Kathryn L. Denison

Welcome to my faculty profile!

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from the University of Akron in 2015 (Go Zips!). During my undergraduate education, I was able to complete a literature review on kangaroo care and it's effectiveness in the preterm infant population. I graduated Summa Cum Laude and was a member of the Honors College. I was an active member in Mortar Board National Honor Society, Sigma Theta Tau (Delta Omega Chapter), National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Honors Nursing Group. I was employed for three years on campus working as a peer mentor for freshman undergraduate students in the Office of Multicultural Development.

I began my nursing career working at Saint Vincent Hospital on the pediatric unit and continue to practice at the bedside to this day! In 2018, I earned my Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) title through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. In the past, I have served on the hospital-wide Quality Improvement Committee. I continue to practice per diem on the pediatric unit at Saint Vincent Hospital and continue to serve as a charge nurse.

I have always enjoyed working with nursing students, which led me to pursue my Masters degree in Nursing Education from the Pennsylvania State University. As a part of my Masters program, I completed a quality improvement project in which I implemented teaching on proper use of personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of infection in the inpatient setting. Additionally, I completed an evidence-based practice project in which I created and implemented a teaching tool and patient resources on the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, as well as local resources for patients to utilize to receive counseling services and support.

Here at Gannon, I am actively involved in many aspects of campus life! I have gone through various training programs, including Safe Zone, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and QPR. I currently serve as Chair of our Undergraduate Curriculum Committee within the Villa Maria School of Nursing. Additionally, I serve on our Outcomes Committee and Nursing Faculty Organization. I serve as Treasurer of our Eta Xi chapter of Sigma Theta Tau. One of my favorite activities on campus is volunteering for the MidKnight Breakfasts before finals week each semester! One of my favorite parts of teaching is getting to see students grow and change from their first nursing course to their graduation day!

When I'm not on campus, I can often be seen out and about with my husband and daughter. We often enjoy going some of our favorite local businesses and can often be found on Presque Isle in the summer! I also enjoy reading and cross stitching in my free time.

Go Knights!