Thomson-Smith named AANP fellow
Clare Thomson-Smith, R.N., M.S.N., J.D., has been selected as a 2010 Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
The FAANP program was established in 2000 to recognize nurse practitioner leaders who have made outstanding contributions to health care through clinical practice, research, education or policy.
“This is a great honor both personally and professionally. Ultimately it is a reflection of Vanderbilt Nursing and of the dedicated support given to advancing the role of the nursing expert in clinical practice, in health
Clare Thomson-Smith, R.N., M.S.N., J.D.
Thomson-Smith, director of the Center for Advanced Practice Nursing and Allied Health, was originally educated as a registered nurse in Australia and has clinical experience as a trauma and critical care nurse and a certified nurse midwife.
She completed studies as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Health Systems Management and earned a law degree from Vanderbilt University School of Law, practicing as a medical malpractice defense attorney before joining the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing faculty in 2005.
She is currently chair of the Tennessee Nurses Association Government Affairs committee and serves on the Tennessee Coalition on Health Care Reform and the board of University Community Health Services. She teaches in VUSN's Doctorate of Nursing Practice program.
“Clare's appointment as a Fellow into the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners is truly an honor and reflects her commitment and contributions to the work of Advanced Practice Nursing,” said Marilyn Dubree, R.N., M.S.N., executive chief nursing officer.
“We are so fortunate to have her wisdom and talent at Vanderbilt and congratulate her for this achievement.”
“I am delighted for Clare,” added Colleen Conway-Welch, Ph.D., C.N.M., dean of VUSN. “She is a content expert, a tremendous legislative resource and a 'nurse's nurse.' Under her leadership, the VUMC Center for Advanced Practice Nursing and Allied Health Professionals has blossomed to include allied health professionals.
“She is an incredible mentor for those entering the world of advanced practice nursing and allied health.”
Thomson-Smith will be honored at an induction ceremony in Phoenix on June 23.