SCHOLAR DIRECTORY

Lisa DeSpain A native Oklahoman, Lisa DeSpain spent the first 17 years of her career working as a clinical registered nurse in the state before changing her focus to nursing education and research. DeSpain plans to become a full-time nursing educator while developing a robust program of Gerontological research. Recognizing older adults as a potentially vulnerable population, DeSpain chose to champion their cause through her research, which focuses on the prevention of elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. By focusing on community-based aging in place, DeSpain seeks to improve the health and well-being of older adults. DeSpain is a doctoral student at the University Of Oklahoma College Of Nursing, as well as a Donald W. Reynolds Scholar with the Center of Geriatric Nursing Excellence.