Spotlight on Emma Schneider, DNP, RN, AGACNP-BC

From emergency medical technician (EMT) volunteer to Doctor of Nursing Practice, Emma Schneider’s journey exemplifies the power of persistence, curiosity, and a dedication to patient care.

Emma’s interest in healthcare began at the end of middle school when she joined a local firehouse, eventually becoming the youngest EMT in Maryland for a period of time. Eager to continue serving others, she began her career at GBMC as a new graduate nurse in the NICU, eventually transferring to Unit 58 (Joint and Spine) under the guidance of Joy Reynolds, MSN, RN, PCCN, Nurse Manager, Unit 58 and Joint & Spine Program.  

There, Emma quickly progressed from to an RN2, then charge nurse, all while training students and orienting new nurses. Her leadership potential shone brightly, and she was promoted to RN3.

Emma always had her sights set on advancing her education. She enrolled at the University of Maryland to pursue her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and used GBMC’s generous continuing education programs—specifically, the Norman and Jeanne Baetjer Center for Nursing Excellence Scholarship Fund, tuition reimbursement program, and the T. Rowe Price Family Education Fund as a supplement to cover non-tuition expenses. She encourages any nurse looking to further their education to talk with their manager about available funds, policies, and resources. Emma credits her manager, Joy Reynolds, for being incredibly supportive and flexible with her schedule, stressing that GBMC leaders truly want their staff to grow, meet their goals, and succeed.

For her DNP project, Emma chose to focus on reducing the rate of delirium in elderly orthopedic hip fracture patients on Unit 58. Thanks to her evidence-based interventions, improvements were made that are still in place today. Her poster presentation on these findings was so well received that GBMC sent her to Ocean City to share it at the MNA convention last year.

With her DNP completed and licensure boards behind her, Emma advanced through the clinical ladder and became an RN4. She soon transitioned into an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) role with GBMC’s hospitalist group. Emma now enjoys the expanded autonomy that comes with being a nurse practitioner, but she fondly recalls each step in her journey—from bedside nurse to nursing leader.

Emma’s path illustrates how passion and perseverance can open new doors. She never stopped asking, “What’s next?” and she inspires others to do the same. For nurses starting their careers or those looking to return to school, Emma’s story is a testament to the endless opportunities that come with being a GBMC nurse—and the supportive community to help staff reach their goals.