Executive DNP Students Participate in Mock Interviews with Executive Search Firm
(March 24, 2026) — Executive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students at Georgetown University’s Berkley School of Nursing participated in individualized mock interviews with leaders from a national executive search firm, an experience designed to prepare graduates for high-stakes interviews and competitive leadership roles in complex healthcare environments.
Executive DNP student Elizabeth Head, MSN, APRN, CNM, WHNP, (pictured bottom) spoke with Jocelyn Clarke during a mock interview via video conferencing.
The activity is embedded within the Reflective Leadership and Ethics course taken during the second semester of the program.
The interviews in March were conducted by leaders from Kirby Bates Associates and included Peggy Loughery, senior vice president; Wendy Siegel, vice president; Jocelyn Clarke, assistant vice president; and Angela Cobb, assistant vice president.
Prior to the mock interviews, Loughery and Clarke delivered a presentation focused on executive presence, portfolio development, negotiation strategies, and navigating competitive leadership searches. Later, after the mock interviews, students were provided with individualized feedback, offering a rare opportunity to refine executive communication skills in a realistic search setting.
Peggy Loughery (top) conducted a mock interview via video conferencing with Executive DNP student Jillian Deaton, MS, APRN, FNP-C.
Executive DNP student Elizabeth Head, MSN, APRN, CNM, WHNP, said she gained valuable insight to help guide her progress.
“The Georgetown program demands transformative growth from the students,” she said. “Preparing for our interviews and engaging in deep thought about my future was and is an invaluable part of that process.”
Student Jillian Deaton, MS, APRN, FNP-C, said the resources shared were very helpful.
“They allowed me to reformat my resume and clarified questions I’ve had for years,” she said. “After the mock interview, I feel encouraged to continue deepening my knowledge in policy, advocacy, and academia, and to work on my executive presence.”
Peggy Loughery, senior vice president at Kirby Bates Associates
Stephan Davis, DNP, MHSA, NEA-BC, CENP, FACHE, FAONL, FAAN, an associate professor and executive director of leadership, policy and DNP education, said his prior experience working with Kirby Bates Associates reinforced his instinct to offer this resource to students.
“I know from personal experience the value and expertise they bring,” he said. “I am so grateful that they were willing to share their expertise with our Executive DNP students as they continue to grow and develop as highly influential and impactful leaders.”
“Georgetown University invited the Kirby Bates Associates team to work with its DNP students, tapping into our collective executive search expertise,” said Loughery. “It was a pleasure engaging with such a talented group of nurse leaders as they prepare for the next stage of their professional careers.”