Kylie Ackerman

Kylie Ackerman is the proud recipient of the 2026 Cynthia Davis Sculco Scholarship from  Nurses Educational Funds (NEF). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst before pursuing nursing through Berkshire Community College, where she received her Associate Degree in Nursing. Kylie later earned both her Master of Science in Nursing Education and her Master of Science in Nursing Informatics from Excelsior University and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) with a concentration in Nursing Education at Southern Connecticut State University.

Kylie was drawn to nursing because of its unique opportunity to combine science, compassion, and service to improve the lives of others. Throughout her clinical nursing career, she discovered an even greater passion for mentoring students and new nurses. Watching learners gain confidence and develop the knowledge and clinical judgment necessary to provide safe, compassionate care inspired her to transition into nursing education. She believes that investing in future nurses creates a ripple effect that positively impacts patients, families, and communities.

As a nurse educator, Kylie is committed to creating engaging, evidence-based learning experiences that prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare. She currently serves as nursing faculty, where she incorporates innovative teaching strategies and educational technologies to promote student success and strengthen clinical judgment. Her scholarly interests focus on improving nursing education through technology, and her doctoral research explores the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance clinical judgment development among prelicensure nursing students. In addition to teaching and research, Kylie is actively involved in Sigma Nursing, where she has served in several chapter leadership roles and is currently serving as chapter President, supporting member engagement, scholarship, and professional recognition.

Kylie chose to pursue a doctoral degree because she believes the future of nursing depends on strong educational leaders who are prepared to advance teaching, scholarship, and innovation. Her doctoral studies have strengthened her leadership skills while providing opportunities to contribute to research that will help shape the future of nursing education. Upon completing her degree, she hopes to continue serving in higher education through faculty leadership, curriculum development, and research while mentoring future nurse educators and advancing evidence-based educational practices.

Receiving the Cynthia Davis Sculco Scholarship is both a tremendous honor and a meaningful investment in Kylie's future. The scholarship eases the financial burden of doctoral education, allowing her to devote greater time and energy to her research, teaching, and professional development. More importantly, it serves as a reminder of the nursing profession's commitment to supporting future educators and leaders. Kylie is deeply grateful for this recognition and is committed to paying it forward by preparing compassionate, knowledgeable nurses and contributing to innovations that strengthen nursing education for generations to come.