Meet the Dean (SON)
Michelle Paysan‑Modina, DNP, MBA, MSN, NP‑C, PHN
Executive Dean/Professor & Asst. Chief Nurse Administrator (ACNA)
School of Nursing, Graduate and Undergraduate Programs
Introduction
Michelle Pesan-Modina, Executive Dean of the School of Nursing at American University of Health Sciences. I’m thrilled to welcome you to our community, where passion, expertise, and innovation come together to shape the next generation of nurse.
Academic
- 30+ years in nursing: I began as an LVN, then earned my ADN and BSN.
- MSN in Adult & Geriatric Nurse Practitioner: Deepened my clinical expertise working with both adults and seniors.
- DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice): Focused on translating evidence into practice.
- MBA in Healthcare Management: Broadened my perspective on the business and leadership side of health care.
Experience
As an RN, I’ve rotated through:
- Telemetry, ICU, ER, GI lab, and cardiothoracic transplant units
- Outpatient clinics covering everything from routine check‑ups to specialized care
For over 23 years as a Nurse Practitioner, I’ve practiced in:
- Primary care and family practice
- Occupational and employee health
- Women’s health
- Hospice care and palliative services
- In-Home Health Assessments
In 2004, a colleague nudged me into teaching—and I fell in love with it instantly. Since then:
- Started as an adjunct faculty member
- Became a full‑time instructor
- Advanced to lead faculty
- Took on the role of program director
- Stepped into my current position as Executive Dean
Every step taught me that shaping future nurses requires both clinical credibility and academic passion.
— Michelle Pesan Modina
Executive Dean, School of Nursing
American University of Health Sciences