Misty Pagán Associate Dean of the College of Nursing
What brought you to NAU?
I have previously worked with colleagues who have either attended or taught at NAU. I also had the privilege of precepting pre-licensure nursing students from NAU during my time as a critical care nurse.
What made you want to be a nurse?
My paternal grandmother played a pivotal role in my upbringing. She passed away suddenly at the young age of 67 in a rural hospital. After further investigation, it was determined that her death could have been prevented; however, multiple system failures including the limited knowledge of the nurses on the critical care unit as well as insufficient resources led to her demise. I was a credit union manager and worked on the weekends as a developmental care specialist during that time. In 2001, soon after her passing, I returned to school to become a certified nurse’s aide (CNA) and then left my banking career to begin my journey into healthcare. Since then, and in addition to serving as a CNA, I have also had the privilege of serving the needs of my patients, while collaborating with various disciplines, as a phlebotomist/laboratory technician, a licensed practical nurse, a registered nurse, a nurse practitioner, and a nurse educator.
What do you wish people knew about nursing and nursing education?
Nursing is one of the most rewarding and prestigious professions. It is an honor and a privilege to be a nurse. The nursing profession is extremely diverse, and the opportunities are endless. While many of us decide to become nurses because we are called to help people, it is important to note that nursing is not for everyone.
Nursing education is ever evolving since we build upon our foundational knowledge. There are many nursing career pathways with opportunities to specialize based on degree progression and level of education. Nurses acknowledge the importance of continuing education as it pertains to our personal and professional development, patient safety, and evidence-based practice. We appreciate the opportunity for interprofessional collaboration and respect the roles and contributions of other professions in the delivery of patient-centered care.
What have you been most proud of recently?
I am always proud of my beautiful family. My husband is a Marine Corps Veteran. Our oldest (adult) son is engaged to marry the love of his life next year. He is a pharmacy supervisor and has been in the field of pharmacy for over 8 years, whereas our youngest (adult) son has been in the field of physical therapy for almost 3 years with a long-term goal of becoming a physical therapist.
I am also proud of the four unique graduate nursing programs that I had the honor of writing and seeing through successful accreditation with a small faculty team, my former students who graduated from these accredited programs, and the nurse practitioner graduates who have all successfully passed their national certification examination through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB).
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was younger, I wanted to become an attorney. By the time I turned 18, I made the decision not to attend law school but instead continue my banking career until my mid-20s
What’s your favorite way to spend a day off?
- Spending time with my family and our three (“fur babies”) dogs
- Taking a day trip to Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon
- Hiking and off-roading in northern Arizona
- Riding my motorcycle alongside my husband and our youngest (adult) son (*I have my motorcycle license)
- Watching sports (especially football and boxing)
- Engaging in volunteer opportunities/community outreach/mentorship
What are three things on your bucket list?
- Finish my PhD in Nursing (minor: education) (*in progress)
- Travel the world
- Write a book
What are you most excited about as the new Associate Dean of the College of Nursing?
This is an exciting time for our new College of Nursing. I am honored to work with and learn from Dr. Janina Johnson, Dean, College of Nursing. Dr. Johnson is a professional nurse, academician, mentor, and an authentic and visionary leader.
I recognize that there is a lot of work to be done and I do not take this appointment lightly. I look forward to serving as a member of the College of Nursing’s Executive Leadership Team while supporting and bringing value to our students, faculty, staff, University colleagues, community partners, and our unique and growing nursing program portfolio.
