Lisa Kennedy Sheldon, PhD, ANP-BC, AOCNP®, CGNC, FAAN, is a distinguished leader in oncology nursing, celebrated for her commitment to advancing effective, compassionate, and equitable cancer care worldwide. With over 40 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to developing robust cancer care systems tailored to diverse global contexts. Her vision is anchored in building sustainable, culturally aware, and innovative frameworks that elevate the role of oncology nurses as critical members of the cancer care team.
As the former Chief Clinical Officer of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS), Dr. Sheldon played a pivotal role in shaping oncology nursing practice and policy. During her tenure, she also served as the Clinical and Scientific Affairs Liaison where she represented ONS on national platforms, fostering collaboration among professional organizations, policymakers, and patient advocates. Under her leadership, ONS significantly influenced cancer care delivery through evidence-based practices, interdisciplinary partnerships, and cutting-edge educational initiatives.
Dr. Sheldon is an accomplished scholar and educator, having served as an Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. She has taught undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral-level students, emphasizing the importance of leadership, advocacy, and evidence-based care in nursing education. Her research, supported by the American Cancer Society and ONS Foundation, has focused on patient-provider communication and addressing psychosocial concerns in oncology. Her contributions to academia include serving as the Editor of the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing, authoring numerous peer-reviewed articles and three widely acclaimed books, including Communication for Nurses: Talking with Patients.
Recognized as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN), Dr. Sheldon has earned accolades for her groundbreaking work in oncology and global health. Her expertise has been sought by esteemed organizations, including the National Cancer Policy Forum at the National Academies, where she contributed to national dialogues on pressing cancer care issues. She has also co-chaired the Global Nursing Caucus and served as president of the Theta Alpha chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.
A Certified Global Nurse Consultant, Dr. Sheldon has made a global impact by leading educational and clinical initiatives in countries such as Cambodia, Honduras, Bangladesh, Oman, and Brazil. Her international collaborations with organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Health Volunteers Overseas, and the Middle East Cancer Association have led to the development of innovative and culturally appropriate cancer care programs. Dr. Sheldon’s international work underscores her commitment to reducing health disparities and ensuring access to quality cancer care in resource-limited settings.
In her current roles as a Board Member and Chair of the Member Development Committee at the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care and as a Global Nurse Consultant at Dogcove Consulting Group, Dr. Sheldon continues to influence the field. Her leadership in these roles reflects her dedication to mentoring the next generation of oncology leaders and fostering global collaboration.
Dr. Sheldon is also deeply committed to community and professional service. She has served on numerous boards and advisory panels, including the Saint Anselm College Board of Trustees, the National Navigation Roundtable, and the New Hampshire Nurses Association. Her efforts in community outreach and education have earned her prestigious awards, including the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty and the Leadership/Clinical Advancement Award for Nurse Leaders.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Sheldon is an advocate for lifelong learning and personal growth. She enjoys hiking and cooking, and values the enrichment that comes from engaging in diverse cultural and professional experiences. Fluent in English with a working knowledge of Spanish, she embodies the principles of adaptability, inclusivity, and global perspective in all her endeavors.
Dr. Lisa Kennedy Sheldon exemplifies the qualities of an inspiring leader, compassionate caregiver, and visionary advocate. Her career is a testament to the power of education, collaboration, and innovation in transforming cancer care and improving lives worldwide.
Character:
Dr. Sheldon demonstrates unwavering dedication, integrity, and compassion, qualities that define her as a trusted leader in cancer care, oncology nursing and global health. Her empathetic approach to care and education inspires confidence and respect among peers and collaborators.
Knowledge:
Her extensive expertise spans oncology nursing, education, and policy, supported by over 40 years of professional experience in clinical care, leadership, and innovative research. Dr. Sheldon’s contributions to nursing science and global health have significantly influenced cancer care practices worldwide.
Strategic:
Dr. Sheldon excels in strategic leadership, evident in her roles on national and international boards and her success in implementing impactful cancer care programs globally. Her ability to align organizational goals with actionable strategies has driven meaningful change in the field.
Communication:
An accomplished author, educator, and public speaker, Dr. Sheldon possesses exceptional communication skills. Her ability to convey complex concepts with clarity and empathy has enhanced patient-provider interactions, education, and collaborative initiatives.
