SCHOLAR DIRECTORY

Shannon O’Connell-Persaud received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Briar Cliff College in 1987 in Business Administration. While managing a private medical practice for 28 years in Sioux City, Iowa, and North Sioux City, South Dakota, Shannon also retained leadership roles in the local medical community. As former President of Make-A-Wish Foundation Sioux City Chapter and the Siouxland Medical Managers group, Shannon pursued interests in various aspects of medical care and medical practice issues. Following career aspirations in nursing, Shannon completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Briar Cliff University in 2013 with Honor distinction of Cum Laude. Shannon received various accommodations and awards to include: student representative to the Briar Cliff University Board of Trustees, Academic Dean list for three consecutive years, and the Distinguished Senior Continuing Education award. Additionally, Shannon was elected by the faculty to provide the student remarks at commencement service. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau. She has authored two articles. After graduation, she obtained a position in the intensive care unit specializing in trauma and neurology. She holds an adjunct position at Western Iowa Tech Community College educating students in clinical skills. After graduating with honors from South Dakota State University with a Ph.D. in nursing, she is an Associate Professor in Nursing at Briar Cliff University. She is married with two children, one granddaughter and a furry canine friend, Lilly.