Natalie Cooper is committed to the profession of nursing, and the advancement of her education, in an effort to effectively serve her patients and community. During her current preceptorship experience in Community Health Nursing, she discovered a gap in the educational materials for patients with Type 2 diabetes who have been newly prescribed treatment in the form of injectable medication. She is working on an educational PowerPoint presentation for patients, with the goal of supporting patient and family success in medication management, as well as guidance on nutrition.

Natalie is a strong patient advocate, and is also an advocate for her peers. She has served in a leadership role for the past academic year in the RN-BSN Online program as a Class Representative. In this role, Natalie communicates with her peers in the program on a regular basis regarding any issues/concerns/questions/celebrations, etc. Then, Natalie brings these items to each monthly RN-BSN Online faculty meeting for discussion. She completes follow-up correspondence each month with students and faculty. This role requires a level of professionalism, respect, trust, and communication in order to maintain a positive presence and rapport with her peers, as well as with the faculty. Natalie is a role model for her peers in her service to the nursing program.

Additionally, Natalie was recently invited by VTSU ADN faculty to guest lecture on pediatric urology. She accepted this invitation, and described what an amazing experience it was to share her nursing practice knowledge with nursing students!