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ACEN Grants Continued Accreditation to FNU

The Board of Commissioners of the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) has granted continued accreditation to Frontier Nursing University (FNU) for its master of science in nursing and post-graduate certificate nursing programs.

ACEN also affirmed continuing accreditation of FNU’s newly implemented psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specialty track. ACEN is the leading authority in nursing accreditation.

“The ACEN Board of Commissioners commended FNU’s commitment to quality nursing education,” said Dr. Joan Slager, FNU dean. “They noted strengths such as administrative and financial support available to faculty for evidence-based clinical and teaching practices, as well as our consistent national certification exam pass rates.”

The accreditation covers all specialties offered in FNU’s master of science in nursing and post-graduate certificate programs through 2025, including nurse-midwifery, family nurse practitioner, women’s health care nurse practitioner and the new psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner option.

FNU’s programs have been accredited continually by ACEN since 2006, demonstrating its ability to meet the standards of quality specific to nursing education.

ACEN supports the interests of nursing education, nursing practice, and the public by the functions of accreditation. Accreditation is a voluntary, self-regulatory process by which non-governmental associations recognize educational institutions or programs that have been found to meet or exceed standards and criteria for educational quality. Standards and criteria include establishing supportive partnerships, advocating self-regulation, promoting peer review, and fostering educational equity, access, opportunity, mobility and preparation of employment. Accreditation also assists in the further improvement of the institutions or programs as related to resources invested, processes followed and results achieved.

FNU’s doctor of nursing practice program is on a different accreditation cycle and is accredited through 2019.

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About Frontier Nursing University

The mission of FNU is to educate nurses to become competent, entrepreneurial, ethical and compassionate nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners who are leaders in the primary care of women and families with an emphasis on underserved and rural populations. FNU offers graduate Nurse-Midwifery and Nurse-Practitioner distance education programs that can be pursued full- or part-time with the student’s home community serving as the classroom. Degrees and options offered include Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Post-Graduate Certificates. To learn more about FNU and the programs and degrees offered, please visit Frontier.edu.

August 24, 2018
FNU Graduate is Part of the First Podcast of its Kind in “Midwifing America”

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) graduate Angela (Angie) Chisholm, CNM is improving maternity care with an uniquely informative new podcast, entitled “Midwifing America.”

The podcast is on a mission to reimagine women’s healthcare in the United States. In the wake of a mounting maternal health crisis, each Midwifing America episode highlights stories from health care providers and the women they serve to illustrate the state of maternity care.

Angie, one of the four podcast hosts, graduated from FNU’s CNEP (Class 49) in 2009. She served as a nurse-midwife in collaborative hospital practice for seven years in Corvallis, Ore., providing team-based care and supervising family practice residents.

She has also served as a midwife at the Corvallis Birth & Women’s Health Center, where she works to incorporate collaborative maternity care models between the birth center and local hospital.

Though her focus is often skin-to-skin care, Angie is passionate about improving all maternity healthcare.

“I believe that birth centers have the potential to address health disparities and maternity care shortage crisis,” she said. “As more and more hospitals stop offering maternity care, it seems reasonable that those communities deserve local and safe options for prenatal care and deliveries. One of my goals is to show other communities and hospitals that embracing birth centers and out-of-hospital care – instead of viewing them as competition – leads to the best outcomes.”

Angie and her team of three other Oregon-based midwives started Midwifing America to begin having these important conversations with nurses, midwives, physicians and mothers.

“Much of what I have learned is that social media and audience engagement has the potential to change how we deliver care,” she said.

To that end, Angie has produced The Heart of Touch Film and web series to highlight the importance of skin-to-skin care for newborns.

Angie’s experience at FNU helped prepare her not only to provide quality care and listen to women, but also to see herself as an advocate for issues that need to be addressed.

“This big picture vision is something I really took to heart,” she said.

Her access to mentorship by FNU faculty and staff who want to grow the midwifery profession made all the difference for her as she continues to lead the way for better maternal care.

In addition to her multimedia efforts, Angie also serves on the ACNM National Membership & Marketing Committee and is Chair of Oregon Affiliate Public Relations.

Angie, your dedication to improving maternal health is inspiring to all of us in the FNU community. Thank you!

August 22, 2018
Frontier Nursing University Names Dr. Joan Slager Dean of Nursing

Hyden, Ky. – Dr. Joan Slager, CNM, DNP, FACNM, has been named the Dean of Nursing at Frontier Nursing University (FNU). Slager has served as FNU’s Interim Dean of Nursing since March of 2018 and served as the program director for FNU’s Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Slager graduated from the Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing in 1991 and completed her Master of Science in Nursing at Case Western University in 1993. She graduated from Oakland University in Rochester, Mich., with a Doctor in Nursing Practice in Dec. 2008. In 1993, she helped to establish Bronson Women’s Service in Kalamazoo, Mich., which is now Michigan’s largest midwifery service with 14 midwives. Dr. Slager practiced full scope midwifery in this hospital-based collaborative practice and served as the practice director from 1995 through December 2016.

“We are very proud to announce Dr. Slager as our Dean of Nursing,” said FNU President Susan Stone, DNSc, CNM, FACM, FAAN. “We have benefited from her leadership and expertise in the past and are excited to see her influence and impact in this position. “

Slager served two terms as Chair of the Business Section of the Division of Standards and Practice for the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) and four years as the Division Chair. She is currently serving a second term as the Treasurer on the ACNM Board of Directors. She has lectured extensively on billing and coding and other business and clinical topics.

“I am honored to be a part of this pivotal time in the long and proud history of Frontier Nursing University,” Slager said. “Our strategic growth is vital as we work toward fulfilling our mission. We are striving to address healthcare gaps in our communities by educating nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners to serve all individuals and all communities, with an emphasis on diverse, rural and underserved populations.”

Slager’s many accolades include being honored as the Dorothea Lang Pioneer Award recipient from the American College of Nurse-Midwives Foundation in 2008 and the Distinguished Service to Alma Mater Award winner from FNU in 2015. Slager assumes her role as Dean in the midst of FNU’s transition to a new campus in Versailles, Ky. Renovations and construction on the campus are expected to be complete by spring of 2020.

About Frontier Nursing University:

The mission of FNU is to educate nurses to become competent, entrepreneurial, ethical and compassionate nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners who are leaders in the primary care of women and families with an emphasis on underserved and rural populations. FNU offers graduate Nurse-Midwifery and Nurse-Practitioner distance education programs that can be pursued full- or part-time with the student’s home community serving as the classroom. Degrees and options offered include Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Post-Graduate Certificates. To learn more about FNU and the programs and degrees offered, please visit Frontier.edu.

August 20, 2018
Circle of Caring Award Winners for 2018 Spring Term Announced

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) is pleased to announce the 2018 Spring Term Circle of Caring Award winners. Congratulations to Sarah Juett as the staff recipient and Lisa Huckaby as the faculty recipient!

The Circle of Caring Award is a recognition for faculty and staff who go above and beyond their job duties and strive to uphold FNU’s mission and Culture of Caring everyday. One faculty and staff member is recognized each term.

FNU faculty and staff were invited to nominate someone anonymously. Nominations were then voted upon by a committee based on the following Culture of Caring characteristics: professionalism, mutual support, respect, positive communication and inclusivity.

Sarah Juett is an Academic Advisor at FNU. Sarah’s nominations included the following statements:

“Working with Sarah has always been a pleasure. The last time we worked together at Frontier Bound I was struck by her gift in supporting students while telling them the expectations of the program. The way she talks with me and students was so professional and healthy that I was impressed. I think the skill set she brings to the job are incredibly valuable and important. She exemplifies the Culture of Caring in her interactions.”

“She offers mutual support. She exercises humility in her work. She acknowledges mistakes, commiserates when things are difficult, and keeps her finger on the pulse of the unit.”

Lisa Huckaby is a certified nurse-midwife and Assistant Professor at FNU. The following are excerpts from her anonymous nomination:

“A student asked me to discuss some personal healthcare decisions. I asked the Associate Deans to point me in a direction of someone who might be able to be a sounding board for her. Lisa Huckaby stepped up to support her, discuss pros and cons, and help her find the resources she needed to make a decision for herself. I can’t check enough boxes for why this is a great example of our Culture of Caring. I am so proud to work with people who go above and beyond the faculty role like Lisa did.”

“Lisa is a great support to me. She has answered questions quickly and expertly. She is very helpful. Thanks Lisa!”

Both Lisa and Sarah will receive a framed certificate, a $50 gift card and will be featured in various FNU communications.

Congratulations to both of these hardworking members of the FNU family!

Do you know a FNU staff or faculty member that goes above and beyond? Nominate them now for the Circle of Caring Award!

August 16, 2018
Meet the 2018 Couriers

2018 Couriers (top to bottom): Dania Cervantes Ayala, Molly Craig, James Rasmussen

Three Couriers have just completed Frontier Nursing University’s (FNU) Courier Program from June 10 – August 11, 2018. Coming from as far as California, the Couriers served at clinics and were immersed in the culture of rural, underserved Appalachia during the two-month program.

Read more about each of the Couriers who answered the call to serve in these communities:

Dania Cervantes Ayala

Dania Cervantes Ayala is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from College of Saint Mary in Omaha, Neb. with an expected graduation date of May 2019. Already with a Spanish minor and a Medical Interpreting Certificate from College of Saint Mary, Dania is the first in her family to graduate from high school and pursue higher education.

She was introduced to FNU’s Courier Program through her Nursing Public-Health Rotation, where she found a draw to underserved communities. Dania is passionate about public health, women’s health and pediatric health. After obtaining her RN, BSN, she plans to apply to a DNP program in order to become a Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.

Dania’s role as a Courier included serving at the Hometown Clinic and Bluegrass Care Navigators. Throughout the summer, Dania implemented a drive for hygiene products, school supplies and food in Leslie County. The drive helped fill the gap and provide supplies to lower-middle class working families who need a little extra assistance.

Molly Craig

Molly Craig is studying biology and psychology at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass. She was born in Mansfield, Pa. and attended Notre Dame High School in Elmira, N.Y. She is part of the swimming and diving team at Williams, and competed for Division III nationals in her freshman season. Additionally, she is a member of the Lehman Service club that conducts community outreach projects throughout the school year.

Molly plans to graduate pre-medical with a concentration in public health. When she is not swimming, Molly enjoys hiking, going to concerts, playing with her dog, and going on adventures with her friends.

As a Courier, Molly served at Kentucky Mountain Health Little Flower Clinic and volunteered with a summer youth program. With the program, Molly was able to use her swimming and lifeguarding skills while mentoring local kids.

James Rasmussen

James Rasmussen is a senior at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where he studies chemistry. Originally from California, he will graduate pre-medical at Williams and continue his studies in hopes of becoming a doctor. In his free time, James enjoys making music playlists and journaling.

James split time as a Courier between ARH Mary Breckinridge Hospital, Red Bird Mission and Clinic and the Well Coffee Shop. His roles included observing a week-old baby receive its check-up, designing a flyer for the Red Bird Health Fair, making phone calls to schedule appointments for hearing aids, and making specialty coffee drinks.

For his independent project, James met with Carol Graham Joseph, mayor of Hyden, Ky. and Joel Brashear of the Hyden Citizens Bank to organize and complete a mural for the town.

Summer is always an exciting time when the Couriers are at Wendover. Though they impacted communities here, this year’s Couriers will have many more opportunities to answer the call to service as each returns to their home colleges. Join us in thanking Dania, Molly and James for their outstanding efforts as Couriers this summer. Welcome to the FNU Courier family!

Students of all majors and backgrounds are encouraged to apply for the Courier program – no formal medical education required. Apply today!

At the heart of Frontier Nursing University is a talented and diverse community of students, alumni, faculty, staff, Couriers and preceptors. Spotlight blogs feature members of our FNU community who are focused on the mission of educating nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners to deliver quality health care to underserved and rural populations.

In 1928, Mary Breckinridge, founder of Frontier Nursing University established the Courier Program, recruiting young people to work in the Kentucky Mountains and learn about service to humanity. Couriers escorted guests safely through remote terrain, delivered medical supplies to remote outpost clinics, and helped nurse-midwives during home visits and births. Frontier has benefited tremendously from the 1,600 Couriers who have served since 1928.

August 13, 2018
FNU Features Exciting Lineup of Virtual Events for 2018-19

Fall Term at Frontier Nursing University (FNU) rings in a vibrant series of annual virtual events.

The goal of the FNU Virtual Events series is to share ideas and knowledge with current and prospective nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners that will help improve care for women and families. These events are FREE and open to the public, and we invite you to join us in these important discussions.

Below is the current lineup:

September 30-October 6: National Midwifery Week Virtual Event

This year’s event, themed “Answer the Call to Service,” will explore the experiences of Certified Nurse-Midwives around the country during National Midwifery Week. With online sessions such as “Female Sexual Health and Cancer Survivorship: Art, Science and Quality of Life” and “Maximizing Midwifery: Strategies to Expand Access to the Midwifery Model of Care” presented by FNU community members and industry colleagues, this free event will engage many different areas of thought regarding nurse-midwifery.

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November 11-17: National Nurse Practitioner Week Virtual Event

In honor of National Nurse Practitioner Week, FNU continues the “Answer the Call to Service” theme with this virtual event focused toward Nurse Practitioners. Watch free educational sessions, including one from a special keynote speaker (details will be posted on the website). This event is a fantastic opportunity for members of the FNU community as well as all nurse practitioners and those interested in nurse practitioning to hear educational and inspiring sessions.

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May 2019: Virtual International Day of the Midwife

FNU played an important role as a 2018 sponsor of this free virtual event that uses online conferencing software to bring together anyone who has an interest in childbirth matters – from midwives to professionals, students to consumers. FNU President Susan Stone also delivered a keynote session in the 2018 VIDM event. We look forward to more involvement and international connections to be made in 2019!

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With this series, FNU continues to lead the future of nursing and midwifery education. We are grateful to utilize technology to connect people around the world and build up leaders in the primary care of women and families.

Join us for these exciting events!

August 7, 2018
Alumni Spotlight: Nikia Grayson, CNM, FNP, APRN

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) alumna Nikia Grayson, CNM, FNP, APRN is seeking to fill the gap of healthcare that she sees in her urban community in Memphis, Tenn.

Already a nurse practitioner, Nikia returned to school to become a nurse-midwife after discovering a great lack of care for African American mothers in her area. In Memphis, African American babies die at a rate three times greater than that of white babies.

Fueled by that knowledge, Nikia graduated from FNU in 2017 with her CNEP (Class 142), ready to take on the role of providing quality, racially concordant health care.

She now works at a private reproductive health clinic as a nurse-midwife, where her patients are predominantly women of color who are on Medicaid.

To begin addressing the disparity in African American birth outcomes, Nikia and fellow nurse-midwife Jodilyn Owen began a group prenatal care session that meets weekly at the clinic. They are using the conversations among mothers-to-be to show them they are valued, heard and respected in a health care setting.

PBS NewsHour recently aired a story on the work Nikia and her clinic are doing for the women in the Memphis community.

“I recognized there were no midwives of color in the Memphis community,” said Nikia. “I felt the need to fill the gap.”

Nikia’s experience at FNU greatly prepared her for her role in the underserved community. She chose to study nurse-midwifery at Frontier based off stellar recommendations from her University of Tennessee nursing professors. Her decision was sealed by Frontier’s reputation for incredible education and health care models.

“I chose Frontier because of its excellent reputation in the midwifery community,” said Nikia.

This year, Nikia was named a 2018-2019 Duke-Johnson & Johnson Nurse Fellow, one of four FNU alumni to receive the honor.

Thank you, Nikia, for representing FNU and providing better birth outcomes in your underserved community!

August 6, 2018
First Annual FNU Case Day and Panel on Birth Justice and Equity at ACNM 2018

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) faculty and staff members challenged their thinking about birth justice and reproductive oppression this year at the 2018 ACNM Conference in Savannah, Ga. FNU President Dr. Susan Stone, staff members Shelley Aldridge and Angela Bailey, and faculty members Drs. Jane Houston, Nena Harris, Niessa Meier and Ally Williams coordinated the first annual FNU Case Day and Panel on Birth Justice and Equity, held on May 22, 2018.

Officially entitled “FNU Celebrates ‘The Soul of Savannah’: Taking us Back to our Beginnings: Being Colored & Colonized,” FNU’s hopes in pioneering and supporting this event was that it would lead to open conversation about equality in birth outcomes and allow many voices to be heard on the topic.

The three-hour discussion began with Case Presentations from FNU students, who shared their case findings and information on health disparities. The presentations are listed below by student and topic:

Lauren Cox – Vaginismus

Stephanie Martinez – Chicago Birth Workers of Color (ChiBiWoCo) (see video here)

Corianne Parada – Placental Abruption

FNU students Case Day presenters at ACNM (left to right: Stephanie Martinez, Lauren Cox, Corianne Parada)

Each presentation fulfilled the students’ Case Day requirements and allowed for questions after the closing statements.

Stephanie Martinez, one of the case presenters, was pleased to have an open discussion about so many of the issues that plague their community. They are a co-founder of ChiBiWoCo, a grassroots collective of birth workers of color providing full spectrum services throughout the Chicagoland area.

“Born out of need, we work to support communities of color in their birthing and reproductive choices through our ancestral wisdom and birthright,” said Martinez.

Martinez entered the health care workforce after learning of the great prevalence of sterilization abuse and violence directed toward youth in the sex trade at the hands healthcare personnel.

“We envision communities that are able to thrive, self-determine, and live autonomously, free from judgment, ridicule, and criminalization as it relates to their choices of parenting and birth.”

FNU Birth Panel Participants at 2018 ACNM

The event continued with the Panel portion, an informative discussion about birth justice moderated by Keisha Edwards with FNU faculty members Nena Harris and Heather Clarke, FNU alumna Dalia Lee, and certified nurse-midwives Mandesa Smith and Venay Uecke.

Participants shared clinical experiences and insights into how the health care workforce can address issues surrounding birth justice, health disparities and bias.

The conversation that took place at the panel is one step in the right direction for tackling those disparities and creating optimal birth outcomes for more families around the nation.

According to Nena Harris, PhD, FNP-BC, CNM, the discussion is one that needs to continue in order to keep pushing in the right direction.

“We would like to do this event annually at ACNM,” said Harris.

Panel participants came away with several takeaways from the discussion.

“We need to actively listen to ALL midwives and birth partners (providers too), to improve pregnancy and health outcomes particularly among people of color and/or marginalized persons due to gender identity or sexual orientation,” said Dr. Jane Houston, DNP, CNM, ARNP, RM, Clinical Director of Midwifery and Women’s Health at FNU.

“This annual event brought together a powerful group in a free discussion format for all stakeholders. Thanks, FNU, for your support of this venture.”

August 2, 2018

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