Name: Christopher Donovan
Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Graduation Year: Expected graduation is May 2026
Certifications/background: Paramedic (NREMT-P), Army Combat Medic (68W), BLS, ACLS, PALS, Basic Law Enforcement Training, Basic SWAT Operator, Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice
What drew you to Nursing as a profession?
Previously, while working in law enforcement, I worked closely with the local EMS system. I saw firsthand how EMS professionals were able to help people and build meaningful connections with those in need, which initially inspired me to transition from law enforcement to medicine. I later enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a combat medic, where I was fortunate to also complete a paramedic program during my service. At that point, I knew medicine was my calling.
Being able to see the positive impact of each interaction made me feel like I was truly making a difference. After leaving the military, I continued working as a paramedic in a local emergency department. Over a couple of years in that role, I learned two things: air conditioning is awesome, and the emergency room offered daily opportunities to positively impact people’s lives.
I also realized I needed a career that would provide greater schedule stability for my family while still being challenging and fulfilling. I enjoyed what I did before, but I am looking forward to what a career as an RN will bring. While it may be a long answer, that journey ultimately led me to nursing as my profession.
What drew you to the Nursing program at Campbell?
Campbell’s veteran affairs office and staff really helped me feel like I belonged here. I was initially drawn to Campbell due to having worked with an amazing nurse who had graduated from the nursing program. I was hesitant to come back to school as a 32-year-old, but seeing the small class sizes and the support that Campbell has for their “nontraditional” student population sealed the deal for me.
What makes you feel like you belong at Campbell Nursing?
Campbell Nursing feels like a community, not just a program. The faculty does an amazing job of making us feel like family and gets us involved with the community through our clinical rotations and community service hours.
How have you been able to live out your calling in the Campbell Nursing program?
Through clinical rotations, the faculty does an amazing job of not only making sure we are getting the education needed to be successful, but they also empower us. The great variety of clinical rotations have helped me decide the specialty of nursing I want to pursue after graduation.
Why would you recommend someone to the Campbell Nursing program?
I would recommend Campbell Nursing because it develops nurses who are clinically competent, ethically grounded, and genuinely compassionate. The program challenges you academically while also supporting your growth as a person and a leader. The staff that make up Campbell’s nursing program care about you as both a student and as a person and truly want to see you succeed in the program and in life.
What professor has had the greatest impact on you so far?
Several professors have made a significant impact, but if I had to single one out it would be Mrs. Sharon Boyd. She has not only been the instructor for some of the more time-intensive courses but also been by our side as a clinical instructor. Mrs. Boyd always has time for her students; personal issues, studies, clinical issues or if you just need a person to be present, she makes the time.
What class has changed the way you think about nursing and why?
Psychiatric and mental health nursing practice was a class that significantly changed how I think about nursing. It reinforced the importance of empathy, trauma-informed care, and meeting patients where they are. It also highlighted how mental health intersects with every area of nursing practice.
Are you currently involved in any extracurricular activities?
I spend most of my free time raising my three daughters.
What do you consider your dream job?
My long-term goal is to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am currently scheduled to start work in a pediatric psychiatric unit following graduation.
What do you hope your future patients will say about you?
I hope my patients will say that I listened, that I cared, and that they felt safe and respected in my care.
