Pinnacle of Practice: Origin and Evolution of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree

Abstract

Dr. Carolyn A. Williams, dean emerita at the University of Kentucky (1984-2006), championed the substantial growth of primary care nurse practitioners and the creation of the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree, opening the nation’s first DNP program in 2001. As president of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2000-2002), she strongly advocated for the development of the DNP degree nationally. This article focuses on the origins and evolution of the DNP degree, including new interview responses from Dr. Williams, a living legend who knew Dr. Loretta Ford and witnessed her vision for NPs become a reality.