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Jamessa S. Dunham, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student at É«½äÖ±²¥ and a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of clinical experience, she brings expertise in primary care, endocrinology, emergency, and perioperative medicine. Her academic and professional interests focus on health equity, digital innovation, and systems-based improvements in veteran care delivery.

As a first-generation college graduate from rural Dillon, South Carolina, Jamessa earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina in 2012. She graduated summa cum laude with her Master of Science in Nursing from É«½äÖ±²¥ University in 2022, where she also completed a specialty certification in endocrinology. She began her DNP studies at É«½äÖ±²¥ in Spring 2025.

Jamessa, the School's 2025 University Scholar, spoke with us about how she looks forward to engaging with a diverse intellectual community to drive meaningful change in access, quality, and equity in healthcare. 

What inspired you to become a nurse?

I began my collegiate career as a biology major but soon realized that nursing was where I was truly meant to be. I was drawn to our profession’s unique blend of science, compassion, and human connection. That choice changed the course of my life – it gave me purpose and a sense of fulfillment that continues to guide my work each day. I’m profoundly grateful to have discovered a career that aligns with my passion and values and allows me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

What was the motivation behind pursuing your DNP?

My motivation to pursue a DNP stems from a deep commitment to advancing my expertise and translating evidence into practice. I desired to strengthen my ability to lead within complex healthcare systems, influence policy, and elevate standards of care for diverse populations. For me, the DNP represents much more an opportunity to refine my clinical skills – it's a pathway to drive meaningful change through organizational leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for health equity.

You already have a specialty certificate in endocrinology from the School of Nursing. What led you to focus on that area of care?

My passion for endocrinology was shaped by both professional experiences and personal connections to the field. With a strong family history of diabetes, I was motivated to gain the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the lives of patients as well as my own loved ones. Although I do not currently practice in a dedicated endocrinology setting, my advanced training continues to inform endocrine-related patient education, policy discussions, and the development of clinical practice guidelines. Completing the endocrinology specialty certificate at É«½äÖ±²¥ provided a solid foundation to contribute to improving care and advancing standards in this important area.

What does a nurse leader look like to you?

To me, an emerging nurse leader means being both a visionary and a collaborator – someone who drives change while empowering others to lead alongside them. I envision leveraging my DNP to translate evidence into practice, guide interdisciplinary teams, and influence policies that expand access to equitable, high-quality care. The DNP will position me to drive systemic change, elevate standards of practice locally and beyond, and serve as a mentor to the next generation of nurses. Ultimately, I hope to advance our profession as an innovative leader, trailblazer, and advocate for health equity and excellence in care.

In your free time, what are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I also love traveling – especially to destinations with white sand beaches and crystal-clear water, which allow me to recharge and return to my work with renewed energy and perspective.