2025 Elections: Nominating Committee
Vote for up to three candidates. Click on each candidate to view their full candidate profile.
An APNA Nominating Committee member serves on the committee for one year. View Full Nominating Committee Description & Qualifications
- Duties Include: Reviewing the nominations submitted and preparing a proposed slate of candidates based on considerations such as geography, gender, professional experience, and racial diversity in order to achieve a balanced Board of Directors reflective of the membership.
- Qualifications Include: Knowledge of trends and issues influencing APNA programs, projects, and services; ability to work in a small group as a team member; willingness to commit the time necessary to fulfill the expectations of the role.
Candidates
Avery M. Anderson, PhD, MS, PMHNP-BC, APRN
Present Position
Assistant Professor & Endowed Early Scholar in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Nurse Scientist, Children’s Hospital Colorado
Education
PhD, The Ohio State University, 2023
MS, The Ohio State University, 2022
ABSN, Duke University, 2017
BA, Kenyon College, 2015
APNA Contributions
- Child and Adolescent Steering Committee – 2025-ongoing
- Youth Suicide Prevention Position Workgroup Steering Committee – 2023-2024
- Annual Conference Presenter
Other Experience
National Pediatric Nurse Scientist Collaborative – Mental Health Workgroup Lead – 2023-2024
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because of my unwavering commitment to scholarship and advocacy that promotes mental health and wellness across the lifespan. My career trajectory—from bedside psychiatric nurse to Education Nurse Specialist, Policy Oversight Coordinator, Nurse Scientist, and now tenure-track Assistant Professor—has provided a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of psychiatric-mental health nursing. These diverse roles have equipped me with a multifaceted perspective that I will bring to the nominating process. I am invested in thoughtfully identifying and advancing highly qualified, inspirational leaders who reflect the values and vision of APNA. I will bring to this role the same academic rigor, professional integrity, and collaborative spirit that have defined my scholarly and clinical work. The Nominating Committee has a critical role in shaping the future of our organization, and I am prepared to help lead a diligent and inclusive process that yields a ballot of exemplary candidates from across the country.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization by my commitment to ongoing scholarship and advocacy that addresses mental health outcomes, particularly suicide, in youth populations and fosters community-driven prevention efforts. As a scientist, I strive to consistently produce rigorous research products such as poster presentations, oral presentations, peer-reviewed articles, and community-focused resources that focus on better understanding and treating mental illness, increasing access to affordable mental health care, and universal mental health promotion. To date, I have authored 20 publications – six as first author – and the vast majority of which focus on understanding and addressing mental health disparities in youth populations. As an educator, I aim to model empathy, resilience-based communication, and a strengths-focused approach to caring for psychiatric patients and families for my students. I actively work to reduce stigma and prepare the next generation of psychiatric-mental health nurses to lead with compassion, evidence, and innovation. If elected, I would bring enthusiasm toward these goals and an energy to collaborate with the Nominating Committee toward strong ballot composition and organized electoral processes.
Beverly Baliko, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Present Position
Associate Professor and Interim Director PMHNP Program
University of South Carolina College of Nursing
Education
PhD, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2005
Postmaster’s Certificate PMHNP, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2005
MSN, Medical University of South Carolina, 1998
BSN, Medical University of South Carolina, 1995
ADN, Midlands Technical College, 1984
BA, University of South Carolina, 1979
APNA Contributions
- Member since 2003
- JAPNA contributor
- JAPNA reviewer
- Annual Conference presenter
- APNA Mental Health Advocacy Advisory Panel
- APNA South Carolina Chapter member, annual symposium planning committee and presenter
Other Experience
- Search committees at University of South Carolina:
- Faculty pipeline fellows: 2022-2025
- Faculty search committee chair: 2016-2021; member 2011-2012
- College of Nursing Dean: 2011-2012
- Associate Dean for Academics: 2012-2013; 2006-2007
- Associate Dean for Research: 2006-2007
- Nominations and Bylaws Committee (USC): 2021-2023; 2010-2012
- DEI Committee, National Academies of Practice: 2021-2022
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because my experience, values, and enthusiasm will be an asset to this committee. I went to nursing school with the intention of becoming a psychiatric nurse and that commitment has never wavered since accepting my first position as an inpatient staff nurse. Over time, my roles have evolved to include leadership, scholarship, research, and education. I fully recognize the contributions of psychiatric nurses across the spectrum of practice and education, and I value the diversity of ideas, perspectives, and experiences that all of us bring to our collective calling. As a long-time faculty member, I have participated in the recruitment of students, faculty trainees, tenure-track and clinical faculty colleagues, and college leaders. I’ve experienced the challenges and rewards of filling positions in college governance. As a graduate program leader, I have been instrumental in bringing together a dedicated team with complementary strengths to teach and mentor a growing number of students. In summary, I appreciate the impact of diversity of experience, preparation, and personal characteristics in building effective leadership teams and I’m familiar with processes of recruitment and nomination. As a member of the Nominating Committee, I hope to contribute to the selection of a qualified and representative slate of candidates for consideration by my fellow APNA members in the next Annual Election.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization by
- Continuing to foster competent and compassionate PMHNP graduates, many of whom are helping to expand access to mental health care in a state where all 46 counties are underserved.
- Participating in advocacy efforts in SC to remove barriers to APRN practice and expand tax incentives for clinical preceptors.
- Promoting policies that preserve/enhance access to high quality, safe, and inclusive healthcare.
- Working with interprofessional colleagues on educational and experiential initiatives that prepare health sciences students for collaborative practice and effective communication, with the goal of promoting a work environment conducive to best practice and positive patient outcomes.
- Engaging in dissemination of scholarship and service opportunities that support the nursing profession.
Sara E. Banzhaf, DNP, APRN-NP, PMHNP-BC
Present Position
Associate Professor, Creighton University College of Nursing
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track Leader, Creighton University
College of Nursing, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Urban community safety net clinic
Lenke Family Scholar
Education
DNP – Creighton University College of Nursing, 2017
DNP – Creighton University College of Nursing, 2017
MSN – University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2012
BSN – Clarkson College of Nursing, 1986
Diploma – Clarkson College of Nursing, 1984
APNA Contributions
- Co-Chair Education Council – Graduate Branch – 2020 – Present
- Co-Chair Graduate Faculty Toolkit Taskforce -2020-2025
- Member of the Education Steering Committee and Advisory Panel – 2020-Current APNA representative – NONPF Full Curriculum Leadership Committee – PMHNP specialty population (Fall 2024-present), and Competency Task Force Committee (Fall 2024) Member of the Research and Scholarship Advisory Panel – 2020-Present
- APNA reviewer (CE, manuscripts, research grant applications)
- Conference Presenter – 2019-2023
- APNA – Nebraska Chapter Board of Director (2007-2010) President, Past President, and Treasurer
Other Experience
- Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska
- Executive Committee (2019-2022)
- Nursing Education Committee (2018-2022)
- Behavioral Health Education Partners (2019-Current)
As co-chair of the Education Council-Graduate Branch (2020-Present), I have contributed to the success of APNA by serving as a mentor and resource for faculty, supporting engagement in Education Council activities, scholarship, and collaborating with colleagues on priority topics facing psychiatric-mental health nursing faculty. An example includes co-leading the development of the Graduate Faculty Toolkit recognized by the American Association of the Colleges of Nursing (AACN) for its alignment with the AACN Essentials (2021). I actively network with colleagues locally, and nationally to be informed of current issues and opportunities for advocacy and action. This includes being a member of the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska, as well as a member of National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties representing APNA on the Curriculum Leadership Committee and the PMHNP specialty population competency task force committee.
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because I offer proven leadership prioritizing the creation of authentic connections with individuals to create a culture of inclusivity that empowers and engages individuals towards a shared vision and purpose. This includes respecting the unique strengths and contributions of individuals and developing a safe space in which individuals feel comfortable exploring and discussing challenging topics to facilitate actions that promote positive change and outcomes.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization by being enthusiastic to offer breadth and depth of my experiences as a psychiatric-mental health nurse, proven leadership, engagement in a variety of committees, and dedication to positively contribute to APNA’s mission and vision. I am driven and passionate about the opportunity to collaborate with others to identify creative and innovative strategies to address the challenges facing psychiatric-mental health nursing. My current roles as a practicing psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, PMHNP Track Leader, Nursing Faculty, and Lenke Family Scholar provide me firsthand knowledge of the current complexities and opportunities facing the psychiatric-mental health profession in the areas of practice, education and research.
Sara Jones, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FAAN, FAANP
Present Position
Associate Professor, DNP Program Coordinator, McNeese State University
Education
Post-master’s Certificate (PMHNP): University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
PhD: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
BSN: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
APNA Contributions
- Board of Directors: Member at Large, 2017-2020
- Initiated APNA Arkansas chapter: 2013.
- President, 2013-17.
- Conference planning chair: 2014-2018.
- Journal of APNA (JAPNA): Editorial Board October 2022-present, reviewer since 2016.
- Mentor, Board of Directors Scholar (2025).
- Search committee for JAPNA Associate Editor, 2022, 2024.
- APNA Memorial Scholarship reviewer: 2024
- Annual Conference presenter: 2014, 2016-18, 2020-2025. Co-authored presentations with students: 2018, 2019, 2023-2025. CPI: 2024
- Annual Conference abstract reviewer: 2015-2024.
- Transition to Practice Certificate Program: Trauma & Recovery in Psychiatric Nursing, 2023.
- Coalition for the Advancement and Application of Psychological Science Multidisciplinary Mental Health Summit, Washington D.C.: Representative for APNA, 2018-2020.
- Trauma and Resilience Competencies for Undergraduate/Graduate Nursing Education work group, 2018 Associate Chair
- Annual Conference Scholarly Review committee: 2017
- Participant, APNA Annual Strategic Planning, 2017
- Member: Telepsychiatry Task Force: August 2016-2017
- Co-author of Telemental Health Opportunities and Obstacles, published JAPNA (2018).
Other Experience
- Psychiatric Nurse since 2005; PMHNP since 2013
- Journey Wellness Clinic (private practice), Owner: 2019-present
- Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association, Legislative Committee: 2025
- American Academy of Nursing: Fellow (FAAN) 2020
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners: Fellow (FAANP) 2019
- Arkansas Drug and Alcohol Coordinating Committee: Governor-appointed, 2018-2023
- Arkansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault: Secretary: July 2017-19; Board Member: 2016-17
- Arkansas Suicide Prevention Network, First Responder Mental Health task force: Nurse representative, 2016-2017
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because if elected to the nominating committee, I am confident that I can continue to effectively address APNA’s purposes. As a previous member of the Board of Directors and state chapter president, I am familiar with the purposes, infrastructure, and processes of the organization. As such, I am familiar with what is a Board Member looks like: Being a voice for PMH nurses and the populations we serve. Having hard conversations to reduce stigma and educate society about mental health being whole health. Having, or even MAKING, a seat at all the tables to ensure we are heard. Providing science and education that improves the care we provide for diverse populations. Aiming to be equitable and inclusive in all we do.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization through education and dissemination of evidence that we contribute to improving the care and outcome of our patients, families, and communities. In addition to the work I’ve done with APNA, I have been doing this as an educator in PMHNP and DNP programs for over a decade. I take pride in how I’ve involved students in APNA, which promotes THEM as PMH nurses. Many times, I have supported a student for the BOD Student Scholarship and have had 3 receive this award. I have assisted students in submitting abstracts for presentation at the annual conferences. Even more exciting, I have applied for and received funding from McNeese endowed professorships 2 years in a row to cover the costs of registration and travel students to attend and present at the conference, which will continue to fulfill APNA’s purpose of science and education.
Pamela Marcus, RN APRN/PMH-BC
Present Position
Prince George’s Community College Professor of Nursing
Owner – Private Practice
Education
BSN 1973 D’Youville College Buffalo New York
MS in Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Clinical Specialist, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland
APNA Contributions
- I have been serving as the Chapter Leader of the Temporary Leadership Committee of the APNA Maryland Chapter. We have been revitalizing this chapter for the last year and a half
- Have been a podium presenter at APNA Annual Conferences, including presenting the work of the steering committees, Co-Presented the work with the following steering committees: Suicide 9 Competencies, Personality Disorder Cluster B Task Force, and Updated Position Paper on Seclusion and Restraint.
- Served as a Peer Reviewer for JAPNA
- I have been one of the original members of APNA (my membership number is 89)
- I have been an active member of the following steering committees: Suicide Competencies, Seclusion and Restraint; Personality Disorder Cluster B Task Force; Education Council: Pre-Licensure Branch.
Other Experience
I have been teaching at Prince George’s Community College for 26 years. During that time, I have become a full professor. I teach two courses, a pre-nursing course focused on skills to become successful in nursing school and psychiatric mental health nursing, where the instruction is aligned with evidence-based practice and the principles of psychiatric mental health nursing. I have authored several textbook chapters for pre-licensure nursing students. I currently serve as a preceptor for DNP nursing students in my psychotherapy practice. I have presented many workshops and podium presentations on topics related to psychiatric mental nursing practice.
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because I have been actively involved with APNA since the beginning of the organization. I have actively served on several committees and am currently participating in reestablishing the Maryland Chapter. I have learned a lot about the inside workings of APNA. I want to support this organization by nominating strong nurse leaders to continue the important work of APNA.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization by understanding the organizational structure and upholding the legal underpinning of APNA. Structure provides clarity of the purpose of the organization. APNA assists nurses to provide the best care possible by the educational offerings and toolkits tof disseminate best practices.
Dana Olive PhD, CRNP, PMHNP- BC
Present Position
Assistant Chair of PMHNP Program, Wilmington University
Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Axon Psychiatry
Education
Widener University, PhD in Nursing
MCP Hahnemann University, MSN in Nursing
Cedar Crest College, BSN in Nursing
West Chester University, BS Pharmaceutical Product Development
La Salle University, Master’s Certificate Organizational Communication
APNA Contributions
- Member, Practice Council Steering Committee
- Prior Recovery Council Member. I co-authored an article on person first language with other members while on that committee.
- I represented APNA on a joint venture with ANCC to create a CNS/NP certification exam before LACE was implemented.
- Prior annual conference presenter and volunteer.
Other Experience
- Chair of Faculty Senate Nominating Committee, Wilmington University
- Chair of Governance Committee, Eta Beta Chapter Board Widener University Sigma Theta Tau International
- Co-chair Psych Mental Health Sig, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF)
APNA members should vote for me to serve on the Nominating Committee because I am highly committed to supporting the mission and initiatives of APNA. I joined APNA in the late 1990’s while in graduate school for my MSN to become an adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I firmly believed that APNA was the premier organization to represent and support psychiatric nurses at all levels when I joined and I continue to believe that today. I have board experience serving the Eta Beta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau at Widener University. I also have recently served as the Chair of the Faculty Senate Nominating Committee at Wilmington University. I will work collaboratively with committee members to ensure that mission focused candidates are brought forward who will lead our organization into the future and who will support the interests of members. I will serve with dedication as I have in my roles at Widener University and Wilmington University.
I can help fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization by thoughtfully evaluating and bringing forth highly qualified, mission focused candidates for election to leadership positions in my capacity as a member of the nominating committee. As a nurse of thirty years and an adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner of twenty five years, I am aware of the need to be committed to lifelong learning. Science is constantly evolving and we must stay current. As psychiatric nurses, we must also be involved in development of the science that grounds our practice. As an Assistant Chair of a PMHNP program, I understand that APNA’s membership learners may be starting as early as undergraduate students who aspire to be psychiatric nurses. I will ensure that candidates brought forward will seek to fulfill APNA’s purpose as a scientific and education organization for all psychiatric nurses.
