Dr. Susan Steele-Moses

Portrait by Romero & Romero

Some people seem to know early where their future lies, what profession they will follow or where they will spend their life.  Such was the case with Dr. Susan Steele-Moses, this year named the Nightingale Nursing Educator of the Year for Louisiana, an honor sponsored by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation.  At an early age she, like many children, had her tonsils removed, and while spending several days in the hospital began following a friendly nurse on her rounds. That was all it took.  A few years later, she became a candy striper, and when college came around, her choice of a major was not a question. She became a nurse.

This newest honor comes as no surprise to most, given the high esteem in which Steele-Moses is held by colleagues and students. They speak admiringly of her relationship with students, her ability to explain difficult concepts with clarity and her dedication to lifelong learning. They speak of her ability to connect effectively with students: “She celebrates our successes and makes us re-conceive our weaknesses as an opportunity to grow.” Another says, “She is always available to answer questions, provide feedback and offer guidance to her students, ensuring that they stay on track and meet the highest standards of academic excellence to prepare them for career-long success.”

Students are equally appreciative of her teaching talents.  One explained, “I appreciated [her] enthusiasm for the subject matter and the way she presented the information that wasn’t in an overwhelming fashion.”  A graduate student expressed a similar sentiment, saying, “She has on numerous occasions taken extra time with me to ensure that I understand complex topics so that I can utilize that knowledge to better the lives of my community and other vulnerable populations.”

Steele-Moses’ dedication to lifelong learning is evident in her own life.  For example, certification as a Registered Nurse was not an end to her education but preparation for what followed: a Master of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Science and post doctoral study in behavioral health. Her career has spanned more than four decades, almost 20 years spent as an oncology nurse before her transition into education.  Along the way, she created learning communities for students and professional colleagues, worked on the design and delivery of courses and mentorship of student and faculty and willingly shared her research and clinical expertise with others.  And the end is not in sight.

The Nursing Educator Award is fitting recognition for one who is known as a role model for others in the profession.  Her compassion, enthusiasm, technical expertise and ethical standards would enhance the work of any health professional.