Frontier Personnel Active in Local Community

April 21, 2023 By Frontier Nursing University

As Frontier Nursing University has settled into its campus in Versailles, Kentucky, the university has become an active entity within the local community, including Versailles and Woodford County. Here are some ways Frontier has grown connections in the Woodford County community:

Staff members Te’sia Carter (financial aid officer), Jelena Djuricic (enrollment coordinator), and Quincy Fuehne (social media and communications manager) were selected to participate in the Woodford County Chamber of Commerce’s first-ever Woodford Leadership Academy in 2023. The Leadership Academy focuses on taking individuals 18-25 years old in a skill based hands on leadership learning environment that will enhance and prepare the leaders of tomorrow.

L-R Te’sia Carter, Jelena Djuricic and Quincy Fuehne

FNU is a sponsor of and frequent presenter in the monthly Woodford County Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Round Table. Past presenters have included FNU President Dr. Susan Stone, CNM, DNSc, FAAN, FACNM; FNU Program Director for the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Dr. Khara’ Jefferson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, CHC; Assistant Professor Dr. Kendra Faucett, DNP, CNM, CNE, FACNM; and FNU Assistant Professor Dr. Joshua Faucett, DNP, MBA, FNPBC, CNE.

: Dr. Joshua Faucett

: Dr. Kendra Faucett

Faculty member Dr. Kendra Faucett, DNP, CNM, CNE, FACNM presented “Midwifery by the Numbers” during the American Association of University Women Bluegrass Central, Ky January Chapter (AAUW) meeting at the Woodford County Public Library. This presentation focuses on midwifery in the United States and Kentucky.

FNU to host NP Week virtual event focused on health equity and substance use disorders

November 4, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

National Nurse Practitioner Week is Nov. 7-13, and Frontier Nursing University (FNU) is celebrating by hosting a virtual event, Empower 2021: Creating a Culture of Caring, at Frontier.edu/NPWeek.

“We are excited to offer educational and engaging sessions to celebrate nurse practitioners and their contributions during National Nurse Practitioner Week,” said Dr. Susan Stone, FNU President. “The more than 325,000 licensed NPs nationwide go the extra mile every day to provide quality, equitable patient care.”

FNU’s free virtual event offers seven free educational sessions presented by FNU faculty and alumni on the latest practices and topics influencing nurse practitioner care and includes a continuing education opportunity:

Assessment and Screening for Substance Use Disorders in the Primary Care Setting
Monday, November 8 at 6 – 7 p.m. EST
Presented by FNU faculty members Dr. Beki Asti and Dr. Nancy Pesta Walsh.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Abuse report found that 1 in 12 American adults have a substance use disorder. In order to address the epidemic of substance abuse disorders, primary care nurse practitioners must universally assess, screen, and diagnose all clients. Participants in this session will explore evidence-based substance abuse assessment, screening, and diagnostic tools.

Free CE Session – Novel Treatment Approaches to Substance Abuse
Tuesday, November 9 at 6 – 7 p.m. EST
Presented by FNU Clinical Director Dr. April Dobroth.

The incidence of substance abuse in the United States has reached epidemic levels. To address this epidemic, advanced nurse practitioners must possess pharmacological competency in the treatment of common substance abuse disorders. Pharmacological treatments for common substance use disorders will be discussed during this session and participants will be eligible for pharmacologic CE credits.

FNP Program Q&A – Creating a Culture of Community
Wednesday, November 10 at 5 – 6 p.m. EST
Presented by FNU faculty members Dr. Katheryn Arterberry and Dr. Lisa Chappell.

Calling all future family nurse practitioners! This session is designed for registered nurses considering the path to becoming a family nurse practitioner. Find out about FNU’s distance education program and get the inside scoop from current students about their experience. Hear about the joys and challenges of life as a nurse practitioner caring for families.

Creating a Culture of Impact: Stories of Community Quality Improvement – Alumni and Faculty Panel
Wednesday, November 10 at 6 pm – 7 pm EST
Moderated by Dr. Kristin Gianelis.

Join Frontier for an impactful panel presentation hosted in collaboration with FNU’s IHI Open School Chapter. Hear stories of FNU’s mission in action through visual storytelling as nurse practitioner alumni and faculty share their community projects and initiatives for serving diverse, rural and underserved populations. Participants will be inspired by these real-life examples of quality improvement and community impact and leave with ideas to take back to their own community.

PMHNP Program Q&A – Creating a Culture of Community
Thursday, November 11 at 5 – 6 p.m. EST
Presented by FNU Clinical Director Dr. April Dobroth.

Calling all future psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners! This session is for registered nurses considering the path to providing mental health care as a PMHNP. Find out about FNU’s distance education program and get the inside scoop from current students about their experience. Hear about the joys and challenges of life as a nurse practitioner.

Creating a Culture of Community Engagement from a Distance – The Frontier Student Experience
Thursday, November 11 at 6 – 7 p.m. EST
Moderated by Dr. Tia Andrighetti.

Frontier Nursing University is committed to students’ active engagement in their coursework with faculty and peers. FNU uses a variety of techniques throughout the curriculum to allow students to do this. Learn about the simulations, role plays, immersive discussions, games, grand rounds and other techniques Frontier currently employs.

Advanced Practice Nurses: Adopting a Health Equity Lens
Friday, November 12 at 12 – 1 p.m. EST
Presented by Dr. Paula Alexander-Delpech.

Advanced practice nurses are positioned to play a major role in addressing health disparities and shaping the future of healthcare to ensure health equity. Join FNU for an inspiring session focused on adopting a health equity lens, and walk away with some key actions to take in your own practice or work environment.

The theme of this year’s virtual event, Empower 2021: Creating a Culture of Caring, acknowledges Frontier Nursing University’s culture of caring which is built on five main elements: professionalism, inclusivity, respect, positive communication and mutual support. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, donors and others in the FNU community embrace this culture to fulfill their full potential, both individually and collectively, exemplifying the caring behaviors they hope to bring to the broader healthcare system.

Frontier Nursing University has more than 80 years of experience in delivering graduate nursing and midwifery programs. This is the sixth consecutive year FNU has hosted a virtual event in support of National Nurse Practitioner Week.

Those interested in participating in Empower 2021: Creating a Culture of Caring, sponsored by Southern Cross Insurance Solutions, are asked to register at Frontier.edu/NPWeek.

Dr. LaTonya Trotter Delivers FNU Commencement Keynote Address to Over 900 Graduates

October 21, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University celebrated the graduation of over 900 students during the 2021 commencement ceremony held on Saturday, September 25. Dr. LaTonya J. Trotter, Associate Professor of Bioethics and Humanities at the University of Washington, gave a poignant keynote address, encouraging the attendees to continue the good work in their communities and chosen professions.

A medical sociologist, ethnographer, and author, Dr. Trotter is the author of “More than Medicine: Nurse Practitioners and the Problems they Solve for Patients, Health Care Organizations, and the State.” The book, which was published in 2020, chronicles a group of nurse practitioners and the care they provide for four hundred Black older adults living with poor health and limited means.

Dr. Trotter was awarded a Bachelor of Arts from Williams College, majoring in Sociology and American Studies. She earned a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Washington, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology from Princeton University. Prior to her position at the University of Washington, Dr. Trotter was an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Vanderbilt University.

Watch the 2021 Commencement Keynote Address:

FNU President Dr. Susan Stone also addressed the attendees with words of congratulations and encouragement during her opening address:

“Good afternoon everyone, and welcome to the 2021 Frontier Nursing University Commencement Ceremony! Welcome to our distinguished guest speakers, faculty colleagues, family members, friends, and, of course, our 2021 graduating class.

We are so proud of you and your dedication to complete your degree at FNU. We regret that we were not able to hold this year’s commencement in person, but we’re so happy that you were able to attend and enjoy the virtual ceremony. What you have achieved is an amazing accomplishment deserving of recognition and celebration, and we hope that you are able to share the special moment with your family, friends, and classmates.

The past two years have been incredibly difficult for so many people. I am very proud of the determination and desire you displayed in earning your degree, and urge you to take a moment to reflect on all that you have accomplished, the hurdles you have overcome, the sacrifices you have made, and take great pride in it. I also want to express appreciation too, for your friends and family who have supported you on this journey. It takes a team effort, and we extend our gratitude to your supporters as well.

You have come so far, but I don’t have to remind you that your journey is not over. In many ways, it is just beginning. As you are well aware, our country and our world are facing not only a pandemic, but also a host of other healthcare concerns including drastic healthcare shortages, healthcare disparities, the maternal mortality crisis, and psychiatric-mental health concerns. No one person has the answer to these problems, but rest assured, you are part of the solution. You have all the tools, all the training, and certainly the demonstrated drive and intellect to make a significant difference and contribution to your community. That is what Frontier Nursing University expects from all members of the FNU community. We make a difference by answering the call to serve.

Much like your life-long commitment to serve your community, FNU makes a life-long commitment to serve you. You are now and forever part of the FNU community. We will always be here to support you in any way we can. We love to hear from you and to share your stories of the great work you are doing in your community. Please remain in touch and never hesitate to contact us. We will answer your call.

Again, congratulations on your wonderful achievements -- past, present, and future. I know you will do great things in service to others. Thank you for representing Frontier Nursing University and continuing to make us proud.”

Watch the 2021 FNU Virtual Commencement Ceremony recorded event.

Congratulations, graduates!

Frontier Nursing University Named Gold “COVID Stops Here” Workplace

October 18, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) in Versailles, Kentucky, has been recognized as a Gold COVID Stops Here workplace for achieving over a 90% vaccination rate.

The COVID Stops Here campaign recognizes Kentucky workplaces that have achieved widespread vaccination against COVID-19. Organizations that have achieved at least a 70% vaccination rate are eligible to receive a designation.

“I am very pleased to report that currently 92% of our 88 Kentucky-based employees have been vaccinated against COVID,” FNU President Dr. Susan Stone said. “We are very proud of the leadership that our faculty, staff, students, and alumni have displayed in their communities all across the country during the pandemic. Locally, we were honored to partner with the Woodford County Health Department and serve as a vaccination site last spring. We hope that our example inspires others in the community to get vaccinated as well.”

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce developed the COVID Stops Here campaign as a way to celebrate workplaces that are leading the fight to stop COVID-19 — and to encourage more organizations to join their ranks.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is Kentucky’s pathway to recovery. Frontier Nursing University is helping set the bar for vaccination in Kentucky by achieving Gold COVID Stops Here status — meaning at least 90% of their employees are now vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a great achievement and we thank them for helping our state stop this dangerous virus,” said Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts. “Employers are playing a very important role as we work to encourage vaccination in Kentucky. In order to finally put this virus behind us, we need Kentuckians to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Together we can stop this virus, let’s make sure that COVID stops here!”

Learn more at kychamber.com/CovidStopsHere

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About Frontier Nursing University:

The mission of FNU is to provide accessible nurse-midwifery and nurse practitioner education to prepare competent, entrepreneurial, ethical, and compassionate leaders in primary care to serve all individuals with an emphasis on women and families in diverse, rural, and underserved 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. In 2021, Frontier was named a “Great College to Work For” by the Great Colleges to Work For® program. To learn more about FNU and the programs and degrees offered, please visit Frontier.edu.

FNU Mentoring Programs Seek to Improve Retention and Encourage Lifelong Learning – PART 2

October 4, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

The Benefits of Being a Mentor

“Being a mentor allows me to experience the brilliance and determination of our students in new ways,” said course faculty Lauren Arrington, DNP, CNM, “My mentee and I have discovered new approaches to navigate the challenging balance of work, life, and school. My mentee has already made valuable contributions to the field of nursing and community health, and I find myself inspired and motivated to ensure her success. She embodies the innovation and love for humanity that our healthcare system needs. It's an honor to be a mentor.”

“I am fortunate to be involved in the FNU mentoring program and to be partnered with mentees who come with varied knowledge, skill, and experience,” said Dr. Diane John, FNU Course Faculty (2021) and Mentor. “Mentoring extends far beyond the traditional one-way model where the mentor predominantly serves as a role model, with the sole purpose to serve as the expert. It is my goal to meet mentees where they are, to listen, to collaborate, to guide, and to learn. This has certainly been the case with the FNU mentoring program that allows the mentor and the mentee to engage in an experience designed to meet individual goals and objectives.”

The Benefits of Being Mentored

“I started the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Program in Summer 2020,” said Dorcas Adeniyi, BSN, RN, PMHNP Class 196. “The day that I started the Frontier Bound orientation, I was full of excitement with a promising future ahead. All of the professors that did orientation for us on those three wonderful days were excellent, but there was a fear of survival. My heart was full of fear of the unknown, and how I will survive the program and be able to achieve my goals. To my surprise, I got an email from the University inviting me to join the mentoring programs. Having a mentor has given me assurance, served as a resource, exposed me to what I need to know about the program, and showed me the way to the future. Since I have been assigned to Dr. John, I have never regretted having a mentor. Dr. John has met with me several times to see how I am doing and to check if I have any difficulty with my courses. Dr. John has introduced me to the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) because I love serving the underserved such as the people who lack access to care and insurance and live in rural and remote areas. I was fortunate to attend the NRHA webinar and learn how to serve these people and how to establish my own private clinic in the future because these are my future goals.

As a PMHNP student, I have been taught that PMHNPs are role models, educators, and leaders in the curriculum. Therefore, I have been exposed to preparing a poster for teaching and educating purposes by Dr. John. Dr. John and I are looking forward to presenting our poster titled “Traumatic Stress Prevention” in 2022. I am thankful for the privilege to have a mentor at Frontier Nursing University. I did not take the mentoring program for granted.”

"For years, I've advocated for mentoring programs wherever I go and have mentored others, but I've never had my own mentor," Kimether Redmon said. "It’s very exciting!"

Be sure check out Part 1 of this blog which highlights the details of the mentoring programs!

Benefits of being a Mentee

Gain practical advice, encouragement, and support
Learn from the experiences of others
Increase your social and academic confidence
Become more empowered to make decisions
Develop your communication, study, and personal skills
Develop strategies for dealing with both personal and academic issues
Identify goals and establish a sense of direction
Gain valuable insight into the next stage of your university career

Benefits of being a Mentor

Improve communication and personal skills
Develop leadership and management qualities
Reinforce your own study skills and knowledge of your subject(s)
Increase your confidence and motivation
Engage in a volunteering opportunity, valued by employers
Enhance your CV
Increase your circle of friends
Gain recognition for your skills and experience
Benefit from a sense of fulfillment and personal growth

FNU Mentoring Programs Seek to Improve Retention and Encourage Lifelong Learning – PART 1

September 30, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

The community at Frontier Nursing University (FNU) understands and appreciates the positive role mentorship plays in preparing competent, entrepreneurial, ethical and compassionate leaders in primary care. The University has launched two programs to support underrepresented students, including FNU’s Professional Organization Mentoring Program (POMP) and the Comprehensive Mentoring Program. This blog highlights the details of the programs, and part two will share the experiences of both mentors and mentees.

In an effort to create even stronger interaction and connection between students and faculty, FNU’s Professional Organization Mentoring Program (POMP) was created in 2018. POMP matches FNU faculty with underrepresented nurse practitioner and nurse-midwifery students to provide support and mentorship. The program allows students to join a professional organization in their field, as well as gives them the opportunity to attend a professional conference with their mentors, with conference registration and professional membership fees covered. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, POMP has been redesigned to allow participating students to attend conferences virtually with faculty mentor guidance.

Frontier has also launched the Comprehensive Mentoring Program, a pilot program initiated via funds from the Nursing Workforce Diversity (NWD) grant. This program is designed to support and retain students from underrepresented groups, by meeting their specific professional and academic needs The goal of the program is to form an ongoing relationship between mentor and mentee and expose the mentee to other means of mentoring to continue support and lifelong learning.

While the program is a pilot, it is expected to be fully implemented beyond the NWD grant period.

Expectations for both the mentors and mentees are well-defined and presented to all program participants.

Student mentees are expected to:

Create an essay to explicate their need for a mentor (no more than 500 words)
List at least 3 individualized professional and/or program-specific goals
Meet with the mentor at least once a month for 1 hour for 1 year
Complete an evaluation of the FNU Comprehensive Mentoring Program every 3 months

Mentors will be expected to:

Attend one mandatory professional mentor education and training session offered by FNU
Participate in the mentoring program for at least 1 year
Mentor at least 2 students
Meet with mentees at least once a month for at least 1 hour for 1 year
Document meetings and activities with mentees
Expose mentees to internal and external professional activities
Assist mentees with programmatic needs
Complete an evaluation of the FNU Comprehensive Mentoring Program every 3 months

The implementation of mentoring programs at FNU has positively impacted the retention rate for students of color which is currently 84 percent, exceeding our goal of 80 percent.

Many students like Kimether Redmon have benefitted from the mentoring program.

"For years, I've advocated for mentoring programs wherever I go and have mentored others, but I've never had my own mentor," Redmon said. "It’s very exciting!"

Check out Part 2 of this series which will share more detailed stories of students and mentors.

Benefits of being a Mentee

Gain practical advice, encouragement, and support
Learn from the experiences of others
Increase your social and academic confidence
Become more empowered to make decisions
Develop your communication, study, and personal skills
Develop strategies for dealing with both personal and academic issues
Identify goals and establish a sense of direction
Gain valuable insight into the next stage of your university career

Benefits of being a Mentor

Improve communication and personal skills
Develop leadership and management qualities
Reinforce your own study skills and knowledge of your subject(s)
Increase your confidence and motivation
Engage in a volunteering opportunity, valued by employers
Enhance your CV
Increase your circle of friends
Gain recognition for your skills and experience
Benefit from a sense of fulfillment and personal growth

FNU virtual event to focus on antiracism, quality improvement and substance use disorders

September 27, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

National Midwifery Week is the first week of October, and Frontier Nursing University (FNU) is celebrating by hosting its annual virtual event dedicated to nurse-midwifery on October 4-7. FNU’s Empower 2021: Creating a Culture of Caring event will mark the seventh year of a program filled with impactful sessions, motivating speakers and a complimentary continuing education opportunity.

National Midwifery Week was created by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) to celebrate and recognize midwives and midwife-led care. ACNM and its 6,500+ midwife members, physicians and women’s health organizations observe National Midwifery Week each year.

FNU’s virtual event offers five free sessions presented by FNU faculty and alumni on the latest practices and topics influencing nurse-midwifery care and includes a continuing education opportunity:

Creating a Culture of Innovative Quality Improvement

Monday, Oct. 4 at 6 – 7 p.m. EDT
Moderated by FNU Associate Professor Dr. Tia Andrighetti and co-presented by FNU faculty members Dr. Tanya Belcheff, Donna Barisich, Dr. Lisa Huckaby, Dr. Maria Mock, Dr. Eileen Thrower and Vicki Burslem.

Births can be unpredictable and midwives need to be prepared for rare events that can have harmful effects on clients. In order to keep these skills honed, nurse-midwives need to practice reacting at the moment to complications. This session will include a birth complications simulation and participants will spend time working with peers to tailor the simulation to their birth settings.

Free Continuing Education (CE) Session – Creating a Culture of Respectful Care for Pregnant and Postpartum People with Substance Use Disorders

Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 6:30 – 8 p.m. EDT
Presented by FNU alumnus Dr. Daisy Goodman.

This interactive session will explore key elements, implementation guidance, and metrics associated with the 2021 revision of the Alliance for Innovation in Maternal Health (AIM) Care of Pregnant and Postpartum People with Substance Use Disorders Patient Safety Bundle.

Creating a Culture of Impact: Stories of Community Quality Improvement – Alumni & Faculty Panel

Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 6 – 7 p.m. EDT

Moderated by FNU Assistant Professor and ACNM President Dr. Cathy Collins-Fulea. The panel will include FNU faculty members and alumni: Dr. Melva Craft-Blacksheare, Dr. Minyon Outlaw, Dr. Dee Polito, Dr. Ana Verzone, Dr. Shaughanassee Vines and Dr. Kate Woeber.

Dr. Collins-Fulea will moderate this panel presentation in collaboration with FNU’s IHI Open School Chapter. Participants will hear stories of FNU’s mission in action through visual storytelling as nurse-midwifery alumni and faculty share their community projects and initiatives for serving diverse, rural and underserved populations.

Creating a Culture of Antiracism

Thursday, Oct. 7 at 5 – 6 p.m. EDT

Presented by FNU Assistant Professor Dr. Charlotte Morris.

During this educational session, Dr. Morris will inspire participants to take action and implement change in their practice or work environment to build a culture that is inclusive and caring for all.

Nurse-Midwifery Program Q&A – Creating a Culture of Community

Thursday, Oct. 7 at 6 – 7 p.m. EDT

Presented by FNU faculty members Dr. Jeneen Lomax and Dr. Eileen Thrower.

This session is for those considering becoming a nurse-midwife. Participants will learn about FNU’s nurse-midwifery education program and hear from current midwifery students about their experience. Presenters will also discuss the joys and challenges of life as a midwife.

Those interested in participating in Empower 2021: Creating a Culture of Caring, sponsored by Southern Cross Insurance Solutions, are asked to register at Frontier.edu/MidwiferyWeek.

Featured Preceptor: Renea Price, Bringing Compassionate Care to Rural Eastern North Carolina

August 23, 2021 By Frontier Nursing University

This quarter’s Frontier Nursing University (FNU) featured preceptor is an FNU alumni Renea Price, FNP. Price brings a strong work ethic and immense compassion to the people of Inner Banks, N.C.

Growing up in rural North Carolina, Price always had an interest in health care and a heart for improving the health status of her community. She saw the need for care in her community and was determined to make a difference. Her first step in this journey began in 1998 when she worked as a certified medical assistant at a local OB-GYN practice. As soon as she dipped her toes into health care, she knew she was right in taking this path. In 2001, she became a registered nurse, working in a wide range of health care positions over the next nine years, including emergency medicine, urgent care, long-term care, and medical-surgical nursing.

In 2010, she graduated with her Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) master of science in nursing degree through Frontier. In 2015, she opened her own clinic in Plymouth, N.C. named Inner Banks Family Medicine. Today the practice goes by Roanoke Clinics.

The clinic’s location is rural and underserved. As with the majority of rural, blue-collar areas, Plymouth was in need of quality medical providers. Today, the clinic serves many logging and agricultural employees as well as paper mill and local government workers. When Price opened her practice, not only did she introduce an essential community service, she also established a new standard of care for her community.

FNP student Jessica Woodard nominated Price as this quarter’s featured preceptor. This is what Woodard has to say after her experience working alongside Price:

“The compassion Price shows to her community of Plymouth is profound, as well as the relationships she has and continues to create. Her altruistic character is not only shown in her practice but also in her call to precept students. I truly believe the students she precepts not only gain the experience of a nurse practitioner but also profit from the genuine, selfless nature of Renea. I can only hope to be as self-sacrificing as she is when I become an FNP.”

According to Woodard, when Price isn’t working in the clinic, she is volunteering at COVID-19 vaccination clinics or making house calls to her patients.

Price is a true example of FNU’s Culture of Caring, and the university is proud to have her as an alumni member and preceptor to current FNP students.

Thank you for your example to so many, Renea!

Are you interested in becoming a preceptor?

If you are a Certified Nurse-Midwife, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner, or a Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, there is no better way to give back to FNU than by becoming a clinical preceptor. Our distance education model thrives because of talented clinical preceptors which is why we ensure that every preceptor is supported with educational resources to help in their role as a clinical educator. We also offer an honorarium for precepting after the student finishes his/her clinical practicum. Are you interested in becoming a preceptor? Let us know by clicking here and filling out a preceptor information request form.