ISSUED: 7 May 2018
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University graduated its first-ever class of doctoral students during the 145th Commencement May 5. Nine students received their Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree during the graduate ceremony in the Frank Center Theater.
Shepherd’s D.N.P. program trains family nurse practitioners and nurse leaders. The program is designed to produce professionals who embrace health care reform and who are advocates for vulnerable populations. It integrates theory and practice in areas of health policy and law, administration, business, evaluation systems, population health, and evidence-based practices requiring more than 1,000 hours of practicum experience.
“There is a shortage of primary care providers in West Virginia, and these new practitioners will take on the mantle of leadership to shape the healthcare system and provide the caring, compassionate, and competent care that our citizens deserve,” said Dr. Sharon Mailey, acting dean for and chair of the Department of Nursing Education.
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