Justin Fontenot, Ph.D., DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAADN

Dr. Justin Fontenot is an Associate Professor in the Tulane University Program of Nursing and a registered nurse with more than 20 years of clinical experience. His practice background spans medical–surgical nursing, home care, hospice, and end-of-life care. During the decade prior to transitioning to academia, he held multiple senior leadership roles in post-acute care settings. Dr. Fontenot earned an Associate Degree in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Master of Science in Nursing (Leadership and Management), followed by a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership and a PhD in Nursing Science from Texas Woman’s University. He is board certified as a Nurse Executive, Advanced (NEA-BC).

 

His PhD dissertation examined how newly graduated registered nurses develop professional confidence. Using a qualitative constructivist grounded theory approach, Dr. Fontenot developed a novel explanatory and interpretive theory of professional confidence development. This work aims to strengthen transition-to-practice programs, reduce early-career burnout, and support a resilient nursing workforce. Dr. Fontenot has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Nursing Management (Wiley), the 4^th largest general nursing peer-reviewed scientific journal worldwide.