Faculty

Dr. Dawn Turnage is a dedicated nurse researcher whose work bridges clinical insight with compassionate inquiry, focusing on the psychosocial dimensions of caregiving and evidence-based practice. Her scholarship centers on the lived experiences of parents of children with autism, exploring stress, coping mechanisms, and quality of life across diverse populations. Through rigorous literature reviews and original research, she has illuminated disparities in health literacy and the unique challenges faced by caregivers. Dr. Turnage also contributes to advancing nursing science through her collaborative work on evidence-based practice models and terminology trends, helping shape the future of healthcare delivery. Her publications in leading journals such as the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Journal of Advanced Nursing, and Issues in Mental Health Nursing reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and improving outcomes for vulnerable populations. Dr. Turnage’s research continues to inform policy, education, and clinical practice in pediatric and mental health nursing.

Education

• PhD, University of Central Florida
• DNP, University of Central Florida
• MSN, University of Central Florida
• BSN, University of Central Florida
• ED Certificate, University of Central Florida

Selected Editorial Activities

• Reviewer, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
• Reviewer, Clinica Y Salud
• Reviewer, International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation
• Reviewer, Future Science OA

Selected Awards & Honors

• Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award, University of Central Florida, 2025
• Teaching Incentive Program (TIP) Award, University of Central Florida, 2025

Selected Professional Activities

• Member, National Academies of Practice
• Member, Sigma Theta Tau International
• Member, International Society for Autism Research