Joy Bliss (left) and Leeah Javier (right) at Hawai'i Baptist Academy.
HPU School of Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Chair Joy A. Bliss, Ph.D., RN, and HPU Assistant Professor of Nursing Leeah Javier, DNP, RN, were recently invited panel speakers at the Convention for Future Medical Leaders on February 28, 2026. The event, organized by the National Honors Society’s Health & Medical Committee at Hawaiʻi Baptist Academy, welcomed approximately 110 high school students from across Oʻahu who are interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.
The convention provided students with valuable opportunities to network and engage directly with professionals representing multiple healthcare disciplines.
Bliss shared insights from her diverse clinical background, including experience in pediatric and obstetrical nursing, flight nursing, renal transplant, O.R. and critical care, as well as her leadership in medical missions serving underserved communities. She spoke about the evolving role of nurses in high-acuity settings, the importance of adaptability and clinical judgment, and the meaningful impact nurses have across the lifespan—from newborns to critically ill patients. She also reflected on resilience in nursing practice and offered strategies for recognizing and managing burnout while maintaining compassion, balance, and purpose in demanding healthcare environments.
Javier highlighted her deep commitment to geriatric and community-based nursing, drawing from her extensive experience in skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation settings, and long-term care environments. She spoke passionately about caring for elderly patients, including those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Javier emphasized that caring for geriatric patients requires not only strong clinical skills, but also patience, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and an understanding of the emotional impact that cognitive decline has on both patients and families.
Underscoring the vital role nurses play in preserving dignity, Javier advocated for patient safety, support for families through progressive illness, and collaborating within interdisciplinary teams to provide holistic, person-centered care. Her message reinforced that elder care is both a science and an art—requiring technical expertise alongside compassion and human connection.
Through engaging dialogue and mentorship, Bliss and Javier showcased the breadth and impact of nursing practice across the lifespan. HPU’s participation reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals to advance quality care for Hawaiʻi and beyond.
To learn more about the HPU School of Nursing, go to: www.hpu.edu/nursing.
