Tracy Dodson is one of the best instructors at Kent State College of Nursing. She is so passionate about her students and wants them to succeed. She has been my rock and strength. Whenever I feel down, she is always there to talk to me and encourage me. I remember during my first practicum day, I experienced a code blue, and I was devastated. I messaged her because she's not just my faculty advisor but also someone I can talk to any time. She called me the next day, and I explained everything that happened. She helped me process everything and when I went back to clinical, I was stronger and better. Also, over the summer during the pandemic, she fought for us in her community clinical to have live clinical experience. She kept reaching out to whoever she could think of to give us the opportunity to have clinical. I believe my experience in nursing school has been amazing because of Tracy. She cares so much about her students. She is also a great and wonderful instructor. She is energetic and very down to earth. She is very patient and kind. She is always willing to help and make sure we have what it takes to succeed in her class. She treats everyone equally. As a black student, it is sometimes hard to find such great support system, especially from faculty members. But here at Kent, it has been different; especially from Tracy. I feel so loved by her. Also, as an out of state student with no family around, Tracy has been my support system. For this I am grateful. So, if there's anyone who better deserves this award, it is Ms. Dodson because she is the absolute best and the world needs more people like her.
***
I've always found Tracy Dodson to be a very engaging instructor. With everything remote now with COVID, it can be hard to be excited about online lectures- but Tracy's lectures are so animated- I really look forward to them. Even though I haven't met her in person, I feel like I can truly trust her, and look up to her as a nurse, teacher, and leader. She has been there for me when I needed advice, and when I needed a shoulder to cry on. She gives so much of herself to her students-she is truly deserving of this award.
***
I had the privilege of having Tracy as my clinical instructor for my fundamentals class. I was a new nursing student, very nervous for my first clinical experience, and from the first day I met Tracy, she dissolved my nerves. She is so upbeat, caring, helpful, kind, and smart. She made everyday fun! Fast forward to having her as an adults instructor, I can remember everything she taught me from fundamentals because that's how well her teaching sticks with you. She is SO deserving of this award.
These are just a few examples of the lasting impact our faculty can leave on our students.