Thank you for reviewing my PLU School of Nursing portfolio. It would be impossible to portray all that has taken place over the past two and a half years but I hope that it has given you at least a glimpse of how I have met (in varying degrees) the seven program objectives. Because of the character, caliber and dedication of PLU’s School of Nursing program I will continue to pursue knowledge and education throughout my nursing career.

Acknowledgements

My success in the program would not have been possible without the wonderful support I received from the following:

• The Norcliffe Foundation Scholarship, PLU Q-Club Scholarship, Dawson/LB Nursing Scholarship, Mark & Lenore Myers Scholarship, and the PLU Academic Scholarship awards.

• Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA for giving me the opportunity to participate in their first ever nursing internship program. Special thanks to Connie Hirnle, the program director and Lisa Vetto, my preceptor on the sixteenth floor (Pulmonary/Thoracic surgery).

• The nurses at St. Peter’s, St. Joseph’s, Tacoma General, Madagan, and St. Francis who took the time to share their insights and experience with me. Also to all the nurses in the field--at daycares, schools, home health, WIC clinics, hospice and community health clinics. Special thanks to Diane Joyce for showing me what expert nursing looks like.

• The Pacific Lutheran University School of Nursing Faculty and specifically my advisor, Patty Gaspar for overseeing my clinical experiences, reviewing and giving suggestions on my projects, and offering guidance throughout the whole School of Nursing process.

• My classmates, especially those I had the pleasure to work with in groups. I have learned from many of you and hope to have continuing friendships and working relationships in the future.

• My son, Dan Shafer, for helping with the design and layout of this portfolio.

• My husband, Steve Shafer who is the true hero in this endeavor. He unswervingly stood by me and never doubted that I would make it.

• My parents and my kids—my biggest fans.

Contact cretia@oz.net