Sawsan Falatah, a hospital chief nursing officer in Saudi Arabia, is earning her DNP through ODUGlobal’s flexible online Nurse Executive program while continuing to lead full time.
When Sawsan Falatah ’25 enrolled in ODUGlobal’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program from her home in Saudi Arabia, she wasn’t just pursuing a long-held personal dream.
Falatah was preparing for a major career leap.
Within months of starting the nurse executive track, she was promoted to chief nursing officer at a private hospital, seamlessly blending her academic growth with real-world leadership.
“It was the right opportunity at the right time,” she said. “This degree has been a lifelong goal for both me and my family.”
Falatah has worked in nursing for more than 22 years and now leads nursing operations at her hospital. In her role, she oversees daily activities and helps steer the organization toward its strategic goals. She also has the chance to guide and motivate others.
“When I see my nurses grow in their careers, it’s very rewarding. I’ve worked closely with many of them in different capacities, and I genuinely love what I do,” Falatah said.
Despite her demanding role, Falatah carves out time for her studies on evenings and weekends, a disciplined routine that reflects her deep commitment to both her profession and education.
Her path to ODU began with a comprehensive search through more than 60 doctor of nursing executive programs.
“I researched more than 60 universities and reached out to many program directors,” she said. “What stood out was the warmth and support I received from program chair Janice Hawkins. “She answered all my questions, helped with clinical placement in my country, and made me feel confident that I could succeed.”
ODUGlobal’s flexibility and hybrid learning model were critical factors in her decision. Falatah wanted to remain in Saudi Arabia while gaining practical experience, and ODU’s structure made that possible. She credits her advisor, Craig Cunningham, and Hawkins for their consistent encouragement and availability.
“I didn’t want to leave my job or move internationally,” she said. “This program gave me the balance I needed. The faculty and staff understand our unique challenges and help us stay focused.”
Being part of an American university community while living abroad has also been a highlight for Falatah. With a prior master’s degree from the University of California San Diego, she was already familiar with academic expectations, but ODU brought a new layer of connection.
“I’ve learned so much from my classmates in the U.S.,” she said. “We come from different cultures, but we’ve supported each other from day one.”
Time zone challenges aside, she felt welcomed and included by faculty and peers.
“Professors were always understanding when I couldn’t attend live sessions due to the late hour. That made me feel more committed to doing well,” she said. “The cultural differences didn’t affect me at all. We’ve built friendships, and I’ve felt part of something meaningful.”
Falatah says she’s especially proud of managing both full-time study and a demanding executive role, an accomplishment that reflects both her discipline and her commitment to growth. Hawkins said those traits paved the road to success.
“She managed her time well, planning ahead to stay on top of program requirements,” Hawkins said. “She stayed connected with faculty. As with anything, you truly get out of what you put into it. Her level of engagement with the program contributed to her success.”
After a well-earned break, she plans to channel her DNP training into meaningful change with her new employer. The experience has given her not just academic tools, but also the confidence to lead with intention and impact.
That’s why she encourages other international students to pursue online education, especially those balancing full-time careers:
“Go for it, especially if you work full time and want to advance your career. It’s challenging but worth it. Set a routine, find a support group, and always reach out to your professors if you need help. You’re never alone.”
