Heather Anderson Accepted to NLN Leadership Program

Heather Anderson, a Susan S. Morrison School of Nursing clinical faculty member and simulation educator, was recently accepted to the National League for Nursing (NLN) 2022 Leadership Development Program for Simulation Educators.

According to the NLN Leadership Institute, the "program is designed for the experienced simulation nurse educator who wishes to assume a leadership role in simulation."

Acceptance into the program is no easy task. Heather had to first apply and demonstrate "professional achievement" and "organizational responsibility." Heather was one of 20 applicants nationwide to be accepted.

“I could not be more excited about Heather’s acceptance into this important leadership program at a time when simulation in nursing education is part of the fabric of students’ clinical education experiences," said Dr. Martha Scheckel, founding director of the School of Nursing. "Heather is excelling in her role as simulation educator as we prepare for nursing students. This leadership program will only serve to further strengthen her simulation leadership skills and add value for our students.”

Through the program, Heather will attend and present at conferences, complete leadership assessments, participate in executive coaching sessions, collaborate on projects with the NLN, critique the design of new simulation centers, and attend a cohort leadership meeting in Washington, D.C. in February 2022.

Heather plans to use the knowledge and skills she gains through the program to enhance the simulation experience in the new nursing programs at St. Thomas.

"Ultimately, I want to help St. Thomas build a simulation program that can serve our students, faculty and eventually our community partners," Heather said. "I'm looking forward to developing my leadership skills to do just that."

Please join us in congratulating Heather on this achievement!