Cleveland State University's own, Dr. Heather M. Rice, is set to join the ranks of the American Academy of Nursing's prestigious Fellows. Announced by CSU, where Rice serves as an associate professor and nurse scientist, this induction marks a major professional milestone and represents recognition from both peers and leaders within the health sphere. As a Fellow, Rice will be part of a collective that aims to shape and influence health care policy and outcomes.
Known for her work in advancing maternal and infant health, Rice places a spotlight on the disparities affecting African American families. "I am deeply honored to be inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing," Rice said, according to Cleveland State University's announcement. She adds that her induction is a nod to the crucial work of ensuring that "research translates into meaningful action, shaping policies, informing practice, and creating community-centered solutions that save lives and strengthen families."
As a board-certified pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, Rice's contributions extend beyond academia. Her work highlights the need for systemic reforms and increased access to services like Black midwifery and doula care. A key component of her research is the Thrive mobile health application, co-designed with community members to provide culturally-informed support for African American families, which Rice describes as a blend between community intelligence and clinical science that can inform policy and practice.
Stephanie Brooks, dean of CSU College of Health, extolled Rice's virtue, "Dr. Heather Rice’s unshakeable commitment to the nursing profession, health equity and community wellness is evident in all she does," said Brooks, in a statement obtained by Cleveland State University. The praise stemmed from a career dedicated to community engagement, research innovation, and quality education. Brooks continued to express pride in having Rice on the team at Cleveland State University, which aligns with the institution's mission of enhancing student experiences and success.
The Academy's selection process is competitive, drawing applicants from across the United States and abroad, with Rice being one of the luminaries in a class representing 42 states, the District of Columbia, and 12 countries. These new Fellows, including Rice, will receive recognition at an Induction Ceremony to be held within the annual Health Policy Conference from Oct. 16–18 in Washington, D.C. Post-ceremony, inductees like Rice will be entitled to use the FAAN (Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing) credential — a significant honor in the nursing field. For more on the conference and induction, visit the Academy's policy conference website through the CSU website.
