Associate Nursing Professor
San Jose State University, California
Dr. Denise Dawkins is an Associate Professor at the Valley Foundation School of Nursing at San José State University. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2012 and holds certifications as a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), showcasing her dedication to nursing education and patient care.
Dr. Dawkins focuses on empowering students to think critically, develop into compassionate leaders, and advocate for health equity. Her scholarly work, published in peer-reviewed journals, addresses social determinants of health and structural inequities. She teaches nursing across all levels, employing innovative methodologies like experiential learning, case studies, and interactive activities such as Zoom escape rooms and standardized patient scenarios. Dr. Dawkins collaborates with DNP and undergraduate students as co-authors, promoting a culture of research and mentorship. She also teaches a diversity course in the DNP program and serves as an advisor and chair.