Dr. Paula Baisden is a lecturer and ANCC board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse with extensive experience in emergency, trauma, and psychiatric health care settings. She teaches courses in graduate and undergraduate nursing programs and maintains a clinical practice. She recently completed her Doctor of Education degree from Aspen University and is currently a DNP candidate at Rush University. She earned her MSN from Aspen University and BSN from Valparaiso University, and received multiple nominations:

Dr. Paula Baisden was one of the most influential professors during my undergraduate education at UNC Wilmington. She encourages students to work hard, ask questions, and learn with curiosity. Dr. Baisden went above and beyond to incorporate real-life examples, acting out skits and truly bringing her passion to the classroom. I can tell she truly deeply values the life of every patient and person she encounters!

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She handled lecturing and clinicals during a pandemic with grace, patience, and understanding. It was clear that her intentions were to help us learn and grow into resilient and intelligent nurses. Her course incorporated her personal nursing philosophies and values and she helped each of us grow closer to discovering our own belief systems. I truly believe that at any point in my future career, I will be able to reach out to her as a resource for questions, concerns, or even direction. She was an amazing mentor, and it was clear that she took the time for each of us and our best interests. With her guidance, we were able to publish a short article in an educational journal.

Additionally, we were able to present at the virtual APNA conference. Dr. Baisden had the most influence throughout my undergraduate, and now graduate, nursing career - and I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without her. She is an inspiration and someone I will always look up to for her kindness, humor, and willingness to help with any crazy idea that her students have!

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The UNCW School of Nursing administration, faculty, and staff proudly recognize Dr. Paula Baisden as the recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. She indeed is extraordinary!