Biography

Shelly Amsberry’s nursing career began with a diploma in nursing from Bryan Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1982. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in 2011 and a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership from Bryan College of Health Sciences (BCHS) in 2017. After 38 years of clinical and leadership experience in the rural hospital setting, Dr. Amsberry transitioned into an academic role at UNMC College of Nursing – Kearney Division in 2020. She completed an Education Doctorate with Emphasis in Nursing Education at BCHS in 2022.

Dr. Amsberry’s dissertation research was a grounded theory study of professional identity formation of nurse educators. Other research interests include nursing civility and academic integrity of nursing students. Dr. Amsberry teaches fundamentals, Evidence-based- practice, and Leadership in the undergraduate, traditional BSN program. She also teaches graduate students in the nurse executive LEAD program. In all her interactions with students and colleagues, Dr. Amsberry encourages students and nurses to form a positive professional identity and sense of belonging in the profession through discussion, active learning, role modeling and mentoring.

Research

Research Interests

• Professional Identity in Nursing

Publications

Amsberry, S. (May 2020). Trauma-informed care education. Nebraska Nurse

Recognition

2020, UNMC CON, Daisy Award Nomination

2021, UNMC CON, Daisy Award Nomination