This accomplishment allows her to continue her research and coursework. The topic that she chose for her exam was the effect of breast cancer on the quality of life of those survivors living in rural communities, such as many of those in Sussex County.

The online program allows her to continue her work at Beebe Medical Center’s Tunnell Cancer Center. Her coursework and research allow her to delve into topics related to her employment. As nurse manager, Heinze is responsible for the team of 20 registered nurses and five other nursing professionals who care for patients at the Tunnell Cancer Center.

Heinze joined the cancer center in 2008 to take over as nurse manager. She came from Graham Hospital in Canton, Ill., where she taught at the nursing school for five years. She also worked as a medical oncology nurse. She has a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Illinois and is board certified as a clinical nurse specialist in adult health by the American Nursing Credentialing Center.

She is also certified at the advanced level by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corp. and is an approved educator for the Hospice and Palliative Care Nurses Association.

“Continuing education for our team members helps enhance the quality of care that we provide,” said Cherrie Rich, RN, executive director of Beebe Medical Center Oncology Services. “It demonstrates our team members’ commitment to our patients, as well as to attaining an in-depth knowledge of oncology.”