Suja Peter Thomas, MS, RN, AGNP-BC, COCN, CCCN, CWCN, FADLN

• Wound care
• Gerontology 
• Nursing education
• Simulation
• Infection prevention and control
• Global migration 

Grant Title: "Project Firstline: Infection Control Training for Frontline Healthcare Workers Funding Mechanism: CDC Cooperative Agreement through the American Nurses Association (ANA)"

Purpose Statement: To provide accessible, evidence-based infection prevention and control (IPC) training for frontline healthcare workers across the U.S., enhancing their ability to recognize and mitigate infection risks in healthcare settings.

Role: President, National Association of Indian Nurses of America – provided organizational leadership, facilitated collaboration, and supported program implementation.

Dates Involved: January 2023 – January 2024.

I chose the University at Buffalo School of Nursing for my PhD because of its strong emphasis on advancing nursing science through rigorous research and its focus on translating evidence into practice. UB’s commitment to innovative, interdisciplinary research aligns perfectly with my clinical and leadership experience, particularly in adult-gerontology primary care, wound and ostomy care, and nursing education.

I was particularly drawn to UB’s supportive research environment and the opportunity to work with faculty whose expertise complements my interests in improving patient outcomes and addressing health disparities. The School’s focus on mentorship and fostering nurse scholars ensures that I can continue to grow as both a researcher and a leader, while contributing meaningful evidence to advance nursing practice nationally and globally.