Dr. Stolfer has presented at numerous professional nursing conferences, and most recently at the University of Kentucky. Her presentation, “Preparing Students for Tomorrow Based on Realities of Today: Active Shooter Simulation— a Collaborative, Interprofessional Learning Experience” was based on a simulation created for senior nursing students.
Dr. Stolfer holds a B.S.N. from West Liberty State College; an M.S.N. from West Virginia University; and an Ed.D. in Higher Education with specialty in Health Care Education from Nova Southeastern University.
Please describe your program and your vision for it.
Nursing is a very rigorous major, maintaining a sound curriculum and high program standards. The nursing curriculum is based on the AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Nursing Education, providing the necessary knowledge and skills for the baccalaureate prepared nurse. Plans are to continue to utilize a pro-active approach in preparing nursing graduates of the future. Students are taught how to critically think and display clinical reasoning and judgment in preparing for the high-tech, high-acuity complex health care arena.
What are some of your former students up to now?
Graduates of the Nursing Program at Waynesburg University have furthered their education in the areas of master’s and doctoral degrees. Many have completed nurse practitioner programs as well as obtained national certifications. Nursing graduates encompass all areas of nursing specialties, including critical care, emergency nursing, life-flight, psych-mental health nursing, education, pediatric, obstetrical, rehabilitation and home health, and that is not an all-inclusive list.
If I were a student considering this major, what are some career paths I would be able to pursue?
The nursing major is designed to prepare a nurse generalist. Throughout the Nursing Program, students experience a variety of clinical sites at major area hospitals, including exposure to many specialty areas. Nursing offers many opportunities to explore a variety of career options.
What do you think is a true differentiator for WU or your program?
At Waynesburg University, students are not “numbers.” Faculty get to know the students and students get to know the faculty. The Department of Nursing follows the Conceptual Framework of Dr. Jean Watson: Caring. The aim of the Department is to emulate a caring attitude and support the University’s mission of faith, service and learning.
Has this program or associated faculty received any awards or recognition?
Waynesburg University Department of Nursing has been recognized as a College of Distinction for Nursing for the past three years.The Waynesburg University Nursing Program has been recognized for the last two consecutive years by RegisteredNursing.org as the #2 Nursing Program in the State of Pennsylvania (out of 77 nursing programs).
How do you prioritize personal wellness, any tips for students and working professionals?
One thing nurses need to remember....take care of yourself! We often give so much of ourselves to others that we forget to take “me” time. No matter how busy or stressed you get, build in some time for yourself. Take some time to relax, have fun and engage in an activity (non-work related and non-school related) for a few hours a week, just for you!
What is the most interesting place that you have visited and why?
I am a passionate “Disney” nut! Love to visit Disney World and am planning my 40th trip this winter. There is always something new, and I love revisiting some of the old favorites. Truly my “Happy Place!” Also, I love the beach...sunshine, palm trees and 80-degrees. God’s creation of beauty and wonder. Such peaceful relaxation!
What is your favorite recipe to make?
Great recipe for Blackberry or Peach Cobbler...easy as pie...
Anything else you’d like to add?
Nursing is a challenging major. Faculty are committed to maintain high standards and assist the students with an active learning process to promote success. NCLEX-RN Pass rates have consistently been well above the expected accreditation standards with multiple years at 100%.
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As a student in the Department of Nursing, you'll be well-rounded and capable of providing ethical and scientific care-giving with multi-cultural patients, experiencing diverse health concerns, in a variety of health care settings.