Danville Community College (DCC) and the new Director of Nursing, Dr. James Emerson, have been working diligently to prepare its current cohort of nursing students for the industry of health care and nursing. During the 2021 summer semester, five new faculty members were added to the Nursing team. This group of new faculty is prepared to take the Nursing program to higher heights, and continue in the academic excellence the DCC Nursing program is known for across the state of Virginia.
“We’re incredibly excited to introduce the many new, talented instructors of the Danville Community College Nursing Program to our community,” said Dr. Emerson. “DCC has had the number one nursing program in the state for many years and we are committed to carrying that torch into the future.”
Endowment-funded Role
The new nursing faculty hire, Shelby Rigsby, BSN, RN will fill the endowed faculty position created by Danville Community College Educational Foundation’s Stratford House Center Faculty Endowment.
“The Stratford House Center Faculty Endowment was created in 2018 by the Stratford House Center in partnership with the DCC Educational Foundation, Inc.,” said Shannon Hair, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Development for Danville Community College and Executive Director of Danville Community College Educational Foundation. “This endowed legacy gift provides the needed resources annually for nursing faculty support. DCC is one of the only rural community colleges within the Virginia Community College System with an endowed faculty position.”
Meet the Faculty
Lisa McDowell, DNP, RN
Nursing Lab & Clinical Coordinator
Dr. Lisa McDowell was born and raised in Danville, Virginia and received her RN diploma from Danville Memorial School of Nursing. She received her Bachelor of Science in nursing locally and obtained her Master of Science in nursing and Doctor of nursing practice from Duke University.
“I started my professional career by taking classes at DCC and years later was able to come back and teach nursing in an adjunct role. When this full-time position became available, I felt it was a calling, as my heart led me back to the students, community, and faculty; full circle.”
Jennifer Goodman, MSN, RN
Nursing Instructor
Jennifer Goodman, MSN, RN grew up in Pittsylvania County, Virginia and received her RN Diploma from Danville Regional Medical Center School of Nursing. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in nursing at UNC Greensboro, and her Master of Science in nursing at Liberty University.
“When I walk through the halls at the hospital and see my former students working at the bedside and feel so much pride in knowing that I played a part in helping them become caregivers.”
Shelby Rigsby, BSN, RN
Nursing Instructor
Shelby Rigsby, BSN, RN is from Gretna, Virginia and is a 2012 RN graduate from Danville Community College. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing and is currently pursuing her Master of Science in nursing at South University.
“As a DCC alumna, I know that DCC nurses are capable of making a difference and changing lives! I am so proud and confident in the education I received and am humbled to be a part of the faculty at the school that built my career. My passion for nursing drives my desire to educate the future nurses of tomorrow.”
Jennifer Rimmer, MSN, RN, SCRN
Nursing Instructor
Jennifer Rimmer, MSN, RN, SCRN, a native of Elon, North Carolina, holds an RN certification, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Master of Science in Nursing.
“I’m excited for the challenge. I hope to be able inspire and educate the students as they go on their journey here. Nursing school is not something any nurse ever forgets as it can be very intense but the outcome is worth it.”
Erica Myers, BSN, RN
Nursing Instructor
Erica Myers, BSN,RN, born and raised in Danville, Virginia, completed her LPN and ADN certifications at Danville Community College. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Western Governor’s University. She is wrapping up her Master or Science in nursing at Western Governor’s University.
“I feel honored that I can share my knowledge and experience with aspiring nurses and provide them with the necessary instruction to be successful. My goal is to work together with my nursing faculty colleagues as we continue to produce the high quality nursing graduates that this town is proud of!”
Mary Lou Dunn, MSN, RN
Nursing Instructor
Mary Lou Dunn, MSN, RN, a native of Halifax County, VA, received her RN diploma from The Memorial School of Nursing. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in nursing from VCU-MCV School of Nursing, and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia.
“I truly enjoy teaching, especially watching students learn and grow in the profession.”
Ariel Dickerson
Administrative Specialist III
Ariel Dickerson, who comes to DCC from Yanceyville, North Carolina, holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Winston Salem State University and has extensive experience as an Administrative Assistant.
“I am very excited about taking on the role of Administrative Assistant for the DCC Nursing Department. I am eager to help support nursing students and provide information they may need while in the program.”
Information Sessions for Students/Parents
As the DCC Nursing Program faculty prepare to welcome a new cohort of nursing students in January 2022, information sessions will be available for prospective students and their families to learn more about the program, and to ask questions. The first session will be held in person and virtually on October 19, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. on the Danville Community College Campus. For more information or to register to attend, click here.
Contacts
