Susan B. Fowler, PhD RN NE-BC NPD-BC FCNS
Walden University

How long have you been an FNINR Ambassador?
1 year

Why did you want to become an FNINR Ambassador?
As a nurse scientist I recognize the need for funding and conducting research meaningful to the profession, therefore I wanted to support and advocate for NINR.

What advice would you give your younger self?
Surround yourself with people who offer things beyond your wheelhouse so you can learn and grow in ways you did not imagine.

Why did you pursue a career in nursing?
I loved music (played the bassoon), drawing and other art mediums, and writing (worked on school newspaper and yearbook), and knew I could combine them all in a nursing career, which if have done!

What book should every nurse read?
I am reading Stanley Tucci's booked titled Taste - My Life Through Food. You should read this because it shows the importance of respecting family (like the family of nursing) and celebrating together, bringing comfort and newness to the gathering. It also reminds us to have fun and laugh.

What has been your most interesting or surprising outcome while conducting nursing research?
The power of nursing! This is the theme of the American Nurses Association right now and I see it in my research findings. Nurses have power in their passion for the profession, the environments in which we work, and the care of our patients and communities.

What is a fun fact many people may not know about you?
I grew up in rural Wisconsin where my parents owned a tavern that included a dancehall for roller skating in winter as well as weddings in the summer. I grew up making my own fun like treehouses and making paper boats to launch in streams.

About Susan

Dr. Fowler obtained her BSN from Marquette University, MS from CA State University-Long Beach, and PhD from Rutgers University. Her clinical focus has been critical care, the neurosciences, and rehabilitation. She has been actively involved in many professional nursing organizations including the 40th president of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses. Dr. Fowler is completing a four-term term as Vice-President Elect and Vice-President with the Southern Nursing Research Society. Susan was editor of Insight, the journal for ophthalmic registered nurses, and presently serves as editor of the Journal of Ambulatory Care Nurses, and associate editor of Geriatric Nurses and Nursing in Critical Care.