Overview & Events

Dissertation Writing Cafe

AU Doctoral Community

Looking for a focused, supportive space to work on your dissertation? Join fellow Aspen students in the Writing Café —a virtual study hall where Doctoral Candidates can write in community, stay productive, and connect while working to complete milestones.

Sessions are held weekly, Sunday-Thursday, and are structured Pomodoro-style, comprised of 50 minutes of focused work + 10-minute breaks. Sessions include an on-screen timer to keep track, the ability to come and go as needed, flexibility for your camera to be on or off—your choice, and connections with peers during breaks.

More information, including the Google Meet link can be found here.

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Project” with Dr. Andrea Flannery

DNP student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Marlene Lockridge

Abstract: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains a significant yet underdiagnosed public health concern, with substantial implications for patient health and healthcare delivery. This project addressed a critical gap in nursing practice by implementing the STOP-BANG screening tool in a primary care environment. The PICOT question guided the initiative: For adult patients in a primary care clinic (P), did the use of the STOP-BANG tool by trained nursing staff (I), compared to the absence of systematic screening(C) improve the identification of patients at high risk for OSA (O) over eight weeks (T)? The project aimed to enhance OSA’s early detection and referral rates, leveraging a nurse-led approach to integrate evidence-based practices into routine workflows. A systematic implementation process was adopted, including targeted staff education, leadership support, and weekly audits to monitor adherence and outcomes. Preliminary findings indicated improved staff engagement, workflow efficiency, and consistent application of the STOP-BANG tool. The medical team played a pivotal role in helping to implement the tool while educating and advocating for patients, aligning with Dorothy Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory. The project’s success highlighted the potential of systematic screening to bridge gaps in care delivery and improve health outcomes. By addressing an underdiagnosed condition such as OSA, the initiative demonstrated the critical contributions of nursing to preventive care and population health. Future recommendations included expanding systematic screening to other conditions that were often undiagnosed, examining the potential of nurse-led initiatives to scale, and utilizing advanced technologies to optimize workflow efficiency and data collection. This project is aligned with the eight Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Essentials, underscoring the role of nursing leaders in promoting evidence-based practices, encouraging teamwork, and addressing healthcare disparities.  Keywords: obstructive sleep apnea, STOP-BANG tool, nurse-led intervention, preventive care, population health, patient education.

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Standardizing Colposcopy Procedures: Enhancing Documentation for Cervical Cancer Diagnosis” with Dr. Caitlin Bruce

DNP student for United States University with Chair: Dr. Donna Stachowicz

Abstract: Cervical cancer often remains asymptomatic until the advanced stages, making early detection through colposcopy a critical aspect of women’s healthcare. Despite the importance of colposcopy, documentation practices and timely follow-up scheduling are inconsistent, and patient awareness of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) remains low. These gaps in care contribute to delays in treatment, increasing the risk of poor outcomes and potentially life-threatening progression of the disease. This project aimed to enhance colposcopy documentation and improve scheduling practices in an obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) setting by implementing a standardized quality indicators template based on the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) recommendations. A total of 52 patient records were reviewed, divided between pre-implementation and post-implementation phases, to assess changes in documentation quality and the timeliness of follow-ups for abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap test) results. Statistical analysis using chi-square tests and a Mann-Whitney U test demonstrated significant improvements in the documentation of critical factors, including timeout, assessment, and impression, while other indicators showed no notable changes. The areas with no significant changes indicate that these factors were already being documented consistently. Additionally, patient compliance played a role in aspects related to scheduling. The average number of accurately documented factors increased significantly from 8.00 to 9.96 post-implementation (p < .001). The findings emphasize the effectiveness of a standardized colposcopy quality indicators program in improving documentation practices. However, the ongoing challenges in scheduling timely consultations and enhancing patient education indicate areas for further growth.         

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Impacting Patient Identification Barcode Scanning in Ambulatory Care” with Dr. Nancy Sanchez

DNP student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Linda Fabry

Abstract: The attention to medication safety in the ambulatory care setting has become a focus in healthcare. Barcode scanning in ambulatory care is an innovative instrument that can also help prevent adverse events, near misses, and sentinel events; moreover, barcode scanning is considered a standard workflow in the inpatient setting. A review of one ambulatory care department showed there was no current process in place for barcode scanning. This project answered the clinical question of whether the translation of Khammarnia et al.’s research on patient wristband barcode scanning during medication administration impacted the number of medication errors over eight weeks. Kurt Lewin’s three-step change model and Jean Watson’s caring theory were the theoretical underpinnings of this project. Implementing barcode scanning of patient wristbands during medication administration reduced the medication error rates, which decreased from 18.0% in the comparison group to 9.1% in the implementation group, with a p-value = .001. This statistical significance, with a p-value less than .05, highlights a 49.4% relative reduction in medication error rates, underscoring the effectiveness of the intervention. Future recommendations include continuing with the integration of barcode scanning of patient wristbands with ongoing staff education, continuous monitoring for compliance and effectiveness along with monitoring patient and staff satisfaction, cost-effectiveness, and the integration of quality improvement workflow among other ambulatory care departments in the service area.                       

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Implementing Restorative Practices in Secondary Schools: Transformational Leadership Behaviors That Sustain Reform” with Dr. Dwight Harvey

EdD student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Angela Holzer 

Abstract: The implementation of restorative practices (RP) in secondary schools has expanded significantly over the past decade; however, sustainability remains inconsistent across educational contexts. While prior research has examined restorative outcomes and student-level impacts, limited scholarship has centered the role of administrators as implementation leaders. This qualitative case study explored how secondary school administrators in Northern California experienced and led the implementation of restorative practices through the dual lenses of Transformational Leadership Theory and Implementation Science.  Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with secondary school administrators and analyzed using thematic coding procedures aligned with qualitative rigor standards. Findings revealed that sustained restorative implementation was associated with four primary leadership behaviors: (a)modeling relational accountability, (b) articulating a shared restorative vision, (c) building adult capacity through structured professional learning, and (d) embedding restorative practices within formal systems and policies. Participants also identified barriers, including initiative fatigue, staff resistance, and inconsistent district-level alignment.  Implications suggest that restorative practice sustainability is less dependent on program adoption and more contingent upon leadership behaviors that align culture, systems, and adult learning structures. This presentation highlights key findings and provides a leadership-based framework for sustaining restorative reform in secondary school settings. Recommendations for district leaders, policymakers, and researchers will be discussed.      

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Bridging Expectations: Advancing Inclusive Maternal Care Through Evidence-Based Communication and Support” with Dr. Sophia McEwan

DNP student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Katherine Coulter

Abstract: The discovery of pregnancy is an extraordinary moment that marks the beginning of one of life’s most remarkable and exciting times. Almost immediately, plans are put in place with much anticipation centered around this unique and life-changing journey. Pregnancy affects the complete individual, mind, body, and soul. It is filled with numerous sentiments, experiences, and expectations. It creates emotional, physical, and psychological changes as new life develops. The anticipations and prospects surrounding pregnancy are as varied and complex as the people experiencing this transformation journey. With pregnancy comes a wide range of expectancies, promises, and desires that reflect the expecting parents’ individual and cultural beliefs and unique circumstances. These expectant beliefs usually shape and affect the entire pregnancy experience, delivery process, and transition into parenthood. Combining Roy’s adaptation model with the Iowamodel of evidence-based practice framework establishes a robust theoretical foundation, and a structured approach to research evidence integration can be achieved.   The Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised (BSS-R) was used to evaluate maternal experiences. All participants scored above 20 on the BSS-R, reflecting high satisfaction levels. Furthermore, 93.3% (28 out of 30) of participants reported feeling physically and emotionally unharmed after childbirth. Approximately 46.7% of respondents disagreed with the statement that childbirth felt excessively long, indicating overall positive perceptions of labor duration. Recommendations are to sustain the program and present results to stakeholders. Beyond the immediate project site, broader dissemination efforts will ensure that the findings reach a wider healthcare community.

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Patient-centered Restraint Reduction Bundle” with Dr. Sreeja Sivankutty

DNP student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Colleen Teres

Abstract: The use of restraints among elderly patients in acute care settings remains a significant concern due to its adverse physical and psychological risks. At Humber River Health (HRH), the Patient-Centered Evidence-Based Restraint Reduction Bundle was implemented to reduce restraint use in the acute medicine units. This project empowers nurses and other healthcare professionals to make informed restraint decisions through education on restraint use and alternatives, interprofessional collaboration, and the provision of resources that uphold patient rights and preserve dignity.  Objectives were to reduce the frequency of restraint use among elderly patients on the acute medicine units at HRH.  Implemented in June 2025, the Restraint Reduction Bundle included: Restraint Decision Tree, Guide for restraint alternatives, Individualized restraint reduction care plans, Restraint Reduction care conferences and huddle discussions, Education for the interprofessional team on restraint alternatives, Activity carts on the units with volunteer involvement. Results showed restraint use among high-risk elderly patients decreased from 74% pre-implementation to 43% postimplementation of the Restraint Reduction Bundle. This reduction was accompanied by an increased use of alternative strategies. An anonymous pre-implementation survey assessed staff about their knowledge of restraints and alternatives, with an average score of 77.8%. Post-implementation, knowledge improved to an average of 96.5%. Resources such as the Restraint Decision Tree and a guide for alternatives provided clear clinical guidance to deliver safe, high-quality care while minimizing restraint use. Implementing multiple coordinated interventions supported effective change management and promoted sustainability. Leadership support and access to structured resources empower staff to make patient-centered decisions that minimize restraint use, and timely communication and interprofessional collaboration are critical for sustaining these practices and ensuring quality care.

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Uncivil Encounters in Nursing Education: A Qualitative Descriptive Inquiry into Student and Faculty Perspectives” with Dr. Lori Lucas

EdD student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. Donald Dunn

Abstract: Incivility in nursing education disrupts learning, impacts well-being, and contributes to stress and frustration. This qualitative descriptive study explored faculty and student perceptions of incivility in an associate degree nursing (ADN) program. Using the Incivility in Nursing Education-Revised (INE-R) survey, the study examined how incivility is classified, its impact on learning, and strategies for prevention. Guided by Hobfoll’s (1989) Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, incivility is understood as a response to perceived resource loss. The final sample included 9 students and 11 faculty members. While both groups acknowledged incivility as a concern, their views differed: faculty pointed to student disengagement and disruptions, while students cited faculty rigidity and inconsistent policies. Incivility was shown to exist on a continuum, often leading to stress, resource depletion, and reduced academic engagement. Findings support the need for institutional policies, targeted interventions, and improved communication. This study broadens the application of COR theory in nursing education and offers strategies for promoting civility.        

Graduate Spring Colloquium - “Post-Secondary Instructors’ Perspectives on Applying Experiential Learning Methods to Improve Human Cognitive Security” with Dr. Warren Weaver

EdD student for Aspen University with Chair: Dr. MichelleWhitman

Abstract: Private, public organizations, and stakeholders are experiencing increasing challenges in securing their information and decision-making space from biased communications. This project addressed educators’ application of experiential learning methods to promote critical thinking and resilience skills, and to understand how they impact the interpretation of biased communications. The research began with a meta-analysis of a variety of communications, learning, and critical thinking theories to understand human decision-making. The author applied these concepts to develop a Human Cognitive Learning Model, which informed a series of eight qualitative phenomenological semi-structured interviews. These interviews resulted in an expanded understanding of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and attributes associated with critical thinking and resiliency, and instructional methods applied to develop these capabilities. The findings led to the development of a Human Cognitive Security Model that recognized the relationship between a communicator’s intent and accuracy to describe biased messaging and the impact that critical thinking and resiliency have in promoting authentic communications.

You Belong Here: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome at Every Stage of Your Career

AU Career Services

Imposter syndrome can quietly undermine performance, leadership, and career advancement. This session explores the psychology behind imposter syndrome, how it shows up in professional settings, and practical strategies to shift from self-doubt to self-trust. Participants will leave with tangible tools to reframe negative self-talk, communicate their value with confidence—especially as it pertains to resume writing and interviewing—and step fully into new opportunities without shrinking themselves.

More workshops coming soon...

Check back soon for upcoming Workshops!