About Us
Our Mission
To serve DNPs of Color through networking, mentorship and advocacy to increase diversity in doctoral studies, clinical practice and leadership.
Our Vision
To inspire, empower, and transform the landscape of nursing by increasing diversity in doctoral nursing practice.
Our Objectives
- To create opportunities for engagement in academia, research and clinical practice.
- To advocate for educational support for DNPs of Color.
- To serve as mentors and guide nurses of color to pursue doctor of nursing practice studies.
The group is needed because students of color, especially Blacks or African-Americans, often feel disconnected from their peers. I know as a nurse anesthetist, the journey through school and often in my daily professional life can feel lonely. This group will allow DOCs to network and share experiences with those to whom they can relate. Furthermore, there is an imbalance between the number of minorities in the U.S. versus the number represented in doctoral education. This group could help change that.”
Board of Directors
Dr. Danielle McCamey
DNP, CRNP, ACNP-BC, FCCP
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY, 2017
FOUNDER, PRESIDENT, CEO
“DOCs creates a much needed space for support, encouragement and inspiration for nurses of color. I’m proud to be part of this movement that will impact our profesion, but mostly influence positive outcomes for our patients and families.”
Dr. Ethlyn McQueen Gibson
DNP, MSN, RN-BC
URSULINE COLLEGE, 2017
VICE PRESIDENT
“I hope that through DOCs we can support fellow colleagues with the same dream of building a diverse workforce. This workforce cannot be built without the leadership and vision of doctorally-prepared nurses taking their seat at the table where decisions are being made on policy”
Dr. LaDonna Brown
DNP, CRNA
VANDERBUILT UNIVERSITY, 2019
TREASURER
“Moving as a collective and sharing our mission with like minded professionals will help our communities so we all can learn and move our profession as Doctors in Nursing practice forward.”
Dr. Toni Murray
DNP, CENP, NPD-BC, CMSRN
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, 2019
SECRETARY
“As DOCs we have the unique ability to influence, lead and contribute to the development of those in pursuit or already impacting our profession as Doctors in Nurse Practice.”
Dr. Daisy Medina-Kreppein
DNP, FNP-BC
STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY, 2012
BOARD MEMBER
“DOCs can give others hope, hope in their dreams of pursing a terminal doctor of nursing practice degree. We as DNPs of Color are in a unique position to enable future nurse business leaders, nurse entrepreneurs, and nurse clinical experts achieve their highest calling-the DNP. We can inspire change within our own communities.”
Dr. Jenna Benyounes
DNP, CNM, WHNP, NMCP
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY, 2017
BOARD MEMBER
“Advocating for ourselves to take up the space in much needed places is one of many impacts we will make as DNPs of Color. Our mission to inspire, empower and transform will move us forward so we can take a seat at many tables. Representation Matters!”
Dr. Bimbola Akintade
BOARD MEMBER
PHD, MBA, MHA, CCRN, ACNP-BC, NEA-BC, FAANP
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, 2011
“DOCs has potential to provide key support, offer experiences and opportunities to connect and network as it pertains to our mission and vision. It’s an honor to be part of the foundation and success of DNPs of Color.”
