Bonnie S. Dean, RN, PhD
Director, Nursing Education, Research and Professional Development
How many years have you worked as a nurse and at Children's?
I've worked 35 years in nursing and 35 years at Children's.
Briefly describe your current role in Children's nursing leadership.
I serve as the director of nursing education, research, professional development and patient care support services.
Where did you earn your nursing degree?
I earned a bachelor's of science in nursing from Carlow University.
Do you have any advanced degrees?
I have two advanced degrees - master of science in pharmacology and toxicology from Duquesne University and doctorate from Duquesne University's School of Nursing.
At what point in your life did you know you wanted to become a nurse?
At the age of 13 I realized that nursing was my vocational goal and I never wavered from this aspiration.
In your opinion, what's the hardest thing for a new nurse to learn?
To realize that as a new learner, they will require help and it is appropriate and encouraged for them to ask for assistance.
What's the best part of your current job?
Working with new learners and the nursing education specialists who prepare them for pediatric competency.
What has surprised you the most about nursing?
Pediatric nursing has provided me with a vast array of opportunities to grow, both personally and professionally.
How is nursing different than one might expect it to be?
Pediatric nursing is an ever-changing practice environment, which yields rewards beyond expectation.
What are your interests outside of nursing?
My interests include teaching, golfing and reading.