With a career that spans decades, Annette Blasi-Strubeck has not only shaped the future of nursing students at Penn State Scranton but has also touched countless lives with her commitment to improving the care of older adults in the region.
A passion for research and improving the lives of older adults
Blasi-Strubeck’s research interests are deeply rooted in enhancing the quality of care for older adults. Her dedication to this cause was exemplified in June 2024 when she presented her DNP project, "Reducing 30-Day Readmission Rates in Older Adults," at the 17th National DNP Conference in Key West, Fl. This project highlights her relentless pursuit of solutions to critical healthcare challenges, aiming to make a tangible difference in the lives of the elderly.
Choosing Penn State Scranton
The journey to Penn State Scranton was inspired by her observations as a critical care nurse in a local hospital, where she noticed that Penn State nursing students were exceptionally well-prepared and "clinical ready." This, coupled with the fact that many graduates stay in Northeastern PA and provide care to her family and friends, solidified her decision to join the University.
She fondly refers to Penn State Scranton as "The Hidden Pearl," having driven past the campus for 30 years without realizing its beauty and the close-knit community within. Once on campus, she was struck by the cohesive and supportive atmosphere, where everyone shares the common goal of being there for the students.
What sets the nursing program at Penn State Scranton apart, according to Annette Blasi-Strubeck, is the strong relationships between faculty and students.
A former student Kelly Worozbyt, Assistant Teaching Professor of Nursing is now a colleague and friend to Annette Blasi-Strubeck.
Unique relationships and accessibility
What sets the nursing program at Penn State Scranton apart, according to Blasi-Strubeck, is the strong relationships between faculty and students. She cherishes the moments when former students, now colleagues and friends, invite her to their weddings and baby showers. The accessibility of the faculty, who are always ready to offer advice and support, creates a nurturing environment for students.
Preparing students for future success
Penn State’s Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s program is renowned in the area, with local hospitals actively seeking out its graduates. She takes pride in the fact that a large percentage of graduating classes secure jobs well before graduation. Many students go on to pursue advanced degrees, becoming Nurse Practitioners, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Ph.Ds.
Assistant Teaching Professor Annette Blasi-Strubeck instructs two nursing students about taking a blood pressure on "Sim Annie" a geriatric patient simulator in one of the medical/surgical simulation rooms at Penn State Scranton.
The making of a good nursing student
To Blasi-Strubeck, a good student is one who stays on top of their workload, attends classes, completes assignments, asks questions, and finds ways to complement their learning style. In clinical education, she values students who seek clarification rather than forgiveness, understanding the gravity of their responsibilities.
“The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing also focuses on self-care and relaxation as well so I try to encourage students to take time for themselves and have fun.”
Many ways to measure success
Blasi-Strubeck takes immense pride in the success of her nursing students, whose achievements reflect the high standards and dedication of her fellow faculty. One notable example is when the nursing administration at a local hospital wrote to commend a student for their exemplary handling of a life-and-death situation in the emergency room. Another involved a colleague who wrote to thank each student by name for the compassionate care they provided during his father’s illness.
Additionally, two former nursing students were accepted into Penn State's prestigious BSN to Ph.D. program and have since earned their doctorates. Sharing these stories not only highlights the students' hard work and commitment but demonstrates how deeply she values and appreciates the achievements of her students.
