In 2022, SUNY Brockport’s Department of Nursing launched the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), the first ever doctorate-level program offered by a SUNY comprehensive-college. The program is offered 100% online to accommodate nurse practitioners that are currently working full-time.
“The Department of Nursing changed the masterplan for SUNY Brockport to allow the University to graduate students who have earned the Doctor of Nursing Practice,” said Kathy Peterson, Chair of the Department of Nursing. “This change paved the way for other departments at SUNY Brockport to offer practice doctorates at a tuition rate much lower than tuition at private universities.”
Luzann Ampadu, Brandon Geer, and Carrie Li were the first cohort of students to join the program and were set to graduate at Brockport’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony on May 17. Throughout their time in the program, they managed to balance a full workload alongside a rigorous program to earn their terminal degree in the field of nursing.
“Much like the dedication and perseverance it took for them to finish this degree, their willingness to step up and take action to improve population health outcomes is an example for all of us to emulate,” said Elizabeth Heavy, Professor of Nursing. “They are the change leaders we need to help positively transform the future of healthcare. This is the ultimate goal for graduates of Doctor of Nursing Practice programs.”
Learn more about SUNY Brockport’s first ever doctoral graduates and their time in the DNP program.
Luzann Ampadu
Ampadu started her journey at SUNY Brockport as an adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Nursing. When she heard the University was offering a DNP program, she applied for the program knowing she would be fully supported by her former colleagues.
“I chose the DNP program at SUNY Brockport because I know the University and professors very well,” Ampadu said. “I am incredibly honored and proud to be one of the first doctoral-level nursing students to graduate.”
The flexibility of the 100% online program allowed Ampadu to work full-time, providing care for patients while earning her degree. She believes one of the key standouts for the program is the individualized support offered by the department.
“They (the Department of Nursing) truly care about each student. It’s quite remarkable,” Ampadu said. “They take a holistic approach with every student, every student. You become a part of the SUNY Brockport family no matter where you live.”
The program helped Ampadu strengthen her leadership abilities, particularly when it comes to discussing high-level topics with interprofessional and interdisciplinary colleagues.
“Brockport helped me grow professionally and personally,” Ampadu said. “The degree has enhanced my leadership and communication skills by translating very complex healthcare and health systems issues in a manner that is more relatable to all team members.”
Brandon Geer
Geer is now a three-time graduate from SUNY Brockport, earning his BSN, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and now, DNP. A combination of affordability, accessibility, and academic support led him to apply to the DNP program.
“I liked the flexibility of the program. I was working several jobs that had constantly changing schedules which was nearly impossible to work around,” Geer said. “I am very appreciative of the guidance and support while working through my DNP project. I honestly don’t think I could have made it through without their coaching and support.”
The support offered throughout the program played a key role in Geer’s success. He was working full-time, building a new practice, and raising a newborn child – all while completing his DNP.
“I don’t think I would have been as supported in any other program,” Geer said. “I feel like the nursing department truly cares and strives to create a familial feeling to the program. Each professor customizes their approach to each student to make sure they are accommodated and supported.”
Ever since he was a child, Geer knew that he wanted to earn his doctorate. For a time, he moved on from that dream, content with his career as a Registered Nurse (RN). After joining the University, he caught the education “bug” and continued his studies until earning his terminal degree in nursing.
“I feel like I can finally display my love of education and have a tangible honorarium of the road I have traveled to get to this point,” Geer said. “I feel like I am a part of the progression of SUNY Brockport, and the progression of nursing overall.”
Carrie Li
Li earned her DNP from SUNY Brockport while living and working full-time in New York City, utilizing the program’s online flexibility.
“I discovered that the program was entirely online, offering the flexibility needed to advance my education and professional career without major disruptions to my work responsibilities,” Li said. “What impressed me the most was discovering that the instructors were practicing providers in their specialties outside the classroom.”
Li noted that it can be “undoubtedly challenging” to balance a full-time job while pursuing a doctorate, but the program’s curriculum and learning experience led to immediate growth in her field.
“Brockport’s program provides a component focused on leadership and disseminating the capstone findings,” Li said. “This distinctive feature has significantly influenced my professional growth, prompting me to engage in discussions with individuals in executive roles whom I wouldn’t typically interact with in my daily practice.”
Unlike the other students in her cohort, Li had no connection to SUNY Brockport prior to joining the program and had to commit to a fully online approach without immediate access to the University’s in-person facilities. Regardless of the obstacles, she is excited to graduate with her terminal degree this spring.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be one of the first doctorate-level students to graduate from SUNY Brockport,” Li said. “It is a profound experience that fills me with both humility and excitement for the opportunities for nurses to reach their terminal degrees with a unique and gratifying sense of accomplishment while advocating for practice improvement and shaping policy changes.”
Provided information and photo
