Dr. Deborah Shelton, PhD, RN, NE- BC, NPD-BC, CCHP, FAAN, is a Professor Emerita at the University of Connecticut and a correctional nurse consultant. She is a founding member, first President, and active Board member of the American Correctional Nurses Association. She is the owner and co-founder of the Center for Correctional Nursing Workforce.

Dr. Shelton continues an active role in the revision of the ANA Scope and Standards for Correctional Nursing Practice and participates in national and state nursing workforce committees. New collaborations focus on the Professional Development and Professional Identity of Correctional Nurses under the new Workforce Center. A translational science researcher, Dr. Shelton, aims to apply research discoveries into practical applications that benefit correctional nurses. She continues to publish and present nationally and internationally; her work is read in at least 150 countries worldwide.