2026 OADN Elections
Candidate for Southwest Region Director
Janet Wheeler
DNP, RN, CNE
Associate Degree RN Program Director
National Park College
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Candidate Statement
I am honored to be considered for the Southwestern Regional Director for the OADN Board of Directors. As an Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Program Director at National Park College, I have dedicated my career to advancing ADN education, supporting student success, and strengthening the nursing workforce within our region and beyond.
For over decade, I have served in roles including faculty member, curriculum leader, and program administrator. I currently serve as Chair of the ADN Council for NANEP and remain active in curriculum development, accreditation, faculty mentorship, and statewide nursing initiatives. My background in critical care nursing shapes my commitment to excellence, collaboration, and evidence-based practice.
I bring experience in interprofessional collaboration, committee leadership, and national-level quality assurance with ACEN and OADN. As a graduate of Cohort IX of the OADN Leadership Institute, I have strengthened my ability to contribute thoughtfully to strategic planning, policy development, and organizational governance.
The ADN pathway remains essential to meeting the healthcare needs of communities and providing accessible opportunities for future nurses. OADN’s mission aligns with my professional values, and I welcome the opportunity to advocate for ADN education, engage members across the region, and contribute to the strategic goals of the organization. I am committed to active participation, shared governance, and advancing the visibility of associate degree nursing nationally.
As a recipient of the Heart of Gold Leader Award, my dedication to the profession is reflected in my commitment to excellence in clinical practice, nursing education, and service to students and colleagues.
