Our internationally recognized faculty are the cornerstone of our Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP) programs. They cultivate a nurturing educational environment focused on your success, both academically and professionally. These experienced nurse practitioners bring invaluable real-world insights into the classroom, providing you with the essential knowledge and skills to become leaders in pediatric critical care. Learn from the best and prepare to make a significant impact in the lives of critically ill children.
Debra (Debbie) Travers, PhD, MSN, RN, FAEN, FAMIA
Associate Consulting Professor
Dr. Travers’ extensive background in nursing and her expertise in informatics significantly enrich our Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner Programs. Her research and practical experience ensure our curriculum is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, preparing students to utilize the latest technologies in critical care settings. Explore her work further on Scholars@Duke.
Christina Leonard, APRN, DNP, FNP-C, CNL
Assistant Professor
Professor Leonard’s dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Leader provides a unique perspective to our pediatric critical care programs. Her focus on family-centered care and clinical leadership equips our PNP graduates to deliver holistic and effective care to young patients and their families in critical situations. Discover more about her contributions at Scholars@Duke.
Elaine Kauschinger, PhD, ARNP, FNP-BC, FAANP
Assistant Professor
Dr. Kauschinger, a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, brings her deep expertise in advanced practice nursing to our Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner programs. Her commitment to excellence in nurse practitioner education ensures our graduates are highly competent and compassionate pediatric critical care providers. Learn more about her scholarly activities at Scholars@Duke.
Shari Rushton, DNP, MS, RN, CCM, CNE
Associate Professor
Professor Rushton’s expertise as a Certified Nurse Educator and her background in case management are invaluable to our PNP program. Her skills in simulation and innovative teaching methods create engaging learning experiences that prepare our students for the complexities of pediatric critical care. Further details on her work can be found at Scholars@Duke.
Brandon Knettel, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dr. Knettel’s doctoral training in nursing science enhances the research component within our Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner programs. His focus on evidence-based practice and quality improvement ensures our curriculum is grounded in the latest scientific advancements, preparing future PNPs to be leaders in advancing pediatric critical care. Explore his academic profile at Scholars@Duke.
Kathryn Kreider, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Professor
As a Professor and Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Dr. Kreider is a distinguished leader in nurse practitioner education. Her extensive experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner and her dedication to academic excellence are instrumental in shaping our high-quality Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner programs. Learn more about her contributions to nursing at Scholars@Duke.
Valerie Sabol, PhD, MBA, ACNP, GNP, CHSE, CNE, ANEF, FAANP, FAAN
Professor
Dr. Sabol’s multifaceted expertise, including certifications as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, along with her accolades as a Fellow of both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nursing, positions her as a leading figure in advanced practice nursing. Her leadership and vision are crucial in guiding our Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner programs to national prominence. Discover more about her impactful career at Scholars@Duke.
Karin Reuter-Rice, PhD, CPNP-AC, FCCM, FAAN
Associate Professor
Dr. Reuter-Rice is a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care and a Fellow of the American College of Critical Care Medicine and the American Academy of Nursing. Her focused expertise in pediatric critical care directly informs the curriculum and clinical training within our programs, ensuring students receive specialized and cutting-edge education. Explore her extensive publications and research at Scholars@Duke.
This distinguished faculty is committed to fostering the next generation of Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioners. Their collective expertise, diverse backgrounds, and dedication to student success make our programs exceptional. If you are seeking a path to become a leader in pediatric critical care, our programs, guided by these expert faculty, offer the ideal environment for your professional growth. Learn More About Our Faculty
