Michele M. Niklewicz, DNP

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Assistant Professor of Nursing

Nursing

School of Health and Natural Sciences

My work sits at the intersection of maternal and reproductive healthcare, nursing education and Caring Science. My clinical background in labor and delivery informs my approach to high-risk pregnancy, maternal safety, respectful maternity care, trauma-informed nursing care and the nurse’s role as advocate. As an educator, I focus on helping students develop clinical judgment, professional identity formation, resilience, and the capacity to provide equitable, compassionate, evidence-based care. My teaching also spans nursing research, community health and preparation for professional nursing practice.

Education

Pacific Union College, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Capella University, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Nursing Education
Western University of Health Sciences, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Leadership and Nursing Education
Additional Professional Education: Watson Caring Science Institute , Caritas Leader®; Caritas Coach®

Research Interests

My research interests center on resilience and professional identity formation in nursing students and new nurses, particularly through Caring Science-informed educational practices. I am interested in how reflection, caring relationships, clinical judgment, belonging, and intentional professional identity formation influence student development, transition to practice, and retention in nursing.

Contact Information

Office Hours

Mondays, 2:30–6:30 p.m.; additional times available by appointment.