Having recently completed her terminal nursing degree, three-time Kent State University College of Nursing alumna Jasmine Bonder, DNP ‘23, MSN ‘19, BSN ’17, ACNP-BC, RN, shared this achievement was important to her as it highlights her nursing expertise. “Each degree showcases a chapter of my life and the interests that I had back then. Obtaining my first degree only inspired me to continue to learn more,” said Bonder. “There is so much information, and I want to know it all.”
A culture of inclusivity was important to Bonder when selecting a university. From the welcoming efforts of faculty and staff to the diversity of coursework that would challenge her to see the world, health institutions and healthcare practices in different ways,
Bonder felt supported and at home at Kent State.
“The nursing faculty’s expertise helped me thrive intellectually. Forming connections with my professors made my program so enjoyable. They were available outside the classroom which exposed my classmates and I to a magnitude of opportunities on leadership boards, social justice work and research,” said Bonder. “This was very important to me as I didn’t have proper guidance on the function of higher education. The comfort of having these leaders’ support and encouragement since day one inspired me to choose Kent State.”
Over the course of her ten years at the College of Nursing, one of the strongest lessons Bonder learned was the importance of mentorship. She credits her own mentors, Dr. Kimberly Cleveland, associate professor, Dr. Lisa Onesko, professor and director of the DNP program and Dr. Barbara Broome, dean and professor emerita, for changing her life and continuing to provide guidance.
“I call my mentors often to ask for advice. At this point, they are family, and I attribute much of my success to them. They have been there for my hard days, good days and even just as a friend,” said Bonder. “I truly appreciate their support and know in my heart I could not have done this without them.”
She hopes to encourage her fellow nurses to return to school for their advanced degrees, recommending they seek out shadowing opportunities before committing to a program of study. “Nursing is a very versatile profession,” said Bonder. “Shadowing can help nurses begin to understand the complexities and joys of a new position and assist them in making a more educated decision when deciding which advanced degree to pursue. You won’t regret obtaining another degree, especially from Kent State!”
Bonder’s desire to become a nurse and further her education was greatly inspired by her grandmother, who escaped Yemen with her family during a time when there was persecution against Jewish communities. Having walked from Yemen to Israel for religious freedom, Bonder’s grandmother taught herself how to practice medicine and became one of the first women medical providers in Israel in the 1950s. Inspired to continue her grandmother’s legacy, Bonder chose nursing so she could serve humanity and bring good into the world. Bonder’s dream is to be a leader within her community and inspire first-generation children in America to pursue higher education. She currently serves as the Head of Clinical Care for Aidaly, a company that supports family caregivers’ access to resources. In this position, Bonder advocates for the importance of ensuring quality care, continuing education at the bedside and helps minimize stressors at the bedside.
During her time at Kent State, Bonder could often be found with her therapy dog, Miss Cookie, by her side. The Labradoodle enjoyed her many visits with nursing faculty, staff and students, always offering affectionate kisses and snuggles. According to Bonder, Cookie is still hard at work serving the public.
