Biography

Dr. Rachel H. Risner, PhD, DNP, APRN, C-FNP, CNE, is a distinguished leader in nursing education and practice, currently serving as the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at Frontier Nursing University. She also holds positions as Director of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning and Director of the Quality Enhancement Plan at the same institution. Her academic journey includes a PhD in Nursing Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Oklahoma City University, as well as an MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Frontier Nursing University. Dr. Risner's career is marked by a commitment to academic innovation and excellence. She has spearheaded the development of forward-thinking curricula that prepare students for the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. Her leadership extends to building cohesive, high-performing teams that enhance educational outcomes and foster a collaborative academic environment. Beyond her administrative role, Dr. Risner practices as a Family Nurse Practitioner, bringing firsthand clinical insights into her educational leadership. Her clinical expertise is complemented by her role as a Peer Evaluator for the Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education and her contributions to professional standards on a global scale, including work in Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Dr. Risner is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the National League for Nursing, where she served on the Board of Governors. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Oklahoma City University Academic Excellence PhD Student Award and the Frontier Nursing University Student Choice Award. Her publications and presentations at national and international conferences address critical issues like prescription drug abuse, the role of advanced practice nurses, and innovative teaching strategies in nursing education. Dr. Risner continues to influence the field through her scholarly work and her commitment to preparing the next generation of nursing professionals and leaders.