On April 17, the Yale School of Nursing community gathered in the Moore Room for Scholars’ Day, celebrating the impact of doctoral scholarship across PhD and DNP programs. The program opened with a keynote from Deena Kelly Costa on clinical research focused on the nursing workforce and healthcare teams, setting the tone for a morning centered on leadership, innovation, and real-world impact.
PhD and DNP student presentations addressed psychological outcomes after ICU discharge, virtually integrated care models that improve nurse satisfaction while reducing costs, and postpartum screening strategies that reconnect birthing parents to primary care. Poster presentations from doctoral students further highlighted the breadth of inquiry and the direct application of research to practice and policy.
A separate poster display from YSN students focused on reducing persistent health and mental health disparities in underserved communities. Their work emphasized trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and community-engaged care, particularly in LGBTQ+ health, reproductive care, chronic disease management, mental health, and access to preventive services. Posters reflected how lived experience, trust-building, and thoughtful public health communication can help address stigma, misinformation, and the social determinants that shape health outcomes.
Together, the presentations and poster displays underscored a shared commitment to advancing equity, strengthening patient trust, and improving care for historically marginalized populations.
Scholars’ Day demonstrated how YSN’s students are advancing knowledge, shaping practice, and leading change to achieve better health for all.