Our Team
Get trusted women’s healthcare information from our highly experienced group of women healthcare professionals.
Darlene A. Anderson, BSN, MSN, MS, PhD
Darlene has had a remarkable career in nursing, spanning both military and civilian sectors. She has made significant contributions across various roles including clinician, administrator, educator, researcher, and consultant.
During her tenure in the US Air Force Nurse Corps, Darlene implemented pivotal changes that enhanced the safety and care of severely injured military personnel during airlift operations. Her efforts led to substantial improvements in nursing and medical practices, particularly in the context of repatriating prisoners of war.
In civilian life, based in Cincinnati, OH, Darlene held administrative and management consultant positions at prominent institutions such as Providence Hospital, The Drake Center, and Children's Hospital Medical Center. At the University of Cincinnati, she served as an Associate Professor, where she not only validated instruments for enhancing patient care quality and nursing productivity but also pioneered a service-learning model for nursing students focused on administration and community health.
Linda Sue Davis, RN, MS, PhD
Linda is a highly respected registered nurse, consultant, and educator with extensive experience in various nursing fields. She is recognized as an authority in occupational and environmental health nursing, clinical nursing, nursing education, advanced practice nursing, critical care nursing, and nursing leadership.
As a skilled statistician and occupational health nurse, Linda has spearheaded numerous work analysis studies across the region. Her innovative approach and effective consulting have earned her widespread acclaim, especially in hospitals, healthcare systems, long-term acute care facilities, and inpatient rehabilitation centers.
In her role as a professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Linda has been instrumental in shaping the education and professional growth of many healthcare professionals.
Linda’s contributions to nursing theory, health promotion, and healthcare management have solidified her reputation as a respected leader in the field. Her work continues to shape nursing practices, particularly in leadership and management.
Rebecca Falanga, MBA, RN
Rebecca is a seasoned healthcare leader, consultant, and educator with a diverse background. Her career has encompassed pivotal roles in chronic condition care management programs at Humana and Aetna, highlighting her expertise in developing innovative healthcare solutions. Rebecca has also played a crucial role in designing and implementing staff development strategies, including virtual learning communities and online resources, benefiting a significant workforce of 3000 clinicians.
Her latest venture, stART the Talk, involves creating wall art aimed at transforming waiting areas into inspiring and educational spaces. Originally from Ohio, Rebecca now splits her time between Florida and Kentucky. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and biking along the Ohio River, reflecting her passion for both adventure and community health enhancement.
Rita B. Pobanz, MSN
Rita is a seasoned Registered Nurse who boasts an impressive 38-year career spanning various domains of healthcare. Her expertise encompasses direct patient care, strategic leadership, and administrative prowess. Known for her role in staff development and clinical systems enhancement, Rita has consistently ensured adherence to regulatory standards in healthcare settings.
Beyond her nursing responsibilities, Rita has advised organizations on adapting to evolving healthcare trends, showcasing strong project management skills and the ability to cultivate leadership within teams. She is revered for her facilitation of transformative change and her dynamic presence as a public speaker.
Rita’s talents extend to employee motivation, performance coaching, and elevating customer service standards. Her insights into diversity and change management have enriched inclusive healthcare environments. She possesses specialized knowledge in clinical issues, particularly in services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Barbara Rugen, PhD
Barbara has had a rich and diverse career journey, transitioning from market research to humanitarian work after retiring. Her experience in the Peace Corps in Africa from 2014 to 2016 marked a pivotal period where she likely gained significant cultural insights and a passion for global health and safety issues.
Since her Peace Corps service, Barbara has dedicated herself to advocating for the health and safety of immigrants, particularly from Africa, Afghanistan, and Latin America. Her focus on Latinx women underscores her commitment to improving healthcare within this community and addressing the underlying causes of health disparities they face. She also works tirelessly to ensure legal protections for immigrant children who are vulnerable to abandonment and exploitation.
Barbara's involvement with Aware, an organization that supports her efforts with medical, public health, and academic expertise, further highlights her collaborative approach to tackling these complex issues. Her engagement with Aware's initiatives for women's reproductive rights aligns with her broader advocacy for comprehensive healthcare access and rights for marginalized populations.
T. Jane Swaim, MS, RN
Jane is a visionary nursing leader whose impact extends far beyond the bedside. Her expertise shines through in her published works, faculty appointments, and frequent public speaking engagements. Jane's leadership set a new standard for excellence in nursing care as she led the first hospital system in Greater Cincinnati to achieve Magnet® status. Throughout her career, Jane has been a champion for empowering and engaging nurses. Her innovative programs have transformed workplaces, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth. Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Jane has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Nursing Excellence in Leadership award, Lifetime Achievement in Nursing award and the Florence Nightingale Award for Nursing.
In retirement, Jane remains a dedicated advocate for women's health and a passionate educator on healthcare and nursing-related issues. Her legacy of leadership and innovation continues to inspire and shape the future of nursing.
Linda L. Workman, BSN, MS, PhD
Linda's career path reflects an impressive depth of experience and a strong commitment to the nursing profession. With fifty years of experience spanning adult acute care, senior management, and academic nursing education, she brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her positions. Her focus on adult medical-surgical, critical care, and leadership/management areas indicates a broad understanding of healthcare delivery and administration.
In her various posts, including Director of Nursing Service Administration Program at the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, Nursing Education Consultant and Director at University Hospital, and Associate Director at the Center for Professional Excellence Patient Care Services at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Linda has played a pivotal role in shaping the education and professional development of numerous healthcare practitioners. Her involvement in research and consultation aimed at evaluating the work and cost management of healthcare providers underscores her commitment to improving the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery.