Q&A with '22DNP alumna Sheila LaFortune, CNM
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Catching up after DNP program completion
Ben Monat: Would you like to share anything about your background, where you grew up?
Sheila LaFortune: I was born in Haiti. I grew up in Massachusetts.
BM: What inspired you to become a nurse?
SL: In high school I had a strong interest in biology and took advanced courses in the subject. I loved the science behind it and the opportunity to work with people and help them feel better.
BM: What brought you to study at UMass?
SL: Growing up in Massachusetts, I was well aware of the high-quality education and rigorous coursework UMass offered. I completed my BSN at UMass Boston, so I was already familiar with the UMass system. UMass provides an excellent education at an affordable price and has a very diverse student community.
BM: How did the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
SL: As a busy mother and working nurse, I needed a rigorous yet flexible program to complete my DNP. After completing my DNP, I felt prepared to pursue various roles within the nursing profession. The professors were genuinely invested in my success and provided support whenever needed. My advisor and all of my professors were incredibly helpful. I particularly enjoyed my courses in Epidemiology and Biostatistics.
"Be ready to study hard and ask for help early in the program. The faculty are great. They want to see their students succeed and they will help whenever they can."
-Sheila LaFortune ’22DNP, CNM
BM: What is your current position and what are a few things you enjoy in your current role?
SL: I am the Clinical Director for Midwifery at Advanced Beginnings Healthcare, where I manage day-to-day clinic operations and provide primary care and lactation services to women. Additionally, I serve as adjunct faculty at Emory University, teaching both undergraduate and graduate students. I have also taught medical students during their OB clinical rotations in the past. I have a passion for teaching and am currently completing a 12-month 2024-2025 teaching fellowship with Emory Woodruff Health Sciences.
BM: What do you enjoy doing for fun?
SL: I love reading, walking and traveling with my family. I enjoy learning about different cultures.
BM: What are your plans for the future?
SL: I plan to continue working as a midwife in primary care, focusing on serving women, particularly those who are underserved. Many patients face barriers to accessing healthcare, and I want to be part of the solution.
BM: What is one piece of advice you would offer to prospective and/or current UMass Amherst Nursing DNP students?
SL: Be prepared to work hard and seek help early in the program. The faculty are excellent and truly want to see students succeed. They are always ready to assist. Doctoral work is demanding, and students need to allocate sufficient time for studying and revising their capstone projects prior to graduation.