Dr. Sharlene Smith Appointed to Prestigious Chair in Pediatric Nursing at Florida Southern College

Dr. Sharlene Smith Appointed Anne MacGregor Jenkins Chair

Florida Southern College, a prominent institution in Lakeland, Florida, has recently made headlines by appointing Dr. Sharlene Smith as the Anne MacGregor Jenkins Endowed Chair in Pediatric Nursing. This prestigious chair signifies a commitment to enhancing child health education and initiatives within the community, a mission that Dr. Smith has embraced wholeheartedly.

A Journey of Dedication

Dr. Sharlene Smith is not a newcomer to the realm of pediatric nursing. With a dual certification as a pediatric nurse practitioner in both acute and primary care, she has dedicated her career to improving child health outcomes. Since 2012, Dr. Smith has been actively involved in academia, sharing her knowledge and experience with future healthcare providers. Her journey at Florida Southern College began when she joined the graduate nursing program as an adjunct faculty member in 2023. Just a year later, she transitioned into a full-time role as an Associate Professor and Education Coordinator for the Carol Jenkins Barnett Center for Early Childhood Learning and Health.

In her previous roles, Dr. Smith has consistently aimed to enhance community outreach programs that promote child health and improve educational outcomes. Her mantra emphasizes that focused efforts in local communities can lead to substantial health improvements for children and families.

On Her Recent Appointment

Upon receiving this notable position, Dr. Smith expressed her gratitude by stating, "I am truly honored and privileged to receive the Anne MacGregor Jenkins Endowed Chair in Pediatric Nursing. This endowment will enable us to continue our efforts to enhance the health and educational outcomes of children, not just in our local community but also beyond."

Her extensive background includes clinical work in various healthcare settings, along with an impressive educational foundation comprising both a Ph.D. in nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Her academic and clinical pursuits strongly align with her passion for promoting healthy lifestyle choices and cognitive behavioral interventions targeted at reducing parental stress.

Pioneering Education and Research

Dr. Smith is a notable figure in nursing education, having directed a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner program for six years at a state university. Her teaching expertise spans critical areas such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, and pediatrics at the graduate level. Moreover, her commitment to enhancing students’ experiences has led her to coordinate clinical opportunities for undergraduates not only locally but also internationally, including a notable program in St. Croix.

Her academic achievements also extend to her leadership role, having chaired over twenty-five Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) projects, many of which focused on significant health challenges faced by children and their families. This dedication has garnered her numerous accolades and grants, including a substantial $33,000 award aimed at improving health access for children in urban settings, collaborating extensively with local authorities.

Global and Community Engagement

Dr. Smith's impact goes beyond the classroom. She is heavily involved in both local and global health initiatives, making contributions through global medical missions to underserved areas in Peru and Honduras. Currently, she serves on the Board of Trustees for DOCARE International, which provides essential medical care worldwide. Her belief in community health is deeply personal—having grown up in Polk County, she aims to give back by improving health outcomes for future generations of children.

The Legacy of Florida Southern College

Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is celebrated for its commitment to educational excellence, offering over 70 undergraduate programs along with distinct graduate programs in fields such as nursing, business administration, and education. The College is recognized nationally for its engaged learning, having maintained a high student-to-faculty ratio and boasting multiple NCAA Division II National Championships. The university’s holistic approach to education ensures a supportive environment for both students and faculty.

In conclusion, Dr. Sharlene Smith's appointment as the Anne MacGregor Jenkins Endowed Chair in Pediatric Nursing represents a significant advancement in enhancing pediatric health education and community outreach efforts. With her leadership, Florida Southern College is poised to make a profound impact on child health outcomes, reflecting the values of dedication, education, and community service.