An alumna explains how her degrees have helped her make a positive impact in healthcare and higher education.
Dr. Maureen Kroning.
NAME: Dr. Maureen Kroning ’13
DEGREES EARNED: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Education (EdD)
CURRENT JOB: Associate professor at Nyack College in Nyack, N.Y., and nursing supervisor at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Suffern, N.Y.
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT WALDEN? I was working at an acute care hospital when I was offered a nurse manager position on a busy unit, which required management skills. I realized a master’s degree could help me be successful, so I started researching and found Walden’s programs.
WHAT DID YOU TAKE AWAY FROM WALDEN’S PROGRAMS? I learned that I could research a vital healthcare issue through my coursework. Despite the need for advanced healthcare directive planning, research shows that nurses lack the education to provide their patients with this information, which can have detrimental effects on end-of-life care. I was inspired to research and publish a handbook that explains key medical terms and treatments that need to be addressed by patients and their healthcare providers. I continued at Walden to earn a doctorate, which helped me acquire a position as an associate professor.
WHY DO YOU REFER OTHERS TO WALDEN? I’ve referred many colleagues and friends, four of whom have completed their MSN. Advocating for nursing education creates positive change in the lives of patients, their families, and communities.
Refer friends, family, and colleagues at www.WaldenU.edu/refer.