The path to becoming a nursing educator is a true testament to Professor Jeanne Mpawenimana’s MSN-Ed, RN, passion for helping others, no matter where life takes her. Her journey to Arizona College of Nursing’s Ontario campus, however, began rooted in a different kind of service.
Initially, Mpawenimana’s career began as outreach coordinators/secretary in Rwanda, where colleagues noticed her love for people and her fight for equal rights. She was subsequently elected to become a spokesperson/union representative for employees’ interests at a young age. Her unwavering commitment to this cause was evident from the start. Unfortunately, this story didn’t last long as she fled the country due to genocide war, immigrating to Zambia.
While in Zambia, she actively engaged with communities, understanding their needs and advocating for their well-being. A realization began to shift her focus when she observed firsthand the impact that healthcare professionals had, particularly how their interventions directly alleviated suffering and improved lives.
Later, Mpawenimana immigrated to the United States, where she pursued her new dream and embarked on a nursing journey. This transition wasn’t immediate. Mpawenimana honed her skills as a certified nursing assistant and as a licensed vocational nurse before achieving her goal of becoming a registered nurse (RN). Her early RN career took her into the field of forensic psychology, specifically in state hospitals.
A New Chapter in Nursing
Life, as it often does, presented an unforeseen challenge. An injury while working led Mpawenimana into early retirement from clinical practice. For many, this may have been the end of a career, but for Mpawenimana, it was the start of a new beginning.
“I thought, there is more work to do to continue to help and contribute to the nursing profession,” she recalls. “That’s when I went for my Master’s in Nursing Education to help the students.”
Mpawenimana has now found her current home at Arizona College of Nursing’s Ontario campus. She joined the campus at its inception, working with the first cohort of students over three years ago. The early days were small, with Mpawenimana sharing her excitement with the now bustling, full campus.
Mpawenimana emphasizes her biggest passion: her students.
“When I see the face of the students who are happy, who are passing the classes, it brings me joy because I just say there is nothing good to see a product of your work. I’m so happy with the students and the work we do here.”
Mpawenimana likes escorting the students to the clinical sites, helping them to translate what they learn in the classroom into practice, and teaching students best practices for their nursing careers.
“I’m trying to help students be critical thinkers and also to have that critical judgment, not just to read the books. You have to be able to apply what you learn,” she explains. “The work is dynamic, the being connected to each other at the college, and the campus atmosphere is thriving.”
Currently, she imparts her expertise by teaching Mental Health Nursing, Ethics and Legal Aspects of Nursing, and Leadership in Nursing.
Embracing Growth and Innovation in Nursing Education
The campus atmosphere at Arizona College of Nursing is vibrant, and Mpawenimana is excited about its continued evolution. She notes the increasing student population means a greater need for clinical instructors, which in turn brings more diverse knowledge into the classroom.
“What I teach in the class, those clinical instructors will be able to enhance it,” she explains.
Professor Mpawenimana’s journey, marked by adaptability, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to her students, makes her an invaluable asset to the Arizona College of Nursing community. Her story is a true inspiration for aspiring and current nurses alike.
Start Your Future in Nursing Today
If you’re considering a career as a registered nurse (RN), Arizona College of Nursing is here to help you pursue your dream. Our BSN program enables you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 3 years or less with qualifying transfer credits. We’ve helped hundreds of students to earn a BSN degree and enter the nursing profession – and we’re ready to support you on your path to becoming an RN.
Why Choose Arizona College of Nursing?
- Earn a BSN degree in 3 years or less with eligible transfer credits
- Campus locations throughout the US
- Night classes for general education courses
- Hybrid Online/In-Person format for general education classes
- Nursing education is all we do
- CCNE-Accredited Program*
- NCLEX-RN success coaches and exam preparation class
- Financial aid available to those who qualify
Discover Your Path to a Career in Nursing
Information in this post is accurate as of September 29, 2025.
*The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org/). All Arizona College of Nursing and Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (https://www.abhes.org/), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.