Erica Martinez DNP, RN, CCRN, NEA-BC

Executive Director of Nursing

EDUCATION:

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), University of Illinois at Chicago, 2013
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), University of Illinois at Chicago, 2009
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN), Northern Illinois University, 2003
Associate of Science in Nursing (RN), Rock Valley College, 2002

AREAS OF EXPERTISE:

Erica Martinez, DNP, RN, CCRN, NEA-BC, is a passionate nurse leader, educator, and scientist who seamlessly integrates the art of teaching into the discipline of nursing. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Martinez believes nursing and teaching are inherently intertwined, with both serving as vital pathways to empower, guide, and uplift others. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Nursing at Westcliff University, leading the launch of the institution’s first nursing campus and fostering a culture of collaboration, critical thinking, and professional pride.

Dr. Martinez’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning is a co-creative journey between educators and students. She views herself as a mentor and shepherd, creating a safe and inclusive space where learners can grow without fear of judgment. Her approach emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving through strategies like simulation, unfolding case studies, and other interactive methods that challenge students to connect theory with practice.

For Dr. Martinez, being a nurse means embracing the role of teacher from the very first clinical rotation. She often reminds pre-licensure nursing students of the sacred trust society places on nurses as leaders, teachers, and helpers. By fostering this understanding, she inspires learners to take pride in their role and honor the gift of being a nurse.

Dr. Martinez has held leadership roles across academic and clinical settings, including Dean of Nursing at multiple institutions, Manager of Nursing Education, and Clinical Education Specialist. Her accomplishments include:

• Elevating NCLEX-RN pass rates from probationary levels to over 90% within 18 months.
• Transitioning nursing programs from on-ground to fully remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Founding and establishing nursing campuses in new regions, including working with state boards to ensure program excellence and compliance.
• As a Rapid Response Nurse and House Supervisor, she has managed complex patient care situations while mentoring staff in real-time, further exemplifying her commitment to education in every setting.

A dedicated scholar, Dr. Martinez has published and presented extensively on topics such as authentic leadership, compassion fatigue, and inclusive learning environments. Her article, Authentic Leadership: Pearls of Wisdom, reflects her emphasis on fostering trust and collaboration. Her presentations, ranging from Burn Brighter Not Out: Thriving Through Moral Injury to Next Generation NCLEX: Cultivating Your Clinical Judgment Toolkit, demonstrate her focus on advancing critical thinking and emotional resilience in nursing practice.

Dr. Martinez champions diversity in education and recognizes the unique learning styles and backgrounds of today’s students. She strives to meet learners where they are, helping them build on their existing knowledge while encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones. Her goal is to foster curiosity, self-advocacy, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

Her dedication to service extends beyond academia, as evidenced by her volunteer work with organizations such as the Association of California Nurse Leaders and the American Corporate Partners Veteran Mentorship Program.

Dr. Martinez earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where her research focused on nurse manager development and new graduate nurse orientation models. She holds additional certifications as a Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) and Nurse Executive-Advanced (NEA-BC) and is currently pursuing a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS-AG) certification.

At the core of Dr. Martinez’s career is the belief that education is a shared journey between teacher and student. Her work aims to cultivate pride in nursing, foster collaboration, and prepare future nurses to make meaningful connections between knowledge and practice. By creating environments where curiosity thrives and diversity is celebrated, she ensures that the next generation of nurses will be equipped to lead, teach, and provide compassionate care.

If you are interested in learning more about Westcliff University nursing programs, please visit the College of Nursing home page, Corona campus page, BSN program page, or ELM program page.