Leadership in Nursing Education
As Lead Faculty for Certifications and Licensure at Herzing University, Juanita Rainey plays a crucial role in preparing nursing students for their professional careers. With six years of service to Herzing, she teaches classes with special emphasis on helping seniors prepare for the NCLEX exam—the final step toward becoming licensed nurses.
"I help the seniors register and fulfill all the components necessary to take the exam," Juanita explains. "I also track those graduates who have already left to ensure they remain on track with preparing for NCLEX."
Military Foundation for Educational Excellence
Before her career in nursing education, Juanita served in the United States Army, an experience that continues to shape her approach to teaching and leadership.
"My military experience has impacted everything I do, by instilling discipline, appropriate action and reaction, teamwork and integrity into my life and work," she reflects. "I try to maintain those important values in the classroom as well."
Juanita actively incorporates these military values into her teaching philosophy. "I encourage my students to uphold the same values within the classroom throughout their nursing program and in life as they transition into the professional world of nursing. I like making sure they know these are just some of the expectations of a professional nurse outside of the knowledge base and skill set they must acquire."
Building Community Through Memorable Experiences
When asked about memorable moments at Herzing, Juanita mentions several standout experiences. "There was a workshop given at the Botanical Gardens with a previous Dean and all of the Nursing Faculty. We had a great time bonding and learning new ways to educate. Also, a great Christmas party in 2019. And some of the events held on campus with the students have been great."
She particularly looks forward to the year-end holiday season. "There are always celebrations and decorations and everyone is always in an excited mood."
Making a Difference Beyond the Classroom
Juanita's commitment to student success extends beyond academics. She has been actively involved with the Student Nurses Association, leading meetings and organizing community service initiatives.
"We participated in multiple community events, i.e. collections for homeless shelters, campus events for the Herzing community and providing essentials for the campus to help with conveniences for the students and faculty," she notes.
Words of Wisdom for Student Success
Drawing from both her military and educational background, Juanita offers powerful advice to Herzing students:
"Stay focused on what you came here to do. There will always be distractions, but you cannot let anything or anyone deter you from what your mission is, and do not let anything deter you from getting to the end goal you have set for yourself."
She also emphasizes the importance of seeking support: "Ask for help. There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you need it. Sometimes, you may not know you need the help, so when someone offers, accept it and know they see you need the help and they have your best interest at heart."
The Heart of Herzing
When asked what makes Herzing special compared to other universities, Juanita's answer is simple yet profound: "The students."
