Mrs. Christine Higgs MA, B.S., B.A., CNM, RN
Philosophy
As an educator, I continue to embrace and diffuse the philosophy that the hallmark of professionalism is continuing education.
Education and Professional LifeI am a final year doctoral degree student. My major is healthcare education with a minor in curriculum and instruction. My 34 plus years’ employment in the Bahamas healthcare system spanned clinical, administrative and educational tracks. As a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, I utilized the nursing process to provide quality patient care throughout the Grand Bahama Health Services. As a unit manager (Nursing Officer 11) and an area supervisor (Nursing Officer 1), I integrated Fayol’s elements and principles of management to ensure organizational profit margin (Certo, 1994). As an educator (past Senior Nursing Officer), I continue to embrace and diffuse the philosophy that the hallmark of a professional is “continuing education” (Keir, 2003).
I obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical Education from Hobe Sound Bible College, Florida (1978); a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Business Management from Nova Southeastern University, Florida (1997); and a Master of Arts Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of St. Thomas, Minnesota (2003). My education and training have contributed significantly to the Grand Bahama Health Services becoming an accredited institution for the training of Registered Nurses at the Bachelors Degree level. Such accomplishment has been the precursor for the institution attaining registration as a regional accredited health care organization.
As a health care coordinator my responsibilities included providing educational opportunities for nurses and support staff within a local health care system, and advocacy support to allied health members. My geographical focus included nine community clinics and a community hospital separated by a large body of water. Despite the archipelagic challenges I attained greater than 90% attendance in training sessions. I also supervised nursing orientation, mentoring, and preceptor programs.
My management and educational qualifications enabled me to coordinate the first Trained Clinical (Enrolled) Nurse Program at The College of the Bahamas Northern Campus (2003 – 2004). This program had a 100% pass rate with participants who are rendering invaluable service throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. I currently serve as an adjunct lecturer in the Allied Health Division at two tertiary institutions, The College of The Bahamas, and Success Training College.
Professional Affiliations and Awards
I am a member of the Bahamas Nurses Association, an organization commissioned to create nurse leaders, help govern practice, and provide socio-economical support to colleagues and the wider community. I have served in various capacities including having the responsibility as education coordinator within the branch organization. I have also been a member of the Bahamas Nurses’ Union, the bargaining entity for the rights of nurses in the Bahamas.
Professional awards include but are not limited to: Salute to Greatness Honoree (2007); Health Heroes Award (2006); National Outstanding Health Employee (2001); and Outstanding Registered Nurse (1988). Personal Personal Life
I am married to Mr. Glenn A Higgs, an experienced engineer and technician. We reside in Grand Bahama, Bahamas and are the parents of four adult citizens. We express thanks to the Lord who is the center of our family life. Our eldest son is currently employed in health and safety management and will commence Doctoral studies in Bio Informatics at Yale University, Connecticut in the Fall of 2011. Our second son is pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University, California. Our third son is studying Biomedical Engineering at Drexel University, Pennsylvania. Our final child and only daughter, is a nursing and psychology major at Liberty University, Virginia. Because of our children’s outstanding national and international achievements, my husband and I have received several parenting awards.
Community and Spiritual LifeMy social obligations are consistent with the ideology of dignity and respect for humanity. To this end I am a contributory member of The Guiding Star Friendly Society, a local fraternal organization. As a community builder I have expressed keen interests toward the Women’s Aglow Organization, and the local Cancer Associations. With reference to spiritual well being, my faith is resolute. I venerate The Creator and Sustainer of life, as The Almighty who imparts wisdom and health.
References
Certo, S. (1994). Modern management (6th ed). Boston, MA: Allen and Bacon.
Keir, L. Wise, B., & Krebs, C. (2003). Medical assisting (5th ed.) Clifton Park, NY: Delmar.
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