Meet Sarah Atkins, CPNP, 2018 Melnic DNP Scholarship Recipient

Congratulations, Sarah Atkins, CPNP, winner of the 6th annual Melnic DNP Student Scholarship Award!

Melnic is proud to recognize Sarah Atkins, CPNP, with the 2018 DNP Student Scholarship award, in partnership with the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP).

Sarah is a PNP at Integrative Pediatrics in Portland, Oregon. We sat down with her during the NAPNAP National Conference to learn more about her career path and future goals.

How long have you been a PNP?

I have been a PNP for 6 months. I work in a primary care clinic and absolutely love it! I learn something new every day, and I cherish the long-term relationships that I develop with families.

What made you decide to further your education, and which DNP program did you choose?

I am in the final year of the DNP program at Oregon Health & Science University, and I will graduate this June! I was drawn to the DNP degree because of its emphasis on the value of nurses and the leadership power and potential we hold.

We’d love to hear about your selected project.

For my DNP project, I chose to partner with Northwest Kidney Kids, a non-profit dedicated to serving children with chronic kidney disease and their families.

An area that has potential to impact the future practice of pediatrics is looking at how we can care for children of siblings with chronic health needs. This population is at risk for more behavioral and emotional problems. My DNP project is implementing and evaluating a pilot program for siblings of children with chronic kidney disease. The program, called Sibshops, is an opportunity for siblings to meet one another, have fun, and discuss shared experiences such as the good and not so good parts of having a sibling with ongoing health needs.

What is your dream job?

My dream job would be a dual position working in primary care and teaching at the graduate level. I especially enjoyed my DNP courses related to leadership, systems, and quality improvement, so I think it would be awesome getting to work with students. I’d love to help others appreciate the ways nurses and advanced practice nurses contribute in so many ways to the health and longevity of our patients, families, and communities.

Lastly, we would love to know something fun about you.

I was a Division 1 collegiate rower at Gonzaga University, which is where I obtained my BSN (Go Zags!), and one of my favorite roles is being an auntie to my 18 month old nephew, Jack!

We wish you much success in your DNP career, Sarah! 

About the Melnic DNP Student Scholarship Award

The Melnic DNP Student Scholarship Award supports the education of one pediatric-focused nurse practitioner doctoral student. The recipient is selected based on his or her ability to demonstrate innovative solutions through clinical competence and academic achievement, encourage involvement in NAPNAP, and promote his or her own professional development.