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Jeri A. Milstead, PhD, RN, FAAN, NEA-BC
Dean Emerita 2007-2009 Chair, CNC Board of Commissioners The following is an interview between Tracy Lofty, CNC Director, and Dr. Jeri Milstead, first chair of the CNC Board of Commissioners (CNCBOC): Lofty: Why were you interested in serving on the CNL Certification Advisory Board (later the CNCBOC)? Milstead: I was excited that AACN was launching a certification process for the CNL and, since I was about to retire from my dean position, I thought I would have the time to become involved. The University of Toledo CON was the first pre-licensure master's degree offered in Ohio and we quickly realized that the curriculum was comparable to that of the CNL. Our faculty made the changes necessary to comply with the CNL curriculum and we worked with two hospital systems as partners. This experience convinced me that certification was the next step and I was eager to be part of this activity. Lofty: What has been your greatest accomplishment as Chair of CNCBOC? Milstead: I believe it has been a collegial, collaborative accomplishment from the members of the Board of Commissioners, AACN, the CNL Steering Committee, and our CNL programs. We did create a certification process, selected and trained item writers for both the multiple choice and simulation components of an exam, and have contracted with a reputable company to administer the exam. We are gathering data to indicate the worth of the CNL and the partners. We have a website with a lot of information about the CNL. All of this has taken wise decisions by the BOC and wonderful guidance from our CNC staff. Lofty: What do you enjoy most about serving on the CNCBOC and as Chair? Milstead: I enjoy being actively engaged with bright, motivated board members and the staff. I believe in the CNL and love to see the progress that we all have made. Lofty: What words of wisdom do you have for new members of the CNCBOC? Milstead: I rarely give advice, but I can say to those who may be thinking about applying to be BOC members, that serving is a wonderful way to use your experience, knowledge, and decision-making capacity. Board and staff members are very personable and helpful and will assist new members to grasp what has happened and encourage new thinking. Lofty: Where do you see the CNC in the next 10 years? Milstead: I see CNLs as a growing population of master's-prepared nurses who can take a group of patients through a health care experience, will coordinate the care of the team, and will make improvements at the unit or micro level of an organization. I think the CNC will be instrumental in developing new policies and procedures and will stimulate interest in the CNL program.
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