FACULTY IN FIVE: Dr. Sarah Howell

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Introducing a new feature designed to spotlight our AUCON faculty members. Faculty in Five highlights our faculty through quick, engaging insights about their nursing journey, professional passions, and life beyond the classroom in a brief five-minute read.

Our first feature is one of our newest faculty members, Sarah Howell, RN, DNP. Dr. Howell will be teaching NURS 3010 – Pathopharmacology for Simple and Stable Conditions, NURS 4420 – Evidence Based Practice, and NURS 3040 – Formation of Professional Nursing Practice.

Join us in welcoming Dr. Howell to the Auburn Nursing family and learn more about the expertise and enthusiasm she brings to our students.

1. What inspired you to become a nurse, and what ultimately led you to a career in nursing education?

I've always been drawn to helping others in one way or another. I like to say that nursing found me. It wasn't a career I had originally envisioned until a friend told me she thought I would make a great nurse. Although I had my doubts at first, I took the leap—and I've never looked back.

What I love most about nursing is the privilege of caring for people during some of the most significant moments of their lives. Every person has a story, and every interaction is an opportunity to make a difference. That passion naturally evolved into nursing education, where I have the privilege of helping future nurses discover not only the science of nursing, but also the humanity behind it.

2. What is your nursing specialty or area of expertise, and what excites you most about teaching future nurses? Tell us about your clinical background and what you hope students gain from your classes.

My clinical background includes ICU step-down, home health, hospice, and more than 13 years in nursing education. Each of these experiences has shaped the way I teach and reinforced the importance of caring for the whole person.

I hope my students leave my classroom with more than knowledge of pathophysiology, pharmacology, or clinical skills. My goal is to help develop nurses who are competent, safe, compassionate, and thoughtful professionals who never lose sight of the person behind the diagnosis. The technical skills are essential, but it's empathy, integrity, and genuine human connection that make an exceptional nurse.

3. What is one piece of advice you give every nursing student?

Always do what you know is right. Nursing is full of difficult decisions, but if you consistently act with integrity and put your patients first, you'll never have to explain why you chose the ethical path.

4. When you're not teaching or caring for patients, how do you like to spend your time?

When I'm not in the classroom, you'll usually find me with a good book (I'm always looking for recommendations!), watching documentaries, crocheting, cheering on my children at their sporting events, or traveling with my family to campgrounds across the United States. I love exploring new places and making memories together.

5. If your friends, family, or coworkers could describe you in three words, what would they be? Feel free to share why those words fit you.

Loyal – I am fiercely loyal to the people I care about and will always stand by those I love.

Compassionate – I care deeply about others and genuinely want to make a positive difference in their lives.

Encouraging – Whether it's family, friends, coworkers, or students, I love helping people recognize their potential and cheering them on as they pursue their goals.

6. What is your favorite Auburn tradition?

Tiger Walk is my favorite Auburn tradition. The energy is contagious.  From the band and cheerleaders to the players and fans. The excitement and anticipation before kickoff create an atmosphere that's hard to beat. It's an experience that truly captures the Auburn spirit.

7. Beyond the classroom -- lightning round:

Go-to gas station snack: Beef jerky

Typical coffee order: Coffee with a generous splash of half & half (sometimes more than a splash!)

Bucket-list vacation destination: The Maldives

Most-used emoji: 😂

TV show you're currently binging (or last book you read): The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini