Johnson’s nursing journey lands her at SCC as new nursing instructor

After joining the Southeastern Community College nursing instructional staff in January this year, Haley Johnson hopes to witness more “lightbulb moments” when students fully grasp difficult concepts. Johnson’s teaching style emphasizes hands-on learning and real-life applications, which she believes helps students engage with the material in meaningful ways. 

 “I love those moments when it all just clicks,” Johnson said.  

So far, Johnson enjoys the camaraderie and support of her colleagues and students. She said her support system and access to campus resources has been top-notch.  

“The faculty here are quickly becoming like family,” she explained. “We eat together, laugh together and everyone is eager to assist or lend a helping hand. The students have also been so gracious and encouraging, which has made the transition into teaching much smoother in the classroom setting.” 

Johnson is the co-lead instructor for NUR 101, the introductory course in the practical nursing program. She looks forward to expanding her role in SCC’s growing nursing programs; wherever her assistance is needed. 

“Obtaining my associate degree of nursing changed my life. If I can be a small token of someone else’s success, every day on the job would be worth it,” she said.  

Looking toward her long-term career goals, Johnson hopes to continue learning and growing as an educator. She aspires to complete her doctorate within the next five years to better serve her students and the nursing department at SCC. 

Johnson graduated from East Bladen High School in May 2012. She completed her associate degree of nursing at Edgecombe Community College in May 2016, followed by a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Fayetteville State University in July 2020. In May 2023, she earned her Master of Science in nursing with a family nurse practitioner concentration from Winston-Salem State University. 

Her career in nursing spans several years and specialties. After her time as a registered nurse in a long-term care facility in 2016, she transitioned to acute care, serving as a cardiac nurse at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, N.C. in 2017.  

After that, Johnson became a travel nurse, working in various states across the U.S., including West Virginia, Arizona, Virginia, Maine, Kentucky, South Carolina and several hospitals throughout North Carolina. In 2024, Johnson shifted her focus to education, teaching as an adjunct nursing instructor at Brunswick Community College. Her newfound love for teaching ultimately led her to pursue a full-time role at SCC. 

Originally from Harrells, NC, Johnson said she was excited about working at SCC, citing the welcoming environment of the community as a main draw to the job. 

“From past experiences in Columbus County, it has always reminded me of home in Bladen County, how we always take care of one another,” she said. “It was also an easy decision when I heard such wonderful things from friends and family about SCC.” 

Outside of work, Johnson enjoys staying active, whether through walks in the local park or hiking in national parks. She also loves traveling and exploring different cultures around the world. Johnson is married to her husband, Thomas “TJ” Johnson. They have been married since October 2023. 

As SCC’s nursing programs continue to evolve, Johnson hopes her expertise and dedication will make a lasting impact on the next generation of nurses. Interested in the nursing program at SCC? Contact Renee Long at renee.long@sccnc.edu to get started.