Southern Nazarene University was the right choice for Andrea Thompson. Pursuing her Doctoral degree in Education and Leadership is the final piece of her educational puzzle and Thompson said deciding to attend SNU was an easy choice.
“SNU was the right fit for me because of its Christ-centered focus. I wanted to pursue education to glorify God, not myself. SNU ensured that I would be able to further my education and enhance my relationship with Jesus,” Thompson said. “The Doctoral degree in Education and Leadership teaches us how to be effective educators. The core focus is servant leadership. These 30 months have taught me various types of leadership. I have a better understanding of how servant leadership impacts organizations; and I have the best example, Jesus Christ!”
Thompson currently works as a Registered Nurse with Choice Health at Home, which provides home health care.
“I am a case manager, seeing patients in their homes to offer advice and education related to chronic disease processes, as well as disease prevention strategies,” Thompson said. “The terminal degree I will receive from SNU better prepares me for employment with an educational institution. I have taught nursing in the past, but I was unable to attain the role of associate professor without a terminal degree. My hope is to transition back to nursing education after graduating at SNU.”
Originally from San Diego, California, Thompson moved to the Tulsa area 12 years ago. She received her associate degree from TCC in nursing, a baccalaureate degree in nursing from Grand Canyon University, and master’s degree in nursing education from Western Governors university. Thompson said the support at SNU is unmatched.
“I have enjoyed building relationships with my cohort. From early on I deemed us the Sensational 7! Even instructors referred to us as such. We catered dinner every last class as a means of celebrating achievement. I could not have completed these courses or obtained a 4.0 without the encouragement, support, correction and love from my classmates.”
Away from work and school, Thompson said she loves spending time with her daughter Amaya and serving her church.
“In my free time I serve at my church. It’s called Going Hard For Christ. I lead an emergency response team, health care professionals trained and ready to respond to any urgent needs. I also serve on the Kingdom Kitchen team. I am looking forward to having more free time and exploring new adventures in Oklahoma,” said Thompson.
