Spotlight on Nell Ard

Nell Ard, PhD, CNS, RNC, CNE, was inducted into Epsilon Omicron on February 1, 1983. She currently lives in McKinney, TX. Dr. Ard is the Director of Nursing for Collin County Community College and Research Consultant for Medical Center of Plano. She graduated from Harding University (BSN) in 1983; West Texas State University (now West Texas A&M) - MSN in 1988; and University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio - PhD in 1994. Currently her research interests focus on nursing education. She is working closely with the National League for Nursing.

When asked what she has seen change in nursing, Dr. Ard writes, "Overall the acuity of patient care has changed significantly during my career - many who didn't survive then are now are "regular" units while really sick patients are in ICU. I would like to continue to see more individuals come into the wonderful profession of nursing - we need more nurses to meet the needs of America. We also need more nurses willing to teach in our nursing programs - even though you do not 'get the BIG bucks'."

Her advice for new members is to "find your love of nursing and get involved. There is a need to add to the evidence base practice of nursing whether in direct patient care or in nursing education. Find someone younger to mentor in the process - even boys/girls in elementary and/or junior high school."

Dr. Ard's reasons for being a member of Sigma Theta Tau International are:
#1 it is a means of staying and/or getting involved in the future of the nursing profession.
#2 - I've always had a passion for research - now if I only had the time to do what I want.
#3 - It assists in keeping the nursing profession at the forefront of academia - wearing your cords with your regalia at graduation - always brings opportunties.