Meet the Staff of HSU Nursing

Name: Aaron Duebner 

Title: Assistant Professor 

Education:  

– B.S.N., R.N.-McMurry University/PHSSN 

– M.S.N.-Nursing Education- Texas A & M Corpus Christi, 

– Ph.D. (c)- University of Texas at Tyler with a dissertation focused on meaning in  

work and intent to stay in nursing. 

Experience/Certifications: 

– Certified Nurse Educator, 10+ years in nursing education.  

– Clinical experience in critical care, surgical services, and nursing administration. 

Fun fact: 

Once you get to know me you will find out that I love learning, spending time outdoors, and hanging out with my family and our dogs. A fun fact about me is that I love opossums.  

Quote: 

I love teaching nursing students about the art and science of nursing! There are very few careers where you are able to utilize a holistic approach in your work and nursing is one of them. Hardin- Simmons University is a perfect fit for anyone with the mind of a servant scholar and a heart for caring for the community.

Name: Jennifer Flemming 

Title: Administrative Assistant, School of Nursing 

Education: 

– Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene – Tyler Junior College, 2005 

– Certificate in Radiography – Hendrick Medical Center School of Radiography, 2020 

Experience: 

With a background in dental hygiene and radiography, I have developed a solid foundation in healthcare, sharpened my attention to detail, and strengthened my organizational skills. Through close collaboration with patients and colleagues in clinical settings, I’ve learned to communicate effectively, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and adapt to a variety of situations. These experiences seamlessly translate into my current role, where I support the students and faculty in the School of Nursing by ensuring efficient operations and creating a welcoming, compassionate environment. 

Fun Fact: 

I have two teenagers who keep life exciting and full of surprises! 

Quote: 

“I truly appreciate Hardin-Simmons University because of its Christ-centered mission, where faith is at the core of everything we do. The university cultivates a community that genuinely cares for every individual, supporting not only academic growth but also spiritual and personal development. It’s a place where Christian principles guide us to live with purpose, compassion, and integrity.” 

Name: Mary Gaukler Giannavola 

Title: Nursing Instructor 

Education: 

– M.S., Nursing Informatics – American Sentinel University, 2018  

– M.B.A., Healthcare Management – American Sentinel University, 2012  

– B.S.N. – Mount Carmel College of Nursing, 2000 

Experience/Certifications: 

– Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) 

– Board-Certified Medical-Surgical Nurse (MEDSURG-BC) 

– ACLS, BLS, and PALS Instructor 

Fun Fact: I love to visit baseball stadiums across the country with my husband. My favorite is San Francisco Giants stadium. 

Quote: 

“Being part of the Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) family is a truly unique experience. The university’s small-town feel, rooted in strong Christian values, is something I have never encountered in my previous roles. I cherish the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others—whether it’s a patient, student, faculty member, or staff. I firmly believe that God has blessed me with a gift, and working at HSU allows me to share it in meaningful ways. This opportunity to positively impact others is one of the core reasons I chose to be part of this community. HSU provides a nurturing environment where I can grow both personally and professionally while living out my calling.”

Name: Martha Hartranft 

Title: Director of Nursing Compliance and Student Success 

Education: 

– Bachelor of Science in Business Management (BSBM), Western Governors University 

Experience/Certifications: 

– Five years of experience in nursing education administrative roles 

– Extensive experience in leadership and student success initiatives 

Fun Fact: 

My husband, Mark, and I raise miniature and micro miniature Highland cattle on our Chasing Dreams Ranch. 

Quote: 

“I love Hardin-Simmons University for its Christ-centered community that nurtures faith and purpose. I feel called to support our students, guiding them toward success and empowering them to make a difference in the world through their unique talents and passions.” 

Name: Edith Kissick  

Title: Instructor of Nursing 

Education:  

– B.S. in nursing, Abilene Intercollegiate School of Nursing, 2003 

– B.S. in education, Abilene Christian University, 2001 

Experience/Certifications: 

– 21 years at Hendrick Medical Center 

– 10 years in Medical/Surgical Nursing, specializing in Urology.  

– Two years teaching at a Community College 

– Nine years in Radiation Oncology 

Quote: 

“I love being a nurse and especially love my oncology patients. Being able to provide care for and guidance to them through their cancer journey has been both a hard and rewarding job. Patients and families going through this illness make you realize and appreciate how precious life is. I hold all of them dear to my heart and truly care for them like family. I am excited to be here at Hardin Simmons School of Nursing and am eager to mentor and share some of my experiences. I take being a nurse with great pride and hope to instill that same passion in my students.” 

Name: Katie Martin 

Title: Clinical and Simulation Coordinator  

Experience/Certifications: 

– Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse for eight years, 

– Nursing school instructor for three years. 

Fun Fact: During my time as a NICU nurse the smallest patient I ever cared for was less than 600 grams.  

Quote: 

“I love nursing because it allows me to care for patients during critical moments in their lives while also mentoring and inspiring future nurses. I am passionate about helping students grow academically, professionally, and personally as they prepare for their nursing careers. I am excited to be part of HSU’s nursing program because of its supportive environment and the opportunity to guide students in becoming compassionate and competent healthcare professionals.” 

Name: Jeanette Vincent but I go by Jett or to the students, Ms. Vincent  

Title: Assistant Professor 

Education:  

– Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Candidate, Walden University (Currently writing research  

proposal) 

– Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.), Nursing and Health Care Leadership, Clarkson  

College, Omaha, Neb. 

Experience/ Certifications:  

– Registered Nurse, 33 years 

– Nursing Education, 22 years 

– Emergency Medicine 

– Surgical ICU/Trauma and Burn Intensive Care 

– Director of a Urological Diagnostic Center 

– Diabetic Educator, University Medical Center, Lubbock, TX 

– Clinic Nurse, Iowa 

– Taught both LPN and RN students 

– Faculty member at a community college in Nebraska 

– Director of Health Sciences, Cisco College (9 years) 

Fun Fact:  

I have been a background actor for Season 5 of The Chosen which will come out April of 2025. I’m a huge fan of The Chosen and hope to be in Seasons 6 and 7. 

Quote: 

“I love our new nursing program because it is the Lord’s program. He called each of us to bring Christ into educating nurses. I am so blessed to be part of a wonderful, Christ-centered nursing program.” 

Name: Dr. Sandra Welling 

Title: Associate Dean/Founding Director of Nursing Education and Professor of Nursing 

Education:  

– R.N., 1996, Methodist College of Nursing 

– B.S.N., 1997, University of Detroit Mercy 

– M.S.N., 2007, Regis University 

– Ph.D., 2014, New Mexico State University 

Experience: 

– 40 years in the nursing profession 

– Leadership 

– Critical Care 

– Case Management.  

– Hospital Supervisor 

– Chief Academic Office (CAO) 

– Faculty  

– Director of Nursing 

– Associate Dean of Nursing  

– Dean of Nursing  

Certifications: 

– Certified Case Manager (CCM) 

– Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) 

Quote: 

“It is a true blessing to be part of the Hardin-Simmons University family. Working in an environment that aligns with my faith allows me to incorporate my love for Jesus into the nursing curriculum and to share His teachings through my work. I am grateful to contribute to an institution where faith and education intersect in a meaningful way.”