Member Spotlight: Misty Evans, DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC, BMTCN
This spotlight features Misty Evans, DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC, BMTCN, of Sarah Cannon Cancer Network and ex-officio member of the ASTCT Board of Directors. A committed leader in transplant and cellular therapy, Evans brings extensive clinical experience and a strong voice for advanced practice providers (APPs). In this Q&A, she shares her goals for supporting APP engagement, her perspective on changes in the field and what continues to drive her work.
ASTCT: As director of advanced practice providers and a member of the ASTCT board, what are your key goals or priorities in this role?
Misty Evans, DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC, BMTCN (ME): One of the main objectives of this role is to promote a strong multidisciplinary team approach in transplant and cellular therapy to optimize patient outcomes and advance the field. This involves fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among physicians, pharmacists, researchers, nurses, APPs and other health care team members. Ensuring that APPs are represented in strategic planning, educational programs, advocacy efforts and other organizational initiatives is essential.
Likewise, the APP SIG is dedicated to the growth of the field and the overall success of the organization. The SIG aims to contribute to ASTCT by meeting strategic goals, increasing membership, developing valuable resources and educational content and creating collaborative professional and networking opportunities.
ASTCT: How do you see the role of APPs evolving within the transplant and cellular therapy landscape?
ME: The field of transplant and cellular therapy is rapidly changing, with therapies becoming more complex and reaching new patient populations. APPs are crucial in addressing the growing demand for specialized care and managing the intricacies of these therapies. With the emergence of new cellular therapies, APPs can offer specialized knowledge about unique aspects of the patient journey, including mobilization, collection, manufacturing, administration, management of toxicities and long-term follow-up. As referrals for transplantation increase, APPs can ensure smooth transitions between transplant centers and referring physicians. Furthermore, as more APPs earn doctoral degrees (DNP, DMSc, PhD), we are likely to see greater involvement in clinical trials and transplant and cellular therapy-related initiatives, which will further advance the field. I also anticipate a rising need for leadership roles aimed at supporting APP colleagues.
ASTCT: What originally drew you to this field, and what continues to inspire your work today?
ME: Even as a student, I knew that I wanted to work in the field of pediatric heme-onc and stem cel l transplant. I initially started as an inpatient bedside nurse. Even though I loved this job, I always wanted to do more. I returned to school multiple times and eventually became a DNP-prepared pediatric nurse practitioner. I have worked in various TCT roles along the journey, and I have truly enjoyed them all.
Like others in this field, I am inspired most by our patients and families. For the last six years, I have been fortunate to work with numerous patients enrolled on CRISPR gene editing clinical trials. I will forever be amazed by the brave individuals with SCD and TDT who took such a leap of faith to participate in such a novel treatment. I remember watching the FDA review and being so touched by the patient and family testimonies. They are the ones who made the FDA approval a reality.
I am also inspired every day by my team. I have worked with some colleagues for more than 20 years now. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a work family, and I do not take that for granted. Every member of our team works tirelessly, giving 110% every day to ensure our patients and families receive the best care. Their dedication always inspires me.
ASTCT: What advice would you offer to other APPs just starting their careers in this field?
ME:
Seek mentorship. This has been one of the most important aspects of my career development. A mentor can offer professional guidance, support and accountability. They often provide unique perspectives, introduce you to new opportunities and challenge you to grow.
Embrace continuous learning. The field of TCT is constantly evolving, and ongoing education is essential to stay informed of emerging therapies, clinical updates, etc. This does not have to be formal education. Try to take advantage of a variety of learning opportunities, such as webinars, journal clubs and educational conferences.
Become actively involved in your professional organizations and establish a professional network. There are many volunteer opportunities for APPs in ASTCT and other professional organizations. Join a committee, task force or other volunteer opportunity. But be sure to show up and contribute to the group. Be engaged. Take the initiative to introduce yourself and network with colleagues within ASTCT. You will create a valuable network of colleagues and friends across the country.
Be flexible. Given the ever-changing field of health care and transplantation, we must also be flexible. Roles and responsibilities will inevitably change to some degree. It’s OK to communicate concerns, but don’t be closed off to change. You never know, a new opportunity may present itself during the process.
ASTCT: Why would you recommend APPs join ASTCT?
ME: ASTCT encourages the entire multidisciplinary team to be part of the organization. The society fosters collaboration across disciplines and provides numerous opportunities to connect with peers, experts and potential mentors. I especially encourage APPs to become part of the APP SIG. All APPs are welcome! This is a very active SIG that has several ongoing projects to support TCT APPs. There are APP-driven research projects, webinars, networking events, advocacy initiatives, an onboarding guide and professional development resources. The SIG is also responsible for planning the educational content for CEC and the APP track at Tandem. Having a strong network of APPs across the country for clinical, professional, academic and even personal support is invaluable! APPs can even reach out to me personally to connect with the group!
Misty Evans’ leadership highlights the vital role APPs play in advancing patient-centered care in transplantation and cellular therapy. As an ASTCT affiliate member who represents APPs, Evans brings a diverse perspective to the Board, which reflects our multidisciplinary community.
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