DeLisa Cofer, PhD, RN
- Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Nursing
Affiliated Programs
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is based on creating a learning environment where students have the ability to master course content and develop critical thinking skills, to practice as future nurses. Students learn best through interactive teaching styles which challenges their learning and keeps them engaged.
I believe that one of my best qualities is my ability to inspire confidence in my students so that they feel comfortable and supported in the learning environment. I am a mentor and resource to offer support, words of encouragement and motivation.
Learning is not a passive process, it requires motivation, effort, and persistence. I encourage my students to enter the learning environment with a commitment to scholarship, eager to learn, and a sense of personal and professional responsibility toward achieving their educational goals.
Learning should be student - centered with emphasis on the application of knowledge, skills and attitudes in “real world scenarios” through simulation, case studies and in the clinical setting.
Research Interests
My research interests include Increasing Diversity in Nursing Education, Retention and Student Success and Role Transition from Clinical Practice to Academia.
Publications
Bundy, J., Nelson, Y., Harmon, E., & Cofer, D. (2023). Nurse leaders of color: Candid conversations. American Nurse Journal. 18(6). https://doi.org/10.51256/ANJ0623130
Cofer, D. (2020). A day in the life of a Philadelphia home care nurse. Home Healthcare Now. 38(4):227-228. https://doi.org/10.1097/NHH.0000000000000882
Montgomery, T. M., Bundy, J., Cofer, D., & Nicholls, E. M. (2021). Black Americans in nursing education. American Nurse Journal. 16(2):22-25. https://www.myamericannurse.com/black-americans-in-nursing-education/
Professional Affiliations & Memberships
AACN Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
American Nurses Association
CHI ETA PHI Nursing Sorority
National League for Nurses
Pennsylvania Nurses Association
Sigma Theta Tau International, Eta Beta Chapter, President Elect
Awards
Dorothy Botdorf Award for Clinical Leadership (2015)
In the Media
Noteworthy
Nursing Faculty and Alumna Publish Article in American Nurse
Nursing faculty DeLisa Cofer, assistant dean, Jawanza Bundy, assistant professor, and nursing alumna Erika Nicholls '19 published an article in American Nurse, the official journal of the American Nurses Association. Titled "Black Americans in Nursing Education," the article discusses the racial disparities among nursing students and faculty and ways to promote diversity within the field including efforts to recruit and support Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in faculty and student roles.
Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/18971/