Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program Directors

Dr. Jody Beckington serves as the coordinator of the UC College of Nursing Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN, Post-Master's Graduate Certificate and DNP programs. With more than 20 years of nursing experience, primarily at the bedside in intensive care units, Dr. Beckington currently works in a large private practice managing care for neurosurgical inpatients and outpatients and acts as a first assistant in surgery.

"What I find most fulfilling in this role is the opportunity to be deeply involved in patient care and to positively impact patients and their families during critical times."

Dr. Kim Mullins serves as the director of the UC College of Nursing's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN, Post-Master's Graduate Certificate and DNP programs. With over three decades of nursing experience, Dr. Mullins currently practices as a nurse practitioner in a radiation oncology clinic, where she witnesses the essential contributions NPs make in providing skilled and compassionate care. 

"I chose AGPCNP as my advanced practice specialty to take on greater clinical responsibility and make a lasting impact in patient care."

Holding 25 years of advanced nursing experience, Dr. Jason Gregg directs the Family Nurse Practitioner MSN, Post-Master's Graduate Certificate and DNP programs at the UC College of Nursing. His background includes clinical work in Family Medicine, a focus on substance use disorders, and recognition as a Fellow in the International Academy of Addictions Nursing. 

"Our faculty, including myself, actively practice and contribute to healthcare scholarship, ensuring our curriculum stays current and evidence-based. The program is designed with flexibility, while also challenging students to grow as a lifelong learners and leaders in the profession."

Dr. Melanie Kroger-Jarvis is the director of the Nursing Education Certificate and MSN programs at the UC College of Nursing. With decades of experience as a nurse, advanced practice nurse and educator, she is dedicated to preparing the next generation of nursing professionals.

"Based on my experience, I cannot emphasize enough how a strong foundation in student assessment, curriculum design and learner engagement strategies can make the shift from clinical practice into academic or staff development roles more seamless and impactful."

Dr. Kathy Oliphant is the director of the Systems Leadership MSN and DNP programs at the UC College of Nursing. A graduate of the program she now leads, Dr. Oliphant is a certified Clinical Nurse Leader and Nurse Executive with extensive experience in clinical and administrative roles across a variety of healthcare settings. She is dedicated to fostering holistic care and supporting future nurse leaders as they prepare to meet the challenges of today's complex and evolving healthcare systems.

"Our programs prepare nurses with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead effectively in diverse and evolving healthcare environments."

Dr. Lisa Hachey, a certified nurse-midwife since 1999, brings four decades of nursing experience to her role as program director at UC College of Nursing. She blends the art of midwifery with the science of healthcare, integrating trauma-informed care, simulation and technology-enhanced learning to improve outcomes for women and newborns. Her passion for education drives her commitment to developing skilled, thoughtful clinicians who lead with both evidence and empathy.

"Midwifery is a commitment to upholding and safeguarding the dignity of life. What continues to inspire me is the profound connection between knowledge, compassion and innovation.”

Tamara Pavlik-Maus serves as the director of the UC College of Nursing's Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program. With more than 40 years of clinical experience in a variety of healthcare settings across the United States, she is committed to advancing women’s health through evidence-based practice and education. She focuses on technology-enhanced learning and simulation to prepare nurse practitioner students for confident, competent patient care and finds fulfillment in watching students grow in confidence as they transition into practice.

"Providing effective care starts with listening. When patients are heard, outcomes improve."