WCC’s Johnson Earns National Nurse Educator Credential

Johnson earned the Certified Academic Practical/Vocational Nurse Educator (CNEpv) credential through the National League for Nursing. The CNEpv allows academic educators to demonstrate expertise in practical or vocational nursing education, including classroom, clinical, and simulation instruction across various practice settings.

The CNEpv was a pilot examination tested by the National League for Nursing and has now been made an official certification.

“It feels incredibly rewarding to have earned this certification,” Johnson said. “When the pilot opportunity became available, I viewed it as a chance to take another intentional step toward professional excellence.”

To take the certification exam, nursing educators must have a valid, unencumbered nursing license, at least a baccalaureate degree in nursing, three years of practice in any area of nursing, and two years of teaching experience in an academic nursing program within the last five years.

“Pursuing credentials like these is important to me because they reflect a commitment not only to the nursing profession, but specifically to the scholarship and standards of nursing education,” Johnson said. “Our students deserve educators who remain current, engaged, and dedicated to continuous improvement.”

Johnson is a graduate of WCC’s Associate Degree Nursing and Associate in Arts programs. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice – Leadership degree.

Johnson began as a nursing instructor at WCC in 2019 and served as interim nursing department chair from 2022 to 2023. He currently works as the nursing simulation coordinator; in this role, he developed a simulated electronic medical record system for the nursing program.

In 2025, Johnson received one of WCC’s Distinguished Chair awards for distinguishing himself in the College and in the community.

In addition to his role as a nursing educator, Johnson works as a part-time nurse in UNC Health Wayne’s intensive care unit.

“Dr. Johnson’s achievement of his CNEpv certification reflects his unwavering dedication to his students and the nursing profession,” said WCC Nursing Department Chair Michelle Garon. “As a nurse educator, critical care expert, and simulation coordinator, he continually elevates learning experiences—bridging clinical excellence with innovative teaching to prepare confident, compassionate, practice-ready nurses.”