For decades, Beth Quatrara, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, has been a guiding force in nursing education, blending clinical expertise with an unwavering dedication to her students at the University of Virginia School of Nursing

. As the Nurse of the Week, Quatrara is being recognized for her profound impact on the next generation of nurses, her unwavering advocacy for military students, and even her unique role in raising service puppies—one of the many ways she fosters a welcoming environment for students.

Beyond the Classroom: A Nurturing Presence

When students step into McLeod Hall, they’re often met with more than Quatrara’s warm personality—they’re also greeted by a playful Labrador Retriever puppy in training. Through her commitment to raising future service dogs, she brings an unexpected but comforting presence to the academic setting.

“I’ve gotten smart, so now I pick them up over the summer when things aren’t as busy, and I can get them potty-trained before the first day of classes,” Quatrara said.

For students like Sarah Beth Long, MSN, this small but significant act makes all the difference.

“It was bringing Beth—not the professor, but the person—into the class,” Long said. “It just brings a homey feeling.”

A Mentor Who Leads by Example

Quatrara knows what it’s like to be in her students’ shoes. After earning her master’s and doctorate in nursing practice at UVA, she spent more than 30 years at UVA Health, excelling in both clinical care and education.

“She’s truly passionate about teaching,” said E.J. Rauch, a U.S. Army captain and one of Quatrara’s students. “She thinks about how to reach the students who are struggling, not just the students who are already crushing it.”

Beyond the classroom, she ensures students’ personal and professional achievements don’t go unnoticed. She celebrates military promotions, organizes Veterans Day lunches, and advocates for students juggling personal challenges—like Rauch, who welcomed a child while pursuing his studies.

“When I came here, I told them, ‘My wife is pregnant and she’s due in the middle of the school year,’” Rauch recalled. “The beginning of the spring semester, she ensured that I was accommodated without undermining my studies at all.”

An ‘Entity of Encouragement’ in Nursing

Quatrara’s support goes beyond day-to-day academics—she inspires her students to think bigger about their careers.

“She didn’t dismiss my curiosity,” Rauch said, reflecting on how Quatrara encouraged him to explore a doctoral project on ECMO and CPR. “It’s inspired me to do the same thing as an entry-level Army leader. She’s just an entity of encouragement.”

For Quatrara, the real reward is watching her students grow into confident, skilled nurses.

“My favorite part is watching the lights go on,” she said. “When you can see them start to understand, and they’re smiling, those are the moments that matter.”

Beth Quatrara’s impact on the nursing profession is undeniable. As an educator, mentor, advocate, and champion of her students, she exemplifies everything it means to be a nurse leader—one puppy cuddle, heartfelt conversation, and career-changing lesson at a time.

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