November 10-16 marks National Nurse Practitioner (NP) Week, a time to recognize the role nurse practitioners play in advancing healthcare. Established in 1994 by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), this special week was created to honor the expertise, dedication and contributions of nurse practitioners across the nation. NPs serve a critical role in expanding access to high-quality, patient-center, community based healthcare around the county and world.
At the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, we offer a diverse range of Masters-level graduate programs specifically focused for nurse practitioner education. Today, we proudly share a few alumni success stories, individuals who are shaping healthcare and the future of nursing.
Hear from them how the School of Nursing made an impact on their lives, so they could have the opportunity to impact yours.
Elizabeth Adriano, MSN, RN, APRN-CNP
Family Nurse Practitioner, Brook Park Family Medicine
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
Students bring their own unique perspectives and backgrounds to clinicals. Their questions facilitate learning for the preceptor, not only the student. Knowing that I can use my knowledge and skills to help the next generation of providers is gratifying.
I chose the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing due to its reputation for evidence-based practice and academic excellence. I have felt well prepared in my career as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and I am proud to say that I provide care for multiple generations within the same family and treat complex patients every day.
Courtney Holzheimer, DNP, RN, FNP-BC
Director of Clinical Operations
University Health and Counseling Services, Case Western Reserve University
I was a student at the School of Nursing three times. I was a member of the first Doctor of Nursing (ND) program that integrated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)/Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and ND degrees where I received my BSN, an MSN focused on Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), and completed most of the ND coursework. As a post master's student I completed my FNP coursework. My third time as a student, I returned to restart—and complete—my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This training prepared me well for a career in primary care.
Over the course of my 30+ year nursing career, I have always valued the training I received and the relationships I developed as a student and clinical faculty member at the School. I think it is critically important to support my alma mater and to mentor emerging nurses whenever possible. I have been clinical faculty at the School for most of my career, precepting nurse practitioner students for many years.
Most recently, in 2023 I traveled to Guatemala with Nurse Practitioner students on a medical mission trip. I also serve on the Curriculum Committee at the nursing school. In my role as a Director at CWRU Health Services, I hire graduate nurses to work in our clinic and have collaborated on BSN Capstone projects.
Sandy Jiang, MSN, RN, APRN-CNP
MetroHealth Medical Center
I am an FNP currently working at one of MetroHealth’s ambulatory sites family medicine department and primarily serving underserved & bilingual (English/Chinese) populations.
I chose the School of Nursing because it offered flexible program options, various MSN tracks, and extensive clinical experience with top hospital systems.
I like to share my experience/knowledge with NP students, and help them to grow and succeed.
Samantha Petty, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC
Instructor, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
I am a proud graduate of the Psychiatric Mental Health NP program at the School of Nursing. I often express to my friends, family and colleagues that attending CWRU was a decision I will never regret and hold as some of the most memorable years in my academic career.
One of the many facets that led to my success in this program was the genuine support and guidance from faculty. At the School, you aren’t just another student; you are an integral part of the university community and treated with respect and professionalism. I felt motivated and equipped to rise to the expectations placed upon me, not only to be successful in my courses, but to be a leader as a nurse and provider in the community.
I can honestly say that my time at the School has had an immense impact on my career and more importantly on me as an individual. It was with no hesitation that I accepted the opportunity to serve on faculty in the BSN program. I want to provide the same quality and authentic education I received and connect with students during this crucial time in their lives. The School produces nursing innovators and leaders. I want to be a pivotal part of that culture and legacy.