With the nurse practitioner profession growing in stature nationwide, Fairfield University Professor Sheila C. Grossman's recent honor has taken on extra special meaning.

Dr. Grossman, a faculty member in Fairfield's School of Nursing, was the recipient of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculty's (NONPF) 'Outstanding Nurse Practitioner Faculty Educator Award.' Based in Washington, D.C., the 37-year-old organization represents a global network of educators. The award is presented annually to a nurse practitioner teaching in a Nurse Practitioner program who has demonstrated local, regional, national, and international contributions in the advancement of nurse practitioner education in the following areas: innovative curriculum development, outstanding teaching ability, educational policy development, and development of creative teaching techniques/strategies.

"Dr. Grossman was recognized for her work in all four areas," said Suzanne Hetzel Campbell Ph.D., WHNP-BC, IBCLC, dean of the School of Nursing. "We are proud to have her on the faculty."

Grossman, who works one day a week at an urban primary care clinic in Hartford, Connecticut as a Family Nurse Practitioner, is the coordinator of the Family Nurse Practitioner Track at Fairfield. In addition, she is the author of numerous educational books, including " How to Run Your Own Business: A Guide for Nurse Practitioners ." Grossman is also involved internationally with Oslo University College in Norway regarding simulation and global cultural exchange.

Grossman's recent selection to a board of the American Nurses Association also underscores her prominence in her profession. Beginning this month, she will serve a four-year term as a commissioner on the American Nurses' Credentialing Center Commission on Certification. The appointment comes at time of great changes to the nursing profession in regards to requirements for nurse practitioners; it is necessary for NPs to have a doctorate to practice starting in 2015 as opposed to a master's degree.

"I was selected to be a commissioner due to my experience with accreditation of nursing programs, writing of certification books for RNs and APRNs, and clinical practice expertise as a registered nurse and family nurse practitioner," said Grossman.

The American Nurses Credentialing Center has as its mission to certify healthcare providers; accredit educational providers, approvers, and programs; recognize excellence in nursing and healthcare services; educate the public, and collaborate with organizations to advance the understanding of credentialing services; and support credentialing through research, education, and consultative services.

Posted On: 07-19-2011 11:07 AM

Volume: 44 Number: 5