DUSON Student Spotlight highlights the diverse background of our nursing students and their personal stories of dedication, leadership, perseverance and academic or community achievements.

DUSON shines a spotlight on MSN - Pediatric Primary Nurse Practitioner student Peggy Ann Ursuy from Birch Run, Michigan. Ursuy will graduate December 2016.

Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?

A: I am a mom of six kids (Jesse-25; Travis-20; Kevin-17; Sommer-15; and Patrick & Joseph-6) and grandmother to one grandson (Brantley-1). I have a PhD in Nursing Education, a MSN in Nursing Education, and a MA in Educational Technology. I am a pediatric clinical instructor at the University of Michigan, C. S. Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor, MI.

I enjoy photography, boating, and going to the beach.

Q: What is a cause you're passionate about?

A: I am passionate about two things: at the young age of 23 years old, two big things changed my life. I had a new diagnosis of Crohn's Disease and I became a single mom. These events changed my life and inspired me to return to school to become a nurse and I did. Now, clinically I want to work with and care for young girls and women who are faced with the challenge of living with a chronic illness, especially those who are single moms.

Secondly, I am passionate about my nursing students. I love to teach and watch my students transition from young students into successful new, professional nurses. My work helps to sustain and grow the nursing profession.

Q: Tell us about a project, service group or organization that you are involved with at DUSON, Duke University or in the community.

A: Regional representative to the American Nurses Association-Michigan Board of Directors for my home area.

Q: What have you learned (or are learning) that's made a difference for you?

A: I have a greater appreciation for nursing education by going through the academic process. Nursing school, regardless of the level, the degree, or your age, is a challenge. It is stressful. It is also rewarding. I have a renewed empathetic perspective as a graduate student. It is a humbling experience where I can appreciate and understand what it is like to be a student. As a nurse educator, it is a unique opportunity.

Q: How does your nursing degree fit into your life's plans?

A: The pediatric nurse practitioner program-primary care was initially a personal goal to complete and complement my nurse educator role; since I have been in the program, I am considering practice as a PNP to provide care to adolescents and young adults in my area.

Student Spotlight Submissions: If you are a DUSON student and would like to be featured or know someone who deserves to be featured, click here to complete the DUSON Student Spotlight Questionnaire.