A Conversation with Sue Schuelke, PhD, RN

Terry: Welcome back to another installment of our ongoing series where we spotlight leaders and rising voices within the Nebraska Nurses Association (NNA). Today, I’m joined by a longtime colleague, fellow nurse, and recent NNA board member. We’ve both seen a lot over our years in the field, but today, I’m excited to learn even more about her journey. So, let’s start from the beginning. I know where you went to school, but share a bit of your background with everyone.

Sue: Absolutely. I’m a proud graduate of UNMC — degrees in 1981, 1983, and 1989. Then, while raising my family, I eventually earned my PhD in 2016. My clinical background is rooted in critical care. I worked at Saint Elizabeth for most of my career and held roles in cardiovascular services and education. Later, I became the Director of Education across the Nebraska region. I also served as the Principal Investigator for a HRSA grant focused on virtual nursing.

Terry: You’ve definitely covered a lot of ground. And you also helped launch the program at SCC, right?

Sue: Yes, that was a really meaningful project. I’ve always loved education — even as a bedside nurse, I was a preceptor. One of my proudest initiatives came back in 2008 or 2009 when I helped start a residency program to bridge the well-known gap between nursing education and practice. My goal has always been to help close that gap — from both the practice and academic sides.

Terry: You mentioned some great highlights already, but if you had to name the top three moments or milestones in your career, what would they be?

Sue: That’s tough! But I’d say, first, surviving my first year as a nurse without harming anyone — we often underestimate how overwhelming that transition is. Second, earning my PhD — a huge personal and professional milestone. And third, being a lifelong learner. I’ve loved seeing how nursing practice has evolved with evidence. What we did in the ‘80s we thought was science — and now, we know better. I’m always fascinated by how evidence and technology transform what we do.

Terry: I love that perspective. So how did you land in nursing? I don’t think I ever heard your origin story.

Sue: It wasn’t planned! I originally wanted to be a vet or a physical therapist. I even took all the prereqs and applied to PT school. After what I felt was a poor interview, I literally walked up to the college and applied to nursing school — and got in. Looking back, I believe that was divine guidance. Nursing gave me the opportunity to care for the whole patient, and that’s something I needed. Ironically, one of my daughters is a vet and the other has a doctorate in physical therapy — they went into the careers I initially considered!

Terry: That’s too funny. So where did you grow up?

Sue: Murdoch, Nebraska. I was raised on a dairy farm, married a farmer, and now we farm about 4,000 acres. Goats, sheep, chickens — the works!

Terry: Wow, that’s a big operation! So let’s talk about your involvement with the NNA. When did that begin?

Sue: A few years ago. I’ve long been involved with specialty organizations like AACN, NLN, and SSH, but I wanted to become more active locally. I’ve been a member of ANA longer than NNA, but recently felt the pull to engage with the general nursing community. I joined the Governance, Finance and Membership Council (GFMC) about two years ago and took over as chair when the previous one stepped down. I’ve been on the NNA board since January.

Terry: That’s great. Is there a particular event or project with NNA that’s stood out to you so far?

Sue: Presenting at last fall’s conference! We shared a session called Pixels to Patients, which focused on immersive virtual reality, virtual nursing, and AI. It was exciting and really well-received. It reinforced how important it is for nurses to engage with new technology thoughtfully.

Terry: That was a fantastic session. What do you think NNA offers nurses that they can’t get elsewhere? What’s the value?

Sue: Two words: people and policy. The networking has been phenomenal — getting to know nurses across the state, hearing their stories, and collaborating. As for policy, NNA gives nurses a voice on important issues, both locally and nationally. And as the saying goes, “if you’re not at the table, you’re probably on the menu.” We need nurses at the decision-making table to ensure patient care stays at the forefront.

Terry: What about for the citizens of Nebraska — how does NNA benefit them?

Sue: By promoting quality, evidence-based care. When nurses are involved in policymaking, educated on current issues, and advocating effectively, it directly improves patient outcomes. Our goal is always better care, better experiences, and stronger health systems.

Terry: That’s a powerful message. Anything else you’d like to add?

Sue: Just that I encourage nurses to get involved. Sometimes all it takes is someone asking. That’s how I ended up here — through a personal invitation. So, don’t be afraid to invite others in.

Terry: Well said. Thanks for sharing your story and insights. It’s been a great conversation, and I’m glad we got to do this.

Closing Note:

Through decades of practice, education, and leadership, Sue embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner and advocate for nursing excellence. Whether in the ICU, the classroom, or on the NNA board, her commitment to advancing the profession and improving patient care continues to make a meaningful impact in Nebraska and beyond.