Her Story
About Linda
Linda Johanson is an experienced nursing educator and Associate Professor at Walden University, where she has served in the College of Nursing since 2019. She teaches Evidence-Based Practice and core courses within the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program while contributing to the Petitions Committee and Student Affairs. With a nursing career dating back to 1976 and more than four decades of teaching experience beginning in 1980, Linda has dedicated her professional life to advancing nursing education and preparing future generations of nurses.
Throughout her career, Linda has combined nursing practice, education, research, and community service, with a particular focus on global health and nursing education. She has worked as a registered nurse and researcher in community-based and global health settings across multiple countries and has participated in approximately 30 medical mission trips. Her international service has included a clean-water initiative in Guatemala that helped reduce infection rates in three communities. She has also contributed numerous publications and presentations related to global health and nursing education research and remains active in local community outreach.
Linda earned her EdD in Curriculum and Supervision from Northern Illinois University in 1987, following an MSN from the University of Illinois and a bachelor's degree from Sangamon State University. Her contributions to nursing education and leadership have been recognized through honors including the Faculty Excellence Award from Lenoir-Rhyne University and UNC Charlotte, a North Carolina Nursing Association leadership award, and recognition from Sigma Theta Tau International. Guided by a commitment to using her talents, remaining open to opportunities, and learning from experience, Linda encourages aspiring nurses to explore the many paths available within the profession, seek mentors, and pursue areas that align with their individual strengths.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Linda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to recognizing the gifts and strengths I have been given and using them to the best of my ability.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to stay open to opportunities, embrace failure, and use every experience as a chance to learn and grow.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to stay encouraged and explore the many opportunities available. Find areas that align with your gifts and talents, seek out mentors, and remain open to the different possibilities your career can offer.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is managing the emotional impact on students and staff when caring for seriously ill patients, particularly during end-of-life situations or when students feel they have failed. These experiences also create opportunities to provide support, guidance, and meaningful learning.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith is central to both my work and personal life. I strive to see God in everything, treat others with love and respect, and lead with kindness and generosity while keeping a perspective that life is greater than what we experience here.
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