Her Story
About Frederica
Frederica McKinney, DNP, RN, NI-BC, is a Clinical Informatics Manager with extensive experience spanning bedside nursing, clinical informatics, and healthcare technology leadership. She began her nursing career as a medical-surgical registered nurse before transitioning into clinical informatics in 2020. Through her expertise and leadership, she advanced from Clinical Informaticist to Clinical Informatics Specialist and ultimately to Clinical Informatics Manager at DCH Health System. Her work focuses on optimizing electronic health record (EHR) systems, improving clinical workflows, enhancing regulatory compliance, and leveraging technology to promote patient safety and quality outcomes. Committed to lifelong learning, McKinney earned an Associate Degree in Nursing from the University of West Alabama, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama, a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in Healthcare Informatics and Nursing Leadership from Troy University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Troy University with a focus in Nursing Leadership. She is board certified in Nursing Informatics through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) (2026) and was recognized with the National Alumni Association’s Emerging Leader Award from the University of West Alabama (2024). Her board certification reflects both her nursing informatics expertise and perseverance, having achieved the credential through determination and an unwavering commitment to professional excellence. McKinney believes that leadership is fundamentally about developing people. She attributes her success to the steadfast support of her husband and family, whose encouragement enabled her to balance family life, graduate education, and career advancement. As a leader, she is passionate about mentoring future nurse leaders, fostering professional growth with grace and empathy, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she gives back to her community through volunteer service with the Bottoms Up Diaper Bank, reflecting her dedication to improving the lives of individuals both inside and outside the healthcare setting.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Frederica
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my husband. While balancing the demands of raising three children, completing both my master's and doctoral degrees, and transitioning into a leadership role, my husband ensured our home remained stable and continuously encouraged me to pursue my goals. His support allowed me to focus on my professional growth while maintaining balance between my career and family responsibilities.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
”Never be afraid to outgrow the version of yourself that got you here.”
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Remember that your career is a journey, not a race. Your path may look different from everyone else’s and that’s okay.
Never stop learning. Healthcare and technology are constantly changing, so stay curious and adaptable.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe the greatest opportunity in clinical informatics is not simply implementing technology, it’s using technology to empower people.
The leaders who will make the greatest impact are those who can bridge the gap between technology, clinical practice, and the human experience.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value that matters most to me in my work life is investing in people. I believe leadership is about developing others, creating opportunities for professional growth, and leading with grace and empathy. I strive to build an environment where individuals feel supported in pursuing their goals and empowered to become leaders themselves, knowing that helping others succeed ultimately strengthens both the organization and the profession.
The value that matters most to me in my personal life is family. I value being present, supportive, and intentional with the people I love. My family motivates me to grow, but more importantly, they remind me that success means very little if you don’t have people to share it with. I want to create a life filled with love, faith, meaningful experiences, and precious memories.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.