Wendy Thompson

Wendy Thompson is an Associate Professor of Nursing and Program Director for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at Bethel University, established since 1998. She holds academic affiliations with the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Adult and Professional Studies. Her expertise spans nursing leadership, healthcare finance, population health, and community engagement. Dr. Thompson earned her B.A. in Nursing and Early Childhood Education from Bethel College (1984), M.P.H. (1994), and D.N.P. (2012) from the University of Minnesota.

Education:

• B.A., Nursing & Early Childhood Education, Bethel College, 1984
• M.P.H., University of Minnesota, 1994
• D.N.P., University of Minnesota, 2012

Research interests focus on healthcare administration, health equity, and innovative education models. She has led curriculum development for online programs like the DNP and Public Health Nursing courses. Her work emphasizes transforming healthcare systems through policy, finance, and community partnerships.

Awards and Grants:

• Recipient of the Certificate of Recognition for Public Health Commitment (2001)
• Secured major grants including the Drug Free Communities Grant ($625,000), SHIP Grant ($483,000), and multiple Title III grants for senior services.

Leadership and Grants: Managed multi-million-dollar budgets and led teams in public health agencies, including Kanabec County Public Health. Her roles included directing community health programs, emergency preparedness, and healthcare finance initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Active in professional organizations like the Minnesota Center for Nursing (President), American Public Health Association, and NACCHO. Coordinated community health coalitions and initiatives such as Timber Trails Public Transit.