Engaged Learning
Alumni
A Foundation for Service
“The education I received at USF laid the foundation for everything that followed.”
When I arrived at the University of San Francisco, I already knew I wanted to become a nurse. What I didn't yet realize was how profoundly my education would shape my career and my commitment to serving others.
Growing up with a physician father and nurse mother, I was introduced to healthcare at an early age. At USF, I built on that foundation through outstanding faculty, a rigorous nursing education, and the university's commitment to community service. I volunteered for voter registration drives, tutored students in San Francisco's Western Addition, and served vulnerable populations throughout the city. Those experiences sparked a passion for public and community health nursing that guided my career.
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I wasn't ready to enter the U.S. workforce as a staff nurse when I graduated from USF. Instead, I stayed true to the university's commitment to service and joined the Peace Corps. I lived and worked in rural India for two years, partnering with local healthcare professionals to improve maternal and child health, launch immunization campaigns, and provide health education in underserved communities. There, I first discovered how much I enjoyed teaching while supervising nursing students, an experience that confirmed my desire to become a nurse educator.
Returning home, I served as a public health nurse with the Los Angeles County Health Department before beginning my academic career at East Tennessee State University. Moving to the Bible Belt and working at a state university was a bigger cultural shock than going to India. After 16 years of Catholic education, I suddenly found myself in a very different environment. Becoming active in the local Newman Center (Catholic campus ministry center located on or near a secular university) helped me build community while I established myself as a nurse educator.
My career later took me to the Medical College of Georgia and eventually to the University of San Diego, where I spent many rewarding years teaching future nurses. Throughout my career, I sought to integrate teaching, scholarship, and service because each strengthens the others. I authored a community health nursing textbook now in its sixth edition, published more than 70 scholarly articles, and mentored students and faculty members in writing and research. One of my greatest joys has been watching students publish their own work and become leaders in the profession. Following my retirement from University of San Diego, I was honored to be named Professor Emerita.
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Advice for Future Nurses
- Get to know the communities you serve and become involved locally.
- Understand epidemiology and the social determinants of health.
- Learn how to assess community needs and evaluate programs.
- Seek experienced public health professionals who can mentor you and help you grow.
Finding a Mentor
One of the best ways to grow as a nurse is to learn from experienced professionals.
Volunteer with community organizations involved in identifying health needs, planning programs, and evaluating outcomes. These experiences not only strengthen your skills, but also introduce you to mentors who can help shape your career.
Apply for the Alumni Mentor Program
We're inviting working alumni to apply for the 2026–27 School of Nursing and Health Professions Alumni Mentor Program. Many of our alumni enjoy reconnecting and giving back by mentoring our current nursing and public health juniors and seniors through this program.
Mentor a Nursing or Public Health Student Mentorship Program for Students
Writing Matters
Write, write, write! Find a strong writer who is willing to explain their revisions. Keep writing, keep revising, and don't be discouraged by rejection. Some of my manuscripts took years to be accepted for publication. Good writing allows nurses to share ideas that improve patient care and strengthen the profession.
Giving Back
Looking back, I can trace every stage of my career to my education at USF. The quality of that education laid the foundation for everything that followed. Just as importantly, USF instilled in me a commitment to service, lifelong learning, and caring for others that has remained with me throughout my life.
I also had the privilege of knowing Father John Lo Schiavo when I was a student. Including the School of Nursing and Health Professions in my estate plans and becoming a member of the Fr. John Lo Schiavo Legacy Society is a meaningful way for me to honor his leadership and help future nursing students receive the same foundation that shaped my own journey.
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about how to include USF in your will, trust, or retirement plan or creating a scholarship for future nurses, please contact Stephanie Williams, Director of Development, SONHP, at saroderick@usfca.edu or (415) 422-3834.
