Dr. Ashley Scism, DNP, FNP-BC
Assistant Professor of Nursing
BS, Nursing, Treveca Nazarene University
DNP, Belmont University
What is your educational/professional background?
I have been a Registered Nurse for almost 7 years with experience in various specialties including medical/surgical nursing, urology/gyn, and women’s health. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I managed patients primarily with Endocrine disorders including Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes and accompanying comorbidities including Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Neuropathy, Nephropathy, and Vitamin Deficiencies. I was also trained in adjusting and interpreting insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring. In addition to practice, I thoroughly enjoy conducting and/or participating in research. While working as a Diabetes Nurse Practitioner, I had an amazing opportunity to practice as a sub-investigator for two prominent clinical trials regarding new antidiabetic medications. Education and research opportunities has always been at the heart of any job experience.
What brought you to Belmont?
As a native Nashvillian, I was very familiar with Belmont’s nursing program and their excellent reputation in the community. After attending a Belmont Preview Day and witnessing the simulation labs, I knew in my heart I wanted the opportunity to be a student and receive a quality education based on the highest standards of evidenced based practice. In high school, I was recruited and received full tuition golf scholarship to attend Trevecca Nazarene University, which happens to have a partnership program with Belmont. Therefore, I was able to experience the best of both worlds (golf and nursing) at two wonderful institutions.
What is your favorite part about working with nursing students?
I enjoy partnering with students on their life journey to become a nurse and seeing them succeed in providing quality and compassionate care to patients. As nurses, we are privileged to provide care to individuals who are at their most vulnerable and I love witnessing/helping students experience the servant heart of Christ in their future profession.
When you’re not busy grading, prepping classes, researching, etc., how do you enjoy spending your time?
I enjoy spending time with family, especially my new furbaby Roscoe (dog), playing golf, being outdoors, and volunteering at local nonprofit organizations in women’s health/pregnancy counseling.
Is there anything else you would like the Belmont community to know about you and/or your role at Belmont?
My “dream job” has always been to one day work full-time as an instructor at Belmont and I am so excited to finally be here! Everyone has been very welcoming!