Like many others, Paula’s decision to enter the nursing profession was influenced by a desire to help others. However, there is one experience that stands out in her memory. “My first job was a newspaper route. As I approached one of my customers homes, I noticed he was outside on his front lawn slumped next to a ladder sitting on the ground. He was an older gentleman, and I knew he lived alone. He was sweating and holding his chest – I went to a neighbour’s house for help, who I knew was a nurse.” Paula chuckled. “This was before the days of cellphones and 911.”
Paula describes how the nurse calmly took charge. “She called the ambulance and then directed us (myself and her son) in ways we could help – loosening clothing, placing a pillow, getting a blanket, those sorts of things. All the while, she also continued to reassure the gentleman and us kids that everything was going to be fine, and that help would soon be there.” She describes the moment as one that has left a lasting impression. “I think it was the first time I saw the power of nursing in action – compassion, leadership, and clinical skill all coming together to make a difference.”
As years passed, time spent with family members and friends who were nurses further sparked her interest in the profession. With such great examples of nursing surrounding Paula in her early years, it’s no surprise that she entered the healthcare field.
Nursing was a passion, but advancing her education quickly became just as important – and the Dalhousie School of Nursing played a huge part from the beginning. “I am a proud Dal grad – achieving my bachelor’s degree in 2000 and my master’s in nursing in 2016. I’m actually a graduate from the second class ever to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Yarmouth. Currently I am working toward the completion of a doctoral degree through the University of Toronto Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing.”
Paula began her career as a nurse educator at the Dalhousie School of Nursing, Yarmouth Campus, initially working from 2004 until 2017 as a part-time instructor (supporting students’ learning in both clinical practice and classroom settings). In 2018, she was awarded a full-time adjunct assistant professor position with the school – and now, in April of this year, she’s stepped in the role of site administrator.
Paula feels ready for the challenge. “At some point, you recognize that your knowledge, skills, and experiences have prepared you to step into a leadership role. In addition to my work in nursing education, my career has spanned a wide range of practice areas, including hospital-based settings such as maternity, pediatrics, and medical/surgical areas, as well as community nursing in Primary Care, Public Health Services, and Continuing Care. These roles have provided me with many opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities and have helped me develop a leadership style that I hope is viewed by others as one that is grounded in authenticity and mutual respect.”
“The Yarmouth School of Nursing’s strong reputation and over 100-year history of nursing excellence continues to inspire our faculty to embrace opportunities that enhance student learning. As educators and leaders, we understand the crucial role we play in preparing our future nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to continue to make meaningful contributions to the health of our communities. It’s incredibly rewarding to play a part in their journey and to help shape the next generation of nurses who will no doubt continue to go on to transform the future of healthcare.”
Here at the Yarmouth Hospital Foundation, we wish her the best as she begins her first full school year in her new position!
But Paula isn’t the only person whose career has been shaped by the Dalhousie School of Nursing, Yarmouth Campus. For the past three decades, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) graduates have been making positive impacts in Southwest Nova Scotia and beyond. As the campus is celebrating thirty years of this success this fall, they are looking to share stories that highlight this legacy!
Do you know a nursing graduate who has inspired you or made a difference in your life as a member of your care team, colleague, classmate or mentor? Nominate them today and help us share their story: https://surveys.novascotia.ca/Yarmouth30
