Mary Ann McLaughlin’s New Nursing Theory
NEF Scholar Mary Ann Siciliano McLaughlin, EdD, MSN, RN, ANEF, has published a paper introducing the new middle-range theory, "The Theory of Nursing Professional Identity Formation," online in the Journal of Research in Nursing in October 2026.
The paper introduces the middle-range theory as a set of principles explaining professional identity formation in nursing and how it is situated within the larger body of nursing disciplinary knowledge.Nursing is maturing past a singular focus on improving patient outcomes to a deeper understanding of the impact of nurses as agents in improving health for persons, families, and communities. This theory helps advance a broader view of the nursing discipline. (McLaughlin, 2026).
Dr. McLaughlin is an experienced nurse, educator, leader, author, clinical editor, and consultant in nursing. She is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Rutgers University - Camden School of Nursing and the Founder and Owner of Star Nursing Consulting, LLC. Her areas of experience and expertise include cardiac nursing, medical-surgical nursing, education, publishing, NCLEX, disease management, telehealth, nursing management, professional identity, leadership, and ethics. She is passionate about developing and mentoring future and current professional nurses and is the New Jersey Nursing Students Advisor for the New Jersey State Nurses Association. She was selected as a Fellow in the National League for Nursing (NLN) Academy of Nursing Education in 2025.
Dr. McLaughlin was awarded two NEF scholarships towards her doctoral degree in 2014 and 2015. When asked how NEF scholarships affected her path as a nurse leader, Dr. McLaughlin said, “NEF afforded me the opportunity to nurture and advance my leadership skills. My selection by NEF solidifies my connection to a legacy of visionary nurse leaders, suggesting that I may also follow in their legendary footsteps.”
FEATURED SCHOLAR
Lisa Lietzke
(2022-2023 Winner)
Lisa Lietzke, MSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, TCRN is the recipient of the Judith G. Whitaker doctoral scholarship. Lisa earned her Master of Science in Nursing Leadership, educator track at Wilmington University in 2017.... read more.
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