Fellows of the AANA

As a transformative, inclusive, and visionary leader, her deep commitment to service, dedication to expanding healthcare access, ability to create, and sustain productive collaborative partnerships by inspiring others to reach their highest potential distinguish her enduring and impactful contributions to advancing nurse anesthesiology education and equitable healthcare access for all.

Accomplished clinician, educator, researcher, scientific reviewer, and author. He has served our profession in many leadership positions including as Chair of the AANA Practice Committee and as a Chair Onsite Reviewer, Treasurer, Vice President, and President of the COA. He led the Air Force nurse anesthesia community as the Chief Consultant to the US Air Force Surgeon General.

She is an expert leader in simulation education. She leads simulation workshops from the local to international level, teaching critical debriefing and team crisis resource management skills. With over a decade of service in academia and in the NBCRNA, she has been instrumental in ensuring that CRNAs are highly qualified and certified to provide remarkable safe anesthesia care.

Her 15-year career demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence in clinical practice, teaching, service, scholarship, and leadership. Her doctoral work in simulation provided a foundation for use in anesthesia education. Serving four consecutive terms on the AANA Education Committee, she initiated the Simulation Subcommittee of the Education Committee which provided collaboration with faculty peers from over 120 nurse anesthesia programs.

Elizabeth Bamgbose has greater than 15 years of experience as a nurse anesthesiologist, she is a co-director at the USC Doctoral Program of Nurse Anesthesia and CEO of an independent anesthesia group. With a passion for advancing the profession through advocacy, Dr. Bamgbose feels great pride in serving at both the state level national level on influential boards and committees.

A motivating leader with over 19 years of clinical experience, Jason has practiced in large academic and office-based settings. He has dedicated 14 years to PANA, with one term as past president and national committees including AANA GRC Chair. He promotes student advocacy at the University of Pittsburgh serving as Adjunct Faculty since 2007.

An educator, clinician, and administrator, she is a leader and advocate in advancing the profession within the specialty of pediatric anesthesia. She actively serves the profession at both the state and national level and has multiple publications, presentations, and book chapters. An active researcher, her focus is health outcomes in pediatric oncology patients.

As a Nurse Anesthetist who views education as a priority and an integral aspect of our profession, the development of “Bent on Education” podcast answered the need of anesthesia students. This platform gives brief, succinct yet pertinent anesthesia related content with a focus on physiology and pharmacology that is pertinent to anesthesia practice.

For two decades she has been a transformational leader, educator, clinician, and advocate impacting the profession. She has contributed extensively by conducting and disseminating research on incivility and bullying at a state, regional, and national level. She has actively advocated for nurse anesthesiology practice, resulting most recently in the tri-fold opposition of AA’s in a Nebraska 407 credentialing review.

She has served the profession in numerous capacities as an educator, clinician, and leader. An advocate of active learning, she is a Credentialed Educator, Distinguished Teaching Scholar, and Faculty Fellow of the Association of College and University Educators. At the state level, she serves as President of the Mississippi Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

Dr. Darna serves the nurse anesthesia profession as a clinician, leader, educator, and research scientist. He helped design and lead California’s first nurse anesthesia doctoral curriculum. As president of the California Association of Nurse Anesthetists, he launched the campaign for full practice authority. He is passionate about CRNAs achieving practice equality and having value recognition in all healthcare settings.

For over 30 years, she served as a staunch educator in numerous educational roles and mentor for young professionals. Although, this has been her strongest passion, she is also a strong businesswomen, helping to commence and build a flourishing nurse anesthesia staffing business. Volunteering to serve on numerous state and national committees to promote legislative efforts, public relations and education.

For over 25 years, she has served as a devoted educator, mentor, program director, executive leader, and state board member to advance nurse anesthesia practice initiatives. Her steadfast passion for patient safety has yielded the development of effective hand-off communication tools, and innovative simulation curriculum aimed at enhancing the reliability and safety of anesthesia.

For over 21 years, he has held active leadership positions in Nebraska (NANA) and Kansas (KANA). His leadership within state associations, local hospitals and community groups has resulted in coordinated stakeholder collaboration for the advancement of nurse anesthesiology. His goal is to identify and engage CRNA’s to be servant leaders and advocate for the profession of nurse anesthesiology.

Dr. Richard Flowers, DNP, CRNA, CHSE, has had many professional accomplishments in his career but none rival the privilege to serve as the Program Director of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Nurse Anesthesia Program where he takes great pride in the responsibility of helping shape the future of this great profession.

She is an advocate, leader, mentor, educator, and clinician who works every day to protect and promote CRNA practice. She has served as MEANA State President, served on several AANA committees, and has served as the AANA Leadership Identification Committee Chair in her endeavors to advance our profession. She also has a Basset Hound named Agatha “Aggie” Hodgins.

He served two terms as President of the WV Association of Nurse Anesthetists. He began a career in education at the CAMC School of Nurse Anesthesia and later joined WVU where he served as the Assistant Director for their Nurse Anesthetist Program. He currently provides clinical anesthesia at CAMC’s Women & Children’s Hospital and continues serving WVU as a Lecturer.

A respected clinical practitioner, published author, researcher, and thought leader in the area of substance use disorders (SUD) amongst impaired health care providers. Nationally recognized public speaker sharing his personal journey, insight, advocacy, and support of CRNAs and SRNAs struggling with mental health issues or SUD. Continues to work with AANA leadership to promote wellness and self-care within our organization.

Dr. Goode has been a faculty member and educator for more than 17 years. Her program of research is dedicated to Patient Safety and Quality Initiatives and has led to publications on the topics of patient safety, use of clinical data repositories to address quality, malpractice trends, and using the SEE exam as a predictor of success on the NCE.

Dr. Goodwin has worked with VANA and the AANA to grow and advance the profession of nurse anesthesiology. With VANA, he lead the charge with legislative successes in obtaining CRNA prescription authority, insurance reimbursement and blocked AA legislation. Serving as AANA LIC Chair, he created a stronger leadership identification and electoral processes through bylaws’ amendments and policy changes.

As the Associate Dean for Doctoral Research and the Director of the Center for Interprofessional Evidence Based Practice at Rosalind Franklin University, she leads a robust research agenda to collaborate with faculty and clinical partners on evidence synthesis and implementation of best practice. She is currently focused on expanding opportunities for education and training for nurse anesthetists in Colorado.

Her doctoral project “Implementing TAP blocks” led to CRNAs practicing to their full scope of practice, resulting in an increase in perioperative truncal blocks from a minimal number to more than 100 blocks per month. Her leadership and collaboration resulted in the development of opioid sparing techniques and a collaborative Acute Pain Management Service in her facility.

Michelle has been a leader in legislative and policy initiatives throughout her career. With the support of her colleagues and lobbyist, Michelle forged the way to eliminate the previously required written collaboration agreement, secured CRNA practice into law, and defeated two attempts towards creation of Anesthesiologist Assistants legislation. Most recently, she was instrumental in establishing Prescriptive Authority for Maryland CRNAs.

A passionate advocate for both student and CRNA education. He created dozens of clinical anesthesia trigger films and hosts an anesthesia podcast intended to advance CRNA learning and practice. Continues to work on AANA, COA, NBCRNA, and state association committees. He is one of the primary authors/editors of the textbooks: Nurse Anesthesia, Critical Events in Anesthesia, and Current Anesthesia Practice.

An experienced clinician, leader, researcher and educator, she has dedicated her career to advancing the profession of nurse anesthesia. She has served in state and national positions. She is a member of the AANA Foundation Closed Claims Research Team, served six years as a Director on the COA, and was a member of the Full Scope of Practice Competency Force.

Dr. Kristie Hoch, DNP, CRNA, is a Veteran and Program Administrator for the University of Arizona. She has 18 years of experience – 99% of this being with all CRNA groups. Practice experience in office based – dental and plastics, critical access, and academic trauma centers. She served on the AANA Board of Directors. Her passion is access to care.

Cathy Horvath has been a dedicated clinician, educator, and leader of the Nurse Anesthesiology profession for 31 years. She has served as Program Director, Assistant Program director, AANA Health & Wellness Committee chair and NBCRNA Simulation Taskforce member. She has a special interest in simulation as an educational tool and the wellbeing of anesthesiology students and CRNAs.

Has always worked quietly to help increase the knowledge base of CRNAs. Is the sole author of: Perianesthesia Patient Care for Uncommon Diseases. Was blessed to work with great friend, and “anesthesia-Dad,” Richard Ouellette, CRNA, Med., AANA Past-President, to compile the textbook: Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthesiology, written entirely by CRNAs for CRNAs. A 1996 AANA Fellowship for Scientific Writing recipient.

A dedicated educator and NIH funded scholar. She has spent nearly two decades studying team dynamics and its impact on patient safety. Her efforts have led to the development of interprofessional and interdisciplinary programs with national and international reach. As a transformational leader and advocate, she has served on numerous local, state, and national committees.

An Assistant Program Director, Director of Clinical Education and state association leader is committed to professional advocacy, full practice authority, and advancement of nurse anesthesiology education. She was the proud recipient of the 2020 AANA Foundation Janice Drake Humanitarian of the Year Award for her global outreach and dedication to providing surgery and anesthesia care to underserved communities.

Her strong advocacy and leadership abilities led her to introducing legislation to remove supervision and testifying before SC Congress. She has served as a mentor, clinician, advocate, educator, and researcher for 23 years. She recently received the Mary Hanna Journalism Award in 2023.

As a longtime CRNA, educator and leader, she has contributed significantly to the nurse anesthesia profession. Combining her airway management expertise with a deep passion to improve care delivery for patients and providers, she invented a new airway device for anesthesia and emergency use. Her innovative, award-winning McMurray Enhanced Airway (MEA) is the world’s first distal pharyngeal airway.

30 years of clinical practice in various roles in the Army and then in private practice. Represented and advanced the profession at the local, state, and national levels. Involved in the didactic and clinical education of SRNAs for over 20 years. Frequently invited presenter at state and national educational events. Published author in peer-reviewed journals and several book chapters.

As Associate Professor, Assistant Chair, COA team reviewer, and a CRNA for over two decades, she has served on national, regional and university committees. As an educator and a recipient of the “FIU Top Scholar in Dedicated Mentoring in Teaching” her passion has contributed innovative, impactful, and enduring achievements in teaching, scholarship, and service to the profession.

A CRNA since 2003 with over 12 years in nurse anesthesia education. Her experience in education evolved as she held the roles of Clinical Coordinator, Assistant Program Director and currently, Program Director. She is a reviewer of the AANA Journal since 2019. Her love for clinical practice and education aligns with her focus in clinical research, publication, and professional advocacy.

Clinician, educator, leader, and innovator. Director of one of the most diverse CRNA programs, upholding the CRNAs legacy of excellent patient care. Simulation-based education expert with licensed innovation in virtual reality simulation. Former member and chair of the AANA Simulation’s Subcommittee and Society of Simulation in Healthcare’s Anesthesiology Section Vice Chair, fostering professional development and collaboration.

A proud Latina who is a visionary leader and advocate for high-quality and innovative nurse anesthesia education. She is a past FANA president who continues to serve the profession on the local, state, and national levels. Her most notable contribution has been her work in increasing diversity in the profession. It has been her honor to serve the CRNA profession.

Duty to Country with current military service, and responsibility to peers with advocacy for the CRNA profession highlights his dedication to the profession. Has served on the MeANA Board as a Director, President Elect, President and as Past President. Organized and led CRNA and Dental Association to successfully defeat a State Dental Board rule that would have restricted CRNA practice.

A maternal health advocate, certified Inpatient Obstetrics nurse, and OB-CRNA, she has focused her career on improving maternal health outcomes. In 2020, she wrote and lobbied for state resolution HR73, establishing Kentucky as the 5th state in the nation to recognize January 23rd as “Maternal Health Awareness Day” (#123forMOMs). She serves in various positions with the KyANA, KyPQC, and AWHONN.

As a respected clinician and educator for 20 years, she is a recognized leader and advocate for the nurse anesthesiology profession. With a past presidency and five-year board membership in CANA, her dedication is unwavering. She is currently forging strong relationships with the nation’s largest nursing union to amplify the voices of CRNAs and champion their vital role in healthcare.

A highly dedicated and passionate leader with a strong interest in global health. The profession of nurse anesthesiology has been advanced through advocacy, innovation, and knowledge sharing. One of the most impactful accomplishments was launching the Master of Science in Anesthesia program at Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia, resulting in increased providers, improved clinical practice, and access to medical care.

A passionate Nurse Anesthesia Educator, trusted leader, and selfless soldier at the most elite level always putting mission first. His career has spanned over two decades providing and teaching the art and science of anesthesia on five continents in numerous war zones. Advancing our profession by action and deeds, while setting the example for those he has taught and mentored. A passionate Nurse Anesthesia Educator, trusted leader, and selfless soldier at the most elite level always putting mission first. His career has spanned over two decades providing and teaching the art and science of anesthesia on five continents in numerous war zones. Advancing our profession by action and deeds, while setting the example for those he has taught and mentored.

Over 39 years, he has been a legendary advocate for our profession in DC, to SRNAs and new CRNAs. He has served on Board of Directors for MANA and SDANA for over 30 years, including six terms as president of SDANA. He served on the AANA PAC three terms, including chair twice. He is truly proud of his career decision.

She was program director, Texas Wesleyan University, and founding director of TCU School of Nurse Anesthesia. Her former students are her pride and joy! She was COA President, Vice-President, and Treasurer and served on various AANA committees and taskforces, and as president of TxANA. She received the Helen Lamb Award (2019) and the Program Director of the Year Award (2008).

Ron is a lifelong advocate of all things CRNA. His passion for the profession started as a student at Columbia, and continued with service for the Maryland and Michigan Associations, and AANA committees.Beginning early in practice, Ron has maintained a presence in the CRNA only space. He enjoys mentoring future CRNAs at meetings and in the clinical realm.

For 15 years, this educator, clinician, and leader, has promoted the advancement of nurse anesthesia through mentorship and quality education. Her work as an Assistant Program Director, CRNA Clinical Lead, AANA Foundation Research and Scholarship volunteer, and NBCRNA item-writer demonstrate her commitment to the profession. Her interests lie in quality improvement, global nurse anesthesia, and the environmental impacts of anesthesia.

She has a commitment to nurse anesthesia educational innovation, scholarship, and leadership with an emphasis in technology enhancing patient safety and outcomes. As program director, she implemented the first BSN-DNP program in a Texas public university. She has served the AANA as Chair of multiple committees and taskforces and continues to mentor CRNAs to become impactful leaders in healthcare.

By providing effective leadership for the Washington State Association in various roles including Board Member, Federal Political Director and President he has advocated for CRNA practice throughout his career and serves as a resource to his professional colleagues. His current focus is supporting colleagues who are or have been affected by substance use disorders and helping them achieve wellness.

Dr. Strube’s drive is to help ensure all Nurse Anesthesia Residents are successful and go on to live long and amazing careers. His belief is that we should all be of service to others and help them achieve success, health and happiness. Professionally he is a retired LTC from the US Army with both service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In her 25 years as a CRNA, she has impacted the profession as a clinician, program director, state leader, speaker, and CRNA advocate (and enthusiast). She is passionate about CRNA education and advocacy, and was the first CRNA / APRN to be appointed by the PA Governor to his Health Policy Board.

A passionate academician and a transformational leader, he has educated and mentored anesthesia providers who became state leaders. He continues to be a strong patient advocate through research and innovations as a practicing clinician. Previously served as Region Director and Director of Education for the IL state association, he currently serves as COA Chair Reviewer and AANA Education Committee Member.

A nationally and internationally respected leader in academic nursing. He collaborated with CRNA colleagues from the Philippine Nurses Association of America and the Philippine Department of Health to create and implement the Anesthesia Care Nurse certificate curriculum to expand anesthesia care services in his home country. This work has been recognized as transformational for the healthcare system in the Philippines.

Dr. van Pelt is widely regarded as an expert, scholar and leader in patient safety. Her seminal impact has been through national and international advancement of the healthcare profession through advocacy, education, research and policy development related to the aftermath of adverse events by highlighting the need for clinician peer support and wellness.

A transformational leader, program director, educator, and two-time combat veteran, she was a major force behind the independent practice model adoption in the Air Force. She has served the AANA, FANA, COA, and NBCRNA, modeling professional involvement for her students. She is a fierce advocate for veterans’ access to care, best practices, and in teaching students to practice with autonomy.

As an educator, clinician, speaker, and mentor, he supports the field of nurse anesthesiology through practice, education, and advocacy. His involvement as an NBCRNA item-writer, Assistant Program Director, state association committee member and author promotes the advancement of the profession. His work as a mentor has guided many to join the profession and become successful nurse anesthesiologists.

Her 29 years of leadership through clinical practice, education, and research has motivated and inspired generations of CRNAs to reach their full potential. Among her professional advocacy activities, she provided resources for donations to the AANA foundation, lobbied in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., and encouraged lifelong professional involvement by nurse anesthesiology students.

COL Young (John) Yauger is the Executive Director of TriService Nursing Research Program. TSNRP is responsible for funding, training, and disseminating nursing research and Evidenced-Based Practice in the entire DoD. Over a 22-year career, COL Yauger served as a combat CRNA and nurse scientist addressing unique military challenges through evidence based solutions.