Carolyn Allen, RN, MSN, MBA, Biomedical Informatics-C
Carolyn Allen, RN, MSN, MBA, C-BI, is a seasoned nursing professional with over 28 years of experience in healthcare. Her career spans 15 years in primary nursing within emergency services, including trauma care, flight nursing, and international patient transport. She has also held more than a decade of leadership roles in hospital management, serving as Director of Education, Director of Quality Assurance, Director of Nursing, and Interim Chief Nursing Officer, where she guided clinical teams and implemented quality initiatives to improve patient care outcomes.
In recent years, Carolyn has dedicated her expertise to higher education, shaping the next generation of nurses as a Professor of Nursing at Walla Walla Community College. She brings a student-centered approach to her teaching, emphasizing competency-based education, critical thinking, and practical clinical skills. Carolyn has also served as adjunct faculty at Washington State University and Lewis-Clark State College, teaching courses in public health, leadership, and healthcare economics, and mentoring students toward success in both board exams and professional practice.
Carolyn holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Gonzaga University, a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University with a focus on healthcare, and a Certificate in Biomedical Informatics from Oregon Health & Science University. She is an active member of the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National League for Nursing (NLN). Passionate about education, mentorship, and advancing the nursing profession, Carolyn combines her hands-on clinical experience with academic leadership to inspire excellence in healthcare.
• RN
• Western Governors University - MBA
• American Nurses Association (ANA)
• National League for Nursing (NLN)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to decades of hands-on patient care, a genuine love of teaching, and the opportunity to give back by sharing my clinical experience with students. My determination, goal-oriented mindset, attention to detail, and commitment to continuing education have all played a key role in shaping my career and helping me make a meaningful impact in my field.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always be the best version of myself, pursue my goals with determination, remain open-minded to new opportunities, and treat others with respect. I’ve found that following these principles has guided my growth and helped me build meaningful professional relationships throughout my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to actively participate, ask thoughtful questions, stay fully present, and be a good listener. Engaging in these ways not only helps you learn and grow, but also builds strong relationships and establishes your credibility early in your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is shaping the next generation of excellence in nursing and making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives every day. The challenge—and the reward—lies in continuously innovating, mentoring, and inspiring others while delivering the highest standard of care.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life include staying true to myself, setting realistic goals, learning from others, and committing to lifelong education and professional development. Giving back to the profession through mentorship and sharing practical experience with students is also central to my approach, as I believe in helping others grow while making a meaningful impact in the field.
Locations
Walla Walla Community College
Pullman, WA 99163