Strength in Numbers: Six Nursing Faculty Embark on a Shared Journey to Doctorate Success

Authors

• Melissa P. Arthur, Southside Virginia Community CollegeFollow
• Leigh Moore, Southside Virginia Community CollegeFollow

Author Bio(s)

Dr. Melissa Arthur is the Dean of Nursing, Allied Health, and Natural Sciences at Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC), where she has served for over 19 years. With more than 30 years of nursing experience and over 22 years as a practicing nurse practitioner, she brings a strong foundation in both clinical practice and nursing education. Dr. Arthur has led programs in both Practical and Associate Degree Nursing and is a champion for rural healthcare advancement. She recently earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Northern Kentucky University, further strengthening her commitment to preparing the next generation of nurse leaders.

Abstract

Pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a demanding and transformative experience, one that can be both daunting and profoundly rewarding. This article chronicles the journey of six dedicated nursing faculty and administrators from Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC) who undertook this challenge together, turning an academic endeavor into a shared mission of growth, resilience, and collaboration. Originating from a spontaneous suggestion, this collective pursuit of doctoral education evolved into a powerful example of professional solidarity.

As seasoned educators and leaders, the group had previously collaborated on pivotal institutional milestones such as ACEN accreditation, Board of Nursing improvement initiatives, and statewide curriculum reform. Their decision to pursue the DNP together further deepened their professional and personal bonds. Enrolled in Northern Kentucky University’s rigorous five-semester, 35-credit program, the faculty members leaned on one another through the highs and lows of academic life, fostering a culture of encouragement, accountability, and mutual respect.

Through personal reflections and shared experiences, this article explores the motivations behind their decision, the challenges encountered, and the transformative outcomes of their journey. It serves as a testament to the strength found in community, illustrating how shared purpose and collaboration can elevate both individual and collective success in nursing education. By sharing their story, the authors hope to inspire other nurse educators and leaders to embrace lifelong learning and consider the value of pursuing professional development as a united front.

Recommended Citation

Arthur, M. P., & Moore, L. (2026). Strength in Numbers: Six Nursing Faculty Embark on a Shared Journey to Doctorate Success. Inquiry: The Journal of the Virginia Community Colleges, 29 (1). Retrieved from https://commons.vccs.edu/inquiry/vol29/iss1/10