Professional Conduct and Role Modeling

The nursing faculty at Donnelly College serve as educators, mentors, and professional role models. Students observe and learn not only from what is taught but from how faculty act, communicate, and respond. Faculty professionalism is foundational to the culture of safety, respect, and ethical practice we strive to foster in every classroom, lab, and clinical setting.
This information outlines expectations for professional conduct and role modeling, consistent with Donnelly's mission and the guiding principles of Roy's Adaptation Model.

Professional Conduct Expectations
Faculty are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional behavior, including:

Demonstrating respect, equity, and cultural humility in all interactions with students, colleagues, and the broader community
Communicating with integrity, professionalism, and timeliness in person and across all platforms (email, LMS, meetings)
Maintaining appropriate boundaries with students, while being accessible, approachable, and supportive
Dressing in accordance with professional and clinical norms during instructional hours and site visits
Following college and program policies, including those related to FERPA, HIPAA, Title IX Prohibited Harassment, and the Donnelly College Code of Conduct
Addressing concerns or conflicts constructively and privately when appropriate, and involving leadership when needed

Role Modeling in the Nursing Program
Faculty are expected to actively model the behaviors and attitudes we seek to develop in students:

Integrity and Accountability: Upholding academic and clinical standards, admitting errors, and taking ownership of responsibilities
Adaptability: Modeling flexibility and resilience in dynamic situations, as emphasized in Roy's framework of adaptive modes
Professional Judgment: Demonstrating critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning in teaching, mentoring, and clinical decision-making
Communication: Engaging in respectful, therapeutic, and professional dialogue, including in moments of disagreement or challenge
Empathy and Presence: Exhibiting compassion, calmness, and attentiveness in interactions with students, patients, and colleagues
Self-Reflection and Examination: Participating in continuous self-assessment and modeling, a growth mindset in teaching and practice