UNCG Welcomes Veteran Student Back for Doctorate
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) continues its tradition of supporting military-affiliated students, serving over 1,850 individuals with ties to the military. Among them is Bianca Wade, a U.S. Air Force veteran and School of Nursing graduate, who has returned to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
Wade’s military career spans six years as an enlisted aerospace medical service specialist and five years as a commissioned nurse officer, where she achieved the rank of captain. While on active duty, she completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing at UNCG and is now back to further her education.
“I’ve always loved being a nurse and advocating for my patients, but I wanted to continue making an impact in a different capacity,” Wade noted regarding her decision to become a nurse practitioner. This role will enable her to take on greater responsibilities in patient care, including diagnosis and treatment management.
From Military Service to Nursing Aspirations
Wade’s journey into nursing was significantly influenced by a chance encounter during her initial assignment at a pediatric clinic at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. There, she met an Air Force captain who had successfully transitioned from enlisted service to nursing through a commissioning program. Inspired by this conversation and supported by a binder of resources prepared by the captain, Wade applied to the Nurse Enlisted Commissioning Program and was accepted.
Choosing UNCG for her nursing degree, Wade benefited from the School of Nursing’s Veterans Access Program (VAP). She expressed gratitude for the support she received from Dr. Susan Letvak, the VAP coordinator, who understood the unique challenges faced by military personnel.
Wade’s inspiration to advocate for older adults grew from personal experiences with her grandparents’ health issues during her college years. She believes that nurses must grasp the business and operational aspects of healthcare to be effective advocates, a belief she acted upon by earning a master’s degree in business administration while serving.
Pursuing Advanced Nursing Education
In August 2024, Wade embarked on her DNP journey, focusing on Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP). She found mentorship under Dr. Autumn Henson, the director of nurse practitioner programs, who emphasized the importance of developing into healthcare leaders. Henson described the program as combining clinical expertise with leadership and innovation, highlighting Wade’s commitment to both areas.
As part of her doctoral project, Wade initiated an educational program at a long-term care facility aimed at enhancing nurses’ abilities to recognize clinical deterioration early and communicate effectively using structured tools. This initiative seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary hospital transfers.
Wade articulated the challenges faced by older adults in long-term care, particularly during transfers, which can heighten their risk of complications. Her goal is to empower nurses to identify and address changes in patients’ conditions promptly.
Reflecting on Growth and Mentorship
Returning to UNCG for her doctorate has given Wade a fresh perspective on the institution. Having completed her undergraduate courses in the former Moore School of Nursing building, she is now studying at the Union Square Campus, marveling at the new facilities.
In addition to Henson, Wade has also been supported by Dr. Tiffany Gibson, who serves as the director of experiential community practice. Wade appreciates the encouragement she has received throughout her program, reinforcing her commitment to her educational and professional goals.
Wade’s reconnection with Dr. Letvak during her doctoral orientation was a poignant moment for her, highlighting the supportive network within the UNCG community. Wade expressed pride in being part of the university’s legacy, stating that UNCG has been instrumental in shaping her into the nurse practitioner and leader she aspires to be.
Henson commended Wade’s dedication and resilience as an Air Force veteran, predicting that her contributions will positively impact both her patients and the broader healthcare community.
Wade embraces the UNCG spirit, proudly declaring her identity as a Spartan, both as an undergraduate and now as a doctoral candidate.
Source: UNC Greensboro
