Natalie Kasper

Natalie Kasper, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS, is honored to have received the M. Louise Fitzpatrick Scholarship from the Nurses Educational Fund, Inc. Natalie is currently working towards her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Villanova University. This scholarship holds great significance for Natalie, as it honors the legacy of M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., RN, FAAN, a long-serving dean of Villanova University College of Nursing, now named after Dr. Fitzpatrick - the M. Louise Fitzpactrick College of Nursing.

Natalie completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the University of Delaware. After gaining experience as a staff nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Nemours Children’s Health in Delaware, Natalie returned to the University of Delaware to pursue her Master of Nursing Science (MSN) and earned dual credentials as a Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.  

Her decision to become a nurse began in her childhood, shaped by her strong bond with children and her early experiences in caring for them. Natalie recognized her ability to make a positive impact on a child’s life, especially during moments of vulnerability. Additionally, she understood the influence these children could have on her own life and the valuable lessons they could teach her.

After years of contemplating a return to school for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, Natalie discovered that the program at Villanova University was an ideal fit. This program featured both onsite days and synchronous learning experiences that accommodated her busy schedule. The leadership and staff at Villanova provide students with the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Additionally, Natalie was impressed by the leadership program and the opportunity to work with a leadership coach.

Natalie began her career as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Nephrology at Nemours Children’s Health in Delaware.  After her time at Nemours, Natalie was fortunate to join a private pediatric practice in her community, where she provided care to children from birth to 21 years old. Her interests included breastfeeding support for mothers, addressing behavioral concerns, sleep issues, and adolescent health.  Natalie spent 14 years in primary care and valued the opportunity to support children and families at various stages of their lives. She is grateful for the relationships she developed with patients and for the chance to help children become healthy young adults.

When Nemours introduced the School-Based Health program, Natalie became one of its initial providers in January 2022. This initiative is a collaboration between a school district and Nemours, focusing on enhancing children's health outcomes and improving access to care. Through this program, Natalie has discovered her passion for serving children, particularly those from underserved communities facing significant barriers to healthcare access. She has acted as the primary contact for children lacking insurance, as well as a primary care provider for those without regular well-childcare, including vaccinations. Natalie strives to enhance the lives of the students she cares for and assist families in navigating the complex medical system. Additionally, she is exploring ways to better identify children with specific medical needs in schools, particularly those with chronic medical conditions that require care.

In the future, Natalie plans to continue her work in identifying and enhancing ways for all children to access quality healthcare. By obtaining a DNP, Natalie has learned skills to help advance this agenda. With the support of the M. Louise Fitzpatrick Scholarship from NEF, Natalie is poised to make significant contributions to pediatric healthcare, particularly for those in underserved communities.