Graduate Spotlight: Johna Arnett, DNP

Apr 30, 2024

Congratulations to Johna Arnett, DNP, RN, on her graduation from the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Nursing (CON) with her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Dr. Arnett’s project, “The Impact a Nurse Recruiter has on Nursing Staff Shortages and Nurse Manager Satisfaction in an Acute Psychiatric Facility” explores the impact of a nurse recruiter role in addressing nursing staff shortages and nurse manager satisfaction within an acute psychiatric facility. Dr. Arnett is a Nurse Manager at Eastern State Hospital (ESH).

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Having begun her career as a clinical nurse at Eastern State Hospital in 2015, Dr. Arnett has remained dedicated in her pursuit of professional growth and development within the same institution. Along Dr. Arnett’s journey, she transitioned from a clinical role to into a patient care manager role. Dr. Arnett’s decision to pursue a DNP was driven by her passion for executive leadership and a desire to ignite positive change within the healthcare landscape.

Throughout her academic pursuit, Dr. Arnett has participated in and benefited from the Work Learning Program (WLP) at Eastern State Hospital (ESH), finding support in a community that showed dedication to fostering growth and collaboration. Dr. Arnett notes that this program has been extremely beneficial in shaping her academic journey, providing invaluable resources and a nurturing environment conducive to learning and professional development. In fact, Dr. Arnett completed her BSN through the WLP program prior to entering the DNP WLP. In reflecting on her journey, Dr. Arnett emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and the invaluable role played by EHS and the WLP in her success.

Marc Woods, Chief Nursing Officer for UK Healthcare, comments, “Dr. Johna Arnett's journey from clinical nurse to a transformative leader shows the impact of dedication on shaping the future of nursing. Her focus on education and empowerment sets a strong example for the next generation of nurse leaders."

Dr. Arnett's accomplishments have extended beyond academia to her contributions to patient care and staff development. She has mastered compassionate care practices, emphasizing how important it is to be understanding while addressing patients’ needs. Dr. Arnett emphasizes her leadership style of prioritizing staff education and empowerment. She also hopes to inspire her team toward excellence and to approach challenges with humility and compassion.

Now that Dr. Arnett has successfully completed the DNP program, she is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. She will begin the Leadership Grow Program at UK in Fall 2024 to further enhance her leadership skills.

Congratulations, Dr. Arnett!