Get to know NHCC's Nursing instructors.
Desirri Arneson
Educational credentials:
DNP, MSN, AS
Doctor of Nursing Practice, St. Catherine University
Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in Education, Walden University
Associate of Science in Nursing, Anoka Ramsey Community College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
My first 2 years of nursing were in long-term care, specializing in dementia. The next 17 years, I worked in an acute care hospital setting. This included medical-surgical, intensive care, neuro trauma, maternal child, cardiac, and orthopedic units. During this time, I worked as a “flyer”, or resource nurse, covering medical-surgical units and ICUs as well as a member of the Rapid Response Team and CPR teams for over 10 years. My graduate work was on an inter-professional team with a variety of healthcare disciplines working together.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
These experiences in nursing have instilled a deep appreciation for the strength of a team working together and a passion for life-long learning. These attributes and expertise have built a foundation and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge with others through teaching.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
Becoming a nurse is a challenging, transforming, and rewarding journey that continues through a lifetime. Recognizing and appreciating the individuality, experiences, and perceptions of each student is important to the development of individuals to reach their potential as a nurse. It is through this approach that teaching is guided to help students feel supported and be successful in their journey toward becoming a nurse.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."
-William Shakespeare
Linda Carlyon
Educational credentials:
MS, RN, CNS
MS from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities
BA from Gustavus Adolphus College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Abbott-Northwestern: 1.5 years in oncology.
North Memorial Health Care: 22 years in Maternal/Child Health, 6 years in Home Care for Maternal/Child Health.
University of Minnesota: 15 of these same years I also taught part-time for the School of Nursing.
Promise Care Home Health: 10 of these same years I also provided part-time home care for adults.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing school because I enjoy sharing in the experience when students move from being a student to becoming a professional. Many previous students reach out to me years later to thank me for helping them earn their nursing degree.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
All students are individually important to me. I give them as much knowledge as I can, so they equally qualify for the nursing position they aspire toward.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I earned a red belt in tae-kwon-do and still exercise regularly.
“You were somebody when you arrived at school, and you are an even better somebody when you leave.” -Rita Pierson
Personal Interests:
Playing with my grandchildren and exercising.
Judy Cotter
Educational credentials:
DNP, RN, CNE
2025 - Doctor of Nursing Practice, St. Catherine University
2014 - Master of Science in Nursing/Education, University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
2011 - Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
2008 - Bachelor of Science in Business/Marketing, University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
I worked for 10 years as a registered nurse for the Mille Lacs Health System in Onamia, Minnesota. My primary area of expertise has been with the geriatric population, working in behavioral health, yet I've also floated to the medical-surgical unit when needed as well.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to become a nurse educator because I enjoy helping students learn, and this position provides me with a tangible way to serve others and the nursing profession.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I believe transparency is key to providing equity among students of all backgrounds and experiences. I regularly review course materials for bias, and I use inclusive language.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
“If you don’t like the road you’re walking, start paving another one.” -Dolly Parton
Personal Interests:
I enjoy golfing and traveling to see family and friends. I plan to add gardening to my hobbies.
Queen Gbor Hill
Educational credentials:
FNP-APRN, MSN, BSN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Purdue Global University
Master of Science in Nursing, Purdue Global University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, St. Catherine University
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
As a nurse, I have worked in many different areas. I worked in medical-surgical, transitional care, hospice & palliative care, community health, etc. Most of my experiences have been working in hospital/clinic/community settings with a focus on patient care, leadership, education, etc. As an NP, I worked inpatient as a pain provider.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing to help shape the next generation of compassionate and skilled nurses. Education allows me to share my clinical experiences while empowering students to grow in confidence and competence.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
- I have worked diligently to empower students to achieve their goal of becoming nurses. I spent one-on-one time with them during their schooling.
- Providing individualized support and mentorship
- Using real-world clinical scenarios to enhance learning
- Encouraging critical thinking and clinical judgment
- Creating an inclusive and supportive classroom environment
- Offering guidance on study strategies and NCLEX preparation
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I enjoy traveling, cooking, volunteering, and doing missions through my church.
“Caring is the essence of nursing.” -Jean Watson
Amy Goman - Dean of Nursing and Allied Health Professions
Educational credentials:
MS, BSN
Master's of Science with a specialization in Nursing Education, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, for both degrees
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Neonatal ICU, medical-surgical, cardiac/thoracic surgery
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I always enjoyed teaching with my patients and have students on the floor. I love experiencing the learning moments when the theory knowledge is seen in practice. Combining knowledge with compassion is wonderful to be a part of.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I enjoy helping students find their best learning style. There are so many resources to help students find the style best suited to them.
Words of Wisdom:
Everyone's journey is different. Some days we are walking uphill and others we are coasting downhill. Together we will cross the finish line!
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
"Nothing is IMPOSSIBLE. The word itself says I'M POSSIBLE." Audrey Hepburn
Personal Interests:
Being outdoors - walking, hiking, camping, and gardening.
Dina Gutierrez
Educational credentials:
BSN, RN, PHN, CCRN
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Metropolitan State University
Bachelor of Science, University of Minnesota
Associate of Science, Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Associate of Arts, Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Long-term care, transitional care, memory care, medical-surgical trauma, and the medical ICU. Taught nursing students during clinical rotations on medical-surgical neuro and cardiac step-down units.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing because I am passionate about supporting and guiding students as they grow into confident, compassionate nurses and creating a positive learning environment that encourages critical thinking, curiosity, and professional growth.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
As a nursing instructor, I support student success by drawing on my diverse clinical background, strong communication skills, and passion for mentoring future nurses. I strive to create a supportive learning environment that promotes critical thinking, confidence, and compassionate patient-centered care.
Words of Wisdom:
"People (patients) will forget your name, they will forget what you said, they may even forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel." -Maya Angelou
Personal Interests:
Spending time with family, mentoring and teaching others, and continuing to learn and grow professionally. I love baking bread, crafts, as well as planning parties and special gatherings that bring people together.
Jeanne Harstad
Educational credentials:
DNP, BSN, ADN
DNP, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
BSN, University of Phoenix
ADN, Anoka Ramsey
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Education, geriatrics, wound care, ventilator weaning, long term acute care.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I love seeing the students connect the dots, I can touch many patients through the students I have taught.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I encourage active learning; I promote project-based learning.
Words of Wisdom:
"Great things never come from staying in your comfort zone." -Roy T. Bennett
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I grew up in the state of 10000 lakes and cannot swim.
Personal Interests:
Traveling, golfing, singing, dancing, and finishing 13.1-mile distance events.
Dorthey Ikegwuani
Educational credentials:
MSN, BSN, RN
MSN, Bethel University
BSN, Bethel University
RN, Minneapolis Community and Technical College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Cardiac, Home Care, Hospice, Wound Care
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
After my experience with having an instructor care about my success, I wanted to take that same experience and teach other students.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
Individual tutoring. I believe every individual has the inherent potential to achieve their best, and I approach every clinical challenge with a steady faith and a solution-oriented mindset. My strength lies in bridging rigorous clinical standards with a compassionate, faith-informed dedication to seeing others thrive.
Words of Wisdom:
“Stop, take a deep breath. You can do this!”
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
A gift from a group of students: "A truly great mentor is hard to find, difficult to part with, and impossible to replace.” I continue trying to live up to this expectation
Personal Interests:
I am deeply rooted in my faith and find great joy in studying scripture and composing sermons.
To stay energized and inspired, I enjoy listening to both gospel and old-time music, traveling, reading, and walking outdoors.
Melyzedeck Kerongo
Educational credentials:
MSN, BSN, AA
Master of Science in Nursing, Liberty University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Liberty University
Associate of Arts, North Hennepin Community College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Medical-surgical nursing, home health nursing, and rehabilitation nursing.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing because I am passionate about giving back to the nursing profession and shaping the future of healthcare. There is nothing more rewarding than witnessing students acquire crucial nursing knowledge and subsequently apply those skills in real-world situations to provide exceptional patient care. Learning through hands-on experience, as emphasized in
Dr. Patricia Benner's theory of novice to expert continuum, is vital. By involving students in diverse scenarios, they develop essential skills and build confidence in their interactions with patients, families, and healthcare professionals. As students progress through their education, they will transition from novices to competent nursing practitioners, prepared to make a significant impact in their field.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
My approach to helping students succeed is grounded in inspiration, motivation, and encouragement. I strive to meet students at their individual starting points, guiding them to recognize their strengths and address their unique challenges throughout their nursing education. By creating an environment where they feel supported in overcoming obstacles,
I empower them to thrive academically and personally, fostering the resilience necessary for their nursing careers.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
“No man, not even a doctor, ever gives any other definition of what a nurse should be than
this – ‘devoted and obedient.’ This definition would do just as well for a porter. It might even do for a horse. It would not do for a policeman.” -Florence Nightingale
Chris Kleckner
Educational credentials:
DNP, MA, MAN, BA, AS
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Winona State University
Master of Arts in English, University of South Dakota
Master of Arts in Nursing Education, Bethel University
Bachelor of Arts in English, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Associate of Science, Normandale Community College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Critical Care, Culture and Nursing, Emergency Care, Health Care Disparities, Hospice, Neuroscience Nursing.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
Serving others through education brings me the most joy.
I found that I very much enjoyed sharing information and sparking thoughts. Teaching nursing is where my calling is set. I love those ah-ha moments in the classroom and seeing students grow into caring and competent nurses.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
Probably the most effective way I have helped students succeed in a nursing program is taking the time to understand an individual’s strengths and worldview. From there, I like to help the students figure out how to overcome challenges with their strengths and guide them with resources and support.
Words of Wisdom:
Nursing school is hard. It's supposed to be! Remember, as a nurse, you will be getting paid for what you know - not what you do. The more that you know will make a tremendous difference in your patients' care.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
“Whenever you’re in a position to help someone, be glad and always do it because that’s the Universe answering someone else’s prayers through you."
Personal Interests:
Gardening, biking, hiking, kayaking, camping - anything that gets me outdoors! Reading books - I'm a book snob. Knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, and weaving.
Cassie Kramer
Educational credentials:
MSN, BSN, RN
Earned MSN at Walden University and earned BSN at St. Cloud State University.
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
ICU and Critical Care
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I love inspiring new nurses and welcoming them into the honorable profession of nursing.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I encourage and maintain open communication and incorporate diversity into the curriculum and teaching plans.
Words of Wisdom:
"It's okay not to have all the answers-- what matters is your willingness to find them."
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
"As a nurse, we have the opportunity to heal the mind, soul, heart, and body of our patients, their families, and ourselves. They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel." -Maya Angelou
Personal Interests:
When I'm not teaching, you can find me planning my next trip, cheering on my kids' sports teams, staying active with fitness classes, or unwinding with a good book. :)
Orina Machoka
Educational credentials:
DNP, RN, APRN, AGNP-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice, University of North Dakota
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified
Master of Science in Nursing, Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, University of North Dakota
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bemidji State University
Associate of Science in Nursing, Anoka Ramsey Community College
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
I am a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with experience in primary care and hospital-based practice. My clinical interests include: adult-gerontology, preventive care, chronic disease management (including diabetes and hypertension), patient education, and evidence-based practice implementation. I spent my first eight years working in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities, and then for the next five years I worked in a hospital in acute nursing, cardiac telemetry, and the ICU. My NP clinical experience has been in specialty fields, with five years being in chronic pain management and the rest in gastrointestinal.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing because I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of nurses and advanced practice providers. Nursing education allows me to combine my clinical experience with my commitment to lifelong learning, professional growth, and advancing safe, patient-centered care.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I support student success by fostering a structured and supportive learning environment, emphasizing clinical reasoning and critical thinking, providing timely and constructive feedback, and encouraging confidence through real-world application of evidence-based practice. I also prioritize open communication and mentorship to help students navigate both academic and professional challenges.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I enjoy lifelong learning and am always exploring new ways to integrate evidence-based practice into both clinical care and teaching.
“Excellence is not a skill, it’s an attitude.” -Ralph Marston
Lois Mandler
Educational credentials:
MSN RN CNE
Attended Winona State University for MSN and BSN.
Earned ADN from Austin Community College (known today as Riverland Community College).
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Multi-Specialty Medical Nursing for 20 years, Clinical Research for 12 years, and Discharge Planning Nurse Specialist for three years.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
My desire to work with students and give back to the profession of nursing.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I enjoy working with all students to help them be successful by being available (currently online and in-person when possible) and working to create a positive, comfortable learning environment for all students.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
“If it is to be, it is up to me.” Unknown Author
Lori Mountin
Educational credentials:
MSN, BSN
Master of Science in Nursing Education, University of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Minnesota,
Twin Cities
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Several years in Medical-Surgical, Critical Care, and Perianesthesia Nursing.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I served as a mentor and preceptor throughout much of my clinical career. I always loved to teach and I love nursing.
I decided to combine my love for both by helping to teach the students who are entering the profession that I love.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
Students come to this program with varied backgrounds. I try to teach at a basic level, so students understand why they are doing things rather than just trying to memorize steps to do it. I also try to meet each student at the place where they are, building upon their level of experience.
At one point, I was a nursing student who had no patient care experience, so I can relate to students who come without experience and try to be patient with them but encouraging of them. I've got a great deal of clinical experience to share with students that can help them learn how to be an RN in the real world.
Words of Wisdom:
If you are going to remember knowledge or a skill, you need to understand it deeply and know why you are doing it the way you are.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
Nurses really get a chance to touch people’s lives. A favorite quote of mine is by Maya Angelou, “They may not remember your face, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Personal Interests:
I love to travel, read, and spend time with my friends, children, and grandchildren.
Jill Mousky
Educational credentials:
MS, RN
Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in education, University of North Dakota
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, North Dakota State University
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
I worked in Acute Care, Med Surg, Neurology, and Critical Care float pool.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing because I want to help shape the next generation of nurses. The care students provide in the future will affect countless lives, and I find it truly rewarding to be part of their education and growth experience.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I try to build a classroom and lab environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and learning from them. Nursing school can be challenging, and feeling supported helps students stay engaged and confident.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I enjoy traveling, sporting events, and spending time with my family.
"Believe you can, and you're halfway there." -Theodore Roosevelt
Amy Peterson
Educational credentials:
BSN, MSN, CCRN
Master of Science in Nursing, Walden University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Associate of Science, Southwest Baptist University
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
Critical Care, Medical-Surgical Care, Travel Nursing.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I chose to teach nursing because I am passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that move beyond memorization and help students truly understand and retain knowledge. By utilizing active learning strategies, educational games, simulation, and interactive activities, I strive to make learning both engaging and enjoyable. I prioritize bringing active learning strategies and a dose of humor to my classes.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I support student success by making learning both engaging and enjoyable.
Words of Wisdom:
“Stay curious. Think deeper. Be bold enough to ask why.”
Personal Interests:
Formula 1, memorizing all the two-letter words in Scrabble, learning new trivia that serves no practical purpose, and pretending I know what I'm doing when technology updates overnight.
Mary Sladek
Educational credentials:
MS, RN, BSN
Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Bachelor of Science in Nursing from South Dakota State University.
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
I have 35+ years of nursing experience. My clinical fields have included: Hematology/Oncology, Oncology Research, Medical-Surgical, Imaging, Geriatrics.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
Like many nurses, I have a passion for helping others.
Working in the field of nursing has been one of the best decisions I have ever made.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
I consider the definition of diversity to be broad and encompasses all students. As a faculty member, I try to help students to become comfortable with me as their faculty/advisor by encouraging them to visit with me for their individual needs.
Words of Wisdom:
Never lose sight of your purpose for becoming a nurse.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
I love to quilt, albeit a crude definition of quilting (large 10” block quilts).
Personal Interests:
I enjoy spending time with family, quilting, and working on glass mosaics.
Elmira Turdalieva
Educational credentials:
DNP, RN, CNS-BC
I earned both my Doctorate in Nursing Practice and my Master's in Nursing from the University of Minnesota,
Twin Cities.
Nursing background or areas of clinical expertise:
I worked as a research assistant at the University of Minnesota, School of Nursing. Clinical Experience: Cardiovascular Acute Unit at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, MHealth.
Why did you choose to teach nursing?
I like to share my nursing knowledge with nursing students in order to strengthen their skills. I believe that when my nursing students become RNs, they will make a significant impact in the healthcare and contribute to excellent patient care outcomes.
What are some ways you help students succeed in the nursing program?
My teaching philosophy is to learn about every student, individually, which includes their background and learning abilities, so that I can provide them with the best guidance to help them succeed in our program.
Words of Wisdom:
Speak to yourself and support yourself the way you would for someone you care about.
Share a favorite quote or a "fun fact" about yourself:
“You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” Z.Z
Personal Interests:
I enjoy going to yoga class with my daughter. It’s special to share that time together. It keeps me active and helps reduce stress.