Conhi Faculty Newly Recognized as Distinguished Educators in Gerontological Nursing

Monday, Dec 06, 2021

Dr. Kellie Kahveci, clinical assistant professor, and Dr. Donna Hamby, clinical associate professor, in UTA’s College of Nursing and Health innovation were newly inducted as Distinguished Educators in Gerontological Nursing by the National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence (NHCGNE). This recognition from NHCGNE aims to prepare the nurse workforce to care for an aging population and have the teaching competence with actively engaged learners at all levels.

Kahveci and Hamby were among the 31 individuals honored with this recognition in 2021, joining an elite group of educators across the county.

“I am grateful to both UTA and to my amazing mentors, it is notable that the CONHI faculty includes several nurses holding this designation, Dr. Kathy Daniel, Dr. Donna Hamby, and Dr. Patti Parker. I am pleased to be part of an institution that is committed to providing future nurse practitioners with excellence in gerontologic nursing education,” said Kahveci.

Kahveci is passionate about gerontological nursing as a sub-specialty and encourages others to see more educators work toward serving the geriatric community. Kahveci passed the Certified Nurse Educator exam in August 2021 and she found it challenging but helpful to keep growing as an educator and mentor.

“I feel honored and humbled to be affiliated with such a talent and knowledgeable group of educators,” said Hamby.

Hamby’s advice to individuals who have plans to achieve this award is to join the National Hartford Center of Excellence in Geriatric Nursing and take full advantage of the educational courses and support provided, as well as associate with other geriatric-focused organizations.

Hamby’s research and interest continue to focus on health care policy, using evidence to achieve changes, and “data is a necessity for this,” she said. She plans to see the Graduate Certificate and Master’s in Nursing Health Informatics programs’ curriculum developed, and then support enrolling and educating students in this field as a top priority.

-Written by Precious Olowokere, College of Nursing and Health Innovation