Nurses Week Spotlight: Nancy George, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Dr. Nancy George is an Associate Professor (Clinical) and Family Practitioner Graduate Speciality Coordinator at the Wayne State University College of Nursing.
Why did you choose to pursue a nursing career?
It's a bit of an unexpected journey. While in the Peace Corps as a biology teacher, I was involved in a project alongside a UNESCO project in a rural hospital. I had the incredible opportunity to witness firsthand the compassion and dedication of the nurses there. Their impact on patients and families left an indelible mark on me, so I pivoted from my initial path of becoming a research biologist to pursue nursing. And let me tell you, it's been the best decision of my life!
What reaffirms your decision to pursue this career?
It's the privilege of working closely with patients and their families, making a tangible impact on their health and well-being every day. From pediatric care to oncology, nephrology and transplant surgery, the diverse range of nursing opportunities has allowed me to explore various specialties and grow both personally and professionally. As a nurse practitioner, I had the honor of learning from exceptional mentors at the state's oldest nurse-managed center, shaping me into the practitioner I am today. My journey has taken me from school-based health to establishing an inner-city clinic, serving uninsured and underinsured populations, and now contributing to federally qualified health centers. And for the past two decades, I've had the incredible privilege of imparting these experiences as a faculty member at Wayne State University. It's been a remarkable journey, and I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to make a difference in so many lives.
What do you like most about being a nurse educator and teaching Wayne State nursing students?
It's witnessing the incredible journey of our students firsthand. Every day, I have the privilege of seeing their growth in knowledge and practice, from eager learners to confident professionals. And I'm grateful to be part of a team of dedicated faculty and staff who genuinely care about our students' success. As educators, we envision our students as the future of nursing, empowered with the skills and knowledge to deliver evidence-based care that truly makes a difference in patients' lives. It’s so rewarding watching my DNP students present their projects, seeing the tangible impact they've had on our community. It's moments like these that showcase the transformative power of nursing education.
Do you have any message for current and aspiring nurses?
Reflecting on Nurses Week, I want to share a message for aspiring nurses and my fellow health care heroes. Nursing isn't just a profession; it's a commitment to caring for others at their most vulnerable moments. It's not always easy, but the privilege of serving our communities brings immense rewards in the long run. As nurses, we hold a unique position to advocate not only for our patients but also for our profession. Let's use our voices to drive positive change in health care.