Arleen F. Briggs, MSN, RN-BC
Arleen F. Briggs, MSN, RN-BC, is a retired psychiatric and mental health nurse and respected nursing educator with a career spanning several decades in clinical practice, education, and program development. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of New Mexico with a focus on nursing administration and psychiatric mental health nursing, following earlier preparation through a three-year nursing diploma and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Board certified in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing and initiated into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Arleen has been recognized for her commitment to excellence, professionalism, and ethical practice in nursing.
Throughout her career, Arleen served as nursing faculty at multiple institutions, including Everest University, Breckinridge School of Nursing at ITT Technical Institute, Fortis University, and Keiser University. She taught a wide range of subjects such as psychiatric and mental health nursing, pharmacology, community nursing, gerontology, leadership, and clinical practice. Known for her dedication to students, she played a key role in curriculum development, student advising, and faculty leadership. Among her most notable achievements is creating what is believed to be the first Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program in New Mexico in 1979, as well as developing preparatory programs to support LPNs and advancing RN-to-BSN outreach pathways in collaboration with higher education institutions.
Now retired for over a decade, Arleen remains active in her 55+ community and continues to value lifelong learning, mental engagement, and service. Her professional philosophy centers on mentoring, practical education, and improving the quality of care through strong training programs. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters and participating in community activities such as bingo. She also supports charitable causes including Paws, the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation, veterans’ associations, and mental health organizations, reflecting her enduring commitment to service and compassion beyond her nursing career.
• Sigma Theta Tau International Society
• Marquis Who's Who in 1996-1997
• Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
• The University of New Mexico - MSN
• Who's Who In American Nursing
• Sigma Theta Tau Internatonal
• Appreciation for being Chairman of Substance Recovery program for nursing
• Donates Paws
• Susan Coleman Cancer Foundation
• Psych Mental Health
• Veteran Associations
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for creating things from the ground up. I thrive on building ideas from scratch—whether that means developing concepts, shaping strategies, or turning a vision into something tangible. That creative drive keeps me motivated, adaptable, and committed to seeing projects through from inception to execution.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
"you can do it"
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the nursing field to start in medical-surgical nursing for at least a year to build strong foundational skills and clinical confidence. Being open to travel and gaining experience in different settings can significantly broaden your perspective and strengthen your adaptability as a nurse. Most importantly, seek out hands-on, practical training opportunities—those experiences will sharpen your skills, deepen your knowledge, and prepare you for long-term success in the profession.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Remaining current in new uses for psychiatric treatments and drugs.
Florida Board of Education has not recognized Registered Nurses as a Profession. This has to change and I am only beginning to get involved. We are certainly professional with our behaviors and education,
I expect with a few perks to our education we will be gjoing to the moon or mars soon as part of the space crew.
I believe opportunitiy for change and improvement is all around us we, as RN's, just have to see them.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trustworthiness
Education that is used to improve lives
Work ethics
Showing appreciation for those who contribute to lives in all ways
A must to include in daily life-Humor!
Locations
Retired Psychiatric and Mental Health Educator
751 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221