Director of Professional Development and Education

Director, Professional Development About Howard University Hospital

Howard University Hospital (HUH) stands as a beacon of healthcare excellence, blending a rich legacy with cutting‑edge innovation. We are committed to delivering compassionate, patient‑centered care while fostering an environment of learning and professional growth. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare through collaboration, integrity, and excellence.

Howard University Hospital supports a Just Culture that promotes accountability and learning. We encourage the identification of human error, at‑risk behavior, and reckless behavior to maintain safe systems and well‑managed behavioral choices. Our goal is to create an environment that prioritizes patient safety and continuous improvement.

The Director of Professional Development reports directly to the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) and provides strategic leadership in patient care, education, safety, and quality. This role plans, develops, and oversees nurse residency, pre‑nurse residency, and externship programs, as well as initiatives to promote nurse recruitment and retention. The Director fosters a professional practice environment and collaborates with key stakeholders across the institution to positively impact clinical operations and patient outcomes.

Responsibilities include educational programming, competency assessment, orientation, mandatory training, and regulatory compliance.

• Collaborate with administrators, physicians, and managers to plan, implement, and evaluate strategic initiatives.
• Manage and supervise educational programs for nurse residents, pre‑nurse residents, and externs.
• Monitor national educational trends affecting patient care and develop responsive strategies.
• Oversee care delivery models and establish standards based on professional and regulatory guidelines.
• Direct competency assessments, orientation programs, and mandatory training activities.
• Develop policies and collaborate on multidisciplinary approaches to quality improvement.
• Partner with Performance Improvement to enhance patient outcomes.
• Serve as Nurse Planner and Administrator for Continuing Nursing Education programs and maintain ANCC accreditation.
• Advocate for resources to ensure safe patient care delivery.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) required
• Master’s degree in Nursing, Nurse Education, Advanced Practice Nursing, or similar healthcare field required
• Doctorate in Nursing or Education preferred

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years RN experience in specialty area
• Minimum 3 years in a nurse leadership role
• Systems‑level leadership experience preferred

Licensure/

Certifications:

• Current District of Columbia RN license
• BLS certification
• Leadership or specialty certification within one year of hire

• Comprehensive knowledge of nursing practice and education
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Ability to manage resources effectively and motivate staff
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills
• Commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards

• Primarily day shifts; evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Physical activity includes sitting (50–70%), walking (10–30%), and occasional bending, squatting, lifting, and pushing

• Mission‑Driven Organization:
  Be part of a hospital that combines a proud legacy with a commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care.
• Professional Growth:
  Access to continuing education, leadership development programs, and opportunities for advancement.
• Collaborative Culture:
  Work alongside dedicated professionals in a supportive, team‑oriented environment.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  Competitive compensation, health and wellness programs, retirement plans, and more.
• Impactful Work:
  Make a difference in the lives of patients and the community every day.

Howard University Hospital offers a robust benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions
• Paid time off (vacation, sick…