Academic Spotlight: Chief Nursing Administrator Dr. Peggy Moriarty-Litz

Dr. Peggy Moriarty-Litz, leads Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) online nursing programs as the chief nursing administrator. She brings to her role a background as a registered nurse in practice and educational settings. After earning her master’s in nursing administration she also earned a doctorate of education in leadership and learning from Rivier University.

Recently, she answered questions about her views on the importance of education, how she connects with students and more.

Can you tell us about your professional background?

I am a registered nurse with a clinical practice background in acute care, critical care and emergency services. I worked as a team with other health professionals caring for patients and their families. I learned about teamwork and collaboration along with communication skills that were transferable throughout my career.

What first drew you to higher education?

My parents impressed upon me the value of education. They prioritized a foundation with quality educational programs and encouraged me to pursue a professional career. I am a first-generation graduate and want to support others in their quest for learning.

What aspects of your own education have been influential in shaping your career in academia?

Having a mentor is crucial in professional development for nurses. I was fortunate to have had preceptors who helped support me through transition to practice and grow as a nurse. Later, I became a mentor to new staff and felt rewarded by their skill development. My nursing administration experience was made possible by a mentor who provided learning opportunities for me to grow as an educator. Lastly, my journey into formal education helped to cultivate a life-long pursuit of learning.

What attracted you to this field of study? What keeps you excited about it?

Healthcare is constantly evolving and improving outcomes. I have always been intrigued with healing using traditional and complementary modalities. Research continually redefines healthcare. I am amazed at the technological advances, pharmacological treatments and non-invasive remedies that help people live longer and healthier lives.

How have you found ways to effectively connect with students?

I connect with students by supporting professional development throughout their careers. Nursing is a life-long journey encompassing skills from novice through expert. I encourage students to say “yes” to opportunities for career growth to create their own unique journey and future in nursing. I maintain membership in nursing associations and attend events to celebrate our nursing profession and create opportunities for expanding connections to grow nursing practice.

What brings you the greatest joy in your work as an educator?

In my role as educator, I am grateful that SNHU supports nurses throughout their formal degree programs. I have been able to see the development and redevelopment of programs to keep pace with the industry needs of the nursing profession. We also offer continuing professional development to help nurses to earn contact hours to apply toward licensure renewal. The Nursing Continuing Professional Development team fills a gaps with content related to skills and trends in practice. SNHU offers a continuum of learning opportunities for nurses!

What do you feel is unique about the faculty and students you work with?

The nursing faculty continually demonstrate caring for our students. They invest their time and talents to support students throughout their academic journey. The faculty understand the demands and schedules of working nurses. They flex to accommodate to the students’ needs and celebrate their success.

What does SNHU’s mission to transform the lives of learners mean to you?

SNHU offers learners a sense of accomplishment and pride in achievement of goals. Nursing degree attainment provides career mobility and compensation benefits. Nursing is a vocation and SNHU’s programs of study and continuing education offerings provide a continuum of development throughout a nurses’ career.

Outside of work, what’s something you’re passionate about or really enjoy doing?

I live in New Hampshire and enjoy all the seasons New England has to offer. I like to walk year-round, kayak in the summer and snowshoe in the winter. I find spending time by the lake is rejuvenating. I love music and enjoy going to see live performances in a variety of concert venues.

Joe Cote is a writer and organic marketer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where he has worked since 2016. Previously he spent more than a dozen years as a reporter and editor at weekly and daily newspapers in Vermont and New Hampshire. He lives near SNHU's Manchester, New Hampshire campus with his wife and daughter. Connect with him on LinkedIn.