Preceptors and volunteer clinical faculty offer students individual perspectives and hands-on experience in a variety of health care settings and specialties. The cumulative effect of what these volunteers impart plays a significant role in the care any health system delivers.
- Clinical preceptors are integral to the future of nursing.
- They volunteer their time and energy, using education and training in an effort to assure that the profession grows and thrives.
- They provide students with learning experiences that prepare them for the role of expert care provider.
- Preceptors can advance their career by becoming a UCSF volunteer faculty, participating in CE opportunities, and collaborating on projects within the School of Nursing.
- UCSF recently transitioned to a BSN Entry to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathway. We are excited to bring preceptors along this journey and to gain new preceptors. In this FAQ resource, we answer preceptors' questions about this transition.
- For more information, contact Clinical Placements Supervisor Tammy Ryan.
Why I Precept
What Makes a Great Preceptor?
Recognizing Our Preceptors
In honor of the critical contributions that preceptors make to advance student learning, the UCSF School of Nursing faculty are delighted to recognize exceptional preceptors who consistently and effectively contribute to UCSF nursing students’ clinical education.
Sherri Borden, MS, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, associate clinical processor in the School of Nursing, works with the UCSF Citywide Community Assessment and Services Center (CASC) and the Minna Project. “Sherri has been precepting for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty for 20 years,” said Jane Abanes, PhD, DNP, PMHNP-BC, assistant professor and PMHNP specialty coordinator. “She is a dedicated, knowledgeable, competent, and compassionate preceptor for our students.”
“Precepting UCSF PMHNP students allows me to share the joy I find in working with justice-involved clients and supporting individuals who might otherwise be reinstitutionalized,” said Borden. “Our students come from diverse backgrounds and bring knowledge, curiosity, and expertise that enrich my own practice and benefit the entire Citywide CASC team. Their questions keep me in a constant state of learning, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to inspire the next generation of PMHNPs.”
Preceptee Shirin Ahmadieh, RN, said, “Sherri Borden has been the kind of preceptor who makes you feel supported from day one. She teaches with patience, warmth, and real-world insight that sticks with me after each shift. Sherri never hesitates to slow down, explain, or turn a tough moment into a learning opportunity. I’m genuinely grateful for her guidance, and I know I’ll be a stronger, more confident clinician because of her."
Read about other recipients of the School of Nursing Preceptor Awards.