About
Maria D. Ledbetter is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nurse Anesthesia at Samford University's Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing. Her career spans over three decades in nursing and anesthesia, with a focus on obstetric anesthesia and educational innovation. She holds a DNAP from Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia, along with advanced certifications in nursing and online education.
Dr. Ledbetter’s research emphasizes neuraxial anesthesia protocols, student wellness programs, and evidence-based course design. Notable works include Thriving Together (2024), addressing graduate student wellness, and collaborative anatomical case studies. She actively contributes to professional organizations such as the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists and the National League for Nursing.
- Education: DNAP (MTSOA), MS in Nurse Anesthesia (MTSOA), BSN/ADN (WKU)
- Awards: Sigma Theta Tau Membership, Charles Roy Martin Scholarship
She has served on key university committees including the Online Advisory Committee (2019) and the Faith and Learning Initiative Task Force (2022–2023). Her professional development roles include QM Peer Reviewer and Faculty Senator (2022–2025).
Ledbetter co-founded the Thrive Wellness Initiative and has mentored undergraduate computer science students. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes cultivating compassionate, lifelong-learning anesthesia professionals rooted in faith and interprofessional collaboration.
