Celestial Dawn Hahn, MSN, RNC-OB, CCE
Introduction
Many professions allow individuals to positively influence the world, but none more profoundly than nursing and teaching. As a nursing instructor, I hold the privilege and responsibility of shaping the next generation of nurses, influencing not only their professional development but also the quality of care they will provide to patients and families for years to come.
My philosophy of leadership is grounded in the belief that leadership is service—the work of motivating, empowering, and equipping others to succeed. Leadership, like nursing, is both a science and an art. Science involves evidence-based practices, structured decision-making, and accountability, while the art involves compassion, instinct, and the ability to inspire others toward shared goals.
Leadership Through Teaching
My teaching and leadership philosophy centers on creating a learning environment that is engaging, inclusive, and empowering. I believe learning should be enjoyable and meaningful, allowing students to connect theory with practice and develop confidence in their abilities. I seek to prepare nursing students to:
• Become responsible, lifelong learners who adapt to change with resilience.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and interprofessional teams.
• Apply evidence-based practice to deliver high-quality, patient- and family-centered care.
• Lead ethically and confidently in challenging clinical and organizational settings.
As an instructor, I strive to model the behaviors I expect from students—professionalism, empathy, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making—so they can witness what strong nursing leadership looks like in action.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
In both my nursing and teaching roles, I celebrate diversity as a strength and a source of resilience. I work intentionally to create an environment where students from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and valued. This includes integrating culturally competent care into simulation scenarios, facilitating discussions about health disparities, and encouraging students to reflect on their own biases and beliefs.
Leadership in Action
I view leadership as active role modeling, setting the standard and creating space for others to rise to their potential. Whether in the classroom, simulation lab, or clinical setting, I strive to:
• Provide clarity and structure while encouraging independent thought.
• Build trust and psychological safety so students can take risks, ask questions, and learn from mistakes.
• Foster a culture of shared accountability, helping students see their role in strengthening the team and advancing patient outcomes.
• Guide students to become future nurse leaders who will advocate for patients, families, and the profession.
Ultimately, my leadership philosophy is about legacy—not only teaching students the science and art of nursing but also inspiring them to become compassionate, courageous leaders who will transform healthcare for the better.
Organizational Leadership 