Debra Shockey, D.N.P., RN, CPNP-PC, brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as the program director for graduate practice programs at the VCU School of Nursing. As a seasoned pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in hematology/oncology, Shockey has spent years providing compassionate care to young patients facing some of the most challenging health issues. Her extensive clinical experience is matched by a deep commitment to academic excellence, where she has mentored countless students and healthcare professionals.

Now, as she takes on the director role of graduate practice programs at the school, Shockey is poised to further shape the future of nursing education and practice, guiding graduate students to become the next generation of healthcare leaders. We caught up with her to hear about her vision for the program, her insights on the evolving role of nurse practitioners, and the passion that drives her dedication to pediatric care and nursing education.

Can you tell us about your journey into pediatric hematology/oncology and what drew you to this specialized field of nursing practice? 

As a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP), the most wonderful thing is the opportunity to see children grow and develop over time. Children are followed from birth through age 21 and you get to know them and be a part of their lives. The relationship built is phenomenal. The relationship developed in the role as a PNP in pediatric hematology/oncology is still a powerful bond as you enter a child and family’s life in a crisis and travel with them throughout treatment.

As the new program director for graduate practice at VCU School of Nursing, what are your primary goals and vision for enhancing these programs? 

My primary focus is on maintaining the integrity of our graduate programs and ensuring they continue to meet the highest standards of academic excellence and clinical practice.

How do you see your clinical experience and active practice in pediatric hematology/oncology influencing your role as program director?

I have clinical experience as well as extensive teaching experience in the D.N.P. program. The D.N.P. degree is the practice doctorate so clinical practice is the underpinning. That being said, I have one foot in clinical practice and one foot in academia. In our D.N.P. program, we focus on the students acting as project managers to facilitate systems change.

In your opinion, what are the most critical challenges currently facing nursing education, and how do you address them as a preceptor and instructor at VCU?

Recruitment is a big issue. One of the things we offer in the VCU School of Nursing graduate program is coordinating clinical placements through our extensive network of clinical preceptors. Students in the program do not have to find their own preceptors. 

Can you discuss your approach to teaching in the D.N.P. residency experience and how you ensure students are well-prepared for clinical practice. 

Nursing has been a fabulous career choice for me. It has allowed flexibility and advancement. Each educational rung on the ladder has led to new opportunities and growth.

Debra Shockey, D.N.P.
Program Director for Graduate Practice Programs

The D.N.P. residency experience is a different type of clinical experience for students. They have finished their respective clinical practice activities and now step into the arena to refine their skills in systems change. 

What role do you believe research plays in advancing nursing practice, especially in the context of pediatric hematology/oncology? 

As a PNP in pediatric oncology, I actively participate in clinical research through our treatment protocols and our involvement in the children’s oncology group.

Given your experience as a pediatric nurse practitioner, what advice do you have for students considering specializing in pediatric nursing?

Nursing has been a fabulous career choice for me. It has allowed flexibility and advancement. Each educational rung on the ladder has led to new opportunities and growth. Don’t be afraid of new things, sit on ready so that when the opportunity presents itself you can jump right in!