Outputs
Celebrating Certification: The Impact of NPD Credentialing
March 11, 2026 — Arisha Chase, MSN-Ed, RN, NPD-BC, PCCN
Jo-Ann Robinson, DNP, APN-BC, RNC-OB, NPD-BC
Mary Smith, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, NC-BC, AMB-BC, C-EFM, CCE
In this episode of the NPD Forecast podcast, guests Mary Smith, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, NC-BC, AMB-BC, C-EFM, CCE, Jo-Ann Robinson, DNP, APN-BC, RNC-OB, NPD-BC, and Arisha Chase, MSN-Ed, RN, NPD-BC, PCCN, discuss the value and process of earning nursing professional development certification in recognition of National Certified Nurses Day on March 19. Drawing from their diverse experiences—as a leader promoting certification, a longtime certification instructor, and a newly certified NPD-BC practitioner—they share perspectives on why certification matters for both individuals and the broader NPD specialty.
The discussion highlights:
- How NPD leaders can promote certification readiness through environmental scanning and intentional preparation strategies
- Common misconceptions about the NPD certification process and how education and mentorship can support candidates
- How achieving certification can shift professional mindset, build confidence, and strengthen the ability to influence practice and outcomes
Arisha Chase, MSN-Ed, RN, NPD-BC, PCCN
NPD Specialist, Northside Hospital
Arisha Chase, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, PCCN, is a nursing professional development specialist who serves in clinical education at a large hospital system, where she partners with interdisciplinary teams to support workforce development, transition-to-practice initiatives, and evidence-based educational strategies. She is also a clinical instructor at a local college, where she contributes to preparing the next generation of nurses for professional practice.
Jo-Ann Robinson, DNP, APN-BC, RNC-OB, NPD-BC
NPD Specialist, Bon Secours Charity Health System
Dr. Jo-Ann Robinson is a nationally recognized nursing professional development expert with over 20 years of leadership in education, research, and practice. She is an assistant professor at Montclair State University and an NPD specialist with Bon Secours Charity Health System. For nearly two decades, she has created and taught ANPD certification preparation, presented nationally, and chaired the ANPD Convention Planning Committee. Her scholarly work includes publications in the Journal for Nurses in Professional Development, contributions to ANPD’s Core Curriculum, and the Quick Guide Series. She is also a recipient of the ANPD NPD Leader Award.
Mary Smith, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, NC-BC, AMB-BC, C-EFM, CCE
Education Program Manager, ANPD
Mary Smith is ANPD’s NPD education program manager. Leveraging 25 years of experience as a registered nurse and a graduate education in nursing, Mary is committed to serving the needs of the ANPD community. Smith is a published author and a national nursing publication peer reviewer, fostering the support of continued professional development and growth of nurses. She has experience spanning inpatient and outpatient work in obstetrical nursing, regulatory and nursing leadership, and as a nurse coach, which have provided a broad foundation for her continued work in nursing professional development with ANPD.