, “This is recognized as quite an accomplishment given the extraordinary circumstances of the biennium. Additionally, as one of the highest scoring Chapter Key Award entries, Gamma Rho Chapter is being considered for the Ethel Palmer Clarke Founders Award for Chapter Excellence.” The Chapter Key Award, established in 1991, honors STTI chapters that excel in chapter-related activities such as membership recruitment and retention, publicity and programming, professional and leadership development; and local, national, and international collaboration.
Graduates of the 2020-2021 Utah Health Equity Leadership & Mentoring (U-HELM) cohort include Drs. Siobhan Aaron, Kimberley Garcia, Youjeong Kang, and Maddie Lassche. The year-long U-HELM program provides mentoring and leadership development opportunities to junior faculty members and postdoctoral scholars from underrepresented populations in the health sciences, or who are involved in health equity research and practice.
Peter Lichtenberg, 2022 President of the Gerontological Society of America, appointed Dr. Kara Dassel to serve on the GSA Program, Publications, and Products Committee. Beginning in January 2022, Dr. Dassel will serve a 2-year term. The role of the committee is to 1) organize and oversee the scientific and professional program for meetings of the Society; 2) assist the Society and its staff with advancing the Society’s publications program; 3) build new products and/or services to improve the value of current membership and attract new markets; and 4) support the strategic plan by recommending strategies and policies to strengthen the Society’s programs, publications, and products.
August
Abby Rizk has been accepted to the Midwives LEAD (Learn, Engage, Ascend, Deliver) Leadership Development Program. The American College of Nurse Midwives offers this year-long program, which is designed to engage midwives in a unique professional development experience that frames leadership as the ability to enhance personal and professional performance, build relationships, cultivate excellence, and sustain energy for productive influence, agency, and motivation to enact positive change.
Drs. Nancy Allen and Ana Sanchez-Birkhead have been accepted into the 2021-2022 New Leadership Academy (NLA) Fellows Program. The NLA Fellows Program seeks to transform the expectations that surround leaders, leadership, and leadership development across higher education with a specific focus on the challenges associated with leading for equity, diversity, and inclusion. The learning strategies informing the fellowship experience challenge each cohort of Fellows to accept greater accountability for their own leadership choices, the influence they have on those they lead, the success of their institutions, and the integrity of the system of higher education.
The American Academy of Nursing selected 225 distinguished nurse leaders to be inducted into the 2021 Class of Fellows. Induction into the Academy is one of the most prestigious honors in nursing. Distinguished by their substantive and sustained contributions to health and health care, the inductees will be recognized at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference on October 7-9, 2021. The 2021 Class of Fellows includes five College of Nursing faculty and three alumni, which is a testament to our faculty’s accomplishments within the profession of nursing, and exceptional and impactful leadership in national and global health care.
Faculty:
- Dr. Linda Edelman, Associate Professor
- Dr. Perry Gee, Adjunct Assistant Professor
- Dr. Lauri Linder, Associate Professor
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, Assistant Professor
- Lee Moss, Adjunct Instructor
Alumni:
- Dr. Emma Kurnat-Thoma, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Georgetown University School of Nursing and Health Studies
- Dr. Virginia LeBaron, Associate Professor, University of Virginia School of Nursing
- Dr. Susan VanBeuge, Associate Professor in Residence, University of Nevada Las Vegas
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) selected Dr. Rebecca Wilson to participate in the 2021 Digital Academy. Through a collaboration between AACN and Apple, this event will take place on November 30-December 2, 2021. One of only 30 individuals selected from AACN member institutions, Rebecca will learn from Apple development executives and Apple distinguished educators, receive training and tools to sharpen her skills as a digital content creator, and develop a digital project that aligns with one of the 10 Domains delineated in the new Essentials. The Digital Academy also offers a unique experience for participants to network with colleagues from schools nationwide.
The Presidential Scholar award recognizes the extraordinary academic accomplishments and promise of associate professor faculty members, providing them with financial support to advance their research and teaching. Dr. Andrea Wallace has been selected from an exceptional cadre of nominees from Colleges and Schools across the university for this impressive distinction. She will be recognized as a Presidential Scholar for three academic years: 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 2023-2024.
July
Dr. Djin Tay was selected for the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing’s 2021 Interprofessional Summer Research Scholars Program, a week-long, intensive, summer seminar held virtually through the New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing. This professional development opportunity features scientific discourse about each scholar’s program of research, grantsmanship training, and in-depth mentoring from nationally recognized geriatric researchers.
Dr. Lauri Linder has been appointed as the Disease Committee Nurse (DCN) for the Cancer Control and Supportive Care Committee of the Children’s Oncology Group (COG). DCNs represent the nursing discipline on COG disease steering committees, providing nursing expertise in the assigned disease group; and mentor and evaluate Core Nurses. Dr. Linder will participate in protocol development within the Cancer Control and Supportive Care Committee, prepare and update family protocol summaries, develop return of results lay summaries, attend COG meetings, participate in study conference calls, and disseminate protocol and guideline updates to nurse members by presenting at national meetings and writing articles. The COG is supported by the National Cancer Institute and is the world’s largest clinical trials organization devoted exclusively to pediatric cancer research.
The following were elected to leadership roles for the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International:
- Co-President: Dr. Jenneth Doria
- Past President: Dr. Cheryl Armstrong
- Treasurer: Dr. John Nerges
- Secretary: Dr. Nanci McLeskey
- Awards Chair: Dr. Allison Spolsdoff
- Convention Delegate: Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini
- Governance Chair: Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini
- Leadership Succession Committee Chair: Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini
- Faculty Counselor: Denise Reeves
- Newsletter Co-Chair: Dr. Rebecca Wilson
- Research/Scholarship: Dr. Nancy Allen
- Baccalaureate Student Leadership Interns: Kris Carlile and Eliana Crabtree
During the COVID-19 pandemic, College of Nursing providers who work in the Summit County Health Department Women’s Clinic were redeployed. Rather than providing cancer screening, birth control, and sexually transmitted infection testing, they responded to the crisis and helped vaccinate Summit County residents. A big thank you to Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Sara Simonson, Elizabeth Jacobson, Dr. Erin Cole and Erminia Martinez for their efforts at the Summit County Health Department and People’s Health Clinic. The Summit County Health Department Mass Vaccination Clinic at the Utah Film Studio was deemed the most efficient mass vaccination clinic in Utah.
Each week, U Health identifies the top 10 positive patient comments that it receives from throughout the entire system. Comments regarding Dr. Danica Loveridge and Dr. Pamela Phares made the Top 10 two weeks ago:
- I love my Dr. Loveridge. She is such a professional and brilliant person. Oh, I'm so lucky to be her patient. She called me personally and explained my test results, plus she was so kind. She prescribed me an antibiotic (Rx was sent to pharmacy of my choice). I'm truly happy and grateful!!! Her assistant was so nice and cute. After meeting such a caring healthcare provider, I can say with 100% confidence – I love U of U and will be their patient/customer forever!
- If I could give a higher rating than 5-Very Good, I would. From the beginning, Dr. Phares was interested in hearing about my history with Type 2 diabetes and the way it has affected my body. We had an in-depth discussion about my situation and my concerns. She listened well and asked clarifying questions. She also took the time to explain research, outcomes, pharmaceuticals, my particular data markers, etc., to assist us both to collaborate on solutions that could potentially help my particular body and organ health situation. She prescribed a drug that not only had the probability of helping my original concern (persistent high blood sugar readings), but could also have a beneficial effect on other organs.
The BirthCare HealthCare (BCHC) practice had a record-breaking 77 births during June, with 7 babies birthed in the last 17 hours of the month. During FY21, BCHC Certified Nurse Midwives attended 702 births, a 15% increase from FY20! Although paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BCHC midwives have resumed flying to Elko, Nevada twice monthly to provide routine obstetric and gynecologic care to Nevada residents.
The American Diabetes Association’s Behavioral Medicine & Psychology Interest Group selected Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Michelle Litchman, Dr. James Chamberlain, Ernest Grigorian, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Dr. Cynthia Berg as recipients of the 2021 Abstract Award in the Category of Innovative Research in Behavioral Medicine and Psychology in Diabetes for their abstract titled Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data Sharing in Older Adults with Type 1 Diabetes and Their Care Partners. The Behavioral Medicine & Psychology Interest Group recognized the team on June 27, 2021 during a networking event.
June
Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead graduated as a scholar from the inaugural and prestigious AACN Diversity Leadership Institute. The central focus of the Diversity Leadership Institute is to provide an overview of the evolution of diversity and inclusion and the role of Diversity Officers in academic nursing and nursing practice. It frames diversity within the context of higher education and academic nursing while presenting high-involvement diversity practices in teams and leaders.
Dr. Michelle Litchman has been named a Fellow of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, and will use the distinction FADCES. There are less than 100 FADCES in the country. Dr. Litchman was recognized for her contributions to diabetes clinical practice, research, and health policy.
Dr. Youjeong Kang has been accepted for participation in the Early Career Reviewer (ECR) Program at the National Institutes of Health Center for Scientific Review (CSR). The ECR Program aims to help early career scientists become more competitive as grant applicants through first-hand experience with peer review, and enrich and diversify CSR’s pool of trained reviewers.
The American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Technology Interest Group selected Dr. Michelle Litchman, Ashley Ng, Bruno Gonzales, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Dr. Nancy Allen, Dr. Eli Iacob, and Deborah Greenwood as recipients of the 2021 Abstract Award in the Category of Clinical Therapeutics/New Technology – Glucose Monitoring and Sensing. The abstract is titled Using a CGM plus Online Peer Support Community Intervention to Address Health Disparities. The Diabetes Technology Interest Group will recognize the team on June 28, 2021 during a networking event.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Gwen Latendresse has been promoted to the academic rank of Full Professor in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2021.
Based on a formal review of her accomplishments, Dr. Sara Simonsen has been awarded tenure in the College of Nursing, effective July 1, 2021.
Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini and Dr. Michelle Litchman were both nominated for The Deborah LaMarche Telehealth Excellence Award, which is presented annually to an individual or organization in Utah that has accomplished outstanding work in the field of telehealth, including the areas of policy development, innovative programs and activities, technology, patient and or provider support, education, and training.
Dr. Zoe Robbins has been named chair of the Utah Telehealth Network Advisory Council. Zoe is one of 15 Advisory Council members who are selected to reflect Utah's diverse health care community. The Council provides advice and guidance to the Utah Telehealth Network in support of its mission and operations. Its responsibilities include strategic planning, review of budgets and fee structures, recommendation on policies, advice of network member services, and government relations. Dr. Linda Edelman also is a member of the advisory council.
Each week, U Health identifies the top 10 positive patient comments that it receives from throughout the entire system. The #2 comment reflects a patient’s high satisfaction with Dr. Deborah Morgan’s care. “It was such a good experience meeting with Deb Morgan virtually. I am new to the state, and I dreaded having to find professional help in mental health. But I really lucked out connecting with Deb. I immediately felt comfortable and able to share my challenges and fears and needs. Deb showed her concern for me and demonstrated her knowledge and experience was more than adequate for my mental illness. By the end of our meeting, I had no problem trusting her with my care. Since then I have had occasion to write her in the midst of crisis, and she responded quickly and pointed out additional sources of help. I am very grateful for the chance to work with her. As I wrote earlier, this was a very good experience. After this meeting, I was able to assure my adult children that I am in good care.”
Through the Social Research, Policy, and Practice section, theGerontological Society of America (GSA) named Dr. Linda Edelman as one of its newest fellows. GSA chooses fellows from across its membership sections, and Fellow status is the highest category of membership within the Society, acknowledging outstanding and continuing work in gerontology. GSA will formally recognize Linda at the GSA’s 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting, which will be held November 10-14, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona.
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) presented the2021 AANP Nurse Practitioner State Award for Excellencefor Utah, Region 8, to Dr. Michelle Litchman. AANP presents this award to an NP in each state who has demonstrated excellence in clinical practice.
May
The American College of Nurse-Midwives presented the Outstanding Preceptor Award to Julie King. This award honors a preceptor of student certified nurse-midwives or certified midwives who has shown outstanding qualities for leadership and teaching, been a mentor for multiple students, and repeatedly promoted high standards of midwifery education.
Dr. Michelle Litchman is one of ten nurse scientists accepted to the second cohort of the Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders and Innovators. Led by Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, the three-year fellowship recognizes early- to mid-career nursing scholars and innovators with a high potential to accelerate leadership in nursing research, practice, education, policy and entrepreneurship. Fellows receive $450,000 to conduct an innovative project or study with the potential to address a gap in knowledge, meet a vital need, alter care delivery, or design a new solution to advance health. Michelle’s project is titled Improving Access to Diabetes Education and Care for Deaf Populations, and will involve co-designing a deaf accessible diabetes one-day program, and testing it with a national sample of deaf and hard of hearing people living with diabetes.
Praise from a student to Dr. Youjeong Kang: “Dr. Kang, I just want to email you personally to let you know that I appreciated all the help, support, and time that you spent teaching me and the other students throughout the semester. I am very grateful for your help and the long office hours that you spent coaching and helping me learn the material. I appreciate all of your help and support!!!”
The National Institute of Nursing Research funded Dr. Andrea Wallace’s R01 Research Project Grant titled Intensifying Community Referrals for Health: The SINCERE Intervention to Address COVID -19 Health Disparities. Dr. Wallace was awarded $2,710,921 for a 4-year period. This real-world efficacy study (NIH stage 3) will determine the benefit of social needs (e.g., housing, food, and transportation) screening, community-based service referrals, and telephonic follow-up as a scalable, sustainable strategy for preventing COVID-19 transmission, and for addressing the secondary health effects of the social, behavioral, and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results of this study will provide much needed information regarding whether social needs screening and community service referrals improve health outcomes of vulnerable and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, an NIH-designated health disparity population, and whether intensive follow-up and collaborative goal-setting help overcome barriers to community service use by patients who are seen in the emergency department and seek COVID testing at community-based and mobile clinic locations. Co-Investigators include Drs. Jia-Wen Guo, Bob Wong, Brenda Luther, Angie Fagerlin, and Erin Rothwell. Research Assistants include Ernest Grigorian, and PhD student Samuel Wang. In addition, clinical teams at the U Health Emergency Department, Primary Children’s Hospital Emergency Department, 211 of Utah, and the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems will contribute to the work. Hollie Fuhrmann and Dr. Erin Johnson provided pre-award support.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Cancer Control and Population Sciences Program awarded Dr. Deanna Kepka a small grant award for her research project titled PREVENT – Practice-based Approaches to Promote HPV Vaccination in the Era of COVID-19.
Faculty are committed to academic governance at the University of Utah.
- Dr. Valerie Flattes was elected to serve a 3 year term on the Senate Advisory Committee on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
- Dr. Youjeong Kang was elected to serve a 3 year term representing the College of Nursing on the Academic Senate, and the Senate Advisory Committee on Academic Policy.
- Dr. Leissa Roberts was elected to serve a 6 year term on the Senate Consolidated Hearing Committee.
- Dr. Xiaoming Sheng was elected to serve a 3 year term on the Senate Personnel & Elections Committee.
- Dr. Caroline Stephens was elected to serve a 3 year term on the Senate Committee on Academic Freedom and Faculty Rights
- Dr. Sara Hart was elected to serve on the Academic Senate Executive Committee. Sara will serve on this committee for one year.
- Dr. Nancy Allen will serve as Program Director for the Health Resources and Services Administration Nursing Workforce Diversity project titled Partnering for Success of Diverse Students: Investing in the Future of Nursing.
The chairs of the 13 basic science departments at U of U Health selected and summarized the top 52 discoveries from the past five years. These discoveries are featured in Discovery and Innovation at University of Utah Health, a digital collection. Dr. Kathy Sward’s interdisciplinary work to identify environmental sources that trigger pediatric asthma is featured in the collection.
John Nerges earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Utah and will graduate this week. Within the Post-Master’s to DNP track, he specialized in organizational leadership.
Dr. Denise Ward earned a graduate certificate in Nursing Education from the University of Utah.
Sigma Phi Omega (SPO), the International Academic Honor and Professional Society in Gerontology, awarded Ashley Cadiz, Program Manager, and Dr. Jackie Eaton the 2021 international Video Contest Award, for their submission, MS in Gerontology. Only two awards were chosen from SPO’s 55 chapters world-wide, and Ashley and Jackie’s was one of those two!
April
Twelve staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2021 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the CON’s reputation for excellence.
- Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Sheila Deyette
- Faculty Excellence in Scholarship and Research Award: Dr. Brenda Luther
- Faculty Excellence in Service Award: Dr. Julie Steele
- Excellence in University Health Partnership Award: Dr. Madeline Lassche
- Faculty Mentoring Award: Dr. Nancy Allen
- Faculty Practice Award: Dr. Robert Sylvester
John Nerges passed the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Nurse Executive certification examination, and was granted the credential NE-BC (Nurse Executive Board Certified). The ANCC Nurse Executive board certification examination is competency based and provides a valid and reliable assessment of the entry level knowledge and skills of nurses with unit, team, service line, department, or program influence.
Dr. Sara Hart was appointed to the inaugural Center for Business, Health, and Prosperity’s steering committee. The committee is comprised of faculty members from across the University of Utah who will work to develop new projects and relationships that will integrate the fields of business and health to promote prosperity.
Kristin Flores used her Dick Burton Professional Development award to pay for study materials and take the Association of Clinical Research Professionals Clinical Research Coordinator Certification Exam. She passed the exam and was awarded the CCRC® credential.
Melanie Wolcott was appointed to the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) RN Role/Value Proposition Task Force. Members of the task force are developing a toolkit for new ambulatory care leaders that will include a business case description and a return on investment template, talking points, and exemplars that support AAACN members as they advocate for implementing and expanding the registered nurse role in ambulatory care.
Dr. Brenda Luther was appointed to the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing’s (AAACN) Nurse Sensitive Indicators (NSI) team. The NSI team is developing and disseminating foundational measures and benchmarks for ambulatory and primary care nursing practice, which are critical to AAACN’s mission and vision, and essential for role acceptance and utilization. These indicators articulate the value of nursing’s contributions by measuring elements of patient care and patient outcomes that are directly affected by nursing practice. The identification and measurement of NSIs is critical in describing the contributions and value of registered nurses in ambulatory care settings.
The Utah Department of Health awarded a $42,716 contract to Dr. Catherine Staes for the project “Opioid-related Interoperability Training and Research Questions.” Dr. Staes will develop and deliver two webinars, and help the Health Informatics Office identify 5 to 10 key research questions that can be derived from a linked prescription drug monitoring program dataset.
Dr. Sara Simonsen has been selected as a Family Planning Elevated Family Planning Specialist. In this role, she will receive advanced family training, and use this knowledge to provide contraceptive training to others, including online training via webinar or Project Echo, and in-person training within the region.
“Dr. Sheila Deyette, I just wanted to follow up with you after our Zoom visit the other evening. First off, you need to know you are making a difference in this world. You have helped save a drowning soul, and I thank you! I know this will be a slow process but thanks for your back up! I did start a gratitude journal and of course my family was number 1 but you are in there. Thank you for your help!”
March
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson serves as co-editor for Turning Points, which are quarterly opinion articles crafted by the Society for Acupuncture Research (SAR) and published in the field's leading journal, Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine. SAR is an international society, and Lisa recently was invited to join the Board of Directors.
The University of Utah Graduate School announced that Dr. Lee Ellington will receive the 2021 Distinguished Mentor Award. Lee has demonstrated exceptional commitment to mentoring graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and others across campus and beyond. She has gone above and beyond to foster an inclusive and welcoming community, and to instill a culture of outstanding mentorship in the College of Nursing.
The Green Office encourages colleges and departments to engage employees in the University of Utah's sustainability mission by evaluating and changing everyday office practices, such as energy used, supplies purchased, and trainings offered. Colleges and departments have the opportunity to earn Green Office certification. Dr. Jennifer Macali facilitated the certification process for the College of Nursing, and the College of Nursing was first on campus to earn Green Office certification since the Green Office launched a new version of its program. The team worked hard during the past year to earn the designation. Team members include Jennifer Macali, Donnie Benson, Ann Butt, Erin Johnson Cole, Lynn Dixon, Emily Donaldson, Jessica Ellis, Eli Iacob, Youjeong Kang, Brenda Luther, Sara McCormick, John Nerges, Heather Saldivar, Kathy Sward, Megan Whittaker, and Melanie Wolcott.
The Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC) committee announced that PhD student Ching-Yu Wang has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Stan Huff Education Award. This award was named in honor of one of LOINC’s pioneers and steadfast champions of the standard. The committee noted that Ching-Yu’s project to develop a Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources-based app for emergency departments to screen for LOINC coded social determinants has tremendous potential to advance interoperability. Drs. Jia-Wen Guo and Andrea Wallace mentor Ching-Yu.
Dr. Zoe Robbins has been invited to chair the Utah Telehealth Network (UTN) Advisory Council. The Advisory Council advises UTN regarding its mission and operations. Its responsibilities include strategic planning, review of budgets and fee structures, recommendation on policies, advice of network member services, and government relations. The Advisory Council is made up of 15 members, selected to reflect Utah's diverse health care community, including representation from rural Utah; member hospitals, clinics and health departments; the University of Utah; education and research; and other health organizations, as well as at-large members.
The President of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) appointed Dr. Kristin Cloyes to serve on the GSA Diversity and Justice Working Group beginning March 1, 2021. This Group is charged with soliciting input from Society members and stakeholders, and developing and facilitating implementation of policies and practices that proactively advance GSA’s stated goal of freeing itself from conscious and unconscious discrimination and bias that undermine the Society’s well-being.
In its News Watch weekly digest, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing mentioned the DeseretNews article titled What COVID-19 has revealed about the nursing profession that was described in kudos last week. Dr. Teresa Garrett was quoted in the article.
Dr. Kara Dassel accepted an invitation to serve on the editorial board of the Journal of the Academy of Health Science Educators of the University of Utah.
Dr. Robert Simpson and the State of Utah invited Dr. Zoe Robbins to join the Utah Professionals Health Program Clinical Advisory Committee. For challenging cases in which medical providers have a substance use disorder, this committee advises the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing regarding recovery and alternatives to public disciplinary action.
Although preventable, nearly 2,000 Nepali women die annually from cervical cancer. The Sorenson Legacy Foundation awarded Principal Investigator Dr. Kate Harris and Co-Investigator Dr. Deanna Kepka $66,905 for their project titled Comparing the Efficacy, Cost, Feasibility and Acceptability of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Self-Testing to Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) In Rural Nepal. Kate and Deanna aim to find a socio-culturally acceptable, effective, low-cost cervical cancer screening method, which can be successfully implemented in remote and low resource areas in Nepal.
Phi Kappa Phi awarded a Dissertation Fellowship for 2021 and $10,000 to PhD Candidate Shawna Sisler. Dr. Jia-Wen Guo mentors Shawna. Shawna Sisler accepted a post-doctoral Fellowship at the University of Utah School of Medicine, Office of the Dean. Shawna will build a formalized U of U Health wellness program from the ground up that will focus on trainees who are at risk for mental health issues or program incompletion. In time, she hopes to bring the programming to the CON, building a transdisciplinary model.
Kudos to all College of Nursing leaders, faculty, staff, students, and alumni; university leaders, preceptors, those from the university who support nursing students, and members of our community of interest for contributing to a successful Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation visit.
Teaching Recognition:
- Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini: “Thank you for working so diligently to ensure our capstones! I appreciate you taking the time to speak with each of us and working to get our top choices.” “Sue! You’re incredible. I could tell how much you care about your students. I remember I was nervous to call you back in the summer about my capstone questions but that was such a great conversation! I felt your excitement for me and you were so supportive. Thank you so much!” “Sue works so hard for us, and I know that our cohort has been even more difficult than usual due to the pandemic. I am so excited for my capstone, and I know that Sue really put in a lot of work to place us where we are meant to be.”
- Dr. Katie Davis: “Thank you for always being so willing to help answer my questions! I will always appreciate the time you let me go to the Neuro ICU and I learned so much because of it!” “Katie is so cool! She is an amazing teacher, especially when it comes to explaining the pathophysiology. She made clinicals so much fun!” “We strive to be you! Thank you for helping us see the real world of nursing…”
- Alicia Donaldson: “Thank you for all your help in our Peds rotations! You explain everything so clearly and it helped me love Peds all the more!” “Thank you so much for all your hard work and kind help this semester, including prompt replies to emails/texts and prompt feedback on assignments.”
- Dr. Jennifer Macali: “Thank you so much for all your hard work, efforts and kind help over the summer in helping us succeed in public health! I'm sure it wasn't easy teaching two different cohorts simultaneously but you guys did a wonderful job at making yourself available for questions weekly and teaching the course.” “Jennifer cares about her students. When she hears about an event, facility, conference, or individual that we might be interested in attending, visiting, or connecting with, she will let us know. She encourages her students to find and do what they love. Thank you Jennifer!” “Jennifer’s class really helped me develop my passion for community health and inspired me to purse this area for my capstone and future career.”
- Denise Reeves: “Denise, I was never interested in the maternal/infant world before taking your class. It was amazing and one of my favorite classes.” “Denise!!! You are such a genuine person and I’m so glad we had the opportunity to have class together. I looked forward to our zoom debrief during the summer. You were so positive and the teaching style you use is incredible. Thank you for always helping me with my needs and being someone I can trust.” “Denise was the best possible thing for my resilience when COVID destroyed our first semester. She allowed our clinical group to have really raw and honest conversations which is really what got me through that time.”
Danielle Puri, Emily Royce, Dr. Brenda Luther, and Dr. Leissa Roberts planned a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake. Nursing students volunteered to administer the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to approximately 100 American Indians or Alaska Natives who live in the Salt Lake Valley area. Faculty members Dr. Teresa Garrett, Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh, Dr. Jennifer Clifton, Dr. Kirsten Schmutz, Dr. Melissa Black, and Dean Marla De Jong supported students. FOX 13 covered the story: U of U nursing students get hands-on experience fighting COVID-19 at Urban Indian Center.
As an invited speaker, Janzell Tutor participated in the Friday Forum: Racial Equity & Philanthropy. Janzell, Feleti Matagi, Director of Development for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, and Gabi Sanchez-Jones, Manager of Alumni Clubs and Diverse Communities for University of Utah Alumni presented a break-out session titled Moving the Needle - Building Philanthropy for Diversity at the U. They reviewed some of the successes and challenges in building a community of philanthropy at the University of Utah.
The University of Utah Black Cultural Center (BCC) held its second annual Black Faculty and Staff Awards celebration to honor Black faculty and staff for their work on campus and in the community. The BCC presented the Madam C.J. Walker Resource Award to Dr. Valerie Flattes for strengthening community-engaged learning experiences and opportunities tied to civic engagement, and fostering strong partnerships with the local community and the University of Utah.
Dr. Jessica Ellis and Dr. Kimberly Garcia will be inducted as Fellows with the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) via an online ceremony at the 66th Annual Meeting & Exhibition in May 2021. The Fellowship in the American College of Nurse-Midwives (FACNM) is an honor bestowed upon those midwives whose demonstrated leadership within ACNM, clinical excellence, outstanding scholarship, and professional achievement have merited special recognition both within and outside of the midwifery profession.
February
Dr. Susanna Cohen will be inducted as a Fellow with the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) via an online ceremony at the 66th Annual Meeting & Exhibition in May 2021. The Fellowship in the American College of Nurse-Midwives (FACNM) is an honor bestowed upon those midwives whose demonstrated leadership within ACNM, clinical excellence, outstanding scholarship, and professional achievement have merited special recognition both within and outside of the midwifery profession.
Dr. Carolyn Scheese earned certification as a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM). As she prepared for certification, Carolyn learned new content needed to design and teach NURS 6661 Project Management in Health Informatics. Students who take NURS 6661 also will be prepared to take the CAPM exam.
The College of Nursing is ranked #22 in National Institutes of Health funding to colleges of nursing! A five-position increase in ranking from last year, we commend our hard-working and innovative researchers and the amazing Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center staff who support them.
CON nurse-midwives continue to impress their patients. Here are a few recent accolades.
- Kayla Gatos: I had a good experience with the facility and the provider also. I had spent most of my questioning with a student named Buffy before the actual exam. However, Ms. Gatos was there during the exams and she was very helpful and insightful in helping the student do the job. I would definitely recommend both of them to friends and family.
- Paige Miller: I had a very great experience and left with my questions answered!
- Dr. Danica Loveridge: She was very sweet and attentive. Always on time and very professional.
- Emily duBois Hollander: Emily is amazing – she takes the time to explain everything that's going on and addresses any questions no matter how small / weird. I never feel rushed and feel very well taken care of. I couldn't recommend her more.
- Emily duBois Hollander: Emily has such excellent bedside manner. She is patient, listens intently and never makes you feel judged. This post-partum period can be an emotional roller coaster and it's so nice to have the support of such an empathetic health care provider.
- Dr. Isabelle Armstrong: Izzy was patient, knowledgeable, understanding and kind.
- Claudia Gerard: Claudia is compassionate, highly skilled, and personable.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) frequently receives requests for examples of funded grant applications. On its Sample Healthcare Delivery Research Grant Applications website, the Healthcare Delivery Research Program featured Dr. Deanna Kepka and Dr. Anne Kirchoff’s R03: Statewide Assessment of HPV Vaccination Among Childhood Cancer Survivors.
Baccalaureate students praised faculty.
- Dr. Cheryl Armstrong: “You truly care about your students and I feel so grateful to have had class with you. I remember how sad I was when I found out we weren’t going to have 1st semester clinicals together. You are genuine and I felt immediate trust with you. Thank you for supporting my continued education and being someone I know I can count on. I appreciate you!” “Cheryl, I never knew I would love the maternal/infant world so much before taking your class. It was amazing and one of my favorites, so thank you.” “Thank you for your fine example and your willingness to support me in my academic endeavors. I am thankful for your fine example and hope to emulate your dedication to nursing principles in my nursing practice.”
- Tamara Ekker: “Thank you for pushing me to perform to my best ability in simulation lab. Under your guidance, I have learned not to be task-oriented but to problem solve using critical thinking skills. Thank you for an amazing experience this past year.” “Tam is so smart. She has a lot of nursing experience and is able to utilize her experiences to teach important skills and principles. Thank you Tam!” “Thank you for all your efforts during the past few semesters! I sincerely appreciate your detailed feedback on assignments and hearing your insight during post-conferences both in the summer and the fall.”
- Dr. Debra Penney: “Thank you so much for all your hard work last semester in helping us succeed in global/community nursing while managing two full cohorts simultaneously.” “Thank you for your insight into disparities around the world and in our own country. I appreciate the awareness you provided me and know it will serve me in my nursing practice.” “Deb is knowledgeable in the field of Women’s Health. I enjoyed learning about her experiences delivering babies with limited supplies and resources.”
- Dr. Allison Spolsdoff: “Ally cares about each and every student. Personally, she has worked with me and checked up on me every single week of this semester about my own mental health struggles. She wants all of her students to succeed and is available by the touch of a button to talk with students. She has made my experience at the CON so much better, making me feel cared for.” “Wow Ally! So fun having class and getting to talk with you! You are an endless tomb of information, seriously so smart! Thank you for being someone to support and help me. You are the best!” “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with you in Mental and Behavioral Health. Thank you for making this field of nursing free of stigmas and bias so that I can provide compassionate care to my patients. I have appreciated your assistance and guidance throughout this semester. Thank you also for teaching me about therapeutic communication...that was my most valuable learning experience.”
In its newsletter, the John A. Hartford Foundation featured the editorial that Dr. Linda Edelman and colleagues recently published, and that was mentioned in the January 19, 2021 edition of Monday Morning Kudos!
Drs. Bristol and Tay were selected as Family Caregiving Collaborative Scholars. Each year two individuals with a caregiver research focus who meet the standards of the Vice President's Clinical and Translational (VPCAT) Scholars Program are selected to receive added benefits through collaborative programmatic activities (e.g., support funds, mentoring, one-on-one consultations with visiting national experts). This is supported by funding from the NIA K07 Family Caregiving Research Collaborative (AG068185; PI Ellington).
The University Teaching Committee of the University of Utah has selected Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead to receive the Community Engaged Teaching and Scholarship Award for 2021. This award recognizes and rewards a faculty member for high quality work that integrates teaching, research, and community engagement, and for demonstrating a record of successful teaching and research that is carried out through long-term, collaborative community-engaged partnerships that address a community-identified need or priority.
Dr. Dan Reed, University of Utah Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, named a new cohort of Banner Project recipients. We are proud of Dr. Andrea Wallace for being one of the 19 faculty awardees. The Banner Project recognizes mid-career faculty who are intellectual and thought leaders, not only at the U, but also in the community. As Dr. Reed put it, “This scholarly work will help us improve COVID-19 treatments; weather this global health crisis; expand access to healthcare; and bridge the social, economic and racial differences that divide us. The goal is to put faces to the world-class scholarship, groundbreaking discoveries, unique innovations, and creative works generated by our scholars.” Banners hang on 1300 East, University Street, and South Temple and can be viewed at @THEU.
Dr. Siobhan Aaron is the recipient of the Midwest Nursing Research Society Palliative and End of Life Care Research Interest Group (RIG) Dissertation Award. The award will be presented during the Research Interest Group (RIG) annual meeting on March 15, 2021.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Utah Department of Health (UDOH) Office of Health Disparities led the COVID Community Partnership (CCP) project, which aimed to address disparities in COVID-19 related health outcomes among racial/ethnic minority communities in Utah. Community health workers (CHWs) were key to the COVID-19 emergency response, helping mitigate the spread and effects of COVID-19 in underserved and underrepresented communities. In a report regarding the CCP, UDOH Office of Health Disparities highlighted initiatives, including Caring Connections, that educated and supported CHWs. “In order to provide adequate mental health support to the CHWs in these emotionally taxing positions, self-care education was provided in weekly check-in calls. Support groups for the CHWs were facilitated by the University of Utah Caring Connections program and Latino Behavioral Health each week in both English and Spanish.” Dr. Katherine Supiano designed and provided support groups, with tremendous support from Emily Donaldson, Administrative Program Coordinator, and Abdul Osman, Caring Connections Coordinator. Dr. Siobhan Aaron, T-32 post-doctoral fellow, and EstherOkang, PhD Student, are conducting research focus groups to evaluate the experience of CHWs in the pandemic. Collectively, the team’s work has been impactful, supporting CHWs and giving voice to this “invisible” work force. Good news! The CCP has been funded for 2021.
Dr. Margaret “Mardie” Clayton chaired the Career Line Parental Leave Benefit Task Force, which recently created the parental leave benefit for Career Line faculty. The proposal to revise policy 6-315: Faculty Parental Benefits – Leaves of Absence with Modified Duties and Review Extensions was presented to the Deans, and passed by the Academic Senate on January 11, 2021. Estimated adoption is July 1, 2021, pending approval by University Administration.
The University of Utah Academy of Health Science Educators Selection Committee chose Drs. Jenneth Doria, Jennifer Macali, Gillian Tufts, and Katie Ward to be Fellows of the Academy. Their involvement in the Academy will be instrumental in creating a culture of collaboration and exceptional education within University of Utah Health. A virtual Induction Ceremony to honor Jenneth, Jennifer, Gillian, Katie, and other new Fellows will be held on April 6, 2021.
The Academy of Health Science Educators’ Advancing Excellence in Education Committee selected Dr. Kristin Cloyes to receive the 2021 Outstanding Educator Award of Health Sciences Graduate Students.
The Academy of Health Science Educators’ Advancing Excellence in Education Committee selected the Surgical Care Team to receive the 2021 Interprofessional Education Team Award. Team members include Amanda Johns, Dr. Don Blumenthal, Dr. Denise Ward, Julie Beckstrom, Dr. Brigitte Smith, Dr. Kirstyn Brownson, and Dr. Benjamin Brooke.
Dr. Jennifer Clifton attained the status of Certified Correctional Health Professional-Advanced (CCHP-A)! What a remarkable accomplishment for Jennifer to join an elite group of 40 correctional health professionals nationwide who have achieved advanced certification as a Certified Correctional Health Professional. Advanced certification distinguishes Dr. Clifton as someone who has demonstrated excellence, commitment, and contribution to the field of correctional health care.
January
Erin Meyer provided tremendous support to Drs. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead and Nancy Allen as they prepared and submitted a grant application for the Nursing Workforce Diversity Program. Erin shared expertise, provided guidance, and worked extra hours, enabling Ana and Nancy to meet a less than two month application deadline.
Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead was accepted into the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Diversity Leadership Institute. The central focus of the Diversity Leadership Institute is to provide an overview of the evolution of diversity and inclusion, and the role of Diversity Officers in academic nursing and nursing practice. It frames diversity within the context of higher education and academic nursing while presenting high-involvement diversity practices in teams and leaders. Institute activities will take place from February to June, 2021.
Dr. Megan Hebdon, Dr. Katherine Bernier Carey, Dr. Lorinda Coombs, Sara Bybee, Dr. Sarah Wawrzynski, Shawna Sisler, current or former T32 Interdisciplinary Training in Cancer, Caregiving, and End-of-Life Care Fellows, and Dr. Brenda Luther have been invited to present a Research Spotlight titled Escalating levels of caregiver burden during COVID-19 at the Society of Behavioral Medicine 42nd Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions. The virtual meeting will take place on April 12-16, 2021.
Students praised faculty.
- Dr. Ann Butt: “I appreciate that you always have our mental and physical well-being in mind and that you always check up on us! Thank you for bringing us all a therapy dog!” “Ann! I will never forget my blonde moment day back in professional roles 1st semester! I loved how easily you could laugh and joke with us. It built a level of trust and respect. Thank you!” “I am so thankful for you and for your willingness to help me understand the foundations of patient care. I have learned so much from your instruction and have valued my time with you as my professor.”
- Dr. Linda Hofmann: “Linda is extremely understanding. She allowed her students to work ahead on the material, which gave us the flexibility we needed during COVID. Thank you Linda!” “Linda!! You are a truly amazing soul, she makes me feel so loved and cared for. I could not ask for a more supportive staff member that genuinely cares about our lives outside of school! I wish she taught all our classes.” “Thank you for the endless kind words and emails! Each and every time I see your name in my inbox, I know I will smile and have a small break from the busy day! Thank you!”
- Dr. Sara Hart: “Thank you for an amazing experience in PRII. I learned so much about how to advocate for patients on a political level and how impactful changes to patient care can be secured through proactive measures.” “Thank you Sara for all your work during PR2! I always loved getting to be able to meet with you in the small groups to talk about our project. I feel like you always supported us and I appreciated it.” “Thank you for your support in our education! You are a great professor and I can tell how much you care about your students. Thanks for your continued efforts!”
- Dr. Melody Krahulec: “Wow! I could write a novel about Mel! She runs the show. She is full of knowledge, but is able to teach in a clear manner. She…spends most of her time advocating for us. Thank you for all you do, Mel!” “Thank you for all the time and effort you put into teaching us and ensuring we have a great nursing school experience! The countless hours you put in for our success do not go unnoticed!” “Thank you for all the amazing tips and tricks you have given to prepare us for the world of nursing! We wouldn’t be where we are without you!” “Mel has taught our cohort how to be advocates as she works every single day to make sure we get the best education and are prepared to become nurses.”
- Lynn Parker: “Thanks for getting us through acute care clinicals Lynn! You pushed me to critically think and I've grown as a student!” “Thank you so much for all your hard work this semester, particularly the prompt and detailed feedback on assignments, which I sincerely appreciate.” “Lynn was one of my favorite clinical instructors! She always made me think outside the box and pushed me to ask more questions that enhanced my clinical experience. She has the kindest heart and made clinicals so much fun.”
- Dr. Josh Wall: “I attribute my success in the CON to Josh. He has believed in me every step of the way! Josh is so personable and caring, he even answers all the billion text messages that I send him regarding questions about CM and life! Josh is so dedicated and works extremely hard to help everyone! He is truly an inspiration to me!” “I am so honored to have had the privilege of learning complex principles from you over the past year. Thank you for your willingness to help me understand and for your constant patience. I have appreciated your support and guidance and look to you as an exceptional role model.” “Thank you Josh for bringing your lectures to life with real life examples. Thank you for sharing so much with us; you have made an impact on each and every one of us.”
Janzell Tutor, Director of Alumni Relations and Development, authored the article Honoring Nurse Leaders: University of Utah College of Nursing Honors Utah’s Nurse Leaders in Utah Nurse, the official publication of the Utah Nurses Association. Check out how the College shone a spotlight on Utah’s nursing leaders in the January-March 2021 issue.
Dr. Teresa Garrett, a Robert Wood Johnson (RWJ) Executive Fellow, and Dr. Nancy Allen were accepted as one of seven pairs across several institutions to the University of Tennessee Knoxville College of Nursing’s ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) Based Racial Equity Learning Community for Academic Healthcare Leaders Program. This equity and diversity program is designed to help an RWJ Scholar Alumnus and a non-RWJ leader from the same institution discover and examine implicit biases and learn from one another via case scenarios. Program leaders will guide each pair to develop an action plan to implement in their home institution.
Because of her long-standing work and passion regarding standards, performance improvement, and decision support, the Public Health Informatics Institute invited Dr. Catherine Staes to help plan a workshop for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enabling it to create dynamic, future-oriented, and actionable shared services and other enterprise information technologies; build workforce capabilities in informatics and data science; and modernize its data, information technology infrastructure, and systems.
Students praised faculty.
- Dr. Sharifa Al-Qaaydeh: “Sharifa is an amazing professor who is able to explain things in a helpful, understandable way. She is kind and never makes you feel inferior for asking a question. She is so kind and approachable. Thank you Sharifa!...” “Your small stories and tidbits help me remember the hardest things! Thank you for making CM better and helping me become the nurse I want to be!” “I have learned so much from you during this past year. Thank you for your willingness to help me understand complex pathophysiological principles. You’re a fine example to me and I hope to emulate the principles of compassion and best nursing practice you’ve taught me…”
- Dr. Sheila Deyette: “You have inspired me since the first day I sat in my chair and listened to your words of wisdom in my first semester. I have admired your passion and pray that I will pass your gift forward to other students and practitioners. This journey has been difficult AND we have been greatly blessed with instructors that genuinely care for our wellbeing. I can only imagine that this is a culture YOU have implemented within your program. We are truly privileged to have this gift and experience.”
- Dr. Teresa Garrett: “Teresa is very good at checking in with us. She is my mentor, and I have absolutely loved getting to know her! She is willing to open up about what is going on in her life, which allows for us to develop a personal relationship with her. She is particularly good at asking her students specific questions to learn how we are really doing and understand what our needs are. Thank you Teresa!” “Thank you for your thoughtful, compassionate guidance throughout my time in PR II. Thank you also for your willingness to support me in my academic endeavors. I have appreciated your encouragement and support throughout my nursing program and have felt privileged to have you as my professor.”
- John Nerges: “John doesn’t accept “I don’t know” as an answer, because “You do know!” He believes in his students and their knowledge before many of them believe in themselves.” “Thank you for being there for us through everything. Your never quit attitude is infectious - I can only hope to have the same drive as you.” “I appreciate how much you care about each student's growth! You pushed each of us to reach our greatest potential - it was a privilege learning from you!”
- Kirsten Schmutz: “I enjoyed my experience in GPH [Global Public Health] and your guidance to look upstream to troubleshoot health issues rather than just treating the after effects. I appreciated gaining a better understanding of how to help patients in the community gain a better understanding of resources available to help them. Thank you for broadening my awareness.” “Thank you for all you do! You were always such a positive person and I loved seeing you on zoom. You brought a light to our class and were genuine to us!”
The Western Institute of Nursing announced that it will present the Anna M. Shannon Mentorship Award to Dr. Andrea Wallace during its 2021 Annual Conference in April. In 1992, Kathleen Ann Long and Jeanne Kearns established the Anna M. Shannon Mentorship Award to recognize Dr. Shannon for her unselfish efforts to support and promote the professional growth of other nurses in the West. What an honor for Andrea to join the select group of previous recipients, and receive one of WIN’s most competitive awards.
T32 Postdoctoral Fellow, Dr. Christina Wilson, was accepted into the competitive National Research Mentorship Network Program, for the University of Utah cohort, with Dr. Mooney as her primary mentor. This program provides support for postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty who are writing K or R series grant applications as a new investigator, and studies effective approaches to successful mentoring.
Dr. Jenny Alderden was appointed to the Editorial Board of Critical Care Nurse. During her 2-year term, she will serve as an ambassador for the journal and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, submit or solicit one article per year, and assist with decision making around theme issues, divergent reviews, and journal planning.
The curriculum and program “PRONTO” which Dr. Susanna Cohen co-designed and the non-profit organization she co-founded were listed as examples of “learning and support options for neonatal health workers” in the World Health Organization Roadmap on human resource strategies to improve newborn care in health facilities in low- and middle-income countries. The purpose of the roadmap is to “provide a framework and strategies for countries to transform their policies on human resources for health (HRH) and provide their health workers with the knowledge and technical and behavioural skills necessary for high-quality care by 2030, to ensure that all newborns survive and thrive.” The roadmap outlines 10 human resources strategies for countries to achieve a national neonatal mortality rate of ≤12 per 1000 live births by 2030.
The Spring 2021 cohort of pre-licensure nursing students presented faculty and Maddie Marshall, Pre-Licensure Baccalaureate Program Manager, with a terrific slide presentation to express thanks for their work. Over the next weeks, I will share some students’ quotes, omitting their names.
- Melissa Black: “Thank you so much for all your hard work this semester! The virtual skills labs over the summer were super helpful and in my opinion the next best thing when we couldn't physically be in the lab.” “Thank you for all your help at the Indian Center flu clinic! You taught me great techniques for giving shots to uncooperative/scared kids that will help me for the rest of my career!”
- Dr. Jenneth Doria: “Thank you for all the interactions we had during the mental health clinicals. You have such a good insight to the field and I was able to learn so much. You’re amazing!” “I’m so glad we got the chance to have class together. You are so kind and caring and I could really tell how much you wanted us to be successful and you do all you can to help us get there! Thank you!”
- Stevi Gire: “Dear Stevie, You are an amazing clinical instructor and I have felt honored to be in your simulation groups this past year. Thank you for helping me feel confident despite my lack of experience. You made learning fun and provided education that I can apply in my nursing practice. Thank you for being an exceptional role model. Best wishes to you and your family for a happy and healthy holiday season.” “Stevie knows exactly how to put nervous students at ease and create a safe learning environment. (I always secretly hope she will be my sim instructor before I arrive.)”
- Maddie Marshall: “Maddie! You are such a great advisor! You are always there to help us and be a great supporter! I can tell how genuine you are and how much you care about your people! Your emails are so encouraging and it’s nice to have someone to be able to trust in and go to for help. Thank you so much!” “Thank you for all you do for us and making sure we all have all the right things in the right places! We would be lost without you!!”
- Dr. Nanci McLeskey: “I look up to Nanci so much. She has such a strong passion for nursing and teaching. She makes all of her students feel special, and I have loved having her as one of my instructors. Her enthusiasm has made me so excited to start my nursing career.” “Your lessons on End-of-Life care provided me with the tools necessary to provide compassionate care to my patients and their families. I appreciated your guidance and support throughout my nursing education…”
- Christopher Sneddon: “Chris believes in his students and wants us to succeed. He provides us with the tools in our toolbox to understand the material. Thank you, Chris!” “I appreciate your kindness and care for your students! You cultivate a learning environment where students feel comfortable and learn from their mistakes!” “Chris is the most compassionate, generous, and caring person. He makes efforts and goes out of his way to assist his students in any way that he can, even outside of school! Chris is absolutely amazing!!”
December
The Greater Plains Collaborative, a network of 12 medical centers in eight states, and one of 11 PCORnet Clinical Data Research Networks, awarded $20,000 to Dr. Perry Gee and Dr. Lauri Linder for their pilot research titled Improving CLABSI (central line-associated bloodstream infection) Risk Assessment Among Children with Cancer and those Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Using Machine Learning. Drs. Gee and Linder submitted their application in response to a call for pilot proposals to strengthen relationships and patient-centered collaborations between investigators at the University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare. This project will extend their prior work to reduce bloodstream infections in this distinct patient population, and allow them to explore the complex inter-relationships among individual patient, clinical, and nursing care-related variables that contribute to infection. During the first phase of the project, they will work with an interdisciplinary team, including at least one member of the Cancer/Transplant Family Advisory Council, to develop a comprehensive set of variables that is perceived as contributing to the risk of CLABSI. During phase two, they will map these variables to data available in the PCORnet Common Data Model and the PCH enterprise data warehouse, and use advanced analytics to identify risk factors for infection and potential practice changes. This work will foster a University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare nursing research partnership.
Holy Cross Ministries, in collaboration with Utah Action Coalition for Health, awarded Dr. Teresa Garrett $22,100 for the project “Building Diversity and Health Equity Competence into the Pipeline of Utah’s Nursing Workforce.” A two-part project designed to build diversity and health equity competence in Utah’s nursing workforce pipeline, this will be accomplished through partnerships with nursing and multi-sector organizations to help ensure everyone has a fair and just opportunity to live a long and healthy life. This project will impact multiple structural inequities with an emphasis on poverty, income, and educational attainment. This one-year project was funded for the period October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2022.
The Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Breast and Gynecologic Cancer Center awarded a $50,000 pilot project award to Dr. Deanna Kepka for her study titled Assessment of HPV Vaccine Hesitancy in Utah. Collaborators include Anne Kirchhoff, Dr. Michelle Litchman, and Dr. Echo Warner. The goal of this funding is to promote transdisciplinary, collaborative research that will impact our understanding, prevention, and/or treatment of breast cancer. This one-year project was funded for the period of January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.
Washington University in St. Louis awarded Dr. Michelle Litchman $40,000 for her proposal “Adaptation and Refinement of a Multi-Modal Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program for Deaf Care Partners.” This study will 1) adapt the exiting Diabetes One-Day Program (D1D) for use in rural communities (Rural Diabetes One-Day Program or R-D1D), and 2) conduct a patient-level pilot randomized control trial to examine effects of R-D1D (intervention group) versus standard patient education (attention control group), guided by the RE-AIM framework. The ultimate goal is to reduce health disparities in rural populations by increasing access to diabetes specialty care using telehealth. This one-year project was funded for the period of December 1, 2021 to November 30, 2022.
November
Drs. Michelle Litchman, Angie Fagerlin, Nancy Allen, and Eli Iacob received $50,000 from the Margolis Foundation for their project “Increasing Access to Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support to Deaf and Hard of Hearing People.” The goal of this project is to increase access to diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) in a way that is acceptable to Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. They will adapt, implement, and refine a time-efficient DSMES program delivered via telehealth by a team of multidisciplinary experts that encourages care partner and peer support to improve A1C (a marker for blood sugar levels) and diabetes self-management in Deaf and hard of hearing populations to reduce disparities. This project was funded for the period January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.
Drs. Kathi Mooney, Noah Kolb, and Amanda Guidon received $13,043 from the University of Vermont Medical Center for their project “Remote Monitoring and Management of Myasthenia Gravis (REMOTE-MG): A Pilot Feasibility Study UVMMG Innovations in Clinical Care Research Program.” The goal of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and utility of a novel Myasthenia Gravis (MG) monitoring system by evaluating the feasibility of collecting MG specific remote monitoring information weekly from autoimmune MG patients utilizing the symptom care at home (SCH) system, and of transferring the data to medical providers for 2 months. They also will assess patient and medical provider opinions on the clinical utility of SCH and its data. This project was funded for the period January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma presented a $500 research grant to PhD student Kelly Mansfield for her research titled Social Support and Social Networks of Parents of Infants with Congenital Heart Defects. Kelly will focus on understanding the support networks of parents during hospitalization for a critically ill child, and the role of healthcare workers in providing support. Dr. Kristin Cloyes is Kelly’s advisor.
The University of California, San Francisco awarded $96,927 to Dr. Schola Matovu for her NIH funded "University of California Global Health Institute Program for Fellows and Scholars" work. This grant funding will support Dr. Matovu as she conducts community-engaged research to inform the development of an intervention geared towards promoting economic empowerment, peer group support, and mental and physical health of grandmothers who provide primary care for grandchildren affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty in Uganda.
October
Dr. Katherine Sward is part of the University of Utah Health Data Coordinating Center (DCC), which received $12 million over five years from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) to study solutions to sepsis-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) in critically ill children. The DCC will lead statistical support and provide data management to the Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network and the Personalized Immunomodulation in Pediatric Sepsis-induced MODS (PRECISE) Trial. NICHD awarded $23 million for the overall trial, which involves 26 centers across the United States
September
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded a 22-month $375,000 grant titled Great Plains Mountain GWEP Consortium on Resiliency in Long Term Care to the University of North Dakota Geriatrics Department. As Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) leaders in North Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming, respectively, Principal Investigator (PI) Dr. Donald Jurivich, and Co-PI’s Drs. Linda Edelman, Christine McKibbin, and Catherine Carrico organized themselves into the Great Plains – Mountain GWEP Consortium and will lead the project. In collaboration, they will develop GWEP partnerships with long term care (LTC) facilities and community-based organizations to improve health outcomes of LTC residents; develop curriculum and train LTC staff, family members, and community workers on resident-centered and age-friendly care, including training about COVID-19 vaccines, pandemic-driven behavioral and mental health issues, and health disparities; provide links to community resources for nursing home residents and family members; and create training modules regarding health disparities in HRSA region 8, and COVID-19 management and treatment in nursing homes. Dr. Edelman will serve as site program director for Utah Geriatric Education Consortium activities; ensure that deliverables are met; participate in Consortium planning, program development, implementation and evaluation; and lead evaluation activities in partnership with the U Health Clinical & Translational Science Institute.
August
The Alzheimer’s Association awarded a 3-year $150,000 grant titled Pre-Loss Group Therapy for Dementia Family Care Partners at Risk for Complicated Grief to Dr. Kathie Supiano and team members Troy Andersen, Angela Presson, and Richard Schulz. The primary purpose of the project is to determine if telehealth-delivered pre-loss group support (PLGS) reduces the risk of complicated grief in family care partners of persons living with dementia who are at risk for complicated grief, when delivered by nursing home social workers trained in PLGS via telehealth.
The Health Resources and Services Administration awarded a 1-year $300,000 grant to the University of Utah School of Medicine for a project titled Value-Based Medical Student Education Training Program. Funded at a 10% level of effort, Dr. Maddie Lassche will serve as Telesimulation Project Evaluation Lead. The purpose of the training program is to grow the primary care physician workforce in tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities by strengthening medical school programs in these areas, transform practice by educating medical students to work and practice in tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities, recruit and retain medical students from tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities and encourage primary care residency programs, and establish strategic partnerships for medical education in tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities.
Recognition:
The NIH National Institute on Aging provided $241,714 in additional funding to Dr. Caroline Stephens for her K76 Emerging Leaders Career Development Award titled Improving Palliative Care Access through Technology (ImPACTT): A Multi-Component Pilot Study, extending her research for 1 year.
The NIH Fogarty International Center awarded a R21 Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant titled A Simulation and Experiential Learning Intervention for Labor and Delivery Providers to Address HIV Stigma During Childbirth in Tanzania to Drs. Susanna Cohen and Melissa Watt. Drs. Cohen and Watt were awarded $387,911 for a nearly 2-year period.
July
Last week’s College Kudos included Dr. Caroline Stephens receiving a $25,000 grant for her project “Care Trajectories of Utah Nursing Home Residents at the End of Life and of their Family Caregivers: A Population-based Pilot Study.” The College of Nursing Family Caregiving Collaborative and the University of Utah Center on Agingawarded this grant.
The University of Utah Center on Aging awarded a $25,000 grant to Dr. Caroline Stephens for her project “Care Trajectories of Utah Nursing Home Residents at the End of Life and of their Family Caregivers: A Population-based Pilot Study.” Dr. Stephens will examine how the characteristics of the nursing home resident and their family affect care trajectories and healthcare utilization at end-of-life, and how caring for a nursing home resident impacts the health and well-being of family members.
The College of Nursing Research Committee awarded a $12,285 grant to Dr. Gwen Latendresse for her project “Understanding Access and Barriers to Engagement in Mental Health Services and Research among Racially and Ethnically Diverse Rural Childbearing Women during a Pandemic.”
The College of Nursing Research Committee awarded a $14,836 grant to Dr. Sara Simonsen for her project “Understanding Perceptions and Prevention Intentions among Reproductive-age Women with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors.”
June
The Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR) at the University of Utah awarded an Innovations Grant to Drs. Michelle Litchman, Nancy Allen, Djin Tay, and Andrea Wallace for their research titled Leveraging the Family for Interventions to Promote Lifelong Health and Management of Illness Across the Life Span. The goal is to provide a closer connection between behavioral interventions and family models, so that behavioral interventions are more closely based on family models.
The College of Health Competitive Seed Grant Program awarded a grant to Ryan Bailey, Julie Metos, and Dr. Nancy Allen for their study titled Adapting the Diabetes Prevention Program to Accommodate Stroke.
The Educational Resource Development Council (ERDC) awarded a $5,000 grant Dr. Katie Ward. The grant will support Maturation 2.0., a pilot project to develop a curriculum for women before menopause that provides the background information needed to make informed decisions about hormone replacement therapy and other treatments to manage the physical and emotional changes related to menopause.
The Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR) at the University of Utah awarded a 1-year $40,000 grant to Drs. Caroline Stephens, Djin Tay, Rebecca Utz, and Ken Smith titled 1U for Population-based Caregiving Science: Strengthening Partnerships, Leveraging Expertise, and Building the Pipeline of Population-based Caregiving Research. Expanding on the College of Nursing-led Family Caregiving Collaborative, the interdisciplinary team will develop the One-U Population-Based Caregiving Research Work Group with the 5-year goal of positioning the University of Utah as a nationally recognized leader in population-based family caregiving research.
The Educational Resource Development Council (ERDC) awarded a $7,415 grant to Dr. Sara Simonsen. Sara will conduct focus groups with reproductive-age women at high risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus to learn about their awareness of personal risks, interest in lifestyle changes and participating in a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), and barriers and motivators to DPP participation.
The Gynecologic Oncology Program within the Huntsman Cancer Institute awarded a 1-year $30,000 grant to Dr. Deanna Kepka for her project titled “Assessment of the clinical workflow and processes of communication between rural clinics and HCI to improve the referral process for rural gynecologic cancer patients.” A new line of research for Deanna, Dr. Kate Harris is Co-I. Funding from the Gynecologic Oncology Program is provided with the goal of promoting transdisciplinary, collaborative research that will impact understanding, preventing, and/or treating gynecological cancers.
May
The National Cancer Institute awarded a $6,647,861 R01 grant to Dr. Noah Kolb from the University of Vermont, Dr. Kathi Mooney, and Dr. Albert “Gordon” Smith from Virginia Commonwealth University. The research team will conduct a prospective randomized trial designed to investigate a new care model for patients who suffer from chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy.
The Cancer Control and Population Sciences (CCPS) Program awarded Dr. Deanna Kepka and Anne Kirchhoff a $17,000 grant to support their research project Addressing Pandemic-related Adolescent Immunization Trends with Vulnerable and Rural Populations (PAV-T) Study. Funding for the CCPS Program is provided by the Huntsman Cancer Institute with the goal of promoting transdisciplinary, collaborative research that will impact our understanding of cancer.
The University Teaching Committee awarded Dr. Jennifer Hamilton a $6,977.86 University Teaching Grant to fund her proposal, Simulation to Improve Otoscopic and Ophthalmoscopic Exam Skills.
The University Teaching Committee awarded Dr. Tom Rowley a $4,500 University Teaching Grant to fund his proposal, Incorporating Comprehensive Medical Videos in Nurse Practitioner Education.
The University Teaching Committee awarded Dr. Zoë Robbins a $1,980 University Teaching Grant to fund her proposal, Psychological First Aid Interprofessional Education Program.
April
Sara Bybee received the American Psychological Foundation Roy Scrivner Memorial Research Grant, an $8,000 grant for empirical and applied research focused on lesbian, gay, and bisexual family psychology; and lesbian, gay, and bisexual and transgender family therapy. Sara’s study is titled Posttraumatic growth among sexual and gender minority families facing advanced cancer. Dr. Lee Ellington is Sara’s dissertation chair.
The Center for Clinical & Translational Science awarded a $30,000 Intra-Institutional Pilot Grant to Drs. Susanna Cohen and Rebecca Simmons (Research Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Planning Division). Their overall objective is to identify patient, provider, and health system barriers to levonorgestrel intrauterine device as emergency contraception provision in order to develop guidance and best-practice recommendations for this option. They also seek to develop and strengthen mechanisms to support clinics, providers, and patients facing barriers to access.
The Foundation for Women & Girls with Blood Disorders awarded a $35,000 bleeding disorder research grant to Dr. Ming Lim, Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine. Dr. Sara Simonsen will mentor Dr. Lim, a hematologist, to conduct the projected titled Obstetric Complications and Postpartum Contraceptives in Women with von Willebrand Disease - a Statewide Population-Based Study. They will use linked Utah Population Database and clinical data to evaluate contraceptive use and birth outcomes among women with bleeding disorders in Utah.
March
Dr. Catherine Staes received a contract from the Utah Department of Health in the amount of $22,000 for the project “Cost-Benefit-Risk Analysis for a SMART-FHIR App.” Catherine will conduct a detailed analysis of the cost, risks, benefits, and limitations involved in developing an app that will enable University of Utah Health providers the ability to certify deaths within the Epic electronic health record.
The College of Nursing Research Committee awarded grants to:
- Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, $3,000 for the project “Creating, Implementing, and Evaluating a Nurse Apprentice Program during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.”
- Dr. Alycia Bristol, $19,072 for the project “Caregivers' Perceptions Regarding Intra-hospital Transitions and Discharge Readiness.”
- Dr. Paula Meek, $24,205 for the project “Feasibility of SymptomCare at Home (SCH) in Individuals with Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) symptoms.”
- Dr. Michelle Litchman, $8,750 for the project “Value Driven Outcome Analysis of the Diabetes One-Day Education and Care Program.”
February
The LIFT Simulation Design Lab (Dr. Susanna Cohen, Gabriela Garcia, Mikelle Lloyd and Beth Eanelli) received a $59,673 extension grant for their collaboration with the Family Planning Division. Funds will support using simulation for family planning counseling and administering the program.
Principal Investigator Dr. Anne Kirchhoff and Co-investigator Dr. Lauri Linder received a $140,000 Utah Grand Challenges award titled “Insurance, Health Care, and Finances for Adolescent and Young Adults with Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic.” The goal of their project is to understand the changing relationship of health care utilization, employment, finances, and insurance coverage among adolescents and young adults with cancer in Utah due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the goal of advancing the health, wellness, and cancer-related health outcomes of Utah’s population, Intermountain Healthcare provided funding for the Utah Grand Challenge Initiative. Drs. Deanna Kepka and Neal Davis received a $200K Utah Grand Challenge award for their cancer control project titled Intermountain Healthcare, Huntsman Cancer Institute, and University of Utah Partnership to Improve HPV Vaccination in Utah’s Lowest Performing Health Districts for HPV Vaccination. The funding will support collaborative research between the Huntsman Cancer Institute and Intermountain Healthcare with the goal of improving HPV vaccination in Utah.
Dr. Djin Tay received a University of Utah Vice-President for Research Incentive Seed Grant in the amount of $34,948 for her project titled Examining the Palliative, End-of - Life, and Spousal Spillover Effects for Immunotherapy in Advanced Cancer. Dr. Tay will develop a dataset of immunotherapy decedents and spouses to support the analysis of palliative care, end-of-life, and bereavement outcomes associated with immunotherapy receipt in advanced cancer. Further, she will examine the palliative and end-of-life outcomes of the 2,229 immunotherapy decedents, and explore stress-related physiological and psychological health outcomes of spouses of the married decedents.
Sara Bybee, PhD student and T32 pre-doctoral trainee, received a grant award from the American Psychological Foundation in the amount of $ 8,000 for her project titled Posttraumatic Growth among Sexual and Gender Minority Families Facing Advanced Cancer. During this one year study, she will begin to establish an evidence-base of health disparities and unmet needs experienced by sexual and gender minority (SGM) families, understand any differences in the experiences of SGM and non-SGM families facing advanced cancer, and identify factors contributing to SGM families' stress and coping while faced with advanced cancer.
January
A huge win for Dr. Jacqueline Eaton and the CON! The NIH National Institute on Aging funded her K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award titled Developing and Testing the Enhancing Active Caregiver Training (EnACT) Intervention for Dementia Family Caregivers. Dr. Eaton was awarded $662,466 for a 5-year period. Persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) experience behavioral symptoms such as agitation, combativeness, depression, and apathy. These behaviors increase caregiver stress, which leads to negative outcomes, such as poor health, depression, and increased caregiver burden. Dr. Eaton seeks to develop and test an intervention to enhance active caregiver skill training to prepare caregivers to better manage behavioral symptoms in order to improve ADRD caregiver wellbeing.
December
Mike McIntosh passed the Scrum certification exam and became a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). Scrum is an Agile framework for project management that emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and iterative progress toward a well-defined goal. The CSM certification is focused on providing an improved understanding of Scrum methodologies and their implementation.
November
Jane Price recently completed three project-based courses through the Online Learning Consortium:
- Exploring Competency Based Education
- Creating Infographics for Learning
- Designing with Accessibility in Mind
Jane gained new appreciation for the complexities of the topics, the amount of time that it takes to complete online courses, and for the importance of a uniform system of navigation within learning management systems.
Jacqueline Scheider led work to produce the annual College of Nursing insights magazine. Special thanks to Vianney Alcala for photography support; Eden Bennett, Korinne Pickett, and Mindy Francis for helping with the alumni and donor content; and to all faculty and staff who appear in the magazine. A University of Utah Dean wrote, “…I loved learning more about what the College of Nursing is up to.” A faculty member wrote, “What an awesome publication! You and your team… have put together an outstanding magazine, highlighting what makes the CON standout from other nursing institutions and showcasing our amazing individuals who are improving healthcare and preparing future generations of nurses, gerontologists, and other disciplines. In my 10 years here, this is the best alumni annual magazine produced with representation of the remarkable accomplishments of our faculty, staff, and alumni. Thank you and your team for all your hard work in capturing and creating such memorable moments over this past year…” Another faculty member wrote, “Just would like to give a joyful 'shout-out!' to the substantive, creative, and well-laid out CON nursing magazine which I just received today!”
The University of Utah presented a Professional Education Award to Hollie Fuhrman for successfully completing the Project Management Fundamentals Program, which provides essential fundamental training in common methodologies used by project managers.
Kelly Marosok passed the ITIL 4 Foundations exam (Information Technology Infrastructure Library). ITIL provides a common framework for IT service management best practices across organizations globally, including higher education. The University of Utah has used ITIL service management best practices for more than a decade and teaches ITIL classes regularly through the UIT division
The Emma Eccles Jones Nursing Research Center, under the guidance of Terri Pianka, Director, continues to provide exceptional support to College of Nursing faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and graduate students so that they can make scientific discoveries and achieve distinction as nurse scientists. Pre-award staff Morgan Arseneau, Hollie Fuhrmann, Dr. Hailey Haffey, and Dr. Erin Meyer are integral members of the research teams and, in collaboration with members of the Statistics Core, Dr. Eli Iacob, Hui Li, Dr. Bob Wong, Dr. Eli Iacob, assisted faculty and graduate students to submit 22 grant and funding applications since July 1, 2021. Led by Dr. Xiaoming Sheng, the Statistics Core also enabled faculty and students to disseminate research findings through publications and conference presentations. Post-award staff Rachel Hamilton and Namita Nayak have managed the complex administration of 70 funded awards, and facilitated acceptance of seven new awards this fiscal year. Colleen Neering, Executive Assistant, supports all members of the research center.
Dave Blanford, Mike McIntosh, Steve Seckinger, and Cole Wandler passed the ITIL 4 Foundations exam (Information Technology Infrastructure Library). ITIL provides a common framework for IT service management best practices across organizations globally, including higher education. The University of Utah has used ITIL service management best practices for more than a decade and teaches ITIL classes regularly through the UIT division.
August
The University Staff Excellence Awards program was established in 1992 to recognize superior service and ongoing contributions by University of Utah’s full-time staff members. Jane Price has been selected to receive one of the 2021 Health Academics District Staff Excellence Awards.
June
As you may have noticed, Jacque Scheider, Deidre Schoenfeld, and Cole Wandler rebuilt and redesigned the College of Nursing website, which has been “live” for the past month. During the past 13 months, the team led numerous stakeholder meetings, learned a new content management system (concurrent with members of the U Health Marketing and Communications team), addressed 340 pages of content, redesigned all menu navigation and page placements, and managed timely content updates for two content management systems for several months. In July, they will continue to refine content and begin Phase 3, during which they will train individuals who wish to regularly update content and undertake future large scale-changes to their web pages.
May
Hannah Elliott, administrative assistant for the Division of Acute and Chronic Care, graduated with a Master of Public Policy degree from the College of Social & Behavioral Science.
Samantha Seaman, Administrative Assistant for the Health Systems and Community Based Care Division, earned a Master of Healthcare Administration degree from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah.
Danielle Puri earned certification in infection prevention and control (CIC ®). The Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. administers the CIC® credential, which identifies healthcare professionals who have shown a mastery of knowledge in infection prevention and control. Those who have earned their CIC ® certification are responsible for developing and implementing infection prevention and control measures, educating healthcare workers and the public on infection prevention, analyzing infection data to assess effectiveness of actions, and pursuing the condition of zero infections in all healthcare settings. The CIC® certification is held by over 8,000 infection prevention and control professionals working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, ambulatory care centers, and other healthcare settings throughout the world.
April
Twelve staff and faculty received a College of Nursing 2021 Excellence Award! These individuals continually go above and beyond, contributing to the CON’s reputation for excellence. Staff Excellence Award: Hollie Fuhrmann, Kristen Mahoney, Madeline Marshall, Erin Meyer, Carrie Radmall, and Jacqueline Telonidis
Shout out to CON Simulation Center team members Moe Arnes, Debbie Boulter, Sherri Kerney, Nathan Wichlacz, and Dr. Maddie Lassche for offering supplemental learning opportunities to students! With little notice, and outside regular hours, the team worked with students and Dr. Ann Butt to organize a lab session for a College Student Council Mentoring Committee event. Students requested to pair second and fourth semester pre-licensure students with first semester students so they could practice for their final physical assessment objective structured clinical examination, and receive peer feedback.
November
BSN Honors Student Danielle Gambino presented a poster titled It’s Me, Us, and the Quality of Our Future: Motivations of Childbearing Women Enrolled in the National DPP at the Diabetes and Metabolism Research Center’s 2021 Diabetes and Metabolism Virtual Research Recharge event, and was a poster competition winner. Danielle’s faculty mentors are Drs. Michelle Litchman and Sara Simonsen.
At its annual induction ceremony, the Gamma Rho Chapter of Sigma students were inducted into Sigma.
Baccalaureate Program Inductees:
- Kody Adock
- Cierra Allan
- Jennifer Benning
- Kristopher Carlile
- Tessa Casaril
- Nestor Chavez
- Martin Chow
- Haley Cleary
- Eliana Crabtree
- Mark Davenport
- Gabriela Dedrickson
- Diane Foster
- Tyler Gibson
- Alexandria Hitchcock
- Jadea Hopes
- Ying Huang
- Kaycee Hymas
- Grace Johnson
- Jocelyn Jones
- Paul Lehmann
- Rebecca Lloyd
- Jessica Lyans
- Grace Lynch
- Casey McFarland
- Kyoungsook Park
- Madelyn Parker
- Benjamin Paxman
- Mark Pincock
- Natalie Renaud
- Tara Reynolds
- Kevin Smidt
- Kari Stoddard
- Dezmond Swain
- Halle Thompson
- Linsey Uffens
- Thalyne Valencia
- Kari Weiss
- Charlotte Welch
- Nikole Williams
- Erika Youngdahl
Master’s Program Inductee:
- Brooke Liston
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Inductees:
- Emily Hansen
- Shelbie Pope
- Taylor Rae Remer
- Kasindra Van Meter
- Sarah Varner
- Katrina Very
- Charise Warren
College of Nursing faculty, post-doctoral fellows, students, and alumni presented at the 2021 Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses annual conference, which was held virtually on October 28-30, 2021.
Baccalaureate student Kylie Bethards presented her honors thesis:
- Bethards K, Ameringer S, Erickson, J, Macpherson CF, Stegenga K, Linder L. Analysis of AYA cancer patient priority symptoms using text mining software.
PhD student Sarah Wawrzynski presented preliminary results of her dissertation:
- Wawrzynski SE, Linder L, Alderfer MA, Kvistad W, Reblin M, Guo J-W, Cloyes KG. Social support and social networks among siblings of children with cancer. Sarah’s poster won 2nd place overall.
September
Sara Bybee successfully defended her dissertation titled Posttraumatic Growth among Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) and Non-SGM Couples Coping with Cancer: A Convergent Mixed Methods Design. The members of her committee were Drs. Lee Ellington (Chair), Kristin Cloyes, Kathi Mooney, Kathie Supiano, and Brian Baucom.
May
Congratulations to all College of Nursing graduates who earned Baccalaureate, Master’s of Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, or Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Nursing, or Master’s of Science degrees in Gerontology. We celebrate your academic accomplishments, and look forward to hearing about your contributions as you do your part to foster a culture of health, improve the health of individuals, families, and communities, and reduce health disparities.
April
Adonica Ihilani Kauwe Tuitama, dual PhD-DNP student, was selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2021 Elizabeth Fuhriman Gardner Prize for the Outstanding Woman Student in the Health Sciences. Family and friends established the Gardner Prize in memory of Mrs. Gardner. As First Lady of the University of Utah from 1973 to 1983, Mrs. Gardner contributed significantly to the advancement of the University and its mission. She was a strong advocate for education, especially for women. The award includes a cash prize, crystal memento, and framed certificate.
Undergraduate students and their faculty mentors presented their research at the 2021 Virtual Undergraduate Research Symposium.
- Kylie Bethards: Analysis of AYA Cancer Patient Priority Symptoms Through Text Mining Software (Mentor: Dr. Lauri Linder)
- Julianne Kimmel: Text Analysis of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults (Mentor: Dr. Jia-Wen Guo)
- Melina Lewis: Pain Reports from Children with Cancer Through Mobile App, Color Me Healthy (Mentor: Dr. Lauri Linder)
- Jenna Russo: Do Reproductive-age Women Increase their Physical Activity Levels in the First Four Weeks of the Diabetes Prevention Program? (Mentor: Dr. Sara Simonsen)
- Emily Topham: Caregiver Inclusion in IDEAL Discharge Teaching: Implications for Transitions from Hospital to Home (Mentor: Dr. Andrea Wallace)
- Nellie Webb: Barriers & Parent Attitudes Regarding HPV Vaccination in the Rural Mountain West (Mentor: Dr. Deanna Kepka)
March
During calendar year 2020, 95% of pre-licensure graduates passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), exceeding the national average of 90.3%. Kudos to our baccalaureate program leaders and all faculty who teach pre-licensure students, and to our graduates for achieving this impressive result.
How many of you can relate? Nurses are notorious for not taking breaks. For her DNP project, student Katrina Emery began the “Restorative Break Initiative” to help nurses get the breaks they deserve, and help build resiliency and avoid burnout. To learn more, read her article titled Take a Break! The Case for Prioritizing Rest Breaks, which she wrote for U Health’s Accelerate. Dr. Kate Doyon is Katrina’s project chair.
Nursing students Alexis Cruz, Chelsea DeWitt, Jadea Hopes, Taylor Keyes, Julianne Kimmel, Casey McFarland, Sydney Sheffield, Kari Stoddard, and Shae Wright volunteered to administer the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to approximately 100 American Indians or Alaska Natives who live in the Salt Lake Valley area. FOX 13 covered the story: U of U nursing students get hands-on experience fighting COVID-19 at Urban Indian Center.
Kylie Bethard received the Outstanding Undergraduate Researcher Award. Her research regarding priority symptoms for adolescents and young adults with cancer enhanced understanding of the heuristics that a vulnerable patient group uses in relation to their symptoms. She also was competitively selected to present a poster at the 2021 Research on Capitol Hill event. Dr. Lauri Linder is Kylie’s faculty mentor.
February
Undergraduate Honors Students presented their research at the virtual Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research.
- Julianne Kimmel (2nd semester pre-licensure track; Mentor: Dr. Jia-Wen Guo): Text Analysis of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults.
- Kylie Bethards (1st semester pre-licensure track; Mentor: Dr. Lauri Linder): Analysis of AYA Cancer Patient Priority Symptoms Through Text Mining Software.
- In addition, Kylie was one of 25 undergraduate students who was competitively selected to present her research at the Research on Capitol Hill event.
Congratulations to Francine B. Jensen who successfully defended her dissertation titled Meeting End-of-Life Needs: Hospice Delivery for People with Unstable Housing. The members of her committee were Drs. Kristin Cloyes (Chair), Kathie Supiano, Lee Ellington, Gail Towsley, and Stephen Jones. You can view Francine’s defense at U Mediaspace: College of Nursing PhD Dissertation Defenses.
January
College of Nursing faculty, post-doctoral fellows, students, and alumni presented at the 2021 Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses annual conference, which was held virtually on October 28-30, 2021.
Baccalaureate student Kylie Bethards presented her honors thesis:
- Bethards K, Ameringer S, Erickson, J, Macpherson CF, Stegenga K, Linder L. Analysis of AYA cancer patient priority symptoms using text mining software.
Alumna Kaitlyn Fox presented her undergraduate research project, conducted in collaboration with former post-doctoral fellow, Dr. Katherine Bernier Carney:
- Fox K, Carney KB, Linder L. Qualitative content analysis of daily journaling by children with cancer using a game-based app.
PhD student Sarah Wawrzynski presented preliminary results of her dissertation:
- Wawrzynski SE, Linder L, Alderfer MA, Kvistad W, Reblin M, Guo J-W, Cloyes KG. Social support and social networks among siblings of children with cancer. Sarah’s poster won 2nd place overall.
December
Dr. Marla De Jong presented Collaborative Care for Children at the Pediatric Grand Rounds 2nd Annual Intertwined Collaboration Lecture.
Dr. Echo Warner delivered an oral presentation titled Patient and Caregiver Use of Social Media for Cancer Information and Solutions to Combat Misinformation at the 4th Global Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Congress, the premier adolescent and young adult oncology conference worldwide.
Dr. Linda Edelman moderated the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science (CANS) webinar titled Pandemic Challenges & Pivots for Research. Hosted by the CANS Mid-Career Special Interest Group, the interactive discussion reviewed common challenges that researchers encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic, lessons learned, and possible opportunities for the future. Speakers presented the difficulties and new approaches to their research as a result of the pandemic.
Dr. Caroline Stephens, Lois Evans, and Kathleen Buckwalter presented Geropsychiatric Nursing Collaborative: History, Progress and Promises at the Gerontological Psych Special Interest Group meeting, which was part of the 2021 NHCGNE "Virtual" Leadership Conference.
Dr. Jenny Alderden and Glenna Brewster presented Social Media at the 2021 NHCGNE "Virtual" Leadership Conference.
Undergraduate students and their faculty mentors presented their research at the Virtual 2021 Fall Symposium.
- Nestor Chavez: An Analysis of Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and Resilience in Prelicensure Nursing Students During a Global Pandemic (Mentor: Dr. Paula Meek).
- Danielle Gambino: Motivations to Participate in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Among Overweight and Obese Women Planning Pregnancy (Mentor: Dr. Sara Simonsen)
November
Dr. Valerie Flattes delivered a presentation titled Equitable and Inclusive Care in Geriatrics for the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) Utah Geriatric Education Consortium (UGEC) webinar series that focuses on the 4Ms of the age-friendly health systems: mobility, medications, mentation, and what matters. The webinars help community providers gain the expertise required to provide needed care and services to older adults.
Dr. Shinduk Lee delivered a research talk titled Outpatient Service Utilization Among Older Patients with Diabetes in Texas Amid the COVID-19 at the Diabetes and Metabolism Research Center’s 2021 Diabetes and Metabolism Virtual Research Recharge event.
Dr. Michelle Litchman delivered a presentation titled Could social and family networks improve our health? at the Advances in Research - How U of U Health is leading the transformation of medicine event. Her research examines how peer influence and family dynamics influence how people manage their diabetes, and how technology might help.
Drs. Jackie Eaton and Katarina Felsted also presented at the Gerontological Society of America 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting, which took place virtually on November 10-13, 2021.
- Eaton J. Enhancing Active Engagement for Dementia Caregivers: A Synthesis of Interventions.
- Eaton J. A Decade of Teaching the Course, Aging & the Arts: Reflecting on Opportunities and Challenges.
- Felsted KF. Generating Community Engaged Learning in Gerontology Courses During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
- Felsted KF, Eaton J. Implementing Age-Friendly University Principles: Institutional Supports, Barriers, and Outcomes. Dr. Katarina Felsted chaired the Cultivating More Age-Friendly Campuses session, during which she and Dr. Eaton delivered this presentation.
Dr. Scott Christensen co-authored the abstract Frontline Nurse Leader Development Program: Keys to Success, which will be presented on November 17, 2021 at the Vizient Connections Summit 2021.
Dr. Schola Matovu participated in the Women in Health, Medicine, and Science (WiHMS) MEDiversity Week edition of their monthly webinars. The mission of MEDiversity Week is to highlight equity, diversity, and inclusion work within U Health, while addressing health care disparities and offering solutions for the training of current and future providers. Events focused on intersectionality in health education and care, including research and practice presentations regarding access to care, and workshops and discussions on how to continually advocate for equity and inclusion in our daily personal and professional lives.
Dr. Kathie Supiano presented the keynote address titled “Caring for Those Caring for Suicide Loss Survivors” at the Nevada Suicide Prevention conference.
Faculty will present virtually at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Diversity Symposium on November 9-10, 2021.
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead will facilitate a podium abstract session regarding inclusivity and equity in curriculum review and assessment, during which Catherine Mann will present Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI): Utilizing Program Outcomes and the Revised ACCN Essentials to Assess and Revise Nursing Curricula.
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead will facilitate a podium abstract session regarding cultural intelligence: from the C-Suite to the classroom, during which Elizabeth Wyckoff will present Is it Safe to be Me? A Case Study Examining the Transgender Experience in Nursing School and Early Employment.
- Drs. Rebecca Wilson, Nancy Allen, and Ana Sanchez-Birkhead will present a poster titled Design Justice Approach to Inclusive Syllabi.
- Dr. Debra Penney will present a poster titled The Ethics of Short-term Global Health Projects.
The CON will be strongly represented at the Gerontological Society of America 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting, which takes place virtually on November 10-13, 2021.
- National Association for Geriatric Education – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workgroup – Symposium. Severance JJ, Bennett K, Edelman L, Gordon B, Long M, Alexander C, Lee JA, Goroncy A, Lindberg BW. Building Momentum for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Geriatrics and Gerontology Education.
- Symposium abstract: Bennett K, Edelman LS, Gordon B, Coroncy A, Rosich R, Severance JJ. Answering the Call for Diversity and Racial Equity: The National Association for Geriatric Education.
- Utah Geriatric Education Consortium Symposium. Edelman LS, Farrell T, Towsley GL, Dassel KB, Andersen T, Thomas-Hebdon MC. Going Virtual When the Doors Close: Addressing Geriatric Workforce Training Needs During a Pandemic.
- Symposium abstracts:
- Towsley GL, Telonidis J, Brunker C, Edelman LS. Virtual Transitions and Opportunities in LTSS Education Post-Pandemic.
- Dassel KB, Telonidis J, Witt C, Edelman LS. Pivoting Community-Based Educational Programming for Formal and Informal Caregivers During COVID.
- Andersen T, Edelman LS. Adapting a Project-Based Aging Laboratory During a Pandemic.
- Thomas-Hebdon MC, Wilson C, Bernier-Carney C, Telonidis J, Chase-Cantarini S. IPE in LTC Immersion Experience: Creating a Bridge to Careers in Long-Term Care.
- Presentations
- Beynon C, Supiano K, Siegel E, Edelman L, Madden C, Hart S. Undergirding CNAs in LTC: The Experience of Collaborative LN-CNA Caregiving Pairs.
- Neller SA, Towsley GL, McFarland MM. Exploring the Concept of the Ethical Will as a Way to Leave a Legacy of Values: A Scoping Review.
- Bybee S, Cloyes KG, Ellington L, Baucom B, Supiano KP, Mooney K. Recruiting and Conducting Online Dyadic Semi-Structured Interviews With LGBTQ+ Couples Facing Advanced Cancer.
- Presentation & Poster
- Cloyes KG, Jones M, Vega M, Thomas-Hebdon MC, Thompson C, Rosenkranz SJ, Reblin M, Ellington L. The Burden of Having to Wonder: Minority Stress Experiences of LGBTQ+ Hospice Family Caregivers.
- Posters:
- Okang EN, Aaron S, Supiano KP, Osman A. Aging Services Workers in the Pandemic: Voiced Experience of Senior Center Staff & Case Workers.
- Dassel K, Solkowski L, Aruscavage N, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Supiano K, Utz R, Iacob E. Creation of a Latin-American Dementia Advance Care Planning Guide.
- Towsley GL, Tay DL, Edelman LS. Goals of Care Conversations in Nursing Home and Assisted Living Care Plan Meetings.
- Hiatt SO, Guo J-W, Ellington L, Tay DL. Exploring Collaboration Enjoyment and Decisional Uncertainty: Actor-Partner Effects in Advanced Care Planning.
- Reblin M, Iacob E, Tay DL, Jones M, Cloyes KG, Beck A, Mooney K, Ellington L. Patient and Caregiver Symptom Trajectory: The Last 2 Months of Cancer Home Hospice.
- Thomas-Hebdon MC, Xu J, Tay DL, Reblin M, Cloyes KG, Ellington L. Hospice Caregiver Burden and Work Productivity: An Exploratory Analysis.
- Panel:
- Dassel K. Utah Geriatric Education Consortium: Caregiver Workforce Development during COVID-19. Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education panel.
Several faculty presented at the AMIA (American Medical Informatics Association) 2021 Annual Symposium.
- Honorable Mention for Best Paper Award, AMIA Year in Review: Taber P, Radloff C, Del Fiol G, Staes C, Kawamoto K. New standards for clinical decision support: A survey of the state of implementation. Yearb Med Inform. 2021;30(01):159-171. DOI 10.1055/s-0041-1726502
- Posters:
- Alderden J, Dimas J, Krikov S, Wilson A, Yap T. Machine Learning for Predicting Hospital Acquired Pressure Injuries in ICU Patients: From Explainable AI to Ensemble Super Learners.
- Guo J-W, Sward K, Lyons A, Beck S, Donaldson G, Chapman W, Frey L. Impact of Comorbidity Profiles on Pain Trajectories in Breast Cancer Patients by Using Electronic Health Record Data
- Oral Presentation:
- Staes C. This is a Stakeout: Approaches for Pandemic Surveillance.
- Panels:
- Heermann Langford L, Leftwich R, McClay J. Clinicians on FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources).
- Morgan KL, Staes CJ, Eilbeck K, Borbolla DA. Four Weddings and No Funeral: Integrating Cross-Disciplinary Informatics Training at the University of Utah.
College of Nursing faculty, post-doctoral fellows, students, and alumni presented at the 2021 Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses annual conference, which was held virtually on October 28-30, 2021.
Alumna Kaitlyn Fox presented her undergraduate research project, conducted in collaboration with former post-doctoral fellow, Dr. Katherine Bernier Carney:
- Fox K, Carney KB, Linder L. Qualitative content analysis of daily journaling by children with cancer using a game-based app.
Dr. Lauri Linder, adjunct faculty member Dr. Andy Wilson, and their team members from Primary Children’s Hospital presented their ongoing clinical scholarship:
- Linder L, Gerdy C, Jo Y, Stark C, Wilson A. Changes in CLABSI rates following implementation of antibacterial prophylaxis for children and adolescents with high-risk hematologic malignancies.
October
Dr. Katarina Felsted co-hosted the Gerontological Society of America’s Emerging Scholar and Professional Organization’s Informal Chat, and presented Zoom Fatigue? Teaching through Trauma? An Informal Chat on Reintegration into the Classroom. She and co-host Dr. Danielle Waldron discussed how to reintegrate into the classroom after trauma, loss, and the many challenges of the past 18 months; and how to make the current school year an effective learning experience for students and faculty.
The Health Sciences Strategy Kickoff Retreat for 2022 Directed Steps was held on October 22, 2021. Dr. Valerie Flattes presented the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Pillar during the opening session. Dr. Mollie Cummins facilitated the Discovery breakout session, and Dr. Rebecca Wilson facilitated the Education breakout session.
Dr. Youjeong Kang presented The Utility of Nursing Notes Versus Discharge Summaries among Patients with Heart Failure to Predict 30-Day Rehospitalization: A Pilot Study at the virtual Greater Plains Collaborative 2021 Learning Engagement Conference.
Dr. Lauri Linder and colleagues presented two peer-reviewed papers – Single-Institution Practice-Based Evidence Project Using Targeted Interventions to Reduce Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Children with Cancer and Those Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant, and Aromatherapy in the Pediatric Oncology Population – at the Virtual International Society of Pediatric Oncology Annual Congress.
Dr. Lauri Linder was invited to present Symptom Assessment and Management for Adolescent and Young Adult Patients at the Virtual International Society of Pediatric Oncology Annual Congress, Nursing and Supportive Care Joint Education Day: Supporting Adolescent and Young Adults with Cancer.
Dr. Lauri Linder was invited to present Home Monitoring Using Telemedicine and Teleconsultation during The Use of Technology in Children’s Palliative Care webinar. Fondazione Maruzza, which is based in Rome, Italy, hosted the webinar.
Dr. Michelle Litchman was a diaTribe Musings panelist alongside industry leaders in diabetes care. The panel was titled Personalizing Your Diabetes Toolkit: New Solutions to Persistent Problems. Afterwards, the diaTribe founder communicated, “Michelle (!!) – for all the patients to feel, at least for an hour, like we are YOUR patient – very cool. So many of your points helped me remember the power of the peers – such an important ongoing message.”
Dr. Echo Warner and colleagues presented posters at the American Association for Cancer Research Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved.
- Warner EL, Raber M, Green A, Smith K, Traslavina Jimenez J, Badger T. An Examination of Online Experiences among Young Adult Cancer Patients and Caregivers Reveals the Pervasiveness and Influence of Diet and Supplement-Related Misinformation.
- Warner EL, Rainbow J, Sikorskii A, Segrin C, Badger T. Financial Hardship Associations with Presenteeism and Absenteeism among Survivors and Informal Caregivers during Cancer Treatment.
- Smith K, Green A, Traslavina Jimenez J, Badger T, Warner EL. General Social Media Use amongst Young Adult Cancer Patients and Caregivers.
- Traslavina Jimenez J, Smith K, Green A, Badger T, Sikorskii A, Segrin C, Crane T, Warner EL. Improving Informal Caregivers and Cancer Survivors’ Psychological Distress, Symptom Management and Health Care Use Follow-Up Interviews.
- Green A, Smith K, Traslavina Jimenez J, Raber M, Badger T, Warner EL. Online Cancer Misinformation Interventions for Young Adult Cancer Patients and Caregivers.
Dr. Kristin Cloyes presented an invited Rapid Fire Talk titled Promoting Effective and Equitable Communication and Care with LGBTQ+ Home Hospice Patients and Caregivers: Considerations for Practice, Education, and Research at the 2nd Annual U.S. Celebration of World Hospice & Palliative Care Day: A Virtual Coming Together event that Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center sponsored.
Drs. Rumei Yang, Yun Jiang, and Kristin Cloyes will present an oral abstract titled The Relationship Between E-Communication and Self-Rated Health among Sexual Minority Individuals: The Role of Self-Efficacy at the 2021 International Conference on Communication in Healthcare. The abstract was selected as one of nine finalists for the Oral Abstract Award. The winner will be announced after the conference concludes on October 20, 2021.
Dr. Zoe Robbins presented a concurrent session titled A Telemental Health Journey – What I found at the Intersection of Provider, Educator, Researcher and Advocate at the Virtual American Psychiatric Nurses Association 35th Annual Conference.
Dr. Michelle Litchman and other highly-regarded leaders in insulin delivery, glucose monitoring, predictive models, and coaching support will offer new answers to old questions during a panel discussion titled Personalizing Your Diabetes Toolkit: New Solutions to Persistent Problems on October 19, 2021 from 3:15-5:15 PM MDT.
Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Amy Newman, Dr. Katherine Carney, Sarah Wawrzynski, and Dr. Roger Altizer presented Facilitating Diversity in Recruitment of Children as Co-Designers of a Symptom Assessment App in the Hospital Setting at the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science 2021 Advanced Methods Conference.
Dr. Michelle Litchman is a panelist for the American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association Know Diabetes By Heart virtual salon titled Beyond Awareness: How Do We Reverse Compounded Disparities in Diabetes and Heart Disease? Register for the October 5, 2021 event here.
September
Dr. Michelle Litchman presented Leveraging Technology to Support Underserved Populations with Diabetes at the University of Colorado Diabetes Research Center Seminar Series.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Kieran Cooley, Jennifer Rioux, and Niki Munk delivered a podium presentation titled Scoping Review of Integrative Health in Under-resourced Populations: Quantitative Results at the Integrative Medicine for the Underserved (IM4US) Online Annual Conference. The interdisciplinary team included a Naturopath, a Massage Therapist, and an Ayurvedic Physician.
Several faculty members presented at the Academy of Health Science Educators 8th Annual Education Symposium.
- Welcoming remarks – Dr. Rebecca Wilson
- ePosters
- Drs. Jackie Eaton and Katarina Friberg Felsted – Embodying Age Friendly University Principles: Promoting Lifelong Learning through HB60.
- Cecilia Mary Peterson and Dr. Eli Iacob – Using IPAS 2.0 to Assess Interprofessional Attitudes Across Professions
- TED Talks
- Dr. Katherine Ward – Bringing Your Professional Career into Focus: A Guide for New Hires on the Career-Line in Nursing.
- Dr. Erin Cole – Turning the Tables: Seeking Student Feedback to Improve Teaching, Learning, and Engagement
- Workshop
- Dr. Sheila Deyette – Engendering Genuine Presence and Empathic Practice Among Graduate Student Practitioners in Virtual Classrooms
Dr. Youjeong Kang, Patrick Galyean, Josef Stehlik, Serena Yang, Susan Zickmund, and Cary Reid presented a virtual poster titled Clinicians’ Practices in Pain Assessment and Management for Elderly with Heart Failure at the Heart Failure Society of America Annual Scientific Meeting 2021.
Dr. Youjeong Kang, Emma Baldry, Josef Stehlik, Sharon Ugolini, and Dr. Kathi Mooney presented a virtual poster titled Symptoms Used In Heart Failure Research and Reviewed by Patients and Clinicians at the Heart Failure Society of America Annual Scientific Meeting 2021.
Dr. Zoe Robbins was a guest speaker on an Idaho Primary Care Association sponsored webinar titled Telehealth – New Challenges with Building Trust and Rapport.
Dr. Linda Edelman will facilitate a webinar titled Fostering Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion in Geriatrics: Two Stories of Change. Dr. Anna Goroncy will present An Introduction to Anti-racism and Terminology, and Monica Long and Barbara Gordon will present Examples of Institutional Change and Community Impact. Click here to register for the webinar, which is scheduled for September 16, 2021 at 2 PM MDT.
August
Christopher Stucky, Dean Marla De Jong, and Yuliang Liu presented a virtual poster titled Surgical Team Performance: The Impact of Familiarity and Team Size in Military Surgical Teams at the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses Virtual Global Surgical Conference & Expo. Won first place for research posters.
Christopher Stucky, Dean Marla De Jong, and Felichism Kabo presented a virtual poster titled The Paradox of Network Inequality: Differential Impacts of Status and Influence on Surgical Team Communication at the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses Virtual Global Surgical Conference & Expo. Won second place for research posters.
Faculty, staff, a post-doctoral fellow, and PhD students presented at the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists Virtual Conference.
- Walker HR, Litchman ML. "I know you didn’t ask for this:" Making Sense of Provider Communication During Diabetes Burnout.
- Porter ME, Litchman ML, Grigorian EG, Blanchette JE, Allen NA. Who Needs Diabetes Education? A Qualitative Analysis of Emerging Adults with Type 1 Diabetes. Won the conference research abstract award.
- Allen NA, Grigorian EG, Iacob E, Mansfield K, Berg CA, Litchman ML. RT-CGM Data Sharing in Older Adults: A Qualitative Study.
- Greenwood DA, Litchman ML, Isaacs D, Blanchette JE, Dickenson JK, Hughes A, Colicchio VD, Ye J, Yehl K, Todd A, Peeples MM. A New Taxonomy for Technology-Enabled Diabetes Self-Management Interventions: Results of an Umbrella Review.
Dr. Katarina Felsted was an invited speaker at “Making the Case for Age Inclusivity,” the inaugural session of the Gerontological Society of America’s four-part "Campus Conversations: Advancing Age Inclusivity in Higher Education." Each session features case studies and conversation with those who are also working to further age-inclusive principles on their campuses.
Drs. Hailey Haffey and Larry Garrett will present a Fireside Chat Presentation titled Voices from the Community: Listening and Learning from those with Memory-related Conditions and their Families for the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium on August 5, 2021.
June
Savannah Manwill presented about the College of Nursing’s holistic review of applications process during the Holistic Admissions Implementation Impact Panel I session at the 2021 American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Advancing Nursing Workforce Diversity Impact Summit.
Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead presented her capstone project regarding the experiences of racially and ethnically diverse nursing students during Creating Inclusive Learning Environments Panel II session at the 2021 AACN Advancing Nursing Workforce Diversity Impact Summit.
Dr. Michelle Litchman was an invited panelist at the National Academy of Medicine's Science and Technology for Healthy Longevity conference. Her panel session topics were: “Implementing Advances in Science and Technology to Enable Healthy Longevity,” and “Opportunities and Gaps in Science & Technology.”
Poster Presentations:
- Savannah Manwill, Madeline Marshall, Kristen Mahoney, Saifon Phengphoo, and Dr. Connie Madden participated in theAACN Health Resources & Services Administration Grantee Poster Showcase at the 2021 AACN Advancing Nursing Workforce Diversity Impact Summit. Their poster was titled Area of Impact: Holistic Admission Revision Process.
- Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead participated in theAACN Diversity Leadership Institute Capstone Poster Showcase at the 2021 AACN Advancing Nursing Workforce Diversity Impact Summit. Her poster was titled Taking the Pulse: Experiences of Racially/Ethnically Diverse Nursing Students in a College of Nursing.
During the Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention (NEPQR) Annual Retreat on June 14-23, 2021, Drs. Linda Edelman, Sue Chase-Cantarini, Brenda Luther, and Larry Garrett will present Overview of Nurse-Led Primary Care Initiatives. Brenda Luther will facilitate the webinars on June 21 and 23, 2021.
Poster Presentation: Tjia J, Clayton M, Smith J, Wood O, Hurley SL, Puerto G, Duodu V, DeSanto-Madeya S. Family Caregiver Burden of Medication Administration for Older Adults Admitted to Home Hospice. Gerontological Society of America 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting. November 2021.
The CON was well-represented at the University of Utah Health Inflammation, Immunology, & Infectious Diseases (3i) COVID-19 Symposium.
- Impacts Across Populations Session: Dr. Kristen Cloyes presented Cancer, Caregiving, and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Exploring Impact on Social Support Networks and Interactions, Stress, and Mental Health of Cancer Survivors and their Caregivers.
- Mental Health & The Brain Session: Kelly Mansfield presented Comparing Audio Diaries of Cancer Survivors and their Support Person During COVID-19.
Poster Session:
- Drs. Kara Dassel, Gail Towsley, Rebecca Utz, and Lee Ellington presented Caregiving and Advance Care
- Dr. Stacie Ireland, Dr. Jennifer Hamilton, and Baylie Miller presented Identifying Barriers and Motivators to Spirometry in Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis.
- Annual Well-being and Resilience Virtual Poster Fair will take place virtually June 8, 2021.
- Dr. Scott Christensen, Denise Crismon, Shirin Hiatt, and Kelly Mansfield will present The Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Recent Nursing Graduates’ Wellness.
- Drs. Cheryl Armstrong and Jennifer Macali will present I’ve Got an Idea! Do IDEA Boards Facilitate Completion of Wellness Activities?
Dr. Deb Penney presented Ethical Challenges in Providing Equitable Short-term Global Health Projects at the Global Summit on Nursing Care and Midwifery.
The Germany based ABZ Institut für Aus- und Weiterbildung in Chinesischer Medizin hosted the Covid-19 and Chinese Medicine International Online Symposium, and invited Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson to participate in a panel and give a one-hour talk on the SEARCH Study: Seattle-Based East Asian Medicine R esearch of Chinese Herbs for Symptoms Possibly Related to COVID-19. Lisa discussed the complexity-informed aspects of the study design, and provided a vision for moving complexity-designed research forward. Nearly 1,000 people from around the world attended the conference.
May
Dr. Josh Wall was the keynote speaker at the 2021 Critical Care Transport Medicine Conference. Based on his qualitative research, his presentation Talking about patient death: The elephant in the room addressed how patient death impacts transport providers, and offered recommendations for how transport providers can mitigate the negative effects that death can have on the multidisciplinary clinical team.
Dr. Kathi Mooney, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Christina Wilson, Dr. Gary Donaldson, Jennifer Lloyd, Heidi Nielson, and John Ward will present an oral presentation titled Randomized Trial of Remote Cancer Symptom Monitoring during COVID-19: Impact on Symptoms, QoL, and Unplanned Health Care Utilization at the Virtual 2021 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. Christina Echeverria, Kim Brown, and Samantha May were key members of research implementation team.
Dr. Linda Edelman, Catherine Witt, Dr. Gail Towsley, Sarah Woolsey, Matt Hansen, Allie Spangler, and Jorie Butler presented Long-term Services and Support Staff Covid-19 Vaccine Hesitancy at the American Geriatrics Society 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting.
Dr. Catherine Staes presented Envisioning the Future on FHIR at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sponsored Data Modernization workshop aimed to help jurisdictions across the US achieve scalable and sustainable information infrastructure and build workforce capacity. Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) is a standard that enables apps to work in the healthcare environment, and be better leveraged to support communication between clinical and public health settings.
Jami Baayd, Mikelle Lloyd, Gabriela Garcia, and Dr. Susanna Cohen – members of the LIFT Simulation Design Lab - presented Using Simulation Training to Improve the Quality of Emergency Birth Transfers in Utah at the 2021 Utah Public Health Association Virtual Conference.
Dr. Lauri Linder presented Symptom Assessment for Children and Adolescents Receiving Cancer Treatment at the Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group Supportive and Palliative Care Education Day. The Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group is a leading children’s cancer charity, and the United Kingdom and Ireland’s professional association for those involved in the treatment and care of children with cancer.
Dr. Kathie Supiano, Dr. Siobhan Aaron, and Esther Okang will present a webinar for Social Work Hospice & Palliative Care Network on May 27, 2021. Their presentation Supporting Frontline Community Health Workerswill address the lived experiences of front-line community health workers, and model of care and strategies to meet the psychological support needs of community health workers.
Panel, Podium, Round Table, and Forum Presentations at the American College of Nurse-Midwives 66th Annual Meeting & Exhibition. Held virtually on May 23-25, 2021, this year’s conference theme is “Dismantling Racism in Midwifery: Acknowledging the Past and Building a Better Future.”
- Utilizing ACNM Global Midwifery Competencies to Practice Anti-Racism While Working in Global Midwifery. Barbara Floyd, Nola Holness, Dr. Deb Penney (panel presentation)
- Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Treatment and Monitoring with IV Iron. Dr. Jessica Ellis, Christina Elmore (podium presentation)
- Centering BIPOC Conversations and Practices in Nursing and Midwifery Training Programs. Susan Dearden, Dr. Uma Dorn, Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Kritzia Merced, Paola Sepulveda (round table)
- Depression as a Contradiction to the American Dream: Addressing Barriers. Susan Dearden, Dr. Uma Dorn, Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Kritzia Merced, Paola Sepulveda (round table)
- Anxiety Symptoms and Severity Among Perinatal Women Screened for Depression with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Susan Dearden, Dr. Eli Iacob, Dr. Gwen Latendresse, Ryoko Pentecost, Dr. Sara Simonsen (research forum)
- Cherie Brunker, Dr. Linda Edelman, Jacqueline Telonidis, Catherine Witt, and Jorie Butler presented a poster titled Bridging the Age-Friendly Health System Knowledge Gaps through ECHO at the American Geriatrics Society 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting.
- Jennifer Tjia, Dr. Mardie Clayton, J Smith, Geraldine Puerto, Vennesa Duodu, and Susan DeSanto -Madeya will present a virtual poster titled Medication Regimen Complexity among Older Adults Admitted to Home Hospice at the 37th International Conference on Pharmacoepidemiology and Therapeutic Risk Management in August 2021.
Poster Presentations at the American College of Nurse-Midwives 66th Annual Meeting & Exhibition. Held virtually on May 23-25, 2021, this year’s conference theme is “Dismantling Racism in Midwifery: Acknowledging the Past and Building a Better Future.”
- Changes to Planned Birth Location due to COVID-19. Dr. Jessica Ellis.
- An Exploratory Prospective Study of Water Birth at UUMC. Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Gwen Latendresse.
- Influences of Maternal Obesity on Induction of Labor Requiring Cervical Ripening. Dr. Jessica Ellis.
- Interprofessional Simulation Training to Improve Out-of-Hospital Birth Transfers. Jami Baayd, Dr. Susanna Cohen.
- Identifying and Addressing Racial Bias in Maternal Health: Piloting a Virtual Training for Midwives. Dr. Susanna Cohen, Dr. Jeelan Fall.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) invited Dr. Keanna Kepka to be a discussant at its Annual Meeting in June 2021. Speaking at the session titled Virally Induced Cancers: Epidemiology and Biomarker-Guided Care, and chaired by Dr. Steven Francis Powell, she will present Virus Prevention and Early Diagnosis: Making the Case for Reduced Cancer Risk?
Kaila Christini, Dr. Deanna Kepka, A Goldsmith, Kathryn Szczotka, J Duncan, Jacob Lipscomb, J Webb, Hannah Mclaughlin, and K Harris presented a poster titled Geographic Disparities among Gynecological Oncology Patients at the Sex, Gender and Women’s Health Across the Lifespan 2021 Virtual Symposium. The Center of Excellence in Women’s Health and the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library at the University of Utah sponsored the symposium.
Kaila Christini, A Chai, Anne Kirchhoff, A Waters, S Mann, Jacob Lipscomb, Mia Hashibe, and Dr. Deanna Kepka presented a data blitz oral poster presentation tilted COVID-19 Vaccination Intent Relates to HPV Vaccination Receipt at the Sex, Gender and Women’s Health Across the Lifespan 2021 Virtual Symposium.
College of Nursing faculty presented at Intermountain Healthcare’s 2021 Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Symposium on April 30. Dr. Julie Gee and Dawn Bowker presented Development of a Culturally Relevant Instrument for Lakota Women on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Dr. Lauri Linder presented Using mHealth to Promote Children’s Health Equity.
To celebrate Nurses Month, the Utah Nurses Association and the Utah Nurses Foundation are offering a free virtual program of renewal for all Utah nurses and student nurses. Dr. Michael Olpin, Dr. Perry Gee, and Robin Williamson will speak about stress reduction and management, resilience tools and strategies, and trauma informed care at the 2021 Spring Virtual Conference Healing the Healers: A Special Program for Utah Nurses on May 14, 2021. To register for program, click here.
Dr. Sara Simonsen was invited to present to the Educational Resource Development Council, a group comprised of influential and philanthropic women within our community who are interested in learning about and promoting the latest advances and techniques in fields of health as they relate to University of Utah Health. Sara and Dr. Michelle Debbink co-presented “Optimizing Maternal Health for All Women in Utah.”
Dr. Sara Simonsen was an invited panelist for a national Community Engagement Studio Virtual Training Summit, hosted by Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Meharry Medical College, University of Utah Health, and the Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research.
April
Dr. Nancy Allen and MJ Tran held a successful DNP E-Poster Presentation session for 100 students and their 40 faculty chairs, content experts, and session moderators. The CON SYSTECH team adeptly organized nine virtual rooms to accommodate each specialty track within the DNP program, arranged a YouTube live feed so that students’ family members and friends could view the presentations, and recorded presentations. Click on the links below to view the presentations.
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Specialty Track
- Nurse-Midwifery and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Tracks
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialty Track Part I, Part II, and Part III
- MS-DNP: Organizational Leadership and Direct Care Specialty Tracks Part I and Part II
- Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty Track
- Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Part I, Part II
During a Virtual Celebration that followed, Janzell Tutor welcomed the students to the CON Alumni Association, summarized alumni events, and encouraged students to remain engaged with the CON. To congratulate students and pay tribute to students and faculty for the role that they have had and will have in the lives of patients, MJ Tran arranged for a live musical performance of Times Like These. Dean Marla De Jong congratulated the students, commended them for earning a terminal degree in nursing practice, and shared an inspirational message about the impact that they as doctorally-prepared nurses will have on health outcomes for individuals and communities, the healthcare system, and policy. Kudos to all who made this a successful event for our students!
Dr. Teresa Garrett presented The Pen as our Mighty Advocacy Partner at the Association of Public Health Nurses Conference 2021. During the 2-hour workshop, 50 public health nurses from across the country developed letters to the editor regarding six public health topic areas.
Two undergraduate researchers presented their work at the 2021 National Council on Undergraduate Research virtual conference.
- Julianne Kimmel (faculty mentor Dr. Jia-Wen Guo) presented a poster titled Text Analysis of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults.
- Kylie Bethards (faculty mentor Dr. Lauri Linder) delivered an oral presentation titled Analysis of AYA Cancer Patient Priority Symptoms Through Text Mining Software.
The LIFT Team presented at the 2nd Annual Utah Inter-professional Symposium for Underserved, Rural, and Global Health Education (SURGE).
- Mikelle Lloyd, Beth Eanelli, Dr. Seema Handu, Divya Vincent, Nidhi Subramaniam, Kevin Thorn, Gabriela Garcia, Jami Baayd, Dr. Susanna Cohen. Graphic Novels and Simulation in Bihar, India: The Adventures of Super Divya (poster presentation). The team received the “Best Poster” award in the category of Healthcare Capacity Building.
- Gabriela Garcia, Mikelle Lloyd, Jami Baayd, Dr. Susanna Cohen. Using Simulation to Facilitate Interprofessional Training for Emergency Birth Transfer in Rural Utah (poster presentation).
Dr. Kathie Supiano, VaRonica Little, and Megan West presented Training Clinicians to Address the Grief of Overdose Death: An Important Component of Comprehensive Substance Abuse Treatment at the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence 2021 Conference.
Dr. Kathie Supiano, Emily Donaldson, Abdul Osman, and Dr. Bob Wong presented COVID-19 Grief Support and COVID-19 Recovery Support Groups: Designing, Implementing and Evaluating Essential Supports for Those Suffering in the Pandemic at theSocial Work Hospice & Palliative Care Network Virtual Summit.
Faculty members presented at the 2nd Annual Utah Inter-professional Symposium for Underserved, Rural, and Global Health Education (SURGE). The symposium theme was "Reimagining Underserved, Rural, & Global Health Education,” and explored the evolving landscape of engagement in underserved, rural, and global health.
- Tam R and Raaum S (Moderators), Wetter DW, Robison J, Latendresse G, Murri M. Success Stories across UU Health Sciences: Adaptation, Challenges & Innovation (oral presentation).
- Mann S, Kepka D, Christini K. COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Young Adults in the Mountain West (poster presentation).
- Luther B, Edelman LS, Garrett L. (2021) Bacc Education – Nurse to the ‘Top of their Licensure’ in Rural and Underserved Settings for PC (poster presentation).
- Watt M (Moderator), Leung D, Jayaraman S, Suneja G, Edelman L. Research Careers (interactive panel discussion).
Dr. Deborah Morgan, along with national and local experts, will present at a webinar titled Telehealth – A promise for the future? on April 28, 2021. Sponsored by the University of Utah College of Nursing Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention program, the Utah Geriatric Education Consortium, and Comagine Health, the webinar will focus on the future of telehealth into 2022, address policy and legislative updates, and consider special topics related to telehealth in primary care and long-term care settings.
Dr. Deanna Kepka and Kaila Christini will deliver an oral presentation titled Young Adult Vaccine Attitudes at the University of Utah Center of Excellence in Women's Health’s Virtual 2021 Symposium Sex, Gender, and Women’s Health Across the Lifespan Symposium at the University of Utah on May 13, 2021. The symposium will highlight work being done across campus on issues of sex, gender, sexuality, and women’s health.
Dr. Deanna Kepka, Esther Chang, Jacob Lipscomb, Jade Hill, Sara Mann, Mia Hashibe, and Kaila Christini will deliver a virtual oral presentation titled Decision Making Process of Intent to Receive COVID-19 Vaccination Relates to HPV Vaccination Receipt among Young Adults in Mountain West Region of the United States at EUROGIN 2021, the International Multidisciplinary HPV Congress, which will be held on May 30 – June 1, 2021.
Oral Presentations at the 2021 Western Institute of Nursing Virtual Conference on April 14-16, 2021:
- Concurrent Session – Better Together: Community Partnerships. Moderator: Natasha Ansari
- Improving Breast Cancer Prevention Education for Latinas: A Community Partnership. Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Sara Carbajal-Salisbury, Monsop Collado
- Sleep Disturbances in Caregivers of Patients with End-Stage-Liver Disease. Lissi Hansen, Karen Lyons, Michael Chang, Shirin Hiatt, Nathan Dieckmann, Anna Sasaki, Christopher S. Lee
- “Gofundme Isn’t a Medical Plan:” A Study of Crowdfunding Insulin Success. Dr. Michelle Litchman, MJ Tran, Dr. Julia Blanchette, Dr. Eli Iacob, Tamara Oser, Ernest Grigorian, Dr. Linda Edelman
- Influences of Maternal Obesity on Induction of Labor Requiring Cervical Ripening. Dr. Jessica Ellis, Nicole Carlson, Brian Barger, Martha Polovich
- A Scoping Review of Loneliness in Pregnancy and New Parenthood. Jacqueline Kent-Marvick, Ryoko Pentecost, Mary McFarland, Dr. Sara Simonsen
- Associate Deans for Research Session – Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
- 2021 Distinguished Research Lectureship – Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
- Experiences with Technology and Telehealth among Women with Perinatal Depression. Ryoko Pentecost, Dr. Gwen Latendresse
- Reestablishing Competency Following an Error That Has Caused Harm to a Patient. Dr. Marie Prothero, Dr. Janice Morse
- State of the Science Address in Research – Moderator: Dr. Paula Meek
- Symposium – Transforming Primary Care Nursing Roles through Education and Clinical Practice Initiatives: The University of Utah Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention Program. Moderator: Dr. Linda Edelman
- Overview: Transforming Primary Care Nursing through Education and Practice Initiatives. Dr. Linda Edelman
- Digital Badges to Deliver Primary Care Content for Students and Nurses. Dr. Brenda Luther, Jane Price, Dr. Linda Edelman
- Integrating Primary Care Nursing throughout Undergraduate Nursing Curricula. Dr. Connie Madden, Dr. Sue Chase-Cantarini, Dr. Melody Krahulec, Dr. Allison Pawlus, Dr. Linda Edelman
- Bridging Primary Care & Interprofessional Education in Community-Based Complex Care. Dr. Sara Hart, Kyle Turner, Tim Farrell
- #Menopause: Social Media Conversations about Menopause. Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson, Morgan Arseneau, Rojin Karimanfard
- Enhancing Undergraduate Nursing Student Participation in Research. Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Sara Simonsen
Poster Presentations at the 2021 Western Institute of Nursing Virtual Conference:
- Care Partner Support Following a DSMES Intervention: Mixed-Method Study. Kelly Mansfield, Vanessa Colicchio, Adonica Kauwe Tuitama, Dr. Michelle Litchman
- Changes to Birth Plans Due to COVID-19: A Survey of Utah Midwives and Doulas. Dr. Jessica Ellis, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Katherine Ward
- Factors Associated with Second Hospital Acquired Pressure Injury in ICU Patients. Dr. Jenny Grace Alderden, Yunchuan Lucy Zhao, Tracey Yap
- Impact of the Pandemic on Baccalaureate Nursing Students’ Emotional Distress. Dr. Paula Meek, Dr. Lauri Linder, Dr. Katherine Sward, Dr. Ana Sanchez-Birkhead, Dr. Deanna Kepka, Dr. Caroline Stephens, Hui Li
- Paving the Way for Nursing Students with Disabilities: A Qualitative Case Study. Dr. Corinna Trujillo Tanner, Morgan Utley, Katie Didonna, Janelle Macintosh, Dr. Margaret Clayton
Research & Information Exchange Session Presentations at the 2021 Western Institute of Nursing Virtual Conference:
- Improving Palliative Care Knowledge Among Nurses. Taylor Anne Kelso, Dr. Katherine Doyon
- COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Experiences and Perceptions of Nurse Graduates. Denise Crismon, Kelly Mansfield, Shirin Hiatt, Dr. Scott Christensen, Dr. Kristin Cloyes
- What Clinicians Need to Know to Provide Optimal Care for Family Caregivers. Dr. Christina Wilson, Dr. Megan Thomas Hebdon, Dr. Katherine Bernier Carney, Dr. Lorinda Coombs, Dr. Kathi Mooney
- Strengthening Perinatal Collaboratives and Improving Thermoregulation in Newborns. Giovana Martindale King, Dr. Sara Simonsen, Dr. Marilyn Rigby
- An Online Education Program to Improve Adolescent Tobacco Knowledge. Chelsea Ellsworth, Dr. Margaret Clayton
- Improving Advanced Care Planning for Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant Patients. Haley Jangard, Whitney Stryker, Susanne Milne, Dr. Jenny Alderden
March
Lisa Taylor-Swanson was invited to give a talk titled Using Chinese Herbal Telemedicine for COVID 19-Type Symptoms: What Can We Learn from Different Research Models? at the Society for Acupuncture Research 2021 International Research Conference, a virtual event, in June, 2021.
Dr. Brian Baucom, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah, praised Dr. Sheila Deyette for enthusiastically fostering interprofessional collaboration with his department, and commended Dr. Sara Webb for delivering a psychopharmacology lecture to Clinical Psychology doctoral students. Dr. Baucom wrote, “It's [psychopharmacology] an area of great interest for our students and one that we often have a difficult time finding a good speaker for. Dr. Webb's presentation was fantastic, being both highly informative and highly engaging. Our students asked a lot more questions than is typical for our invited speakers, a testament to the comfortable and safe atmosphere Dr. Webb created. I particularly appreciated Dr. Webb specifically including collaboration between therapists and prescribers in her presentation, and Dr. Deyette's enthusiasm for and efforts to foster interprofessional collaboration. Getting to learn from faculty who could answer questions about psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, drawing on both extensive knowledge and experience, was something our students have wanted for a long time, and we're grateful to Dr. Webb and Dr. Deyette for making it happen.”
Dr. Mardie Clayton gave a virtual invited talk on involuntary live hospice discharge as part of a panel presentation to members of the Families and Pediatric Palliative and Concurrent Care Studies at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC.
Drs. Andrea Wallace, Jia-Wen Guo, Bob Wong, and Brenda Luther have been invited to present at the virtual AcademyHealth 2021 Annual Research Meeting in June 2021. Their presentation A Psychometric Evaluation of the Screener for Intensifying Community Referrals for Health (SINCERE) relates to their ongoing work to implement universal and systematic social needs screening and referrals in the U of U Health Emergency Department, and reports a psychometric evaluation of more than 5,000 screening results.
Dr. Jennifer Boehne, Browning Rockwell, Dr. Emre Sezgin, Dr. Andrea Wallace, Dr. Mary Austin, and Dr. Foster Goss will participate in the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Digital Solutions to Support Care Transitions Challenge at the AMIA 2021 Virtual Clinical Informatics Conference in May 2021. PhD student Ching-Yu Wang, Dr. Roger Altizer, and Jesse Ferraro from The GApp Lab, and Dr. Ken Kawamoto and Dr. Guiherme Del Fiol from the Department of Biomedical Informatics are contributing to the project. Andrea will report about AHRQ Challenge funding for Feasibility and Usefulness of the Going Home Toolkit during Hospital Discharge: Patient and Clinician Perspectives. She will focus on developing and integrating the Going Home Toolkit App that is aimed at facilitating anticipatory planning during hospital discharge, and making community connections as patients transition home.
Lee Moss, Adjunct Instructor, will present a poster titled Practical Burn Prevention Across the Lifespan at the virtual 2021 American Association of Nurse Practitioners Conference that will be held June 15 – August 31, 2021.
Sean Erickson, Adjunct Instructor for the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty track of the DNP program, will participate in two panel discussions at the University of Utah School of Medicine virtual 5th Annual Addictions Update Conference in June 2021. The panels are Real Impacts of COVID on Special Populations & Substance Use and How COVID has Pushed Change in Addiction Interventions. Farrell T, Francis L, Stephens C. Resource Allocation Strategies and Age-Related Considerations in the COVID-19 Era: Legal, Ethical, and Clinical Implications in Utah. University of Utah Department of Internal Medicine Grand Rounds. August 2020.
Stephens C. National Expert Reviewer and Discussant for the Virtual Research Consultation for Pragmatic Nursing Home Research – Post Acute Care Conference Series. August 2020.
Stephens C. Geriatrics, Palliative Care and Telehealth: A Boundary Spanning Tale of Transitions. University of Utah School of Medicine Division of Geriatrics – Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center Translational Research Grand Rounds. December 2020.
February
Janzell Tutor and Dhiraj Chand, Sr. Director of Leadership and Principal Gifts at the University of Utah, presented Candid Conversation on Race & Fundraising: Challenging Deficit-based Thinking in Philanthropy hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Utah on February 11, 2021. We were granted special permission to share the recording for free. Click here to view their presentation.
Dr. Josh Wall presented "Flight Nursing" at the Stayin’ Alive! virtual Utah Student Nurses Association convention, which was held on February 6, 2021.
Five teams of faculty, pre- and post-doctoral fellows, and undergraduate students presented at the virtual 2021 Annual Assembly of Hospice and Palliative Care, presented by American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA).
- Jones MG, Tay DL, Gettens C, Thompson C, Cloyes KG, Reblin M, Ellington L. Grieving in a pandemic: How COVID-19 has impacted bereavement for family caregivers of hospice cancer patients.
- Guo J-W, Reblin M, Cloyes KG, Tay DL, Jones MG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Ellington L. Stress and support in family and non-family relationships within hospice cancer caregiver support networks.
- Tay DL, Reblin M, Cloyes KG, Guo J-W, Jones MG, Thomas Hebdon MC, Ellington L. When financial health is tied to mental health: Predictors of hospice cancer caregivers’ psychological well-being.
- Cloyes KG, Tay DL, Gettens C, Jones MG, Bybee S, Wawrzinski SE, Reblin M, Ellington L. Exploring hospice providers’ thoughts and opinions on care of LGBTQ+ patients and caregivers.
- Cloyes KG, Tennant K, Reblin M. Impact of COVID-19 on LGBTQ+ cancer survivors’ and caregivers’ perceptions of formal and informal social support.
In honor of Black History Month, Dr. Mary Gullatte, alumna of the PhD program, and Site Principal Investigator at Emory University for Dr. Kathi Mooney’s R01-funded research regarding symptom care at home, reflected on her career.
The Consortium for Families and Health Research (C-FAHR) sponsored a series titled COVID and Families: How Social Isolation, Caregiving, and COVID Transmission have Reshaped Families. Presenters included:
- Dr. Kara Dassel and Dr. Melody Mickens – Family Caregivers: The Unsung Heroes and Invisible Health Care Workers During COVID-19.
- Dr. Kristin Cloyes – COVID-19 has Uncovered Unmet Needs Among Cancer Survivors and their Caregivers, with a Focus on LGBTQ+ Groups.
Dr. Gwen Latendresse was an invited presenter for the Center of Excellence in Women’s Health Clinical Research & Methods (CRAM) lunch and seminar. Her presentation was titled Telehealth Research in a Rural Community: Now relevant for a COVID-19 Era!
The College of Nursing was well-represented at the Symptom Science Advances in Oncology Nursing Colloquium sponsored by the Oncology Nursing Society, the National Institute for Nursing Research, and the National Cancer Institute. Faculty and post-doctoral fellows presented virtual posters:
- Ameringer S, Elswick Jr RK, Stegenga K, Macpherson CF, Erickson J, Linder L. Symptom profiles of AYAs with cancer in active treatment by diagnosis.
- Zanville N, Cohen B, Gray TF, Phillips J, Linder L, Starkweather A, Yeager KA, Cooley ME. The Oncology Nursing Society’s rapid research agenda in response to COVID-19.
- Bernier-Carney K, Stegenga K, Linder L. Supporting parents as caregivers through a symptom assessment app designed for children with cancer.
- Wilson C, Iacob E, Mooney K. Examining commonly reported moderate to severe symptoms and their patterns in women with gynecologic cancer receiving chemotherapy.
Dr. Kathi Mooney co-moderated poster sessions addressing palliative and psychosocial care.
Dr. Lauri Linder co-moderated a networking session addressing palliative care research with children, adolescents, and young adults.
The Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists invited Dr. Julia Blanchette to give an interdisciplinary webinar on January 26 titled, "The COVID-19 Vaccine and the Diabetes Care Team – Strategies to Effectively Share the Facts."
January
College of Nursing faculty, post-doctoral fellows, students, and alumni presented at the 2021 Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses annual conference, which was held virtually on October 28-30, 2021.
Dr. Lauri Linder, adjunct faculty member Dr. Andy Wilson, and their team members from Primary Children’s Hospital presented their ongoing clinical scholarship:
- Linder L, Gerdy C, Jo Y, Stark C, Wilson A. Changes in CLABSI rates following implementation of antibacterial prophylaxis for children and adolescents with high-risk hematologic malignancies.
December
The Society for Acupuncture Research Board of Directors writes a Turning Point article quarterly. Board member Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson co-edited and served as corresponding author for the most recent paper that summarizes impactful acupuncture research during 2021. Citkovitz C, Taylor-Swanson LJ, Davis D, Harris RE, Kligler B, Kong J-T, Lao L, Mao J, More AOO, Napadow V, Rubin LH, Schnyer R, Wayne PD, Witt CM. Turning point: A review of key research and engagement in 2021. J Altern Complement Med. 2021;27(12):1018-1022. doi.org/10.1089/acm.2021.0374
Taylor CS, Hamilton JL. Sexual and reproductive health education for adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Utah Women’s Health Review. 2021. doi: 0.26054/0d-2vdj-c5d8
Warner EL, Yan K, Duncan K, Barbati J, Rains S. Vaccine misinformation types and properties in Russian troll tweets. Vaccine. In press.
Yan K, Barbati J, Duncan KL, Warner EL, Rains SA. Russian troll vaccine misinformation dissemination on Twitter: The role of political partisanship. Health Commun. In press.
Wilson RD, Wilson BL, Madden C. Creating a national standard for prelicensure clinical evaluation in nursing. J Nurs Educ. 2021;60(12):686–689. https://doi.org/10.3928/01484834-20211004-01
College Kudos will not be published on December 27, 2021 or on January 3, 2022.
Beynon C, Supiano K, Siegel EO, Edelman LS, Hart SE, Madden C. It’s all about the nurse aides. Journal of Long-Term Care. 2001; 356-364. DOI: https://doi.org/10.31389/jltc.103
Charron E, Tahsin F, Balto R, Eichelberger K, Dickes L, Simonsen SE, Mayo R. Provider perspectives regarding barriers to contraceptive care among women with substance use disorders. Women’s Health Issues. Accepted.
Ersek M, Unroe K, Carpenter J, Cagle JG, Stephens C, Stevenson DG. High quality nursing home and palliative care – One and the same. J Am Med Dir Assoc. In press.
Farrell T, Towsley GL, Eaton J, Butler JM, Supiano K, Stephens C, Witt C, Nelson NM, Edelman L. The development and validation of a communication survey instrument for long-term care staff. J Contin Educ Nurs. In press.
Macali J, Armstrong C. I’ve got an idea! Do IDEA boards facilitate improved completion of wellness focused activities in a College of Nursing? Build Healthy Acad Communities J. 2021;5(2). http://dx.doi.org/10.18061/bhac.v5i2.8551
Patterson B, Clark L, Sanchez-Birkhead AC, Martinez LI, Egger MJ. (2021). Developing a web-based toolkit for new mothers about postpartum pelvic floor health in collaboration with a professional medical association. J Med Libr Assoc. 2021;109(4):667-671. doi: https://doi.org/10.5195/jmla.2021.1078
Tobin SY, Cornier M-A, White MH, Hild AK, Simonsen SE, Melanson EL, Halliday TM. The effects of acute exercise on appetite and energy intake in men and women. Physiol Behav. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2021.113562
November
Bernier Carney K, Stegenga K, Linder LA. Parental perceptions of caregiving support provided by a symptom assessment app for children with cancer. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs. Accepted.
Lin JL, Lipstein EA, Wittenberg E, Tay D, Lundstrom R, Lundstrom GL, Sediqzadah S, Wright DR. Intergenerational decision making: The role of family relationships in medical decision making. MDM P&P. 2021;6(2). doi:10.1177/23814683211039468
Stucky CH, De Jong MJ, Liu Y. Military surgical team performance: The impact of familiarity, team size, and nurse anesthesia students. J Perianesth Nurs. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jopan.2021.04.008
Whitehead P, Frechman E, Johnstone-Petty M, Kates J, Tay DL, DeSanto K, Fink RM. A scoping review of nurse-led advance care planning. Nurs Outlook. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2021.08.002
Waters AR, Tennant K, Cloyes KG. Cultivating LGBTQ+ competent cancer research: Recommendations from LGBTQ+ cancer survivors, care partners, and community advocates. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2021.151227
Schmutz K, Macali J. Public health clinicals during the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned. Journal of the Academy of Health Science Educators. https://jahse.med.utah.edu/public-health-clinicals-during-the-covid-19-pandemic-lessons-learned/
Eaton J, Cheek-O’Donnell S, Johnson E, Clark L. Using ethnodrama to support parents in sense-making after prenatal or neonatal diagnosis of a child’s disabling condition. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/jar.12945
Bristol AA, Mata AC, Mickens M, Dassel K, Ellington L, Scammon D, Thompson A, Towsley G, Utz R, Terrill AL. “You feel very isolated”: Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on caregiver social connections. Gerontol Geriatr Med. Accepted.
October
Ameringer S, Elswick Jr RK, Stegenga K, Macpherson CF, Erickson JM, Linder LA. Symptom profiles of adolescents and young adults in active cancer treatment by diagnostic groups. Cancer Nursing. Accepted.
Brandt HM, Kepka D, Kirchhoff AC, Daniel CL, Bhatt NS. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is cancer prevention for childhood cancer survivors. Cancer. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.33920
Gray TF, Zanville N, Cohen B, Cooley ME, Starkweather A, Linder LA. Finding new ground – Fostering posttraumatic growth in children and adolescents following parental death from COVID-19. J Adolesc Health. Accepted.
Nerges JA, Hofmann L, Garrett L, Morton PG. Male nurses' perceptions of the facilitators and barriers to recruitment, retention, and job satisfaction. Nurse Lead. In Press. doi.org/10.1016/j.mnl.2021.08.011
Christensen SS, Lassche M, Banks D, Smith G, Inzunza TM. Reducing patient aggression through a nonviolent patient de-escalation program: A descriptive quality improvement process. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs. 2021; Epub ahead of print. DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12540
September
Whitehouse C, Haydon-Greatting S, Srivastava S, Brady V, Blanchette JE, Smith T, Yehl K, Kauwe Tuitama A, Litchman ML, Bzowyckyj A. Economic impact and healthcare utilization outcomes of diabetes self-management education and support interventions for persons with diabetes: A systematic review and recommendations for future research. Sci Diabetes Self Manag Care. In Press.
Davidson P, LaManna J, Davis J, Ojeda M, Hyer S, Dickinson J, Todd A, Hammons T, Fahim S, McDaniel C, McKee C, Yehl K, Litchman ML, Blanchette JE, Kavookjian J. The effects of diabetes self-management education on quality of life for persons with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review of RCTs. Sci Diabetes Self Manag Care. In Press.
Porter ME, Litchman ML, Grigorian EG, Blanchette JE, Allen NA. Who needs diabetes education? A qualitative analysis of emerging adults with type 1 diabetes. Sci Diabetes Self Manag Care. In Press.
Waters AR, Zamora ER, Fluchel M, Warner EL, Rosen S, Gwilliam V, Tovar GE, Morales JP, Kirchhoff AC. A qualitative inquiry of communication based barriers to the diagnosis of pediatric cancer: Perceptions of primarily Spanish-speaking caregivers. Patient Education and Counseling. In Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.09.028
Kang Y, Choi YK, Stehlik J, Nielsen JD, Reid MC. Pain in homebound older adults with heart failure after hospital discharge. Home Healthc Now. 2021;39(5):278-285. DOI 10.1097/NHH.0000000000000955
Taber P, Radloff C, Del Fiol G, Staes C, Kawamoto K. New standards for clinical decision support: A survey of the state of implementation. Yearb Med Inform. 2021;30(1):159-171. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1726502.
Akpan EU, Murray WO, Vergara MA, Murray SJ, Stucky CH, De Jong MJ, Villacorta E. Nursing leadership during COVID-19: Leading an inpatient response at a regional military medical center. Mil Med. 2021;186(S2):50-55. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usab179
Li K, Deng H, Morrison J, Habre R, Franklin M, Chiang Y-Y, Sward K, Gilliland FD, Ambite JL, Eckel SP. W-TSS: A wavelet-based algorithm for discovering time series shapelets. Sensors. 2021; 21(17). https://doi.org/10.3390/s21175801
Tay DL, Iacob E, Reblin M, Cloyes KC, Jones M, Thomas Hebdon MC, Mooney K, Beck AC, Ellington L. What contextual factors account for anxiety and depressed mood in hospice family caregivers? Psychooncology. 2021;1-10. https://doi.org/10.1002/pon.5816
Tay DL, Ornstein KA, Meeks H, Utz RL, Smith KR, Stephens C, Hashibe M, Ellington L. Evaluation of family characteristics and multiple hospitalizations at the end of life: Evidence from the Utah Population Database. J Palliat Med. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1089/jpm.2021.0071
Wallace AS, Luther BL, Sisler SM, Wong B, Guo J. Integrating social determinants of health screening and referral during routine emergency department care: Evaluation of reach and implementation challenges. Implement Sci Commun. In Press. DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-327585/v1
Waters AR, Warner EL, Vaca Lopez PL, Kirchhoff AC, Ou JY. Air pollution in Utah: Caregivers of childhood cancer survivors’ perceptions on its impact on general population and cancer survivor health. BMC Cancer. In Press.
August
Warner EL, Wilson A, Ellington L, Sun Y, Cloyes KG, Waters AR, Nelson T, Kirchhoff AC. Cancer content and social media platform influence young adult cancer caregivers’ social support on social media. J Psychosocial Oncology. In press.
Alderden J, Amoafo L, Zhang Y, Fife C, Yap D, Yap T. Comparing risk profiles in critical care patients with stage 2 and deep tissue pressure injuries: Exploratory retrospective cohort study. JMIR Dermatol. 2021;4(2). doi: 10.2196/29757
Kepka D, Christini K, McGough E, Wagner A, Del Fiol G, Gibson B, Ayres S, Brandt H, Mann S, Petrik A, and Coronado G. Successful multi-level HPV vaccination intervention at a rural healthcare center in the era of COVID-19. Front Digit Health. 2021;3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fdgth.2021.719138
Greenberg SE, Cloyes KG, O’Neil BB. Germline genetics in prostate cancer: Amidst a paradigm shift. Urol Oncol Semin Orig Investig. 2021;39(8):441-445. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.urolonc.2021.02.015
Greenwood DA, Litchman ML, Isaacs D, Blanchette JE, Dickinson JK, Hughes A, Colicchio VD, Ye J, Yehl K, Todd A, Peeples MM. A new taxonomy for technology-enabled diabetes self-management interventions: Results of an umbrella review. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968211036430
Litchman ML, Ng AH, Sanchez-Birkhead A, Allen NA, Rodriguez-Gonzales B, Iacob E, Greenwood DA. Combining CGM and an online peer support community for Hispanic adults with T2D: A feasibility study. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968211032278
Powell RE, Zaccardi F, Beebe C, Chen XM, Crawford A, Cuddeback J, Gabbay RA, Kissela L, Litchman ML, Mehta R, Meneghini L, Pantalone KM, Rajpathak S, Scriber P, Skelley J, Khunti, K. Strategies for overcoming therapeutic inertia in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2021;23(9):2137–2154. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14455
Dassel KB, Edelman LE, Moye J, Caitlin C, Farrell T. “I worry about this patient EVERY day:” Geriatrics clinicians’ experiences in caring for unrepresented older adults. J Appl Gerontol. Accepted.
Pentecost R, Schmidt K, Grassley JS. Health care providers’ perceived barriers to screening for substance use during pregnancy. Nurs Women's Health. 2021;25(4):272-277. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nwh.2021.05.002 Chavez-Yenter D*, Vagher J*, Clayton MF, Rindler M, Shukovich M, Kaphingst KA. “Being Proactive, not reactive:” Exploring perceptions of genetic testing among White, Latinx, and Pacific Islanders. J Community Genet. Accepted. (*Contributed Equally)
Eaton L, Beck SL, Jansen M. An audio-recorded hypnosis intervention for chronic pain management in cancer survivors: A randomized controlled pilot study. Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2021. DOI: 10.1080/00207144.2021.1951119
July
Gettel CJ, Voils CI, Bristol AA, Richardson LD, Hogan TM, Brody AA, Gladney MN, Suyama J, Ragsdale LC, Binkley CL, Morano CL, Seidenfeld J, Hammouda N, Ko KJ, Hwang U, Hastings SN. Care transitions and social needs: A Geriatric Emergency care Applied Research (GEAR) Network scoping review and consensus statement. Acad Emerg Med. In press
Schneider CE, Bristol AA, Ford A, Shin L, Brody AA. A pilot observational exploratory study of well-being in interdisciplinary hospice team members. Am J Hosp Palliat Med. In press
Tiase VL, Wawrzynski SE, Sward KA, Del Fiol G, Staes C, Weir C, Cummins MR. Provider preferences for patient-generated health data displays in pediatric asthma: A participatory design approach. Appl Clin Inform. 2021;12(3):664-674. DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1732424
Wilson JL, Hampton D, Hensley A, Culp-Roche A, De Jong MJ, Chase-Cantarini S, Wiggins AT. A multicenter study about resilience of nursing students and faculty in online courses. J Prof Nurs. 2021;37(5):894-899. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2021.07.005
Dr. Lauri Linder served as Guest Editor for the June 2021 issue of Seminars in Oncology Nursing, which was dedicated to pediatric oncology, and authored two papers.
- Linder LA. Contributions of pediatric oncology nursing to advance care and reduce disparities among children and adolescents with cancer: Introduction. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2021;37(3). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2021.151165
- Linder LA, Ameringer S, Stegenga K, Macpherson CF, Erickson J. A person-centered approach to symptom assessment and management for children and adolescents receiving cancer treatment. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2021;37(3). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2021.151164
Guo J, Wallace AS, Luther BL, Wong B. Psychometric evaluation of the screener for intensifying community referrals for health. Eval Health Prof. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/01632787211029360
Waters AR, Kepka D, Ramsay JM, Mann K, Vaca Lopez PL, Anderson JS, Ou JY, Kaddas HK, Palmer A, Ray N, Tsukamoto T, Fair DB, Lewis MA, Kirchhoff AC, Warner EL. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. JNCI Cancer Spectr. 2021;5(3). https://doi.org/10.1093/jncics/pkab049
Ayres S, Gee A, Kim S, Hashibe M, Praag A, Kaiser D, Chang C-P, Brandt HM, Kepka D. Human papillomavirus vaccination knowledge, barriers, and recommendations among healthcare provider groups in the western United States. J Canc Educ. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-021-02047-6
June
Guo J-W, Reblin M, Tay DL, Ellington L, Beck AC, Cloyes KG. Patterns of stress and support in social support networks of in-home hospice cancer family caregivers. J Soc Pers Relat. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1177/02654075211024743
Guo J-W, Sisler SM, Wang C-Y, Wallace AS. Exploring experiences of COVID-19-positive individuals from social media posts. Int J Nurs Pract. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijn.12986
Supiano KP, Larsen P, Riley C, Hutton A, Iacob E, Walker AM, Morrison SJ. Complicated grief group therapy for community-residing persons diagnosed with serious mental illness. Soc Work Ment Health. In press.
Crismon D, Mansfield KJ, Hiatt SO, Christensen SS, Cloyes KG. COVID-19 pandemic impact on experiences and perceptions of nurse graduates, J Prof Nurs. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2021.06.008
Clifton JM. Leadership in correctional nursing: The first step. J Correct Health Care. 2021;27(2):86-88. https://doi.org/10.1089/jchc.21.01.0006
Allen NA, Litchman ML, Neller S, Tracy EL, Kent de Grey RG, Grigorian E, Helgeson VS, Berg CA. Couples managing type 1 diabetes using diabetes technology. Diabetes Spectr. 2021. https://doi.org/10.2337/ds20-0045
Bybee S, Cloyes K, Baucom B, Supiano K, Mooney K, Ellington L. Bots and nots: Safeguarding online survey research with underrepresented and diverse populations. Psychol Sex. 2021. DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2021.1936617
Dassel K, Towsley GL, Utz R, Ellington L, Terrill A, Scammon D, Bristol AA, Thompson A, Mickens M. A limited opportunity: COVID-19 and promotion of advance care planning. Palliative Medicine Reports. In press.
Pittman P, Rambur B, Birch S, Chan GK, Cooke C, Cummins M, Leners C, Low LK, Meadows-Oliver M, Shattell M, Taylor C, Trautman D. Value-based payment: What does it mean for nurses? Nurs Adm Q. 2021;45(3):179-186. DOI:
Dr. Sara Hart is a collaborating author for In It Together: Community-Based Research Guidelines for Communities and Higher Education. This was a nearly year-long project in which members of the Community Research Collaborative developed six guiding principles for carrying out community-based research. They hope that researchers from University of Utah and other universities, as well as community members, will apply these principles as they develop equitable, mutually beneficial research partnerships, and conduct collaborative research.
May
Mooney K, Titchener K, Haaland B, Coombs LA, O'Neil B, Nelson R, McPherson JP, Kirchhoff AC, Beck AC, Ward JH. Evaluation of oncology hospital at home: Unplanned health care utilization and costs in the Huntsman at Home real-world trial. J Clin Oncol. 2021. doi: 10.1200/JCO.20.03609
Guo J, Keeshin BR, Conway M, Chapman WW, Sward KA. A scoping review and content analysis of common depressive symptoms of young people. J Sch Nurs. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/10598405211012680
Najmabadi S, Schliep KC, Simonsen SE, Porucznik CA, Egger MJ, Stanford JB. Cervical mucus patterns and the fertile window in women without known subfertility: a pooled analysis of three cohorts. Hum Reprod. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deab049
Gawron LM, Simonsen SE, Millar MM, Lewis-Caporal J, Patel S, Simmons RG. Pregnancy risk screening and counseling for women veterans: Piloting the One Key Question in the Veterans Healthcare Administration. South Med J. 2021;114(3):150-155. DOI 10.14423/SMJ.0000000000001218
Tjia J, Clayton MF, Fromme E, McPherson ML, DeSanto-Madeya S. Shared Medication PLanning In (SIMPLIfy) home hospice:
In educational program to enable goal-concordant prescribing in home hospice. J Pain Symptom Manage. In press.
Carlson N, Ellis J, Page K, Dunn Amore A, Phillippi J. Review of evidence‐based methods for successful labor induction. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13238
Miller LMS, Gee PM, Katz RA. The importance of understanding COVID-19: The role of knowledge in promoting adherence to protective behaviors. Front Public Health. 2021;9:581497. doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.581497
Eaton J, Dassel KB, Friberg-Felsted K. The influence of revising an online gerontology program on the student experience. Journal of the Academy of Health Science Educators. 2021.
April
Kelly LA, Weston MJ, Gee PM. A nurse leader’s guide to reducing burnout: strategies to improve well-being. Nurs Lead. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mnl.2021.03.012
Tjia J, Clayton MF, Chiriboga G, Beckman B, Puerto G, Rappaport L, DeSanto-Madeya S. Stakeholder engagement process in home hospice. BMC Med Res Methodol. In press.
Moran V, Blanchette J, Whitley H, Pillion D, Albritton A, Israel H. Changes in attitudes towards diabetes in nursing students at diabetes camp. Public Health Nurs. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/phn.12886
Faulds ER, Karnes L, Colicchio VD, Militello LK, Litchman ML. State of the science: A scoping review and gap analysis of adolescent insulin pump self‐management. J Spec Pediatr Nurs. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1111/jspn.12331
Allen NA, Litchman ML, Neller S, Tracy EL, Helgeson VS, Berg CA. Couples managing type 1 diabetes using diabetes technology. Diabetes Spectr. Accepted.
Walker HR, Litchman ML. Diabetes identity: A mechanism of social change. Qual Health Res. 2021;31(5):913-925. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049732320984740
Waters AR, Mann K, Vaca Lopez PL, Kepka D, Wu YP, Kirchhoff AC. HPV vaccine experiences and preferences among young adult cancer survivors and caregivers of childhood cancer survivors. J Cancer Educ. 2021. doi: 10.1007/s13187-021-01992-6
Carney KB, Jung S-H, Iacob E, Lewis M, Linder LA. Communication of pain by school-age children with cancer using a game-based symptom assessment app: A secondary analysis. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2021.101949
Kristensen MS, Thygesen LC, Tay DL, Kumar R, Grønvold M, Aldridge M, Ornstein KA. Size and composition of family networks of decedents: A nationwide register-based study. Palliat Med. 2021. doi: 10.1177/0269216321998602
Wilson BL, Butler RJ. Identifying optimal labor and delivery nurse staffing: the case of cesarean births and nursing hours. Nurs Outlook. 2021;69(1):84-95. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2020.07.003
Tracy EL, Berg CA, Kelly CS, Kent de Grey RG, Litchman ML, Allen NA, Helgeson VS. Daily stress spillover and crossover in couples coping with type 1 diabetes. J Fam Psychol. 2021; Epub ahead of print. https://doi.org/10.1037/fam0000819
Yap TL, Alderden J, Lewis M, Taylor K, Fife CE. Angiosomal vascular occlusions, deep-tissue pressure injuries, and competing theories: a case report. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2021;34(3):157-164. doi: 10.1097/01.ASW.0000732804.13066.30
Towsley GL, Wong B, Baier RR, Neller S. An efficacy trial of long-term care residents with Alzheimer's disease using videos to communicate care preferences. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamda.2021.02.032
March
Supiano KP, Andersen T, Luptak M, Beynon C, Iacob E, Levitt SE. Pre-loss group therapy for dementia family care partners at risk for complicated grief. Alzheimer’s Dement. In press.
Moré AOO, Harris RE, Napadow V, Taylor-Swanson L, Wayne PM, Witt CM, Lao L. Acupuncture research in animal models: rationale, needling methods and the urgent need for a standards for reporting interventions in clinical trials of acupuncture – standards for reporting interventions in acupuncture using animal models adaptation. J Altern Complement Med. 2021;27(3):193-197. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2021.0076
Cloyes KG, Candrian C. Palliative and end-of-life care for sexual and gender minority cancer survivors: a review of current research and recommendations. Curr Oncol Rep. 2021;23(4):39. doi:10.1007/s11912-021-01034-w
Tay DL, Thompson C, Jones M, Gettens C, Cloyes KG, Reblin M, Thomas Hebdon MC, Beck AC, Mooney K, Ellington L. “I feel all alone out here”: analysis of audio diaries of bereaved hospice family caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Hosp Palliat Nurs. 2021; Epub ahead of print. doi: 10.1097/NJH.0000000000000763.
Morse JM, Kent-Marvick J, Barry LA, Harvey J, Okang EN, Rudd EA, Wang C-Y, Williams MR. (2020). Developing the resilience framework for nursing and healthcare. Glob Qual Nurs Res. In press.
Halifax E, Bui NN, Hunt, LJ, Stephens CE. Transitioning to life in a nursing home: the potential role of palliative care. J Palliat Care. 2021;36(1):61-65. doi:10.1177/0825859720904802
Stephens C, Massimo L, Harris M, Evans LE, Buckwalter K. Advances in geropsychiatric nursing: a decade in review. Arch Psychiatr Nurs. 2020;34(5):281-287. doi:10/1016/j.apnu.2020.07.006
Bui N, Halifax E, David D, Hunt L, Uy E, Ritchie C, Stephens C. Understanding nursing home staff attitudes towards death and dying: a survey. Am J Nurs. 2020;120(8):24-31. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000694336.19444.5a
Linnen DT, Hu X, Stephens CE. Postimplementation evaluation of a machine learning-based deterioration risk alert to enhance sepsis outcome improvements. Nurs Adm Q. 2020;44(4):336-346. doi: 10.1097/NAQ.0000000000000438.
Stephens C, Kim, C. Confusion in the elderly: common clinical questions. In Walter LC, Chang A, eds. Current Diagnosis & Treatment Geriatrics, 3rd ed. McGraw-Hill. 2021.
Stephens C, Diaz M, Wagner LM. Long-term services and supports policy issues. In Mason DJ, Perez A, McLemore MR, Dickson EL, eds. Policy & Politics in Nursing and Healthcare. 8th ed. Elsevier. 2021.
McCormick ST, Kurth NK, Chambless CE, Ipsen C, Hall JP. Case management strategies to promote employment for transition-age youth with disabilities. Career Dev Transit Except Individ. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/2165143421991826
Sisler SM, Kent-Marvick J, Wawrynski S, Pentecost R, Coombs L. (2021). Social isolation and social media consumption among graduate students during COVID-19: an examination of Social Comparison Theory. Outlook. In press.
Tay DL, Ellington L, Towsley GL, Supiano K, Berg CA. Emotional expression in conversations about advance care planning among older adult home health patients and their caregivers. Patient Educ Couns. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.02.029
Ruegg TA, Morse JM, Yechieli RL. Nurse-delivered telephone intervention to reduce oral mucositis and prevent dehydration. Oncol Nurs Forum. 2021;48(2):242-256. doi: 10.1188/21.ONF.242-256
February
Latendresse G, Bailey E, Iacob E, Murphy H, Pentecost R, Thompson N, Hogue C. A group videoconference intervention for reducing perinatal depressive symptoms: a telehealth pilot study. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2021;66(1):70-77. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.13209
Davis A, Lippe M, Glover T, McLeskey N, Shillam C, Mazanec P. (2021). Integrating the ELNEC undergraduate curriculum into nursing education: lessons learned. J Prof Nurs. 2021;37(2):286-290. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.profnurs.2020.12.003
Hopelian NG, Simmons RG, Sanders JN, Ward K, Jenkins SM, Espey E, Turok DK. Comparison of levonorgestrel level and creamatocrit in milk following immediate versus delayed postpartum placement of the levonorgestrel IUD. BMC Womens Health. 2021;21(1):33. doi: 10.1186/s12905-021-01179-7
Martial M-A, Sward KA, Morse JM, Wilson AR, Martial C, Penney DS, Nicolas E. Anemia management in rural Haitian children: a mixed methods study. J Transcult Nurs. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/1043659620986616
Tiase VL, Sward KA, Del Fiol G, Staes C, Weir C, Cummins MR. Patient-generated health data in pediatric asthma: exploratory study of providers' information needs. JMIR Pediatr Parent. 2021;4(1):e25413. doi:10.2196/25413
Walker HR, Litchman ML. Diabetes identity: a mechanism of social change. Qual Health Res. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049732320984740
Clark L, Thoreson S, Goss CW, Marosits M, Zimmer LM, Flattes V, DiGuiseppi C. Older adults' perceptions of a church-based social marketing initiative to prevent falls through balance and strength classes. J Appl Gerontol. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1177/0733464820984288
Manges KA, Wallace AS, Groves PS, Schapira MM, Burke RE. Ready to go home? Assessment of shared mental models of the patient and discharging team regarding readiness for hospital discharge. J Hosp Med. 2020. doi: 10.12788/jhm.3464.
Neller S, Beynon C, McLeskey N, Madden C, Edelman LS. Development of a long-term care nurse residency program. J Gerontol Nurs. 2021;47(2):37-43. https://doi.org/10.3928/00989134-20210113-03.
Dr. Julia Blanchette authored the chapter Physical Distancing, and COVID-19: The Medical Perspective, which will be published in an American Camp Association book titled Connection without Contact. The book will be released in March.
January
Ketcher D, Otto AK, Vadaparampil ST, Heyman RE, Ellington L, Reblin M. The psychosocial impact of spouse-caregiver chronic health conditions and personal history of cancer on well-being in patients with advanced cancer and their caregivers. J Pain Symptom Manag. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.12.008
Hebdon M, Pasvogel A, Segrin C, Badger TA. Social support and health care utilization of caregivers of Latinas with breast cancer. Support Care Cancer. In press.
Solola S, Luy L, Herrera-Theut K, Zabala L, Torabzadeh E, Bedrick EJ, Yee E, Larsen A, Stone J, McEwen M, Calhoun E, Crist JD, Hebdon M, Pool N, Carnes M, Sweitzer N, Breathett, K. Race and gender-based perceptions of older adults: will the youth lead the way? J Racial Ethn Health Disparities. 2020. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-020-00903-7
American Journal of Nursing Book of the Year Award 2020: Dr. Megan Hebdon co-authored Pharmacological Considerations in Gerontology: A Patient-Centered Guide for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and Related Health Professions, which was awarded second place in the gerontological nursing book category.
Alderden J, Drake KP, Wilson A, Dimas J, Cummins MR, Yap TL. Hospital acquired pressure injury prediction in surgical critical care patients. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak. 2021. 21, 12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12911-020-01371-z
Clayton MF, Utz R, Iacob E, Towsley GL, Eaton J, Fuhrmann HJ, Dassel K, Caserta M, Supiano K. Live hospice discharge: experiences of families, and hospice staff. Patient Educ Couns. In press. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.01.002. Funded by the College of Nursing and the Consortium for Families and Health Research, members of the Transitions and Health (Delta) Research Innovation Team (RITe) were the first, to their knowledge, to conduct a RITe group research project and publish the findings.
Edelman LS, Drost J, Moone RP, Owens K, Towsley GL, Tucker-Roghi G, Morley J. Applying the age-friendly health system framework to long term care settings. J Nutr Health Aging. 2020. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12603-020-1558-2
Otto AK, Reblin M, Harper FWK, Hamel LM, Moore TF, Ellington L, Eggly S. (2021). Impact of patients’ companions on clinical encounters between Black patients and their non-Black oncologists. J Oncol Pract. 2021. DOI: 10.1200/OP.20.00820
Dr. Barbara Wilson authored four articles for U Health’s Accelerate. Established in 2016, Accelerate is a novel community-based model for innovating and promoting best practices in health care improvement, leadership, and wellness.
- Wilson B, Austria MJ. (2019). What is Evidence-Based Practice?
- Casucci T, Austria MJ, Wilson B. (2020). Ask (Wisely) and You Shall Receive: How to Formulate Clinical Questions.
- Casucci T, Wilson B (2020). How to Conduct a Literature Search.
- Wilson B, Austria MJ, Casucci T. (2020). Understanding Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches.
More than 7,625 individuals have read these articles more than 8,430 times! These numbers will further increase as you click on the hyperlinks for each paper and read Barbara’s work.
Wilson CM, Mooney K. Advancing oncology nursing practice through the adoption of patient monitoring digital tools. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2020;36(6). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soncn.2020.151087
Markowitz J, Clinton S, Nerges J. Legal issues and the judicial process. In J. Callari Robison, Ed. IAFN Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Certification: A Review for the SANE-A® and SANE-P® Exams. New York City: Springer Publishing, 2021.
Zanville N, Cohen B, Gray TF, Phillips J, Linder L, Starkweather A, Yeager KA, Cooley ME. The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) rapid review and research priorities for cancer care in the context of COVID-19. Oncol Nurs Forum. Accepted January 6, 2021.
Warner EL, Waters AR, Cloyes KG, Ellington L, Kirchhoff AC. Young adult cancer caregivers' exposure to cancer misinformation on social media. Cancer. 2020. https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.33380
Stucky CH, De Jong MJ. Surgical team familiarity: an integrative review. AORN J. 2021;113:64-75. https://doi.org/10.1002/aorn.13281
November
Each month, Catherine Walshe, Editor-in-Chief of Palliative Medicine, chooses an article that readers may find particularly interesting or useful, and invites the authors to draw out the key points on the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC) blog. Dr. Djin Tay and Katherine Ornstein wrote a Bereavement is a family affair blog, which describes the motivation and rationale for the Denmark bereaved family network study that was published in Palliative Medicine earlier this year (Kristensen MS, Thygesen LC, Tay DL, Kumar R, Grønvold M, Aldridge M, Ornstein KA. Size and composition of family networks of decedents: A nationwide register-based study. Palliat Med. 2021. doi: 10.1177/0269216321998602).
As part of its coverage regarding Salt Lake City’s plan to transform Ballpark area, FOX 13 interviewed Danielle Puri, FNP-BC, regarding health services that she and College of Nursing clinicians provide at the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake.
October
Dr. Michelle Litchman was a guest on the Johnson & Johnson Nursing See You Now Podcast titled Prescribing Technology and Social Media. She reviewed several research projects that she led or is leading.
Alex Vejar wrote ‘It’s really exponential’: What mental health experts say about how Utah football might be grieving Ty Jordan and Aaron Lowe for the Salt Lake Tribune, and interviewed Dr. Katherine Supiano regarding the compounding nature of grief given that two football players died within nine months.
Erin O’Donnell wrote Cancer misinformation – Bad advice shared online can have a negative effect, even if it’s not followed for Cancer Today and featured Dr. Echo Warner’s work. Dr. Warner found that social media posts containing cancer misinformation shook caregivers’ confidence and made them doubt their decisions, especially when family members or close friends posted the misinformation.
Dr. Michelle Litchman and postdoctoral fellow Julia Blanchette were guests on the podcast The Huddle: Conversations with the Diabetes Care Team, which the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists hosted. Their podcast was titled “Overcoming Cost Barriers in Diabetes Care: Research and Solutions.”
Seth Bracken wrote an article titled The Hidden Patients for University of Utah Magazine and included quotes from Drs. Kara Dassel, Jackie Eaton, Linda Edelman, Lee Ellington, and Kathie Supiano. The article discusses who’s looking out for caregivers as more people are helping their aging family and friends.
Dr. Kathie Supiano authored a piece titled Is My Grief Normal? for UHealth's Accelerate. Kathie explains what feelings and actions during grieving are normal—and what actions might be cause for concern.
September
Regina Schaffer featured Dr. Julia Blanchette, postdoctoral fellow, in an Endocrine Today article titled Prevent diabetes misdiagnosis, mismanagement through precision medicine. According to Julia, “A common example of precision medicine in diabetes care is to tailor diabetes medications based on genetic testing for monogenic diabetes.”
Doug Doilemore wrote an article titled HPV Vaccination Can Prevent Cancers Later in Your Child’s Life for the University of Utah Health Healthfeed Blog, and featured Dr. Deanna Kepka’s work regarding HPV vaccination.
Dr. Valerie Flattes was featured in The City Journal – South Salt Lake's Own Community Newspaper (August 2021, page 11), announcing her appointment as the inaugural Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and describing her career.
Dr. Kathie Supiano wrote a guest post titled Coping with Grief while Coping with the Pandemic for the College of Social Work’s interACTION Blog. Posted on Grief Awareness Day, Dr. Supiano wrote, “Healthy grief requires attention to the loss of the one who died and attention to the tasks of living.”
Caring Connections Board members Beth Cole, Carrie Pike, and Sherry Poulson reunited to create grief teddy bears for family members of the American service men and women who lost their lives in the suicide bombing attack at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan on August 26, 2021.
August
In her Salt Lake Tribune article titled ‘I rolled the dice’: Vernal mom was young, healthy and didn’t see the need for vaccine, Bethany Rodgers quoted Dr. Deanna Kepka regarding people’s erosion of confidence in science and medicine, and the importance of trust between providers and patients, community ties, and personal stories as a means to overcome vaccine hesitancy.
Dr. Deanna Kepka’s work to increase human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates was featured in the Rural Health Information Hub (RHIhub). The article titled Federal Agencies’ Investment in Rural Cancer Control Fosters Partnerships between Researchers and Rural Communities included a section about Deanna and her team members’ work to assess providers’ knowledge about HPV vaccination and recommended practices, identify obstacles to HPV vaccination, develop and test an HPV vaccination text message, and survey more than 1,400 18- to 26- year-old persons who live in western US states about their vaccination status.
Dr. Katherine Supiano facilitates healing through compassionate support systems, evidence-based training, and emotional validation. Her article Grief Support Groups for Your Patients: A Place of Hope and Comfort was featured in last week’s edition of U Health’s Accelerate, and notes that “People grieve in their bodies, they grieve cognitively, they grieve emotionally, they grieve spiritually, and they grieve relationally. I hope we can help people do it in ways that are more comforting and more hopeful.”
Dean Marla De Jong and Dr. Deven Jennings were quoted in a Utah Business article titled Call of Duty.
July
The College of Nursing Gerontology Interdisciplinary Program was highlighted in the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education Exchange newsletter.
The White Pine Circle is made up of persons who share a vision towards a supportive community for practitioners of Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM). Claudia Citkovitz recently interviewed Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson and Lisa Conboy for a White Pine Conversation: Making Practice-Based Research Happen: What are our next steps? Dr. Taylor-Swanson, an expert on menopause, and Dr. Conboy, whose research for the Department of Defense demonstrated that acupuncture is the only treatment to date that helps survivors of Gulf War Illness, discussed practice-based practice, as well as their current work on herbal medicine for COVID-19. They also participated in an open discussion about the future of a broad-based practitioner/patient research network.
The Scope Radio , from University of Utah Health, highlights expert health advice and research that people can use for a happier and healthier life. The Scope's mission is to educate, engage in, and lead the conversation on the latest research and trends in medicine. During an episode regarding the 7 Domains of Women’s Health, Dr. Katie Ward presented about the evolution of personal grooming.
June
Dr. Deanna Kepka is in the news:
- Deanna was quoted in the Pharmacy Practice News article by Kate O’Rourke titled HPV-Related Cancers Might Surpass Cervical Cancer for At-Risk Groups. “The main reason why cervical cancer is declining is that it’s the only cancer out of all the HPV-related cancers that has an FDA-approved and recommended screening practice that has been successfully integrated into primary care,…”
- Riley Black quoted Deanna in his University of Utah Magazine article titled The Sticking Point: What the history of vaccinescan tell us about the COVID crisis. “The science is abundantly clear, and vaccines are both safe and life-saving.” “We need alliances with community health workers centered around persistence, patience, consistency, and not being negative or critical,” Kepka says. “Talking with community members is key to building trust and understanding barriers.”
Melanie Wolcott was featured in the Salt Lake Tribune article This iconic Utah spot helped thousands get vaccinated. And soon it will go back to what it does best. Melanie has been administering the COVID-19 vaccination on weekends at the Salt Palace Convention Center. Melanie added this experience to the list of memorable events she has attended at the Salt Palace, including ice skating competitions, concerts, hockey games, and professional events.
Columnist Lois M. Collins wrote an article titled A BYU study: Patients live longer with social and emotional interventions, not just medical care for Deseret News. Lois interviewed Dr. Kathie Supiano regarding assessing patients’ motivations and barriers to treatment, and using psychosocial interventions, and quoted her, writing “We know that if we want to bring psychological change and particularly change in health behaviors, we really need to get the family, the social network involved in a way acceptable to the patient.”
Research Communication Specialist Paul Gabrielsen wrote a feature article titled Chemistry in Pictures for @THEU that showcased Professor Tom Richmond’s approach to teaching chemistry to pre-nursing students. As part of the class, students took pictures to connect concepts learned in class with their everyday lives. Student Ashlee Taft Nelson’s photo regarding fluid movement through a membrane was published in Chemical & Engineering News. The article quotes Dr. Mardie Clayton, “Basic principles of chemistry transcend human physiology and pathophysiology, enabling students to understand how the body works normally and abnormally,”… “Understanding the movement of fluids is vital to understanding cellular function and to the management of associated diseases such as heart disease.”
An article published in@theUtitled Community Engaged Learning benefits students and neighborhoods featured Dr. Sara Hart who is quoted saying “If I am teaching any health professions student how to learn and fulfill their professional role and the voice of our community is not represented, then I am failing both my students and my community. CEL [Community Engaged Learning] provides me with the most meaningful pedagogical approach to build academic-community partnerships that benefit all involved.”
In her article titledThe Physical and Personal Cost of COVID-19 and Seniors, Allison Moser Mays, MD summarized Dr. Linda Edelman’s research regarding nursing home staff vaccine hesitancy. Catherine Witt, Dr. Gail Towsley, and Jorie Butler contributed to the research.
Dr. Schola Matovu will join the College of Nursing as Assistant Professor in August 2021. In an article titled Making a Difference in a Multitude of Ways that she published in American Nurse, Katherine O’Brien highlighted Schola for her exceptional work to mentor others, decrease health inequities through research, and empower nurses to advocate for themselves and their patients.
May
Becky Ginos interviewed Moniqa Arnes for the article Lifelike manikins used as teaching tools that was published inThe Davis Journal. The article features Moniqa’s work as a simulation technology specialist, including creating simulation scenarios to educate health care professionals, using moulage to create injuries, and operating manikins, and showcases the College of Nursing Simulation Center.
April
Dr. Valerie Flattes wrote Creating an Inclusive Campus: There’s Work to Be Done for GOOD NOTES – Voices of U of U Health.
March
In a DeseretNews article titled “What COVID-19 has revealed about the nursing profession,” Dr. Teresa Garrett was mentioned regarding her work on a 2017 Utah Action Coalition initiative that resulted in additional legislative funding for nursing education, and more than 200 additional graduates each year. Teresa also was quoted concerning the supply of prospective nursing students, nurse pay, and the workplace environment.
The National Week in Review from the Indian Health Service mentioned the College of Nursing. “On February 20, the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake held its first community vaccination event for the surrounding American Indian and Alaska Native community. In order to fully staff the event, the UICSL collaborated with nursing students from the University of Utah College of Nursing in Salt Lake City, giving the students a historic training opportunity. Since January, UICSL has provided a COVID-19 vaccination program three days per week to American Indians and Alaska Natives. On March 20, UICSL will host another event for those who will be due for their 2nd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.”
In its digital newscast about the mental health of front-line medical workers, KSL 5 TV’s Matt Rascon had a 15-minute conversation with Dr. Heidi Vawdrey. Heidi discussed acknowledging the toll of trauma, and helping medical personnel get the help that they need. To listen, click here.
January
Dr. Linda Edelman was quoted in the Salt Lake Tribune article titled Utah is nudging hesitant nursing home employees to get the coronavirus vaccine. Thank you, Linda, for advocating for COVID-19 vaccination of staff and residents in Utah’s long-term care facilities.
December
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson was recently promoted to the Executive Committee as Secretary of the Society for Acupuncture Research Board of Directors. The Society for Acupuncture Research is an international society dedicated to improving the quality and increasing the awareness of research in acupuncture, herbal therapy, and other modalities of East Asian medicine.
Kudos to CON Faculty, Staff, and Students for donating clothes, coats and cold weather gear, blankets, food, books, first aid supplies, toys, other goods, and money to the Odyssey House, Fourth Street Clinic, Toys for Tots, the Feed U Pantry, and other charitable organizations during this holiday season. Your contributions truly make a difference!
Pre-licensure students Abbe Berry, Claire Dobrzanski, Jaycee Larsen, Grace Kennedy, Ella Evans, Mikelle Lloyd, McKenzie Pullan, and Julia Schoonover; Doctor of Nursing Practice student Emily Holland; staff member Donnie Benson; and faculty members Dr. Brenda Luther and Dr. Jennifer Clifton volunteered to host flu shot clinics at the S.J. Quinney College of Law and at the College of Education.
Faculty, staff, and students including Dr. Van Gip-Duran, Leslie Crandall, Emily Royce, Shalyn Wright, Jadea Hoopes, and Carianne Brady supported vaccine clinics:
- Urban Indian Center hosted two vaccine clinics. At the Boo the Flu Clinic on October 29, 2021, faculty, staff, and students administered 49 flu and 2 COVID vaccines, and dispensed 150 adolescent COVID prevention kits. The flu clinic was incorporated into a community Trunk or Treat event.
- Staff and faculty held a pediatric COVID vaccine event on November 6, 2021, and administered the COVID vaccine to 4 adolescents or adults, and to 24 children, including coadministration of the flu vaccine to 5 children.
November
Dr. Lauri Linder has been appointed to the American Academy of Nursing's Expert Panel on Child, Adolescent & Family, which provides leadership in the development of policy and research agendas on issues confronting child and adolescent health in order to share data more efficiently among the pediatrics community.
Dr. Lisa Taylor-Swanson has been accepted to participate in the Early Career Reviewer (ECR) program at the National Institutes of Health Center for Scientific Review (CSR). The ECR Program aims to help early career scientists become more competitive as grant applicants through first-hand experience with peer review, and to enrich and diversify CSR’s pool of trained reviewers.
Drs. Jennifer Clifton and Teresa Garrett worked at the Summit County Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic on November 13, 2021. They vaccinated more than 70 children.
Drs. Jackie Eaton, Kara Dassel, and Katarina Felsted, due to their expertise in aging, accepted an invitation to serve as members of the Age Friendly Communities Symposium Advisory Board, which Drs. Linda Edelman and Valerie Greer co-lead. The Age Friendly Communities Symposium will be a two-day summit of academic, community, and policy stakeholders interested in building collaborations to advance inter-professional research that helps inform building and sustaining age friendly communities in the Intermountain region. The goal of the symposium, which will take place in the Fall of 2022, is to explore how age-friendly environments can empower choice, equity, and positive health outcomes in the context of contemporary and future opportunities and challenges to aging well across the lifespan. Members of the Advisory Board will provide expert opinion regarding the development, operation, and evaluation of the symposium, including agenda topics and potential speakers.
Dr. Katarina Felsted presented a three week series of Mindfulness Meditation classes for Caring Connections, including those who attend its group, professionals from the community, and University faculty and staff who support its work.
Dr. Katherine Supiano and Adrienne Bott facilitated a suicide grief training in Jordan School District, necessitated by four recent student suicide deaths. What follows is part of a thank you note from Travis Hamblin, Director of Student Services. “On behalf of Jordan District, I would like to thank you for the absolutely fantastic training you provided for Jordan Oct. 25-27. The training was a timely message that was universally lauded by the attendees. All of the school psychologists, school social workers, and school counselors expressed their excitement and value gained by the material. The training not only provided a necessary and timely message so desperately needed, it was a reminder of 'why' they do what they do and who they do it for. Many expressed that it was reinvigorating and restorative for them personally… In short, I believe the bandwidth of our mental health providers that attended the training was dramatically increased. Kathy's presentation delivery was engaging, relatable, and full of relevant information. All one needs to do is to be introspective about the training and it becomes evident that it reminds us that you do not need a license to practice compassion and provides a stark reminder of our humanity.
Dr. Zoe Robbins is serving on the planning committee for the 6th Annual School of Medicine Additions Conference. The conference focuses on changing attitudes and increasing knowledge around substance use disorders facing today's diverse society.
October
In May 2020, and during the week of high school graduation, three students and a teacher within the Alpine School District died. Shortly after, social workers, guidance counselors, school psychologists, and school nurses from the entire district attended grief training that Dr. Katherine Supiano and her team provided. Further, and as requested, Cathy Davis from the State Board of Education, Adrienne Bott, and Dr. Katherine Supiano planned a follow-on retreat for Westlake High School staff and offered it the first week of school this fall. The school’s lead guidance counselor sent a thank you letter expressing deep gratitude for the retreat and for how it provided healing. Notably, the letter highlighted the value of Adrienne’s contributions. The team is building the retreat into a post-vention care model for clinicians/agencies and teams that have lost a client to suicide or overdose death, and plans to offer it to a counseling agency in San Juan county.
September
NEPQR (Nurse Education, Practice, Quality, and Retention) faculty and staff, including Dr. Linda Edelman, Dr. Brenda Luther, Megan McClure, and Donnie Benson, and two 4th semester students, Kyoungsook Park and Danielle Gambino, hosted a flu shot clinic at the Park Building on campus.
August
Dean Marla De Jong is a member of President Taylor Randall’s Operation Bold Transition Team. The Operation Bold Transition Team, named after the new president’s charge to the university to be bold in its aspirations, will meet twice a week over the next four weeks to create a carefully crafted transition plan by September 1, 2021.
Note: College Kudos will not be published on September 6, 2021. Drs. Jennifer Clifton and Van Gip-Duran conducted physical exams and administered vaccinations at the Urban Indian Center back-to-school fair. FOX 13 News Utah covered the event and interviewed Dr. Gip-Duran.
July
Dr. Megan Hebdon, a T32 Post-Doctoral Fellow and family caregiver researcher, served as advisor during the development of The Circle of Care Guidebook for Caregivers of Children with Rare and/or Serious Illnesses, which the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) will release on August 5, 2021. Created with support by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals and in partnership with Global Genes, the guidebook provides specialized information, support, and website links to services that will aid caregivers of children with a rare and/or serious illness.
Dr. Lauri Linder was elected to serve a 3-year term on the University Research Committee.
May
Governor Spencer Cox released a plan for his first 500 days in office called the “One Utah Roadmap” that outlines six key priorities, one of which is “health security, including fighting COVID-19 and addressing social determinants of health.” Dr. Linda Edelman was invited to participate on a state work group that will focus on “Access to Care,” a sub-priority under Health Security. The work group will meet monthly to discuss challenges, barriers, and potential solutions to improving access to care via telehealth.
Dr. Gwen Latendresse was a member of the 2021 Program Committee for the American College of Nurse-Midwives 66th Annual Meeting & Exhibition.