Hospital CNO Completes Nursing Fellowship Program
« ReturnSt. James Parish Hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer, Rhonda Zeringue, RN, recently completed a yearlong national fellowship program through the American Organization of Nurse Leaders (AONL).
An elite group of nurse leaders from around the country must apply and be accepted annually into the program. Rhonda’s participation was funded by a competitive scholarship she was awarded.
The AONL Nurse Director Fellowship is a 12-month professional development program targeting the unique leadership development needs of individuals accountable for the planning, directing and operations of multiple units or service lines in support of the strategic direction of nursing and the organization.
The program provides an in-depth environment of learning and incorporates the AONL Nurse Executive Competencies. Participants strengthen their current skills, acquire new competencies and continue life-long learning needed for the next generation of successful nurse leaders.
In addition to fellowship retreats, national leadership meetings and virtual learning, the fellowship program requires participants to choose and lead a project. After completing the program, Rhonda was instrumental in developing a Clinical Ladder Program which is currently being piloted at St. James Parish Hospital.
“The COVID-19 pandemic surfaced many opportunities for improvement and changed the nursing environment forever. This fellowship program provided me with valuable information needed to address these challenges and adapt in the ever-changing world of healthcare,” said Rhonda, RN, St. James Parish Hospital CNO.
“I took away great tools to help manage my leadership team while also focusing on hospital strategies aimed at improving quality, employee satisfaction and the patient experience.”
“I made professional friendships and developed a network of diverse leaders from around the country who have become a great resource to me. This program was a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. I am so grateful for this opportunity and thankful that leadership development is a priority at St. James Parish Hospital,” said Rhonda.
*Pictured: Rhonda Zeringue, RN, CNO, (3rd from the left) with other fellowship participants at a national meeting.
