As a first-generation, under-represented minority college student, Tomeka C. Dowling, DNP, RN experienced many challenges while navigating higher education first-hand. As a result of having little guidance, she is committed to ensuring that nursing education is accessible, equitable, and inclusive to all people. She fulfills this commitment by promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in nursing education at the institutional, state, and national levels. In addition, Dowling has published and presented on topics that promote inclusive learning environments.
At the state level, Dowling ensured nursing education program compliance with state regulations and shared best practice standards with program directors and faculty as the Nursing Education Consultant at the Virginia Board of Nursing. In addition, as an advisory board member with the Department of Virginia’s Advisory Committee for Career and Technical Education (CTE), she advised and provided support and advocacy for high quality programs that prepared middle and high school students for successful transition to further education and careers in health care. As a past President of Virginia League for Nursing (VLN), Dowling partnered with nurse educators across the state to promote excellence in nursing education that led to a strong and diverse nursing workforce that advanced the health of our communities.
Dowling delivers high quality education; supports students, staff, and faculty; engages with clinical and community partners; and cultivates equitable and inclusive work and learning environments. Having a passion for process and experience ensuring compliance with state and national regulations and standards has equipped Dowling to contribute to various degree levels of nursing education. By utilizing a relationship-based leadership approach in and outside of the classroom, she focuses on supporting, motivating, and mentoring students towards meeting both their educational and professional goals.
