USD School of Health Sciences Success Spotlight: Lisa Varenhorst, DNP

By Alex Strauss

Degree: Doctor of Nursing Practice with focus on Systems Organizational Leadership

Current Position: Faculty Advisor/Instructor, USD BSN Undergraduate Program

Lisa Varenhorst

For Lisa Varenhorst, the evolution from critical care nurse to educator was an entirely organic one. "I started my career at a critical access hospital in LeMars, Iowa and worked in NICU's in Kansas City and at Sanford," she recalls. "At one point, I had the opportunity to step into a nurse educator role in the NICU, so I did that."

She quickly discovered her aptitude, not only for teaching others, but also for learning. Even while she was earning her master's degree, Varenhorst was already setting her sights on her DNP. "I always knew that I was going to go on to get a doctorate," she says.

But, as a mother of three children—one graduating high school and two in elementary school—finding a program that could accommodate her busy life was essential. USD's Doctor of Nursing Practice program offered exactly what she needed.

"USD's program was enticing for me largely because it was so flexible," says Varenhorst. "Being able to say 'I am only going halftime during the fall and spring semesters' was huge for me." The program's individualized approach allowed her to create a study plan that respected her roles as both a professional and a parent.

Now, working as a faculty advisor and instructor in USD's undergraduate nursing program, Varenhorst says USD's rigorous DNP program transformed her own approach to education. "Previously, I would think, 'This is how we do it because it's how we do it.' But now, I'm able to understand exactly why we do it the way we do it. And I can pass that on to students."

Although she is not sure what direction her career will take next, Varenhorst says she is in a great position thanks to her USD education. "I think having a doctorate just sets a person up for the future. If something like a leadership role pops up, I have that leadership perspective. It gives you a leg up."