Summary
Jessie Heron, MSN, RN, CCRN, is a lecturer II at the Orvis School of Nursing at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she teaches undergraduate nursing students in both didactic and clinical settings. Her work focuses on preparing future nurses for the complexities of modern healthcare through experiential learning, simulation-based education and reflective practice that support the development of clinical judgment and professional identity.
Jessie is an alumna of the University of Nevada, Reno, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Orvis School of Nursing in 2014. She began her clinical career at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center in the Cardiac Telemetry unit before transitioning to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, where she developed expertise in the care of critically ill patients. During her time in critical care, she earned the Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification and gained extensive experience mentoring new graduate nurses and supporting transition-to-practice education.
Since joining the Orvis School of Nursing faculty in 2022, Jessie has contributed to undergraduate nursing education through classroom teaching, clinical instruction and the development of innovative learning experiences that emphasize clinical reasoning, ethical practice and systems-based thinking. She has contributed to curriculum development initiatives including the creation of the Simulated Policy Intranet, designed to help nursing students integrate institutional policy into clinical decision-making within simulation environments, and the development of the Pack Scholars in Nursing: The Orvis Undergraduate Showcase to meet the University Silver Core 14 Objective which supports senior nursing students in engaging in evidence-based inquiry and scholarly dissemination.
Jessie is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Education at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her scholarly interests focus on simulation-based education, clinical decision-making development and supporting nursing students during the transition to professional nursing practice.
Teaching philosophy
Jessie’s teaching philosophy is grounded in creating a supportive, inclusive and engaging learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking and professional growth. She believes that effective learning occurs when students actively engage with course material, connect theoretical knowledge to clinical practice and participate in meaningful reflection.
Her teaching methods emphasize case-based discussion, simulation-based learning and collaborative problem solving to help students develop clinical reasoning and confidence in their decision-making. Through clear expectations, constructive feedback and mentorship, she aims to support students as they grow into compassionate, competent nurses prepared to meet the challenges of professional practice.
Service and leadership
Jessie actively contributes to program development and student success through service and leadership within the Orvis School of Nursing.
Her service includes:
- Co-Chair, Honor Pledge Committee – Organization and planning of the Honor Pledge Ceremony which occurs each Spring and Fall semester to welcome incoming nursing students to the profession of nursing.
- Simulation Committee Member – Contributing to the development and strategic advancement of simulation-based education and simulation policy integration within the curriculum
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Coordinator and Instructor – Providing certification and recertification training for nursing students and faculty in accordance with American Heart Association standards
Education
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Nursing Education – In Progress
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Nursing Education
Western Governors University, 2023
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Nevada, Reno – Orvis School of Nursing, 2014
Professional certifications
- Registered Nurse (RN), Nevada
- Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) – American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider and Instructor – American Heart Association
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
- Fundamental Critical Care Support (FCCS)