Two-time alumna of Kent State University, Heather Weil, MSN, APRN ‘19, AGACNP, is a dedicated nurse, esteemed faculty member and concentration coordinator for the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program here at Kent State University College of Nursing. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Weil has forged an impressive path in nursing, blending clinical expertise with a deep passion for teaching.
Inspired by the care her uncle and grandfather received at the end of their lives, Weil chose to pursue a career in nursing. Specializing in critical care, Weil has managed the most severe and immediate patient needs. She enjoys the critical thinking and problem-solving aspects of nursing, as well as the meaningful relationships she builds with her patients, their families and her fellow nurses.
Throughout her decade-long career at the bedside, Weil had the opportunity to work at both the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Twelve years ago, driven by her love for education, Weil made the transition to teaching.
“It was a natural progression for me, driven by my love for education,” said Weil. “I was inspired to share my knowledge with the next generation of nurses and explain things to them in different ways so we could learn from each other.”
Weil teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses, focusing on developing basic skills and enhancing clinical reasoning and judgment. Her teaching approach is strongly influenced by her real-world clinical experiences. Weil encourages her students to always ask questions to discover and better understand the why behind the action. She explains that developing both the basics and critical thinking skills is imperative to becoming a well-rounded and proficient nurse and practitioner.
“I want my students to feel empowered to ask questions and always wonder why,” said Weil. “They are learning how to think through if something is the best course of action for their patient. If something does not seem right, we are building their confidence to speak up.”
Weil’s commitment to both clinical practice and education exemplifies the best of nursing. Her dedication continues to shape the future of the profession, one student at a time.
“Each stage within my nursing career has taught me valuable things and has allowed me to continue to grow and develop into the provider that I am now,” said Weil. “This is an amazing but demanding field. I remind my students and myself that as nurses we must take care of ourselves both mentally and physically to care for others. My students know that if they ever need anything or to talk, I am always here.”
Outside of her professional life, Weil finds relaxation in spending time with her children and attending their various activities.
For new nurses just starting their careers, Weil offers sage advice: “Ask questions, try to see as many new experiences as possible and always promote teamwork. This job can’t be done alone. Remember, you are caring for someone’s loved one.”
Weil’s commitment to education and patient care highlights the crucial role of nursing educators. By encouraging her students to think critically and ask questions, Weil ensures her students are well-prepared to face the challenges of their profession. With her guidance, the future of nursing is bright, grounded in both skill and compassion.
Weil earned her BA in Communications from Kent State University in 2006, followed by her RN in Nursing from Huron Hospital in 2009. She then earned her MSN in Nursing Education from the University of Phoenix in 2012 and later an APRN in AGACNP from Kent State University in 2019.
