Graduate Spotlight: Michelle Van Outer, DNP
Congratulations to Michele Van Outer, DNP, BSN, on her graduation from the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Nursing (CON) with her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Dr. Van Outer’s project, “Improving Structural Empowerment Through the Co-Creation of a Professional Governance Program of Nurse Managers and Frontline Nurse Leaders” aims to uncover the potential benefits of a collaborative approach on staff members’ patient care outcomes. Dr. Van Outer serves as a Nurse Manager at Eastern State Hospital (ESH).
Dr. Van Outer began her career as an associate degree Nurse (ADN) at ESH developing her skill in patient care. Over time, she completed her BSN and is graduating May 2024 with her DNP in the Executive Leadership track. From her time as a floor nurse to her DNP, Van Outer has consistently found herself in leadership roles where she can impact best practices for patient care.
Dr. Van Outer has always been passionate about community support and public health relations and how they impact patient care. During her early nursing education, she was already interested in mental health and psychiatric nursing. She understands how inpatient psychiatric hospitals provide crucial support for underserved communities, often serving as a last resort for seeking care. Dr. Van Outer states, “We provide evidence-based care at ESH for people who, maybe, wouldn't be able to access it any other way.”
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Van Outer mentioned how beneficial the support was from her cohort and the Work Learning Program (WLP) at ESH. She specifically appreciated Dr. Okoli’s writing workshops and the support from WLP leaders in reviewing papers and conceptualizing assignments. She notes, “It was a four-year program; so, with that extra support, it enabled us to keep going because when you got in a bind, we had each other, but we also had the Work Learning Program (WLP) and their experience and research.”
Dr. Marc Woods, Chief Nursing Officer with UK Health Care notes, "Dr. Michelle Van Outer's resilient pursuit of her doctoral degree showcases her unwavering dedication to leadership in nursing. Her work on shared governance not only enhances her capabilities but also inspires others in the healthcare field to excel in this area."
Now that Dr. Van Outer has successfully completed the DNP program, she has time to appreciate her new accomplishment. Her goal remains to eventually transition into a director position and to continue to support nurse leaders.
Congratulations, Dr. Van Outer!