Assistant Professor Kiki Fornero is the new director of the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) and Master’s Entry to Professional Nursing (MEPN) programs in the Linfield-Good Samaritan School of Nursing. Fornero replaces Heidi Johnston in this role, who recently became the school’s associate dean.
“Dr. Fornero brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of dedication to our institution, making her an exceptional choice for this important role,” Dean Paul Smith said. “Her participation in the National League for Nursing’s LEAD program has equipped her with valuable leadership skills and insights, further enhancing her readiness for this new role. Her commitment to innovation, collaboration and student success makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead our ABSN and MEPN programs to new heights of excellence.”
Both the ABSN and MEPN programs are prelicensure programs designed for people to enter the nursing field without a previous nursing degree. The ABSN can be finished in 12 months and results in a second bachelor’s degree. The MEPN program takes 18 months, with a higher tuition rate, but graduates earn a master’s degree upon completion. Linfield launched the MEPN program in January 2023 as the first of its kind in Oregon.
Fornero joined Linfield in 2019, after serving as a nurse educator since 2012. Her academic interest centers on critically questioning existing health care structures in an effort to eliminate barriers and promote equity for people in larger bodies. She aims to support understanding of weight-neutral health care approaches. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Okahoma, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma and a doctorate from Oregon Health & Science University.
At Linfield, Fornero has worked with nursing students at various levels of the program, helped develop new programs and fully integrated simulation experiences into the school’s curriculum. She has served on a number of school- and university-wide committees, including the School of Nursing Senate and chairing the school’s Curriculum Committee.
“Dr. Fornero’s contributions have been instrumental in advancing our educational mission and ensuring excellence in our programs,” Smith said. “We are fortunate to have her leadership, expertise and passion guiding our nursing programs, and I am confident that under her direction, our students will continue to thrive and excel.”
Fornero begins this new role immediately, working with Johnston to seamlessly transition duties.
