The Florida State University (FSU) College of Nursing has achieved a significant milestone in nursing education. Steven J. Palazzo, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs and Teaching Professor, in collaboration with Tara L. Hayes DNP APRN FNP-BC CNE, Associate Teaching Professor, and Family Nurse Practitioner Track Coordinator, led the organizing of The Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) workshop. This specialized workshop was designed to cater to the aspirations of 13 faculty members seeking certification as nurse educators through the National League of Nursing.

Over the past year, the participants attended six workshop meetings guided by Drs. Palazzo and Hayes and their efforts received unwavering support from the College of Nursing’s Dean, Jing Wang, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN.

The CNE program honors FSU’s faculty expertise and commitment. It’s a rigorous certification process, with a 64% pass rate, and the goal is to certify all 13 workshop participants by the upcoming spring.

Recently, Associate Dean for Student Affairs Marsha E. Hartline, DNP, RN, CNML, emerged as the first among her peers to pass the CNE exam successfully. Her accomplishment elevates her into the distinguished ranks of CNEs at the College of Nursing, joining the esteemed company of Drs. Palazzo and Hayes.

The Academic Nurse Educator Certification Program is a critical component of FSU’s mission to promote excellence in the advanced specialty role of academic nurse educators. Certification is the hallmark of professionalism and specialization, establishing nursing education as a specialized practice field. It reflects the faculty’s commitment to the highest standards and serves as an inspiration to both educators and students.

Dr. Palazzo provided insights into the long-term goals of the FSU College of Nursing. These include a commitment to having all specialized teaching faculty achieve CNE certification, further emphasizing their dedication to excellence in nursing education. Additionally, the college is steadfast in its mission to prepare its nursing program as a National League for Nursing (NLN) Center of Excellence, aligning with its Strategic Plan 2023-2028, Strategic Direction 1.

“Having more CNE-certified educators is expected to benefit the academic and healthcare communities significantly,” said Dr. Palazzo. “These educators play diverse roles, informed by factors such as their institution’s mission, academic rank, and program type. Their commitment to evidence-based teaching practices enhances the learning experience for nursing students, promoting culturally responsive education and client care”.

Regarding expanding the CNE program, Dr. Palazzo announced that another workshop is scheduled for 2024, offering aspiring educators the opportunity to further their careers through CNE certification. Eligible new members are encouraged to contact him for support and guidance.