Delaware Technical & Community College Edition 6
Department of Nursing / Stanton Campus
Spring 2007
THE STANTON PULSE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
NUR 111 Cultural Competency and Health
Campus/Department News 3
by Donna Ramage
Education Corner 5
Faculty News 6
Student Activities 10
Alumni News 12
SNA News 13
Just for Fun 13
On December 13, 2006, 15 students, 2 nursing faculty (Cynthia Watson and Donna Ramage), and the
Foreign Student and Admissions Coordinator (Doni Williams) departed for Merida, Mexico to participate
in the International Study Abroad nursing elective, NUR 111: Cultural Competency and Health. From the
standpoint of both students and faculty, the trip was an educational success. In fact, many students
stated that the trip was a life changing event. The course will run again in the spring semester of 2008.
The following article reflects the post travel perspective of NUR 111 student Sandra D. Bucay.
Adventure Into Another World “Different, Yet So Similar”
By Sandra D. Bucay, NUR 111 Student
I entered the Nursing 111 interviewing process as a prospective foreign exchange student eager to
learn how the Mexican natives serve their own. It was a step towards learning more about the medical
side of patient encounters, and I wanted to know how modern medical opinion would be coupled with folk
medicine, how the people viewed their ailments through their religion, and what the impact of a patriar-
chal vs. matriarchal order of the home would be. My agenda was to bring back as much information as
possible for my future use as a Promotora (peer health educator).
I was also hopeful that the course would move me closer to discovering more about my own heritage.
I had never been immersed in any of my cultural heritages of which I am a combination – Mexican
(Mexico), Nahuatl-Azteca (New Mexico), and Navajo (Arizona). Through my stepfather, I am most familiar
with Mexican culture, but only as it relates to foods, language, and stories he shared. However, knowl-
edge of some of the traditions and cultural nuances did not mean that my family practiced them. We
were and continue to be assimilated to the American Culture. My upbringing was also strongly influenced
by religion, which was Protestant-Apostolic (study of the Apostles), very atypical of a person of Mexican
heritage. The NUR 111 trip would help me explore what really goes on in the homes, churches, and commu-
nities of the Mexicanos in order to better serve this population with cultural sensitivity. As I was about to
learn, however, this journey would actually teach me how to assess needs of patients from any foreign
culture, not just the Mexican population. Briefly, I will share what I learned from an eight-day trip into a
world I thought would be overly familiar. Continued on Page 2
Spring 2007 Edition 6
NUR 111 Cultural Competency and Health (continued from page 1)
At the onset of the trip, students were encouraged to utilize a series of questions to help us journal. One of my first journal entries was
written in response to the question “What are your expectations of this trip?” on the day before we left for Merida, Yucatan. My reply was em-
phatic. “I am telling myself that I need to be a clean slate, because like many diversity trainers I know, to believe I can come close to knowing
the Mexican culture before spending time in Mexico would be ignorant and arrogant.” I did not want to be familiar with anything. Unfortunately,
I knew the Spanish language, which put me in a translator/interpreter mode at first. I immediately advocated for my classmates and teacher,
because I thought I should. To my surprise, I knew none of the meals presented on the menu at our first restaurant, Las Almendras (the Al-
monds), which actually made me excited. The translator feeling went away really fast when I found out that our guides were completely bilin-
gual. How delightful and impressive!
What I learned about home life was a little sad. I thought the families all ate dinner together. At my host
family home, the children were two adult men in their early twenties and a widow. They all worked so much
they hardly ever saw each other and had little time to eat together. Meals were not huge servings, like we
Americans are accustomed. However, family was critically important, and once my roommate and I were taken
in, the host mom made sure we were fed and accommodated with transportation.
Churches were surprisingly always open and active. I was pleased to think that I would never really have a
reason for restless sleep because I could stop by the church, vent in prayer, then go home after work. Seeing
so many churches seemed to comfort me. There were so many to see and photograph.
At this time of year (December 13-21) Merida was festive with décor and events. Every Sunday was Merida en
Domingo (Merida on Sunday). The plaza, which was like a park at the epicenter of the city, was swamped with
vendors of all types. Food and handcrafts like jewelry, purses, shoes, clothes, hammocks and home décor were displayed on different vending
carts for sale. Any other day of the week, these same vendors are selling in storefronts or they are at home preparing for the next Sunday’s
sales.
I was able to take a taxi and felt proud to know how to pay because I had learned the currency exchange rate ($10.67 peso/$1 US) and knew
how to make change well. It was comforting to hear so many merchants speak English. I was impressed to know that Yucatecos (Yucatecan
people) were willing to learn a language to impart cultural products, haggle prices, divert a traveler’s interest and yes, make me spend lots of
money. On the other hand, I gained a feeling of pride in myself every time a Yucatecan asked me where I was from. I received many compli-
ments about my Spanish. Let’s just say I got a boost in self-esteem. In the US, many Hispanics have criticized me about my Spanish, yet native
Mexicans sincerely enjoyed my speech.
The most fascinating scenic moments of the trip were climbing a small pyramid in Uxmal, visiting the Cenote in the cave, and visiting
Chichen-Itza (one of the 5 wonders of the world). While in Yucatan, I learned that the ‘sun stone’ or Aztec calendar was not the originator of
the 365-day annual calendar; it was the Mayan people who created it. The astrological knowledge that forms the foundation of what is studied
even today was formulated by the Mayans.
Mayans are a humble and modest people, but there is so much richness in their culture. I was excited to see the traditional garments and
wished to hear more of the Mayan dialect, but did not have that advantage. The most moving and sometimes spiritually touching moments were
at the Mayan Village and the visits to the two hospitals we toured. The guides that assisted us to the village were of Mayan decent and served
as translators when we arrived at the Mayan Village. There were two main locations of importance here; one was the school, the other was the
clinic. We were able to visit the home of the teacher in the village and also the healers/herbalists from the clinic. The “healer” practices in-
cluded bones & ligaments, general ailments and mid-wifery. In each case, the clinic looks to the “healers” for folk medicine methodology. Peo-
ple usually go to the healers first because they trust them, but the clinic is highly recommended anymore. The knowledge of using herbs to
remedy sicknesses and even induce contractions during labor is special, but soon to be extinct. The presenters shared that the young people
are not interested in learning these practices. I am increasingly curious about eastern medicine and herbalist remedies; therefore, it pained
me to hear this news. Continued on Page 3
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
NUR 111 Cultural Competency and Health (continued from page 2)
Overall, this experience was a very positive one, although I wish we could have spent more time in the hospitals. It would have been
interesting to shadow a nursing student from the hospital. Each graduating nursing student has so many volunteer hours to complete,
therefore I believe it would have been beneficial for all of us “Del Tech nursing students” to see how and what is required of Yucatecan
students, first hand. It would also be good to insure that Del Tech students experienced both hospitals, as one was not as affluent as the
next.
I feel that NUR 111-Cultural Competency and Health turned out to be more like a cross between cultural revelation and spiritual awaken-
ing. I learned how to assess the needs of anyone that is from another culture. Inwardly, I have become more introspective and have begun
to critique my beliefs and how I am treated. Openness to others has been expanded, even though I felt accepting of people. This experience
taught me to continue to be myself and feel compassion for those who believe I need to change for their sake. It also highlighted the need
for respect towards people who are foreign born.
NUR 111 has begun the framework for the future, a model for adoption. Cultural immersion is key when strengthening frontline staff in
the knowledge of diverse cultures. This type of experience magnifies empathy, openness, and curiosity. If more people took a voyage into
another world, like Merida, Yucatan (Mexico), they would see that there are not so many differences and more similarities between us. My
classmates and I all discovered this together in Mexico. This was an awesome experience you will never really understand until you too
have taken the same journey.
CAMPUS / DEPARTMENT NEWS
The Chichester-duPont Foundation Visits the Stanton Campus by Patricia Welsh
Delaware Tech Stanton Cam- tion’s giving will play a pivotal tor, greeted the visitors and Foundation visitors were very
pus was pleased to welcome role”. conducted the tour of the impressed with the hands-on
members of the Board of the Nursing Department and the and technology-enhanced
Chichester-duPont Foundation The Board members who rest of Stanton Campus. learning that takes place in the
to our Campus Lab! The Foun- made the visit to the Stanton Priscilla Parker, Campus Lab DTCC Nursing Campus Lab. The
dation considers requests for Campus were Caroline D. Coordinator, and Maurice Nursing Department later
funding from grant applicants Prickett and Katharine D. Egnor, Campus Lab Instructor, learned that the Foundation
from anywhere within the Gahagan. Neither had been on met with the visitors and pro- awarded the College $50,000
United States. According to the a Delaware Tech Campus be- vided them with a tour of the to be placed in the College
web site of this Foundation, fore. They were accompanied Campus Lab. During the tour, Technology Fund. The Nursing
“the trustees devote particular by Barbara Ridgely, Vice Presi- students in NUR 142 were Department is grateful to the
emphasis to programs con- dent for Institutional Advance- participating in a lab practi- Chichester-duPont Foundation
cerned with the environment, ment in the Office of the Presi cum in which they were learn- for their gift to the Stanton
education, health care and dent at Delaware Tech. Sue ing how to administer par- Campus.
those to which the Founda- Mark, Instructional Coordina- enteral medications. The
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
CAMPUS / DEPARTMENT NEWS
Public Safety at Delaware Tech by Lola Johnson
The Delaware Technical and newly hired), was charged with nel, homeland security proce- purchased in 2006. The bicycle
Community College, Department implementing the report’s re- dures were implemented. New patrol now serves as an integral
of Public Safety, has undergone a commendations. identification cards were issued part of Public Safety’s crime
series of improvements over the to both staff and students at the prevention efforts.
last several years. In 2003, the One of the first steps was Wilmington-Stanton Campus.
College received a report from phasing out of contract security Officers now check for identifi- The Department continues to
the International Association of and hiring new DTCC Public cation at the main entrances and improve the quality of service
College Law Enforcement Admin- Safety Officers. Officers were visitors are required to sign-in. provided through additional
istrators on campus security. required to have a background in Additional cameras were in- training and upgrading existing
The report had been commis- police or security work and be stalled and the internal emer- equipment. The Department
sioned by the College and offered able to pass a physical fitness gency notification system was stands committed to providing a
94 recommendations. test. All DTCC Public Safety Offi- upgraded at Stanton. safe campus community for
cers were further required to students, staff and visitors.
Our College President, Dr. complete a training academy The Department implemented a
George, created a Public Safety that was developed by the pilot bicycle patrol program in
Chief’s Committee. The commit- Chief’s Committee. 2005. The program was well
tee, composed of the four cam- received by the campus commu-
pus chiefs (three of whom were In addition to the new person- nity and additional bikes were
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THE STANTON PULSE Edition 6
EDUCATION CORNER
Vaccination for HPV by Elizabeth Chance
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common causes of sexually
transmitted infections (STI) in the world. Health experts estimate there are more cases of genital HPV infection than any other STI in the United
States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.2 million new cases of sexually transmitted HPV
infections are reported every year. At least 20 million people in this country are already infected. What is frightening is that genital HPV infec-
tions often do not have signs and symptoms that can be seen or felt. Individuals who are asymptomatic can still spread HPV to their sexual part-
ners and/or develop complications from the virus.
There are more than 100 types of HPV, most of which are harmless. However, experts have identified about thirty types that are spread though
sexual contact and are classified as low risk or high risk. Genital warts are very contagious and can be spread through sexual contact with an
infected partner. Some of the low risk types of HPV cause genital warts that appear in the genital areas of men and women. Genital warts are
the most easily recognized sign of genital HPV infection. Many people, however, have a genital HPV infection without genital warts. Some high-risk
types of HPV can contribute to the development of cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, rectum, or penis.
The only absolute prevention for an HPV infection is to avoid direct contact with the virus, which is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact. Recent
studies demonstrate that consistent condom use by male partners offers strong protection against low and high risk types of HPV infection in
women. Unfortunately, many people who don't have symptoms don't know that they can spread the virus to an uninfected partner.
In June 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved Gardasil, the first vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer, precancerous geni-
tal lesions, and genital warts due to HPV. Gardasil is a vaccine that prevents infection with four HPV types: 6, 11, 16, and 18. Types 6 and 11 are low
risk HPV types, associated with 90 percent of genital warts. Types 16 and 18 are high risk HPV types which together cause 70 percent of the
cases of cervical cancer. Gardasil is recommended for females between the ages of 9 and 26, but is most effective in females before they be-
come sexually active. The vaccine consists of a series of 3 injections (about $120 each) given over a 6 month period. Protection lasts about 5
years.
Gardasil, however, has created a lot of controversy in recent months. Opponents of vaccination believe that the HPV vaccine will encourage
promiscuity among young people. Others believe that teenagers have a misconception that the HPV vaccine protects against all sexually trans-
mitted diseases. Many also fear that the long-term effects of the vaccine are not known. Citizen groups worry about the vaccine becoming re-
quired by law for pre-adolescent girls, thus, interfering with a family’s right to make decisions about health care. Proponents, however, believe
that the vaccine can have a substantial impact on the health of women. They estimate that the vaccine may be effective in preventing 70% of
cervical cancer and 90% of genital warts.
As this issue is heating up, it is important to educate people about the benefits and possible risks of the vaccine. While Gardisil may be an im-
portant tool in the fight against cervical cancer, much more information is needed to make an informed decision than that which is portrayed on
TV commercials and Web campaigns. It is also important to note that the vaccine does not negate the need for PAP smears or HPV testing. For
more information on Gardisil and cervical cancer, please visit www.cancer.org or www.cdc.gov.
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
FACULTY NEWS
New Faculty by Jennifer Graber
Chris Hoch started with Dela- at Christiana Care in open heart Tau, NLN, AACN, and CCNS. In
ware Tech in 2004 as an adjunct recovery (CVICU) for the past 7 addition to all of this, Chris is
clinical instructor and is now a full years. She also has experience in married and has a four year old
time faculty in the bridge position step-down telemetry, medical- son, Andrew. We welcome Chris
for NUR 243 and NUR 244. She surgical nursing, home health as a full time member of our
graduated from the University of care, and nursing home care. nursing faculty.
Delaware in 1996 with her BSN Chris is a BLS instructor, ACLS
and is currently working on her certified, certified to care for
MSN with a focus in Adult Health patients with an IABP, CRRT, and
Chris Hoch CNS. She is expected to graduate VAD (ventricular assist devices),
this December. Chris has worked and is a member of Sigma Theta
We welcome Karen Rollo, RN, part time. She has been a mem- now available to nursing stu-
MSN, CEN, SANE-A as a full time ber of the ED Forensic Nursing dents since she went to school
faculty member teaching in NUR team for 8 years, a fascinating here. Karen said she feels “very
241. Karen is a Del Tech alumnus new nursing specialty. Karen said welcomed and valued as a new
member of the faculty, and feel
(1986) and is very happy to be that working in the ED provided
as though this new career will be
here now, working with the nurs- her with experiences educating, a great fit for me. I enjoy seeing
ing faculty, some of whom were precepting, and mentoring new students and then new nurses
her instructors when she was a nurses. She also gained some starting to `put it all together’.”
student! She completed her BSN public speaking experience that On the personal side, Karen has
and MSN at Wilmington College, helped prepare her to begin a been married for 30 years to
just graduating in January from teaching career at Del Tech. Karen her high school sweetie. She has
the Master's program. Karen’s stated that she has always been two children, a yellow lab, and a
nursing career has been spent impressed with the quality of beautiful granddaughter, Abigail,
Karen Rollo
working at Christiana Hospital, nursing education at Delaware who will be 2 in May. Welcome,
Karen!
first in orthopedics and for the Tech. She said she is amazed at
last 17 years in the Emergency the magnitude of the program
Department, where she still works expansion and the lab resources
The Delaware Tech Nursing Faculty would like to extend special congratulations to
Raegan Degnars, who recently graduated from the University of Delaware with her
Master of Science in Nursing. Good job Raegan!!!
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
FACULTY NEWS
From the Other Side of the Bed by Kay Keenan
structor in NUR 115. She was in- and Tiffany arranged for my uates, she is also my second
valuable in helping me navigate transfer to a private room as I cousin. While there I had a num-
through all the physicians and had requested. Sad to say, I ber of visits from both past and
therapists I needed to see. She didn’t get to enjoy my private present students including:
came to see me while I was in the room for long. As the night pro- Elaine Wessling (1997), Derek
Surgical Critical Care Complex gressed, I began to bleed. Tiffany (2005) & Dustin MacFarlane
(SCCC) and brought me a beautiful continued to assess me and (2007), and Michelle Hintleman
quilt, which I treasure. emptied my drains just as she (2003).
It has been estimated that the had been instructed. She called
When I went to see the radiation I couldn’t wait to get home
nursing program at Stanton has the rapid response team and
oncologist, his office was filled though. My home care was ar-
produced 2500 nurses in the last facilitated my transfer back to
with our graduates. I recognized ranged by Nicole Caupano (1998)
35 years. I’ve been honored to be the OR.
Karen but not her last name and my home care nurse was
a nursing instructor for 27 of
Karch. When she was in the pro- After my second surgery in 16 Jen Immediato (1997). I know I
those years. However, in Sep-
gram she was Karen Petrucci hours, I was transferred to SCCC received other visitors and if I
tember, 2006, I was diagnosed
(1989). Also in the office was where I was cared for by Lynn missed anyone I apologize and
with breast cancer. Thus, began
Melanie Townsend (2001) who was Jones (1992). Lynn is truly caring blame it on the Dilaudid.
my odyssey to the “other side of
a recipient of the Frank Linzenbold and holistic in her approach and I Throughout this entire ordeal I
the bed” where I would learn
award. I learned, however, that I received the best of care from have been supported by my dear
firsthand how well our students
was not a candidate for radiation her. While in SCCC, I was cared friend Jo Melson (1992). Jo has
exemplify the professional quali-
therapy. Instead, my husband and for by our current student Pat called, sent cards, and visited me
ties of nursing that we, as in-
I decided I would have a mastec- Buckley. Pat was a student of several times while I was in the
structors, strive to instill.
tomy with reconstruction. mine in MAT 119. While in SCCC, I hospital.
As a member of the CCHS was visited by current students, The college’s current market-
Breast Center, Darci Burbage On November 14, 2006, I under- Debbie Garvey and Clare Pear- ing campaign asks the question:
(1987) was with me for all the went a mastectomy with TRAM flap son. They brought well wishes “Delaware Tech graduates:
tests and procedures prior to my reconstruction. After the surgery, from the class of 2007, as well Where would we be without
lumpectomy. She held my hand I was admitted to 3C. My nurse as a huggable pig that Lynn them?” I know how I would an-
during the wire placement and was Tiffany Rozanski (2001). She named “Buttercup”, which I will swer the question. From unfortu-
kept my husband and son in- had been told that a “Catherine” treasure always. Also while in nate circumstances came a
formed during the surgery. She Keenan was being admitted. Tif- the unit, Maureen Scholtz (2002) privilege that will forever be
recalled that I taught her about fany was so surprised to see that asked her minister, who is on the treasured. I am proud to have
IVs at the V.A. it was indeed “Kay” Keenan her pastoral counseling staff, to pray been a part of these wonderful
clinical instructor in NUR 143. with me. nurses’ preparation. I am truly
At the Helen Graham Center,
The next thing I knew Kerry After 3 days in the unit, I was blessed to have had the opportu-
Nancy Lambert (1987) became
Argoe (2001), another of my NUR transferred to 3D. There I was nity to see and experience the
my care coordinator. She re-
143 clinical students, was poking met by Patty Buckalew (1987 ). results of a lifetime of work.
minded me I had been her in-
her head around the curtain. She Besides being one of our grad-
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
FACULTY NEWS
Saying Goodbye by Kathy Sokola
Saying goodbye to members of our nursing faculty family is never easy to do, but losing three experienced and greatly valued members of our de-
partment will be an extremely emotional event for us. Retiring between June and October will be Joan Wolf, Sue Mark, and Kay Keenan.
Joan Wolf is our senior faculty member with 32 years of service at DTCC. She began teaching in the nursing program at Stanton Campus in August
1975, just two years after its inception. She has seen incredible change during her tenure, from the self-directed LEGS program to the quarter sys-
tem, and then to semesters, with many major curricular changes and revisions along the way. Throughout her teaching career, Joan has remained a
pediatrics instructor, sharing the love and knowledge of this specialty field of nursing with hundreds of students over the years.
Joan has served on every departmental committee during her time at DTCC and has chaired numerous committees at one time or another. How-
ever, faculty depends on Joan for her mathematical abilities and computer suaveness. Whenever there are questions involving numbers, calcula-
tions, or computer glitches, Joan is the first one to be called. For years, she has also been one of the faculty members responsible for scheduling
nursing classes within the department. This is a daunting task, and everyone will miss her expertise in this area. In addition to her departmental
contributions, Joan is a CPR instructor and has had the pleasure over the years to certify faculty in infant and pediatric CPR, which has probably
added a bit of humor to her experiences.
Joan says that some of her fondest memories of her teaching career involve working with students, seeing their enthusiasm, and helping them
with their own personal needs. She also cherishes her memories of all the faculty members with whom she has worked, and is probably the only
faculty member who can recall sitting on bean bags during faculty meetings. She says that she will miss the interaction with the students and fac-
ulty, and that teaching has been a valuable learning experience for her, also.
After retirement on June 15, 2007, Joan will keep busy with her many hobbies and interests. She plans on continuing her genealogical research on
her ancestors and descendants, and has a long term goal of becoming a Certified Genealogist. She plans on attending out-of-state fossil trips, which
usually involve a Monday. She will think of her colleagues in the clinical area on those days. Joan has aspirations to organize 58 years worth of items
from her mother’s basement, attic and garage – something she says will be an extraordinary accomplishment. Finally, Joan has plans to volunteer to
check immunizations for the school nurse at Lewis Elementary and hopes to work in the Read-Aloud program at the New Castle County Absalom
Jones Head Start. She says that both agencies have been wonderful at mentoring nursing students.
Sue Mark, currently the Instructional Coordinator for the Department of Nursing, will also be retiring on June 15, 2007, although her last day at
work will be June 14. Sue began her teaching career at DTCC in August 1985 as a part-time Fundamentals instructor. She eventually taught in the last
medical-surgical course, specializing in neurology. She was instrumental in the development of the LPN transition course and BIO 130, Disease Proc-
esses & Pathophysiology. In 2004, Sue received the “Excellence in Teaching Award” presented by the College in recognition of outstanding faculty.
In her role as Instructional Coordinator, Sue coordinates the admission and placement of over 300 students per semester. From the pre-
admission exams, to clinical placement and scheduling of students in clinical courses, Sue is a first resource for nursing students and faculty alike.
Her expertise in managing student information, maintaining databases, and assisting faculty with the advisor role will be greatly missed. She will be
remembered by faculty as the “keeper of the data”. ( Continued on Page 9 )
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
FACULTY NEWS
Saying Goodbye by Kathy Sokola ( Continued from page 8 )
Another area in which Sue has made a lasting impact is program evaluation. Sue has served as a NLNAC program evaluator, visiting and evaluating
nursing programs across the country. With her experience and knowledge of program standards, she has guided our Department’s Program Evalua-
tion Review Committee with collecting and interpreting statistical data about our nursing program. The revisions resulting from this work have led to
continual improvement of the program and have assisted in maintaining NLNAC accreditation.
Sue says that she has so many fond memories of her career at DTCC that it is difficult to pick out her favorites. She states that “it has always been
special and uplifting to watch students who struggled flourish as graduate nurses.” Sue’s retirement will take her to Florida where she plans to relax
and enjoy the weather. We hope she’ll want lots of company!
Lastly, Kay Keenan will be retiring on October 31, 2007. Kay has been a real asset to the Department of Nursing and to the College. She worked as a
part-time instructor from August 1979 to June 1989, teaching pharmacology. She joined the faculty in a full-time role in August 1989, teaching sec-
ond level medical-surgical nursing where she excelled in making arterial blood gases a subject that students could understand. In 2003, she was the
first, and very deserving, recipient from our nursing program at Stanton to receive the “Excellence in Teaching Award”. Currently, Kay holds the
position of Retention Coordinator, which entails the implementation of activities to support student success.
Kay has also been actively involved in many college-wide committees and activities. She co-chaired the Stanton/Wilmington Self–Study in 2003,
and has been a member of the Stanton/Wilmington Campus Planning Council. She is currently involved with the College-Wide Retention Committee.
Kay is best known for her energetic and humorous approach to whatever task is at hand. These qualities, combined with her outgoing nature and
student-centered style, have endeared her in the memories of students and faculty over the years. Kay is also recognized for her knowledge of is-
sues and events outside of nursing. If there’s something important going on, whether nationally, statewide, locally or just around the College, and you
want to know more about it, just ask Kay.
Kay says that just being a member of the nursing faculty will be one of her fondest memories. She states that this is “the greatest group of women
(and one man) I have ever worked with. Everyone is so supportive and truly caring.” After she retires, Kay plans to read the Great Books and help
her husband, who plans to be a nursing student at Stanton.
Each of these faculty members has played a significant role in helping to make our program at Stanton Campus so successful. Their talents and
accomplishments have touched the lives of students and faculty, and we will miss them dearly after they retire. We wish them the best that life has
to offer and hope that they won’t mind phone calls if we need their help!
Joan Wolf Sue Mark Kay Keenan
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THE STANTON PULSE Edition 6
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Outstanding Students by Kathy Sokola
The Department of Nursing recognizes its outstanding students with three awards each semester. The Frank Linzenbold Award is presented to
the student who demonstrates superior qualities of compassion and caring in the clinical area. The Sister Joseph Leo DeFrank Award recognizes
the student who demonstrates leadership abilities that have the potential to promote change in nursing. The Faculty Award is presented to the
student who demonstrates both outstanding academic achievement and clinical competence. The following students were award recipients for this
year.
Fall Semester 07-1
Frank Linzenbold – Dustin McFarland
Sister Joseph Leo DeFrank – Kevin Maloney
Nursing Faculty Award – Glenny Bartram
Spring Semester 07-2
Frank Linzenbold – Monica Sosnowski
Sister Joseph Leo DeFrank – Kevin Sweeny
Nursing Faculty Award – Michele Gordon
The Faculty congratulates these students for their outstanding achievements and offers best wishes for a successful nursing career!
Summer Nurse Extern Program by Kathy Sokola
The DuPont Hospital for Children will be continuing its summer nurse extern program for the summer of 2007. This is a 10 week program that
combines education with work experience under the preceptorship of experienced RNs. Applications are available on the Nemours website at
www.nemours.org. The position requirements are posted on the web site for the duPont Hospital for Children Wilmington location. The program
requires one semester of clinical nursing courses and prefers students entering their last year of school. Students need to fill out an application
and include a faculty reference (form is also online). If you have an interest in pediatrics, this is an excellent opportunity for you! For more
information, please contact Pat Welsh at pwelsh@dtcc.edu
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Spring 2007 Edition 6
STUDENT ACTIVITIES continued
The Student Nurses Association by Jan Smick
The mission of the Student Nurses Association (SNA) is to “promote the profession of nursing, support students and activities in the
nursing program, and encourage participation in health promotional activities within the community”. Members of Delaware Tech’s SNA
are supporting this purpose through their involvement in various community events. They have become well-known to many Delawareans
as they have participated in causes which focus on mental health awareness, breast cancer prevention, providing for the homeless, do-
mestic violence prevention, donations for senior centers, and community clinic needs.
For those interested in learning more about this organization, the SNA has a website located on the Stanton/Wilmington Campus home-
page that provides a wealth of information. Nursing students can check on upcoming events and meeting dates and times. The site provides
links to the Delaware Student Nurses Association, the National League for Nursing, and the Delaware Board of Nursing, among others. The
site also directs students to financial aid information and scholarship opportunities. Students can view pictures of the 2007-1 Pinning
Ceremony held on the Del Tech campus in December 2006.
The SNA maintains the goal to “promote the development of professional leadership in nursing students while providing a collaborative
relationship with other members of the health care team and the community.” Students interested in supporting that goal and becoming
an active member of the SNA can find information about membership, dues, and meeting times on the website.
Support the Community !
Support the SNA !
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THE STANTON PULSE Edition 6
Alumni News
Class Notes by Linda Martz 2006 2006
2005 2006
Joseph Kozak Erlinda Ponce de Leon
1998
Leigh Ferguson Lauren DiBiaso Joe now lives in Tucson, Arizona Erlinda has been spending her
and works at the University Medi- time traveling and playing with
Leigh is currently working at Chil- Lauren became engaged on April cal Center in the Pediatric Inten- granddaughter, Ava
her new 2004
dren's Hospital of Philadelphia in 20 to Derek McFarland, who also sive Care Unit. He is PALS and Sophia. In addition, she is the
the NICU and she absolutely loves graduated from the DTCC Nursing ACLS certified. Joe says the PICU Director of a small nonprofit
it! She says that everyday is a new Program. Their wedding date is is great and he likes taking care of school in the Philippines and is
challenge and she is constantly planned for June 7, 2008. They children. His favorite patient popu- able to manage it long distance
learning! It's a great hospital and a will attend Wilmington College in lation is newborns. He will be via email and telephone. When
wonderful learning experience! the Fall. taking college classes this summer she is in the school, she is also
in preparation for attending either the school Nurse. Currently, she
1999 the University of Arizona in Tucson, is overseeing the construction
Katie (Foster-Abbott) Stokes Casey (Hearn) Galasso or Arizona State of concrete classrooms to re-
University in Tempe, AZ. In his place temporary schoolrooms.
Katie got married last June 2006. Casey got married in January spare time, Joe enjoys hiking in the
After graduation, she was working 2006. She started working for desert and mountains of Arizona.
on a med/surg floor (4C) at Chris- Christiana Care April 9 on 5C,
tiana Hospital, In April, she began which is a med-surg unit. She says Jessica Smallwood
working at Chimes in Newark, that everything is going well, but
Robert Rapone Jessica is in the critical care
which is a vocational and housing being a new nurse is extremely
internship at Christiana Hospital
stressful because there's just so Robert is working in the Forensic
facility for the adult mentally and so far she loves it. She
much to learn. JEM building of the DPC under the
handicapped population. worked the first 6 weeks on 2C
tutelage of his mentor, Earl Robin- ( Cardiac Stepdown) and has
son, MSN, RN. He is employed by recently started her rotation at
Cyndi Irving the state in Merit Position for the 7 the surgical critical care com-
2006 AM to 3 PM shift of the Prison plex, She'll be there for 8 weeks
Cyndi remains working in the ACE Psychiatric Hospital. He is looking and then her last rotation will be
Unit/6A at Christiana Care. She forward to entering the RN to MSN in the emergency department
Lauren Busch will start a BSN degree in August program at Wilmington College for another 8 weeks.
and says it's never too late. She after he has completed one year
Lauren got her dream job working found that she enjoys working with Jessica plans on going back to
with the state of Delaware this
on the 3E MICU step-down at the elderly because of her per- school for a BSN degree after
July. He says that he could not be
Christiana. Since she and her hus- sonal experience with her Dad and she finishes the internship.
happier with his decision to have
band, John, both graduated to- his journey with Alzheimer's dis-
gether in December, there have enrolled @ DTCC.
ease and sates that it feels great
been some major changes in their to give back. Cyndi feels that the
lives. They bought their first house, Delaware Tech Staff prepared her Victoria Scott
which she says has been a long well for her RN position.
time coming, since they have two Victoria obtained a full time RN 11-7
little ones with a ton of energy. position at Parkview Nursing and
Rehab. She says that she and her To have Alumni information
bird, Pumpkin, are fabulous and published in the newsletter,
she is looking forward to buying a contact Linda Martz at
new car in about 6 months! lmartz@dtcc.edu
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SNA NEWS by Kathy Sokola
The seventy-five members of SNA had a busy semester. New officers elected in January were:
Debbie Virden – President
Delaw are Technical & Community College Katie Loomis – Vice President
Department of Nursing / Stanton Campus
Christine Brown – Secretary
400 Stanton-Christiana Road Peter Zingone – Treasurer
Newark, DE 19713
Theresa MacKale – SGA Representative
Phone: (302) 453– 3053 Under the guidance of these students, many activities took place, from bake sales to pizza
Fax: 302-368-6620
Email: ksokola@dtcc.edu
lunch meetings. Meetings often included guest speakers, and there were recruitment efforts
from Immaculata University, University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington
College. In addition, the students sponsored a domestic violence workshop. The year ended with
Newsletter Committee: a wonderfully coordinated Graduate Luncheon and Pinning ceremony. Many thanks are due to
all of those members who participated in these events and helped to make them such a suc-
Kathy Sokola, Editor cess.
Linda Martz, Layout & Design
Congratulations to Debbie Virden who was the nominee from Stanton Campus for Student
Elizabeth Chance
Nurse of the Year. Each year, the Delaware SNA sponsors a Nurses’ Ball during which the Stu-
Mary Lou Hamilton
dent Nurse of the Year and Nursing Instructor of the year are selected from the group of nomi-
Jennifer Graber nees chosen from across the state. Each school of nursing in the state selects one nominee for
Lola Johnson each category. Debbie and Cynthia Watson, who was the Nursing Instructor of the Year Nomi-
Donna Ramage nee, attended the Nurses’ Ball held in March.
Jan Smick
Pat Welsh Debbie Virden and Peter Zingone represented Stanton Campus SNA at the National SNA’s 55th
Annual Convention in Anaheim, California. Donna Ramage accompanied the students as a faculty
advisor. Debbie and Peter had the opportunity to meet and mingle with student nurses from
across the country, discussing issues related to entering the profession of nursing.
Do you have something interesting that
you’d like to submit for the next
newsletter? Contact Kathy Sokola at
ksokola@dtcc.edu for details.
Just for Fun . . . .
We’re on the Web! Check us out on the
Stanton-Wilmington home page
(www.dtcc.edu/stanton-wilmington) and
from the Nursing Department home
page (www.dtcc.edu/stanton/nursing).
13