Her Story
About Abigail
Dr. Abigail Fernandez serves as Dean of General Education at Arizona College of Nursing in Dallas, Texas. With nearly a decade of experience spanning healthcare and education, she has built her career around a passion for serving others, creating opportunities, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and those around her.
Her professional journey has included diverse roles in both healthcare and higher education, each connected by a shared purpose: helping others grow and succeed. Her background in healthcare, paired with her passion for teaching, ultimately inspired her to dedicate her career to educating, supporting, and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Throughout her time as an educator, Dr. Fernandez witnessed firsthand the profound impact that encouragement, mentorship, and meaningful instruction can have on a student’s confidence and future. As she transitioned into leadership, she recognized an opportunity to extend that impact beyond the classroom by supporting faculty, strengthening academic programs, and fostering an environment where both students and educators can thrive.
During nearly five years with Arizona College of Nursing, Dr. Fernandez has progressed from adjunct faculty to full-time faculty, Assistant Dean, and now Dean of General Education. Her journey reflects her continued commitment to growth, service, and educational leadership.
Today, she brings together her experiences in healthcare, education, and leadership to help students develop the strong academic foundation they need as they prepare for careers in nursing and healthcare. She remains passionate about empowering others, developing future leaders, and creating opportunities that can make a lasting difference in both education and the communities her students will one day serve.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Abigail
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and a genuine desire to serve others. I have always believed in remaining teachable, embracing opportunities for growth, and using each experience to create a greater impact for those around me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never underestimate where your journey can take you. Stay faithful to your purpose, keep showing up, and trust that the work you do today may become the reason someone else believes in what is possible for them tomorrow.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Give yourself permission to dream bigger than where you are today. You may not always know exactly where your path is leading, and that is okay. Some of the opportunities that shape you the most may be ones you never planned for. Trust God, work hard, stay curious, and never be afraid to step outside of what feels comfortable. There will be moments when you question whether you are ready or whether you belong in the room. Keep going anyway. Remember where you started, remain grateful for the people who pour into you, and use what you learn along the way to make a difference in the lives of others. Success is not only about how far you go; it is about the impact you make along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of our greatest challenges is also one of our greatest opportunities: preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for a field that is constantly evolving. Students need more than academic knowledge; they need resilience, adaptability, critical thinking, and confidence. As educators and leaders, we have the opportunity to meet students where they are, embrace innovation, and create learning environments that prepare them not only to graduate, but to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith is at the center of who I am and guides the way I live, lead, and serve others. I value integrity, compassion, kindness, and staying grounded in the people who mean the most to me. My partner, Jose, my parents and family, and my close friends are an important part of my life and have supported and encouraged me throughout my journey. I believe true success is not only about what we accomplish, but also about the relationships we build, the people we uplift, and the positive impact we leave on others.
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