From Passion to Practice: Marcano’s journey through the DNP program
When Brittney Marcano chose to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at the College of Nursing, she wasn’t merely seeking another credential—she aimed to create a lasting impact on patient care. As a committed nurse with a background in cardiac care, Brittney understood that advancing her education would enhance her skills and improve the lives of countless patients. Now, as a graduate of the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) DNP program, she reflects on her transformative experience and encourages others to pursue their DNP.
Even though much of the DNP program was online, Brittney found the in-person clinical intensive an invaluable part of her education. “It made the program feel real,” she recalls. “We were able to perform skills on mannequins, work with standardized patients (trained actors who simulate patients in medical education and training settings), and interact with our professors and peers. It was an immersive experience that brought everything together.”
Outside the classroom, Brittney applied her knowledge in real-world settings. Her DNP project, which focused on improving response times for heart attack patients in rural areas, highlighted the disparities in healthcare between urban and rural hospitals. By bridging communication gaps between cardiologists in Tucson and healthcare providers in Benson, Arizona, she increased provider confidence by nearly 80%, demonstrating the real-world impact of the program and her efforts.
Pursuing a doctoral degree while balancing work and family life is no small feat. This journey became even more challenging for Brittney when she and her husband started their family during the program. However, the unwavering support of her faculty advisor, Heather Carlisle, PhD, DNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, FNP, associate clinical professor, made all the difference. “She believed in me,” Brittney says. “She helped me adjust my workload so I could continue making progress without taking a leave of absence.” Carlisle exemplifies how the college’s faculty is dedicated to ensuring student success. She brings her diverse expertise in clinical work, teaching, and scholarship and provides students with a comprehensive and holistic education, preparing them to excel in various advanced practice roles.
Carlisle says, “Brittney is an exceptionally skilled and compassionate nurse practitioner. Watching her grow throughout the program and balancing the demands of school, work, and family with such dedication was truly inspiring. She possesses a keen clinical mind and a deep commitment to patient care, and I have no doubt that she will make a lasting impact on every patient she treats. It was a privilege to support her throughout the program, and seeing her design, implement, and write such an impactful DNP project—and then present it with her family in the audience—was the icing on the cake.
Lindsay Bouchard, DNP, PMHNP-BC, DNP Program Director and Interim Chair, said, “At the heart of our DNP program is a deep commitment to empowering nurses like Brittney to become leaders in healthcare. Our goal is not just to provide advanced clinical skills but to foster the drive to create meaningful change in patient care and nursing education. We are proud to see our graduates significantly impact their communities. We are confident that more DNP-prepared nurses will be crucial in enhancing healthcare access and quality nationwide.”
Brittney’s story demonstrates that earning a DNP is achievable with determination and the right support system, even amidst significant life events. Brittney shares some simple advice for those considering whether to pursue a DNP: “The only roadblock is yourself. If you want it, you can do it.”
She also highlights the practical benefits of earning a DNP. This degree opens doors to leadership and teaching roles while equipping nurses to critically assess research and implement evidence-based practices in patient care. Moreover, the financial investment proves worthwhile—Brittney experienced a 30% salary increase when transitioning from RN to Nurse Practitioner, making those temporary sacrifices worthwhile.
After graduating in December 2024, Brittney and her family relocated to Tallahassee, Florida, where she currently works in cardiac surgery at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. Although she left Arizona, her time in the DNP program gave her the tools to excel in her new role and continue enhancing patient outcomes.
Her journey underscores the College of Nursing’s commitment to developing leaders in the field. The DNP program is unique because it offers seven different specialties of study, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Executive Health Systems Leadership (EHSL), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Anesthesiology (NA), Nurse-Midwifery (NM), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). If you’re passionate about advancing your nursing career, making meaningful changes in healthcare, and pushing the boundaries of patient care, the DNP program is your next step.
Are you ready to take the leap? Learn more about our program here.