Alison Sutton, MSN, RN, NCSN, PMH-BC

My objective as a teacher is to have students understand the fundamental content of the course, cultivate intrinsic care of their patients, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that they can apply to the real-world clinical setting. Another important objective is to cultivate trusting relationships and respect in the classroom, promoting a healthy and productive learning environment. The holistic nurse theorist, Jean Watson, noted holistic care encompasses physical, psychological, emotional, spiritual and cultural aspects. The disease might be cured, but illness would remain because, without caring, health is not attained. Caring is the essence of nursing. Caring can help the person gain control, become knowledgeable, and promote healthy changes. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been raised in a family of educators. My faith and family inspired me to become a nurse educator, and my role models were those that led by example. They were leaders who strove to look after each other and advocate for others. I continually strive to emulate them. As a result, I feel it is my duty and privilege, as well as my calling and joy, to repay this debt by teaching and mentoring students. I simply love the challenge of figuring out how to engage my students, illuminate key concepts and skills, and challenge them to apply these skills and grow as critical thinkers in their nursing practice. My teaching philosophy is also rooted in student-centered teaching: students are responsible for their own learning and need to be given the tools to take on that responsibility. It is my goal to partner with students to provide them with the tools and instruction to be successful. I am dedicated to empowering the next generation of nursing professionals with the knowledge, skills, and values required to make a positive impact in healthcare and beyond.