Barbara J. Kitchener

Barbara J. Kitchener, PhD, RN is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Entry Level Program, RN to BS Track at the College of Nursing, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, where she has been affiliated since 2005. Her academic qualifications include a PhD from Seton Hall University, an MS in Teaching of Nursing from New York University, a BS in Nursing from Medgar Evers College, and a Diploma in General Nursing from the University Hospital of the West Indies.

• Registered Professional Nurse, State of New York

Dr. Kitchener's research focuses on spiritual care in nursing, advocating for nurses to be as proficient in spiritual care as in physical care. Her clinical expertise spans Pediatrics, Medical-Surgical, and Critical Care Nursing, alongside leadership in nursing administration. She has presented her work on Spiritual Care among Acute Care Nurses at local, national, and international conferences.

Scientific Awards & Professional Recognition:

• Jonas Leadership Scholarship (2014-2016)
• Feigelson Award (2015) for excellence in teaching

A dedicated educator, she mentors both faculty and students in lifelong learning and holistic nursing practices. Her professional memberships include the New York State Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau (Gamma Nu Chapter), and the Jonas Nurse Leader Scholar program.