Johnelle Opel

Biography

Professor Opel brings diverse experience to her role as a nursing professor ranging from the front lines to acute hospital care to specialized clinical provider. Her medical career began as a U.S. Army medic where she developed deep resilience and the ability to provide care under pressure. Her time as a medic ignited a desire to care for her fellow man and following her time in service, she received her BSN and Family Nurse Practioner degree from National University.

Over the years, Professor Opel assembled her knowledge in nursing while working in various capacities including home health, telemetry, medsurg, COVID nurse and most recently working as a mid-level provider to deliver specialized rheumatologic and primary care. During this multifaceted experience she has had numerous opportunities to teach and encourage personnel including fellow soldier medics, student nurses, new hire nurses, as well as interdisciplinary care team members. These experiences have cultivated her passion to teach and mentor the next generation of nurses.

Professor Opel received multiple decorations while serving including three Army Commendation Medals, Army Good Conduct medal and Iraq campaign medal with campaign star. Awards were in recognition of mutliple accomplishments including providing emergency medical care to local nationals, soldiers, and service members as well as providing care and education to local nationals during community medical engagements. She also graduated cum laud from National University

Professor Opel's faith is paramount to her decision to teach for Pepperdine University. Devoting her life to the service and care of others in guidance with the teaching and examples of Jesus Christ, Johnelle hopes to stand with Pepperdine to grow in her faith and lead in congruence with Peperdine's mission of academic excellence and Christian values along with purpose, service, and leadership.

Education

• M.S.N., Family Nurse Practitioner emphasis, National University
• B.S.N., National University