UConn Nursing’s leadership capstone course (NURS 4282), led by Laura Eiss, RN, MSN, NPD, CNE, explores alternative career options for nursing students outside of the traditional hospital trajectory.
The second presentation in this series allowed the graduating seniors to engage with health care agency representatives about opportunities for nurses within the State of Connecticut.
Health care services are provided across various public health facilities, correctional institutions, schools, and state-run hospitals. Nurses working for the state have the opportunity to serve a diverse population while contributing to the overall well-being of Connecticut residents.
The state offers positions for registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), nurse educators, and other roles in various settings, including the Department of Public Health, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and the Department of Correction.
Nurses in these positions may provide care in state hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and correctional facilities. They also contribute to public health initiatives and educational outreach programs. Agencies such as the Departments of Developmental Services, Social Services, and Veterans Affairs employ nurses to work with specific populations, including veterans, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, offering specialized care and support.
Nurses within the Department of Children and Families play a crucial role in ensuring the wellness of children and families in high-risk situations. They work closely with social workers, counselors, and medical professionals to coordinate care and provide therapeutic interventions.
Moreover, nurses at the state level may receive industry-leading benefits, including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a pension plan, paid time off, professional growth opportunities, and a strong work-life balance.
You are leading as soon as you touch the floor – Lakisha Hyatt ’97 (NUR)
The School of Nursing assistant clinical professor Amisha Parekh de Campos, Ph.D., MPH, RN, CHPN, teaches clinical groups at MacDougall Prison with the Department of Corrections (DOC). MacDougall is an all-male maximum security prison. She and her students work with the nursing staff in the infirmary, outpatient treatment center, and expansion locations. Here, students are exposed to a unique patient population and feel safe working and learning in a supportive setting.
“Taking students out of the hospital setting opens their eyes to all the different types of nursing positions, the roles of different nurse leaders, and populations that have specific needs,” says Parekh de Campos.
She goes on, “I also think this exposure could lead to interest in pursuing a career in corrections nursing because they are able to see what the real job is instead of the fictional, dramatic portrayals that may be in film and television. Also, the benefits are great. The DOC encourages further education, and I find that there is a special camaraderie among the staff.”
The nurse leaders who spoke to the capstone class are Gloria Jones, MSN, MDIV, CPE, CJML, RN, Director of Health and Clinical Services; Lakisha Hyatt, MSN, RN, Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services; David Schmardel, MSN, RN, CHEP, Chief Nursing Officer at the Department of Children and Families; Jessica Teker, BSN, RN, CCHP, Nurse Consultant in Education at the Department of Correction; and Jazmin Johnson, APRN, MSN-Ed, PMHNP-BC, Nurse Practitioner at the Department of Social Services.
Hyatt ’97 (NUR), a UConn alumna said, “My career has widely been in state government. What I wish I knew when I first started is that you are leading as soon as you touch the floor.”
She said, “I want you to understand that your leadership has to have intentionality and advocacy – always say something for the person who can’t say it. Most importantly, be your most authentic self as you show up as a leader in health care.”
Johnson shared, “Nursing is so diverse, and there are so many things you can do. I encourage you to empower each other and continue to challenge the process. Never stop asking: is there a better way?”
During the breakout sessions, seniors in the capstone class rotated between stations to engage with each leader and learn more about their respective agencies.
“Inspire a Shared Vision” was the leadership practice discussed in student group sessions before the nursing executives arrived; the prompt was for students to connect what they are learning with practices implemented by the state leaders and their institutions. In this course, the focus is on the Transformational Leadership theory by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner.
To learn more about the capstone leadership course, please email Laura Eiss at laura.eiss@uconn.edu.
