Dr. Cynthia Plonien is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at the University of Texas at Arlington. Previously, she served as the Director of the MSN Nursing Administration Program. Prior to her to her role in academia she served nursing as a nurse executive in Texas Hospitals and Accountable Care Organizations. Dr. Plonien received her doctoral degree from Texas Christian University and holds a master’s in nursing administration and nursing Education from UTA. Presentations and publications address topics related to Leadership, Management, Quality, Health Information Technology, Teaching and Learning.