Research Professor Maureen Groer has been chosen as the President of the International Society for Research in Human Milk and Lactation (ISRHML).

This appointment reflects Groer’s dedication to advancing research in human milk and lactation, as well as her significant contributions to the field over many years.

ISRHML is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting excellence in research and the dissemination of findings related to human milk and lactation. Founded in 1988, ISRHML boasts a global membership and hosts biennial meetings in various regions across the world, including the United States, Asia, South America, and Europe. These gatherings serve as platforms for scholarly exchange and discussions surrounding the latest advancements in human milk research and its practical applications.

Groer’s selection as President of ISRHML is a testament to her extensive expertise and research in milk biology and lactational physiology. Groer has been at the forefront of studying the influence of lactation on postpartum stress, a topic she began investigating during her tenure at UT Knoxville from 2001 to 2024.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the President of the International Society for Research in Human Milk and Lactation,” said Groer. “This organization plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of human milk and lactation, and I am excited to contribute to its mission of promoting excellence in research and its application to practice.”

As President, Groer will lead ISRHML in its efforts to foster collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders in the field of human milk and lactation.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974 9498, [email protected])

The University of Tennessee, College of Nursing Simulation Department and Roane State Community College have forged a collaborative partnership to elevate the expertise of health care educators through a comprehensive professional development initiative.

Beginning in 2024, this partnership will provide 12 faculty members from Roane State with specialized training in simulation best practices.

“The simulation team is honored to begin working collaboratively this spring with leaders and faculty from Roane State Community College,” said Susan Hébert, assistant dean of simulation.”This opportunity reflects a high level of commitment from the Roane State leadership team to understand the need to professionally prepare educators with the best practices of health care simulation as they prepare for the opening of a new simulation center in 2025.”

The extensive training will be made up of two asynchronous online learning modules, and a two day onsite at the Health Innovation Technology and Simulation (HITS) lab on UT’s campus.

The first module will be an introduction to simulation in health care, covering the aims and advantages of simulated learning, engaging learners, and simulated best practices. The second module will cover tools and knowledge for clinical educators to prepare, implement, and evaluate simulation based on best practices.

The goal of the two modules is to not only give faculty members at Roane State an understanding of simulation, but also give them the opportunity to design cases, integrate and facilitate simulation, and conduct debriefing with students.

During the two-day onsite Roane State clinical educators and simulation staff will receive hands-on training incorporating lessons from both modules, focusing on moulage, technical aspects of simulation, master training, simulation event facilitation and debriefing, and learner evaluation.

This partnership provides a pathway for both institutions to advance the field of health care education through immersive and innovative simulation techniques.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974 9498, [email protected])

The Health Innovation Technology and Simulation (HITS) Program in the College of Nursing has received reaccreditation from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSiH) in teaching/education and research.

The HITS Program mission is to deliver excellent educational offerings and advance the science of health care simulation. This is carried out by ensuring experiential simulated learning opportunities and research and development of innovative simulation technologies for health care and health care education are guided by the best practices of healthcare simulation. Securing reaccreditation by SSiH ensures that the college remains at the forefront of simulation education and research in the United States and globally.

“We are immensely honored to receive this reaccreditation,” said Dean Victoria Niederhauser. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in simulation education, teaching, and research. The collaborative efforts underscore our dedication to advancing health care through cutting-edge technologies. This also demonstrates excellent educational outcomes for our undergraduate and graduate students.”

The HITS educational program, led by Susan Hébert, assistant dean of simulation, uses state-of-the-art simulation and health care technologies to support simulation education for inter-professional learning. The HITS research program, co-directed by Tami Wyatt, assistant dean of research at the college, and Xueping Li, professor in the department of industrial and systems engineering, engages interprofessional teams in researching and developing health care technologies, applications, and intellectual properties to improve health care and health care education.

 “It is an honor to lead one of the premier simulation programs accredited in simulation teaching, education, and research from the Society of Simulation in Healthcare,” said Hébert. “Currently, approximately 250 international programs hold accreditation in teaching and education. However, the college remains the only stand-alone nursing program in the United States with additional accreditation in simulation research. This additional honor displays a commitment to excellence from all involved in advocating, planning, and delivering simulation experiences that include the leadership team, clinical faculty, support staff, and researchers.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

January

The year kicked off with enthusiasm as nursing students embarked on a trip to Panama. These students formed a cohesive interdisciplinary team, united by a common goal: understanding the profound relationship between water and health. Their trip took them to an indigenous village, where they implemented a comprehensive community health and water assessment.

February

In February, the college celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala. The 500 attendees included alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the college. The evening opened with a cocktail hour and a silent auction. As the night unfolded, guests were treated to dinner, and a program that recognized the outstanding achievements of 50 esteemed alumni.

March

In March, Dean Niederhauser and a group of undergraduate students traveled to the nation’s capital, where they participated in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Student Policy Summit, a transformative event that delved into the intricate workings of federal policy processes and the pivotal role of nurses in professional advocacy. The summit helps to equip these aspiring health care professionals with the tools and insights they need to become influential leaders in shaping the future of health care policy.

April

In the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Graduate Schools ranking, the DNP program at the college was positioned among the top public programs. The college’s rise was nothing short of impressive, with a remarkable 11-spot leap from the previous year.

May

The commencement ceremony in May was an exciting event for the graduating students. Families, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates and to honor their commitment to nursing.

June

June was a month of inspiration and mentorship as the college opened its doors to students from the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley. These students joined the college for the Advanced Nursing Camp, an initiative aimed at igniting their passion for the nursing profession. Throughout the camp, they heard lectures, engaged in hands-on simulations, and had the privilege of hearing from leadership at the college.

July

Doctoral Student Elliot Loughran took the stage at a conference in Johnson City, Tennessee. Loughran delivered a TED Talk, where ideas worth spreading took center stage. Loughran, shared insights and perspectives that captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impression.

August

The University of Tennessee Medical Center and University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing celebrated the opening of the BSN Scholars Facility with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Aug. 25. The new state-of-the-art simulation and learning lab were funded by the medical center for the BSN Scholars partnership, a groundbreaking academic-practice partnership that provides nursing students with an unparalleled opportunity to learn at a respected academic medical center.

September

In September, the summer Nurse Anesthesia graduates demonstrated their unwavering commitment to excellence by achieving a remarkable 100 percent first-time pass rate on their National Certification Exam.

October

In October, Kathy Newnam, associate professor at the college, was named an American Academy of Nursing Fellow. This well-deserved honor was a testament to Newnam’s impressive background as a nurse scientist and neonatal nurse practitioner, highlighting her significant contributions to the field.

November

The college was recently awarded a grant of $1.47 million from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The grant is specifically designated for the Workforce Opportunities for Rural Communities (WORC) initiative.

December

In December, it was announced that the annual Sprint for the Prints raised $11,000 to support the Precious Prints Project. The Precious Prints Project comforts grieving families with a sterling silver pendant bearing the fingerprint of their child.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974 9498, [email protected])

Living with heart disease can be daunting, but there is hope. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, individuals can take control of their well-being and improve their quality of life. Key practices can help people with heart disease effectively manage their condition and promote long-term heart health.

In the realm of cardiac health care, a member of the Vol nurse family stands at the forefront, showcasing exceptional compassion, expertise, and commitment. Robin Harris, clinical associate professor and chair of the RN to BSN program, has been caring for patients with cardiovascular disease for over 30 years. 

With a background rooted in clinical experience, Harris began her journey in health care when she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Tennessee State University. Building upon her foundational knowledge, she pursued a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on critical care nursing from the University of Virginia. Driven by a passion for advancing patient care, she further honed her expertise through a post-master’s certificate in adult health and ultimately earned her PhD in nursing from the University of Tennessee.

Harris’s area of interest lies in the comprehensive care of patients with cardiovascular disease, particularly those with difficult-to-manage lipid disorders that place them at increased risk. 

“I worked as a nurse practitioner in a private cardiology practice and served as the clinical director of a heart failure clinic,” said Harris. “It was during that time caring for patients with advanced cardiovascular conditions that my focus expanded beyond treatment alone.”

Deeply intrigued by the potential of preventive interventions, Harris delved into researching the benefits of physical activity in patients with heart failure and the positive impact of exercise on older adults. 

“Through my studies, I discovered that lifestyle changes are not overnight miracles but a journey that individuals must undertake to incorporate better dietary choices and increased physical activity into their lives,” she said. 

She recalls impactful stories of patients who successfully made important lifestyle changes. 

“Witnessing their progress brought me immense joy,” said Harris. “Patients who embraced physical activity found themselves less fatigued, sleeping better, and often required less medication due to improvements in blood pressure and lab values resulting from weight loss.”

Those stories reinforced the understanding that lifestyle changes are a powerful tool in managing heart disease.

Harris envisions a future in health care that begins with fostering healthy habits early in life. 

“Efforts toward better cardiovascular health should not begin at age 50 but rather should be well established by age 50,” said Harris. “By educating and partnering with young people, children, and young adults, I hope to promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for overall well-being and cardiovascular disease prevention.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Junior nursing student Lila York has an appetite for exploration and a heart overflowing with compassion. Originally from Chantilly, Virginia, York chose UT because of her desire to make a difference. 

“As soon as I stepped foot on UT’s campus and felt the energy, I knew this was the place for me,” she said.

An adventurer at heart, York has immersed herself in travel, extracurriculars, and academics. From traversing the landscapes of Europe to embarking on an epic road trip through 11 national parks, she has collected memories and experiences that have broadened her horizons. 

“These adventures have nurtured my appreciation for diversity, cultivating a deep understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in providing holistic patient care,” she said. 

Beyond her academic pursuits, York finds fulfillment in her involvement with various extracurricular activities on campus. As a member of the Nursing Ambassadors program, she proudly represents the university and serves as a mentor to her fellow students. She is also involved in the UT Ambassadors program and theatre productions on campus. York participates in the women’s ministry Delight and in her sorority. Through these avenues, she contributes to causes close to her heart and forges lasting relationships.

York’s eyes light up with passion when she’s asked why she chose to become a nurse. 

“It’s not just about helping others,” she replied. “It is about creating personal connections with patients during their most vulnerable moments.”

Inspired by the nurses who have touched her own life, York recognizes the profound impact a nurse can have. She envisions herself as a beacon of support and encouragement, guiding her patients through challenging times with unwavering empathy and understanding.

Drawing inspiration from the stories of the nurses she encounters, York is driven to explore the endless possibilities within her chosen profession. 

“With nursing, I know I can help people from diverse backgrounds, travel to new places, and connect with extraordinary individuals along the way,” she said. “The potential for growth and the promise of making a positive impact are what motivate me to pursue my dreams. Nurses can truly make a positive and lasting impact on people’s lives, and I think that is something so special and incredible about the profession.”

Reflecting on her time at UT, York recalls the moments that have made up her college experience. Storming the field at Neyland Stadium after an exhilarating victory against Alabama remains etched in her memory as an electrifying celebration. But it’s the little moments of joy—lounging in hammocks with friends, belting out favorite tunes during karaoke nights, and sharing laughter-filled lunches—that truly define her UT journey and reinforce her deep appreciation for the connections she has forged.

Looking to the future, York envisions herself as a travel nurse, merging her passion for nursing with her love of exploration. She hopes to specialize in oncology with placements near national parks, where she can immerse herself in the serenity of nature while caring for patients. 

As she navigates her nursing education at UT, York acknowledges the profound impact of her peers in shaping her growth. 

“The culture of collaboration and support within the nursing program has fostered an environment of shared success, where we uplift one another and celebrate collective achievements,” said York. “Late-night study sessions, heartfelt conversations, and the unwavering support of my cohort have made my journey as a Vol nurse all the more meaningful.”

As she continues her path at UT and beyond, York remains grateful for the remarkable individuals she has encountered and the invaluable experiences that have shaped her into the caring and dedicated nurse she aspires to be.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Winter 2023 Update

Concrete Structure Update: The construction of the concrete structure is progressing well, and we anticipate its completion by the end of 2023. This significant milestone brings us one step closer to realizing our vision for a state-of-the-art facility.

Upcoming Focus on Exterior Envelope: Following the completion of the concrete structure, the contractor will shift their efforts to the exterior envelope of the building. This phase marks another crucial step in creating a modern and functional space for our nursing community.

Interior Progress: While exterior work is underway, efforts are being made inside the building. The layout and early rough-in are in progress, ensuring that the interior space is efficiently utilized and ready for the next phases of development.

Technology and Design Enhancements: We are excited to share that the audiovisual package, which includes support for high-fidelity simulation and sim-capture, is currently in the bidding process. This cutting-edge technology will significantly enhance the learning experience for our nursing students. Additionally, the theming and graphics design are progressing seamlessly, adding a touch of innovation and creativity to the overall aesthetics of the building.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

When Autumn Fuselier became a mother at the young age of 15, she knew she needed to find a career that would help provide a stable home for her son.

“I was a teen mom and needed a reliable and respected profession that I could count on to provide a stable home for him,” said Fuselier. “However, that drive became much bigger over the course of my career.”

Fuselier took a leap in 2011 after being accepted to the University of Tennessee, College of Nursing’s BSN program.

“Thankfully I was not alone in raising my son during this time,” said Fuselier. “I have amazing parents that helped me while I was completing my degree.”

The BSN program provided her with a strong foundation and a comprehensive understanding of various specialties. She found the experience challenging yet rewarding, preparing her for the dynamic nature of the nursing profession.

“I learned many clinical skills, but I also felt challenged and grew so much in knowledge of all the specialties,” said Fuselier. “It was such a well-rounded program and truly set the foundation for my future as an advanced practice nurse.”

Her time at UT did not come without challenges though. She raised her son on her own until her now husband moved to Knoxville during her junior year. She had to learn how to be her own person and care for a young child all while attending nursing school.

“Knoxville is where I really grew up,” said Fuselier.

After graduating in 2015, Fuselier started working in the intensive care unit. However, she soon discovered her passion for maternal healthcare.

“I fell in love with maternal health care and became passionate about improving maternal and neonatal health care outcomes,” Fuselier said. “I eventually transitioned to Labor and Delivery and never looked back.”

Fuselier obtained a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialty in Certified Nurse-Midwifery and later a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP).

Fuselier’s most cherished moments in her career are not defined by singular events but by the collective experiences gained through daily clinical practice. These experiences have been the cornerstone of her professional growth and success.

“One of my greatest career accomplishments was earning the Kitty Ernst Nurse-Midwifery Award upon graduating with my MSN,” said Fuselier. “Back then I didn’t see my potential to be a true leader and educator in the field. The reason this means so much to me is that faculty saw in me back then when I couldn’t have yet seen in myself. I aspire every day to have the passion, dedication, intelligence, and wisdom to earn this award every day of my career in both clinical practice, advocacy, and education.”

Reflecting on her journey, Fuselier advises current students to embrace the challenges and opportunities presented to them.

“Understand that nothing worth having comes easy,” said Fuselier. “You will need to put your head down and do the work. Also understand that nursing and especially advanced practice comes from not just book knowledge, but soaking in all these experiences and friendships and allowing all of this to shape who you are as a practitioner.”

Today, Fuselier serves as the co-owner and Chief Midwifery Director at The Starting Place Birth and Wellness. Additionally, she serves as clinical faculty for Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) and Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) students. Her commitment to advocacy is reflected in her efforts to expand full practice authority for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and her work in legislative advocacy aimed at improving maternal health outcomes.

She is a wife and mom of four, two of which are determined to join the Volunteer family.

“I am proud of many things, but mostly I am so proud to be a Vol Nurse,” said Fuselier. “UT gave me my start in more ways than one and I will always hold UT Nursing and what it gave me near and dear.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, health care and social service workers are five times as likely to suffer a workplace violence injury. One in four nurses reported being physically assaulted, according to a 2019 American Nurses Association Survey.

“These statistics are alarming,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the College of Nursing. “We need to make sure we are preparing nurses for this.”

During the summer months, nursing faculty member Robin Hicks brainstormed ways to help nursing students learn self-defense.

“One of our students was physically assaulted by a patient during the clinical shift,” said Hicks. “We were already preparing for and focusing on student safety prior to this incident due to the increase in violence against healthcare workers. We added both de-escalation and self-defense courses into our ABSN curriculum to assist in providing our students the resources needed for their personal safety.” 

Hicks approached Darren Gilbert, the IT technologist for the college and a karate instructor for the UT Martial Arts club and asked if he would be interested in teaching a self-defense course for nursing students. Gilbert saw the need and agreed.

Fifty-seven College of Nursing students took part in a four-hour self-defense class taught by Gilbert.

“I found it very helpful that we were able to practice the skills on each other after each demonstration,” said a student participant. “Not only did this help us put the skill into practice, but it also allowed us to be put into these vulnerable positions of being attacked. Without these conversations and practice, I would not have had any preparation and probably would be in complete shock if a patient attacked me. I now feel a little more prepared to react if a situation like this did arise.”

 “I was very pleased to be able to teach this class, it holds a special and personal interest for me,” said Gilbert. “After high school, my mother was accepted into the nursing program at the Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York. She was also pregnant with me. During her clinical time in the program, she was assigned to the psychiatric ward in the medical center where a patient assaulted her, and she could not get the patient off. The orderlies eventually got the patient pulled off just short of too late, and I came just that close to not ever being born. So, being asked to teach this class was very meaningful to me.”

Learning these techniques provide students with knowledge they wouldn’t have had otherwise.

 One student said, “I liked the class because it’s not what I’m normally used to since I’ve trained at gyms that teach you to fight as opposed to getting away from a patient. I really enjoyed the fact that the instructor was teaching us defense techniques specifically designed to protect us from an attacker.”

“Every situation will come with different escape methods, and having both self-defense courses has prepared me for a, hopefully, avoidable situation. I will continue to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid reaching over patients. I will also refrain from keeping my stethoscope around my neck. I appreciated these two self-defense courses and hope they continue,” said another student.

Gilbert and the College of Nursing are optimistic about offering these free classes throughout the year.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Holly Hauck (865-974-8263, [email protected])