Dr. Kathleen Czekanski
Professor Emerita, School of Nursing and Health Sciences
"My passion is being able to assist students in meeting their professional goals. From the pre-licensure to RN to BSN to graduate student, this is a very rewarding experience."
Degrees Held:
- PhD - Duquesne University
- MSN - College of New Jersey
- BSN - Villanova University
Career Highlights:
- Fred and Sayde Abrams Award for Excellence in Clinical or Laboratory Instruction - Thomas Jefferson University - May 2006
- End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium Award - American Association of Colleges of Nursing - November 2002.
- National award for acknowledgement of the creative and innovative implementation of the End of Life Nursing Education (ELNEC) curriculum.
- Areas of expertise include nursing education, home care, hospice and end of life care, caregiving for persons with dementia
Which online degree program(s) do you teach?
Which classes do you teach online?
NUR 301: Professional Nursing Practice and Health Information Systems
What do you want students to take away from your classes? What do you want them to learn?
I like to create a community of learners in my online courses where each student contributes based on their professional background and expertise.
What is the value of a BSN?
The BSN enhances the professional development of the RN, preparing them with the competencies of critical thinking, evidence-based practice, leadership, advocacy, and care of populations, which are hallmarks of BSN education.
Why did you start teaching?
My passion is being able to assist students in meeting their professional goals. From the pre-licensure to RN to BSN to graduate student, this is a very rewarding experience.
What advice would you give to those considering the online RN to BSN program?
The online environment allows students the flexibility to meet career goals while still managing work and personal commitments. Don't be deceived that online is easier, it is not. It is however a format in which you can become totally engaged and learn with and from your colleagues in a very collaborative environment. Shares your experiences and keep up with your work. Your goal is then within reach!
Why are you interested in nursing? What drew you to this field?
I always knew I wanted to be a nurse and have never been disappointed that I chose this career path. Yes the work can be hard, but the rewards make it all worth it. You have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the patients and families you care for and that is a gift.
What qualities make someone particularly successful in nursing?
Care, compassion, patience, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to never stop learning.
What do you think is the biggest challenge that nurses face today?
The acuity of today's hospitalized patient and the overwhelming amount of knowledge needed to function in a demanding healthcare environment.