PhD in Nursing student Rachel Robins selected as Jonas Scholar

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Jonas Nursing, a leading supporter of doctoral nursing education in the U.S., and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), announced that Rachel Robins, a PhD in Nursing student at Pace University, has been selected as a Jonas Scholar for the program’s 2024–2026 cohort. This program aims to improve health care by expanding the pool of PhD and DNP-prepared nurses needed to educate the next generation of nurse leaders.

Robins joins a select group of 63 of the nation’s most promising doctoral nursing students chosen for their passion for teaching, academic excellence, and research prowess. As a Jonas Scholar, Robins will receive financial support, mentorship, and a curriculum tailored to providing students with the learning experiences they need to successfully transition into a faculty role.

“The PhD in Nursing Program is thrilled that Rachel Robins was selected as a Jonas Scholar," says Sharon Wexler, PhD, RN, FNGNA, department chairperson. "We are appreciative of this incredible opportunity for our student. Professor Lin Drury, PhD, who has expertise in research with vulnerable populations, will be Rachel’s mentor. We are confident that Rachel will make excellent contributions to the field.”

Robins joins an incredibly diverse group of doctoral nursing students, with over 50% of its 2024–2026 cohort representative of Black, Latino, and other communities of color, ensuring that burgeoning nursing leaders reflect the patient population of their diverse communities. This group of 63 Scholars contain a multitude of research interests focused on some of the country’s most pressing challenges, including underserved populations in nursing, mental health, and veterans’ health.

Robin's research focuses on the assessment and interventions for postpartum depression among Black women in New York City. This passion stems from her deep concern over the disparities in maternal care these women often face.

“Pace University’s PhD in Nursing program and my advisor, Catherine S. Finlayson, PhD, RN, OCN, have been instrumental in helping me navigate this complex issue. The University has provided me access to many research resources and guided me in refining my ideas, which has helped me develop my approach and ensured that my research is both impactful and relevant to the communities I aim to serve.

I am thrilled to be selected as a Jonas Scholar and look forward to my expanded network to assist in my exploration and pursuit of overcoming disparities in maternal care for New York City Black women.”

Visit the Jonas Scholars program for more information.