Kimberly D. Acquaviva, PhD, MSW, CSE, FNAP
COURSE EVALUATIONS
My primary responsibility as a faculty member is to the students I teach – and by extension, to the patients and families those students will ultimately care for. Students are and will always be the primary reason for my existence as a professor – and for my School's existence as an institution of higher learning. Toward this end, I share my course evaluations publicly so that students and colleagues alike can see the quality of my teaching. Click on the name of a course to open the corresponding course evaluation.
University of Virginia School of Nursing
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2023 - Spring GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2023 - Spring NUCO 4056: Introduction to Health Policy
2022 - Spring NURS 4951: Distinguished Majors Seminar II​
2022 - Spring GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2022 - Spring NUCO 4056: Introduction to Health Policy
2022 - Spring NURS 4951: Distinguished Majors Seminar II
2022 - Summer GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2022 - Fall GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2022 - Fall NURS 4950: Distinguished Majors Seminar I
2021 - J-Term NUCO 4559: Sex & Intimacy in the Time of COVID-19
2021 - Spring GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2021 - Spring NUCO 4056: Introduction to Health Policy
2021 - Spring NURS 4951: Distinguished Majors Seminar II
2021 - Fall GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2021 - Fall NURS 4950: Distinguished Majors Seminar I
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2020 - Spring GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2020 - Spring NUCO 4056: Introduction to Health Policy
2020 - Spring NURS 4951: Distinguished Majors Seminar II
2020 - Summer GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2020 - Fall GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2020 - Fall NURS 4950: Distinguished Majors Seminar I
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2019 - Fall GNUR 6056: Health Policy: Local to Global
2019 - Fall NURS 4950: Distinguished Majors Seminar I
George Washington University
2018 - Spring NURS 6207 DE: Evidence-Based Practice
2018 - Spring NURS 6207 DE6: Evidence-Based Practice
2018 - Summer NURS 6205: Health Policy, Quality, and Political Processes
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2016 - Fall NURS 6207 DE2: Evidence-Based Practice
2016 - Fall NURS 6207 DE8: Evidence-Based Practice
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2014 - Spring NURS 6202: Population Health
2014 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
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2012 - Spring NURS 6202 - DE5: Population Health
2012 - Spring NURS 6202 - DE: Population Health
2012 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2012 - Fall NURS 6270: Intro to Research
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2010 - Spring NURS 8498: Research Project Proposal
2010 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2010 - Fall NURS 6270: Intro to Research
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2008 - Fall NURS 8403: Translating Research Into Practice
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2006 - Spring ELC 203: The Business of Dying
2006 - Fall HSCI 270: Intro to Research (no eval on file)
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2017 - Spring NURS 6207: Evidence-Based Practice
2017 - Fall NURS 6207: Evidence-Based Practice
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2015 - Spring NURS 6207: Evidence-Based Practice
2015 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2015 - Fall NURS 6207: Evidence-Based Practice
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2013 - Spring NURS 6202: Population Health
2013 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2013 - Fall NURS 6270: Intro to Research
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2011 - Spring NURS 6202: Population Health
2011 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2011 - Fall NURS 6270: Intro to Research
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2009 - Spring ELC 203: The Business of Dying
2009 - Summer NURS 8407: Grant Writing
2009 - Fall NURS 8403: Translating Research Into Practice
2007 - Spring ELC 203: The Business of Dying
2007 - Fall HSCI 270: Intro to Research
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SPRING 2023: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With My Courses 100% In Person
"This course was empowering and educated me on how to get involved and make changes to better the world. The policy brief assignment was the encouragement I needed to get engaged with policy and advocating for the changes that I want to see happen. I felt supported 100% in my efforts and for the first time in my life, I felt enabled to actually take action for my voice (and the voice of everyone who supported our policy) to be heard. That was meaningful, especially coming from the perspective of a young woman where I feel society often silences me and others like me. Be the change you wish to see in the world!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"Professor Acquaviva always created a safe space for everyone’s perspective. She was very transparent about her own alignment and beliefs and encouraged everyone to speak up even when they disagreed (respectfully). We heard perspectives from students across the political, racial, and economic spectrum. It was the first time I’ve ever had open discussions about topics like racism and I felt like I was able to ask questions without judgement and learn about things I had not personally experienced."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"I enjoyed this class a lot. I am not particularly policy–minded, but after this class I find myself noticing policy decisions and thinking about policy more than I was before. I have even thought of a few policies I would actually care to enact or help get started. So to take me from 0 interest to thinking about it is a big change!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"I came into this class with zero knowledge about health policy and how to engage with it as a nurse. This class gave me a solid foundation for healthcare policy work and has set me up to learn about engaging in policy in the real world. Professor Acquaviva gave us a great deal of information and helped us work through real–life scenarios we might encounter."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"Kim was the most understanding, accommodating, and kind professor I have ever had at UVA (and I have been here for 6 years)! She not only welcomes diverse perspectives but encourages them. She is not afraid of talk about difficult topics and I feel both welcome and empowered to always speak my mind in her class."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"Prof Acquaviva made it clear from the very first moment that the classroom environment would be one that emphasized and lifted up marginalized voices. It felt much more impactful and authentic than the boiler–plate "we appreciate diversity and support inclusion" that we get from most other classes in the SoN at UVA.
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"The way the class is structured is the type of way I like a class to be structured. First comes the lecture component where the slideshows are helpful for the factual information that I need to know. The big group discussions are also beneficial for me because I can see how my peers think and their opinions on a specific topic. I also enjoyed small group discussions because it was a way for the class to open themselves up more to each other while also practicing in real time the information that we learned.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"The lectures and readings taught us the material in the syllabus, while the small and large group projects and discussions taught us how to apply the knowledge we learned.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She fostered an amazing learning environment with a good combination of small group activities and real time whole class discussions.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kimberly Acquaviva created an environment that respected differences and welcomed diverse perspectives by actively encouraging participation from all students regardless of their backgrounds, experiences or opinions. She also acknowledged and validated the experiences and perspectives of marginalized groups and actively worked to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone in the class. Additionally, she incorporated diverse voices and perspectives into the curriculum, which helped to expose students to a wide range of viewpoints and experiences.
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2023
"Kim does a great job of creating interesting small group activities that are engaging and applicable to the topic of the class lecture. She utilized real world examples in her discussions to make it more interesting and raw.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"The pre–class readings were dense but the real–time class discussions were extremely helpful! Lecturing is necessary to develop a foundation on this subject as I do not much about health policy, but the discussions offered a different perspective and helped me put the pieces together.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This class has a great mix of lectures, small group discussions, and large group discussions. I felt like I learned a lot about health policy and am motivated to find ways to stay active in health policy as a nurse.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"The small and large group activities engaged us in learning and collaborating with each other. The readings helped set the stage, and the lectures helped us understand it better. Then once we were able to work in groups, we were able to tie everything together to really understand concepts."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This is a hard class to teach and keep students engaged in, but Kim knocks it out of the park twice a week, every week."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This was a great course! I feel like I learned so much about health policy because Professor Kim's ability to challenge our thought processes was encouraging and stimulating. Also this class does not sugar coat the reality of the US health system and the many issues it has. Some nursing classes don't discuss this as much, but I appreciated that we were real in this class.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This was a wonderful 6–7 week course and introduction to the basics of health policy. Kim was extremely kind and understanding, and treated us like adults. She also appreciates honesty and asks tough questions. I really appreciated the interactive portions in groups of all sizes, it really encouraged participation and allowed us to get the most out of learning the material for this course."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"The professor was extremely supportive, passionate, and intelligent. I would recommend this course to anyone. Kim is seriously the best!
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is very passionate about what she teaches and it shows in her lectures. She cares a lot about us reflecting and growing as people through her class and I could tell she was teaching because she wanted to make me a better nurse."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This was a great course. It's clear that Professor Acquaviva is passionate about the coursework and is invested in the success of her students. It was refreshing to be in a course with a teacher who cares not only about the content but about the students."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I love how inclusive this course is and how the professor thinks about the students learning needs. I appreciate how she doesn’t force anyone to do anything they aren’t comfortable with and is extremely receptive to feedback."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This course made me wish that more courses in the nursing school were open to non-nursing students like me."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is a marvelous professor because she is so passionate about the topic, and her students."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I feel confident that I gained a better understanding of how policy making and change works, and what resources are available to do so."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"The class was eye-opening and I think one of the most impactful courses I've taken at UVA, and I've had a large variety of classes. The opportunity to learn about today's healthcare system and how exactly we can make a difference moving forward is the best part of the class."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I think this course is so important for future healthcare providers – from understanding the U.S. healthcare system to learning how to advocate for patients/under–represented groups through health policy."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I walk out of this class every day and feel empowered to make changes in the real world. I think that often we see things happening, but don't know how to go about making a change. But after this class, I feel like I could actually do it if I wanted to. Thank you for everything you have taught us – both about the course material and about ourselves."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I think you did an amazing job at getting your students involved with policy and encouraging us to become advocates, not only for this class but for our future as well."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I've had a fantastic learning experience being in this class. I really appreciated the amount flexibility that was offered in regards to the attendance policy and alternative assignments. Kim was mindful and accommodating to all types of learners –– this is demonstrated by Kim's views on participation (where one doesn't necessarily need to speak to show that they are engaged with the materials; there were many different ways to do so)."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I had a great experience in this course! Kim Acquaviva is an amazing professor – she is super engaging and makes learning about health policy more interesting and encouraging in the sense that this topic can be daunting knowing that change will be difficult, but she is a positive force teaching us how to engage and giving us the tools to make the difference we wish to see in this system."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"It is really obvious that Kim cares about her students and wants us all to succeed. She is so passionate about teaching and making sure every student is learning and engaged. There was a lot of course material to cover and it definitely got confusing at times, but Kim did a great job explaining hard concepts in a way that was easy to understand. I definitely have a greater interest in policy than I did before I took this class."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I have never felt more comfortable to share my voice in a class and I thank Kim for that! She is the most genuine Professor I’ve ever had!"
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I absolutely loved this class! At the beginning of the semester I thought that there was absolutely no way that I could sit in a classroom for 6 hours a week and discuss health policy, but Kim made it incredibly easy to not only attend class, but thoroughly enjoy it. Through this class I was able to grasp a better concept of what exactly health policy is, and I gained a newfound love for advocacy. All in all, I am thankful for this course and its content."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim encouraged us to step out of our comfort zone and lean into conversations that could cause a real change. This is one of the very few nursing classes that I feel truly talked about racism in healthcare and in society in general. There were at times that I felt the tension in the air because the class felt uncomfortable with the conversation. However, I think that to truly have a meaningful conversation about race that we do have to acknowledge our own individual privileges. As a minority, I have been on the receiving end of racism, but that does not mean that I do not have privileges that other people do not. This is often a misperception and I feel like Kim encourage us all to acknowledge those privileges to allow us to reflect on how we see others and how others see us.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I honestly did not think I would be very interested in the topics in this course but it was very engaging and Kimberly made the most inclusive and safe learning space that I have ever experienced."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Professor Kim was very open and upfront about people being respectful of other's opinions and diverse thinking. She acknowledged some of the barriers that some minority groups may face and she actively worked to dismantle those barriers within our class space. Never did I feel called out, or disrespected in her class. She is probably one of the realest and accepting professors I have had."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is one of the best professors I've had at UVA in terms of respecting differences and welcoming diverse perspectives. She comes from a unique background of being quaker & part of the LGBTQ community, and this certainly helps in her acceptance of others ideas. We certainly brought up controversial topics in regards to health policy, but did so in a respectful and inquisitive manner. We also were put in small groups on perspectives that may have been different than our own (ex. supporting decriminalization of marijuana vs. not decriminalizing marijuana federally), causing us to challenge our own viewpoints and learn about oppositions. Sharing out what we'd learned in small groups was always really productive and interesting–– I was able to learn a lot from Kim and others in the class in doing this.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She always made sure to welcome and offer multiple perspectives. One that stands out is one of our first class activities regarding the political spectrum and allowing us to see how broad the spectrum of political ideologies is in class while maintaining anonymity. I think she set up the tone of the class to be respectful and open to the many diverse perspective of health policy and of the student body."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Professor Acquaviva always made me feel welcome in her class and I really appreciated that she gave me personalized feedback on my assignments because I could tell she read them and appreciated my hard work."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is a fantastic professor. She creates a classroom environment where everyone feels comfortable speaking up, asking questions and participating. She values all opinions and makes sure her students know that. In addition, she is flexible and understands that her students have other classes and other things going on in their lives. She adapts the class to what the students need!"
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim encouraged us to have discussions that promoted diverse perspectives, even if it might lead to a degree of discomfort as they were important conversations to have in regards to promoting equity and equality in healthcare."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim was always welcoming of different opinions and opened up the floor for people to challenge her thoughts! She used inclusive language and established a safe space for all students. She was also inclusive of different learning styles and never judged students if they chose not to talk as much."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She is just the best. She herself leads the class with honesty and isn't afraid to read the room and not shy away from the ugly."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Professor Acquaviva encouraged us to have diverse perspectives! Through this class I learned how to communicate and possible persuade people with differing perspectives from my own. The class discussion always provided room for alternative viewpoints and each person's contributions were valued.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Every class, Kim encourages everyone to speak up about their opinion and is always so excited to listen to our perspectives and honest opinions. I have never had a class where the professor has been so open to any type of response as long as it was not harmful to our classmates."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Actively brought up systemic inequalities and racism in discussion and lectures."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"It was made very clear at the beginning of the class that we all have different perspectives and attitudes about things and that unless the thought was hurtful, it was a valued perspective."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is probably the most respectful and thoughtful professor that I have ever had at UVA – she is constantly thinking about how to make everyone feel comfortable and heard in her class. She is also encouraging of everyone to share their opinions (no matter how they differ) and to try new things like facilitating discussions."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim goes above and beyond to hear all perspectives and to set up the classroom as a respectful environment."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She always encouraged everyone to be inclusive of others in the classroom – a specific example is that when someone would lead class discussion she asked them to use the mic in case there were any people in the classroom that are hard of hearing."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"This class has to be the most welcoming environment I have had on Grounds. Kim does an excellent job making everyone's voices heard and validated. In the beginning of the semester, we had a whole class discussion about the expectations on the classroom environment, which I found incredibly helpful. Furthermore, Kim and my peers created an environment of respect to all backgrounds and there were many opportunities to learn from each other during the semester."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"No matter your stance on something, Professor Acquaviva wants to hear it all. She cultivates an environment where her students feel safe to talk about potentially controversial/ hard subjects, and she makes everyone feel heard."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"When talking about difficult topics such as racism, Kim always made sure to provide an open space for dialogue, encouraging those of all views to share their thoughts."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She was clear at the beginning of the semester that she really valued other perspectives/ideas, and that it often adds to the class rather than takes away from it. She set realistic boundaries on what was appropriate to discuss, and she did a great job of keeping in mind students of color who are often disproportionately affected by policy. We had many discussions on racism, discrimination, and privilege in the class, and reminded us of our job as future nurses to be leaders of change. She never shot down ideas from students, and was incredibly welcoming to everyone."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She laid out at the very beginning of the semester that all perspectives were welcome, with the exception of hateful ones. This addressed the elephant in the room early on and allowed us to move forward with discussions."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"I never felt so comfortable and welcomed to be present until this course. As a minority, this speaks volumes."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is the best professor at creating a safe, respectful environment that welcomes diverse perspectives and individuals. This class welcomed tough conversations and encouraged everyone to share their thoughts. She established class guidelines and led by example on how to respect everyone and their opinions. She acknowledged all responses and feedback in a respectful manner."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim is an amazing professor. She is always open to student feedback, encourages whole–class discussions, and makes everyone feel welcome in the classroom."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"From the first day of class, she made it clear that she recognized her privilege and that her perspective was influenced by it. She also created an environment in which all feelings (except for hate/disrespect directed at one another) were welcome and could be expressed."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Kim made it clear from the first class that this class was a safe environment to express our differences and diverse perspectives. She is one of the few professors that made this explicitly clear from the beginning. This is crucial for the nature of the class and Kim did a great job facilitating complex discussion and respecting multiple viewpoints."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"She was very open to all opinions, but also made me as a Black student feel heard, understood, and respected in her classroom. More than any other classroom I have been in."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"During syllabus week, Kim created a foundation for our learning environment that welcomed diverse opinions. I remember that we had to do an activity where we had to log into a collaborative JamBoard –– the JamBoard had different types of political standings (i.e. Conservative vs. Liberal) and we had to anonymously place ourselves in the standing that we best identified with. Of course, there was a wide range –– some people were very left-leaning, while others were very right-leaning, and many people were somewhere in the middle. Despite this, Kim validated everyone's standing and did not make people feel ashamed for their placement. This created a foundation where everyone could feel safe to speak out during discussions for the rest of the semester.
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
"Thank you for creating such a welcoming environment! Your willingness to accommodate the needs of the students in the class helped me stress less about the outcome of the course. This allowed me to focus my efforts on learning the content of the course and ultimately fuel my excitement to learn about health policy. This has been one of my favorite classes and class structures I have had over my last four years here at UVA."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2023
FALL 2022: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With My Courses 100% In Person
"Professor Acquaviva is one of the best professors I have ever had at the University of Virginia. And this says a lot because I got my undergraduate degree at UVA. She is able to make everyone feel welcome and is consistently open to different ideas and perspectives. As a Black woman, it is easy to go unseen and unheard in classes at UVA. Professor Acquaviva not only made me feel seen and heard, but she encouraged me to make sure I shared my ideas with others. She encouraged me to be the best version of myself and I am forever grateful."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2022
"This was my favorite class of graduate school thus far. Dr. Acquaviva is so kind, compassionate, caring, and inclusive to her students and always made space for us to speak our minds. I am so thankful she was here for us this semester and taught me so much in regards to health policy and LIFE."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2022
"Kim was so welcoming and kind. She set the stage for our semester–long classes on the FIRST day of class by having a discussion with us about being accepting of each other, kinda, respectful, and honest with another. We always had class discussions about hard topics and welcomed every single one of our different lives and perspectives."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2022
"While a course like health policy could potentially lead to division, Professor Acquaviva set early boundaries in the class to make sure that EVERYONE could openly share their opinions."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2022
"I absolutely loved Dr. Acquaviva's class. It was something I looked forward to each week. The class was so rich with in–person discussion between everyone. There were tough conversations about difficult topics, but everyone was kind, accepting, and engaging with one another. I loved how interactive and engaging our discussions were."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2022
SUMMER 2022: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With My Course 100% Online
"This was an amazing class and I will take a lot of what I learned with me as I transition to an Advanced Practice nurse. This class provided me with a wealth of knowledge that is so important."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2022
"Professor Acquaviva regularly facilitated discussion that welcomed diverse perspectives and discouraged "silencing" of other classmates."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2022
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"In our discussion on Roe vs Wade, she encouraged us to be honest and upfront about our views. This discussion challenged us to respect the strong opinions of others while sharing our opinions on the topic. She guided us through asking various questions and redirected us by asking straightforward questions.
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2022
​"Professor Acquaviva conducted this class like no other that I have been enrolled in. There were instances where the entire class had to come up with solutions that everyone agreed on, and conversations about really important issues regarding representation and respect."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2022
SPRING 2022: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Face-to-Face
"I truly enjoyed the real–time whole–class discussion and small–group discussions. At the beginning of this semester, I was intrigued at having a discussion–based class with so many students, but the students and Professor Acquaviva has taught me SO much through this method of teaching. I felt engaged and challenged in this class like I have in no other class."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2022
"In this course, the students are able to have a voice and express their thoughts without the fear of judgement. I believe that the professor has done an amazing job to connect with all the students despite the topics that are brought up in class. They have always made sure that everyone feels included and is listened to."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2022
"Professor Acquaviva conducted this class like no other that I have been enrolled in. There were instances where the entire class had to come up with solutions that everyone agreed on, and conversations about really important issues regarding representation and respect."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2022
"Kim was absolutely phenomenal at facilitating a learning environment within her classroom, whether it be virtually in discussion posts, in person in the large class setting, or in small groups. Her brief "lectures" were extremely informational, and she also strongly encouraged the model of students learning from each other, with the classroom sort of "teaching itself." This is an idea that at first sounded like a train wreck to me, but after taking her courses realized it is possible and can be so fruitful."
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- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2022
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"Kim is AMAZING!!! She leads the class with kindness and compassion and a genuine passion for both the subject matter and the wellbeing of her students. She greatly impacted my life not only in my understanding of the subject matter but also how I view the world, look at problems, and approach solutions."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2022
"This was a safe space to explore sharing my voice. I felt empowered to actually make changes happen. The support of the professor is unparalleled.
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2022
FALL 2021: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Face-to-Face
"I can't even begin to describe how amazing, engaging, and inspiring this course was. There is something to be said about the trust needed for a discussion–based class from both the instructor and the students. Not only did I take away substantial knowledge on health policy (a topic I can say I wasn't exactly thrilled to study), but I also gained the drive and understanding that I can actually make changes in health policies. Kimberly Acquaviva is one of, if not the most, inspiring individuals I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. The amount of strength and power I have personally gained from her in this class will positively impact my career and the rest of my life."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Dr. Acquaviva is open and relatable. She has a way of setting everyone at ease with her personality and her professionalism. She is so knowledgeable, but not distant. She is someone you feel instantly comfortable talking with and the way that she is passionate about policy makes you want to learn more. She is a fascinating, kind human being that I loved learning from!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"On day one, as a class, we made class rules to uphold the professionalism and respect for all students. Dr. A continually reminded us of the boundaries set in place by our class. This made for a very non–judgmental and understanding learning environment. It also helped to foster relationship within the classroom. Out of all of my courses, I was closest with my classmates in this class and I believe it is due to Dr. A's mentorship and guidance."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Thank you so much for this inspiring course. I truly feel moved by the experience and full of hope for being an active part of positive change in health policy and the nursing community. I wish I could take it every semester for a breath of fresh air. One of the most admirable qualities about Dr. Acquaviva is her understanding that we are all human. She expects us to work hard and participate but also understands that grad school can be stressful and offers time–saving solutions and patience with her students. Dr. Acquaviva– I hope you know what an immensely positive impact you have on nursing students and healthcare in general. Thank you, thank you, thank you."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"I absolutely loved and appreciated all of the opportunities given to engage in conversation in a comfortable environment. Learning in a stress–free environment was a breath of fresh air and allowed me to learn and participate in a subject I wasn't too familiar with. I can honestly say I have taken knowledge and strength from this class that will be with me forever. Thank you!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Dr. Acquaviva is especially thoughtful in facilitating whole–class discussions. She creates an extremely safe space to express opinions and ask difficult questions. I never felt scared to speak my mind in her class. I also learned invaluable communication tools. She has inspired me to communicate with less judgement and seek understanding of view points that differ from my own. This is particularly important in health policy and I have already begun to put some of these communication skills to use in my full– time job. I am inspired to make positive changes in the healthcare community – something I once thought to be an impossible feat. Thanks to her discussion facilitation I learned so much from my fellow classmates as well who all offer their own unique gifts and life experiences to the conversation."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"The information and instruction provided for this class was outstanding. Everything required for success in this class was presented and available all the time and in a way that encouraged participation, discussion, and collaborative work that resulted in amazing communication, teamwork, and learning."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"I have been a nurse for almost 5 years and Dr. A taught me crucial skills that will be applicable in the workplace. Additionally, she taught me so much about healthcare, policy, health systems, and so much more. Very valuable information that I did not know anything about and is crucial to understand for my current job and as a future provider."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"My experience was fantastic! The course material was delivered in such an engaging way. There was never a dull moment! The content was easy for me to grasp because of our in class lectures, discussions and group work. Amazing Professor and amazing course!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Dr. A is the best professor I have ever had, hands down. She genuinely cares about each of her students and makes the course material so interesting and applicable. I was nervous about a 'policy' class when I saw it was required but it ended up being my favorite class I have ever taken."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"I completely and totally appreciate your desire and ability to empower nurses to be the voice of power in our health care system. Your expertise and passion is palpable. Thank you for an amazing semester!"
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"When I saw I had to take this class, I was dreading it!!! This course quickly become my favorite class and one I would look forward to each week. Dr. A kept the class engaging and fun. She provided a classroom environment that was respectful and non– judgmental which was crucial as we discussed many controversial topics in medicine and policy–making as it relates to healthcare. Dr. A also genuinely cares about her students and is very understanding. This made a huge difference to my overall mental health and grad school experience as this was my first semester at UVA.
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Kim is an amazing instructor! She is passionate about the topics she teaches and makes other students feel her passion! Her passion and experiences inspire me to be involved in health policy! This was my favorite class and she truly cares about her students."
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- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2021
"Prof. Acquaviva is very open and welcoming to students about her personal convictions and research experience working with a variety of patient/research study demographics. She is a great resource and clearly values understanding each person's individual thought process and their personal experience as a human being."
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- Student in NUCO 4950, Fall 2021
"Kim is one of the most inclusive teachers that I have had at UVA. She made sure that everyone's project was inclusive in the ways they were posing questions and challenged us to not as the "easy" questions for our research projects but break the barriers to challenge society and their viewpoints."
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- Student in NUCO 4950, Fall 2021
SPRING 2021: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Online
"I initially believed that Professor Acquaviva would be intolerant or resistant to discussion about my points of view. Instead, she was truly inclusive and made me feel comfortable with the fact that we disagreed. I feel that academia should respectfully challenge how we think and this was very much an example of that....Professor Acquaviva navigated uncomfortable conversations gracefully and in a manner that was extremely productive, informative, and inclusive. The writer of this review is politically more "right" than the perceived average at UVA and I include this because I want to further emphasize her skill at creating an inclusive environment for those of all political beliefs."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2021
"It was phenomenal. I actually feel guilty (the totally normal guilt haha) that I did not speak up much or email the professor just how much I appreciated her class, her teaching, and herself as a person. Dr. Acquaviva presented herself and her class as the most open, accepting, and safest space that I had EVER seen in an academic setting. I appreciated her comments, her assurances, how she spoke with my classmates when they presented any opinion (whether they agreed or disagreed), the brevity and humor, and the material she presented for teaching. I must also point out that I love it when professors use their classrooms to bring up topics of injustice against BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ because it makes me feel safe. I also really, really, REALLY LOVED how she asked how we were doing, asked for feedback, and then LISTENED to and CHANGED things (because I was incredibly stressed this semester) based on that feedback. It actually empowered me as a student and person and for once I felt like I don't have to accept things as is but can speak up and change things. I don't know if I can find the words to explain how HUGE that is, especially as a nursing student who was feeling very powerless myself. She listened and changed things and so weird as it is I trust her as a professor and a professional.'"
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2021
"I have had many classes during my time here... and I have yet to experience an online course like this–– where the professor is able to engage the entire class. Dr. Acquaviva is a great role model, I cannot find the words to describe how truly amazing she is. She is an example of a great leader. I have never met her but I feel like I know her so well by how real and transparent she is. There need to be more people like Dr. Acquaviva then maybe the world would be a happier place. WOW, I am lucky to have had her as a professor she is so understanding and easy to talk to. She responds to emails and grades in a timely manner(very fast)! During the course, I felt like there was a good balance in the amount of work we had to do each week. I love the enthusiasm she had in her emails, comments, and online video posts.... It is evident that she wants her students to be successful....She is incredibly knowledgeable and explains things in a simplified way–– she makes her passion for teaching noticeable. After taking this course, I realize how vital health policy is in the nursing profession. I cannot thank you enough for an enjoyable and different experience in my last semester here at UVA."
- Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2021
"Dr. Kim Acquaviva is truly an inspiring and passionate instructor. She created a safe space right from the beginning while encouraging us to challenge her and each other in order to developing our ideas and advocating for change. She offers so much to us students and always checks in with us, knowing and understanding that the pandemic has affected all of us in many different ways."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2021
"She always welcomed feedback even if it meant that students in the class were giving her feedback in a way that was not polite. She remained calm and thanked them for their input and engaged in that conversation rather than become upset and react negatively. She also actively sought to foster communication between different perspective[s] rather than conflict."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2021
""This class really made me think about public policy and how I could become more involved, not only in my future career but also as a normal citizen. I feel like this class was one of the first classes I have taken that I can see myself using all of the information I learned in the future
- Student in NUCO 4056 Spring 2021
"I thought Professor Acquaviva was going to be another UVA "woke" faculty member with an agenda to push. She is the opposite. She values everyone's opinions and gives everyone equal respect. She challenges students to see other's points of view for professional and personal reasons."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2021
JANUARY 2021 (J-TERM) : The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Online
"This class has been amazing in opening my eyes to new perspectives and insights on sex and intimacy. Kim was understanding, kind, and greatly knowledgeably about the topics discussed. She was very particular about making sure we were comfortable engaging with the material. There was never a dull moment in this class. She couldn't have been a better teacher. Even though this was an asynchronous class, we were able to have an open and honest dialogue about things that are rarely discussed in real life. All in all, this class has been my favorite and most engaging class at UVA and I hope that Kim continues to teach it."
- Student in NUCO 4559, J-Term 2021
"This has been by far my favorite course at UVA. Professor Kim was absolutely amazing and was the best professor I have ever had."
- Student in NUCO 4559, J-Term 2021
"Kim’s approach to online asynchronous learning ought to be canon."
- Student in NUCO 4559, J-Term 2021
"I would highly recommend making this course a permanent staple course––far too many students leave the university not knowing how to adequately communicate about sex and intimacy, both of which are facets of life that reach us all."
- Student in NUCO 4559, J-Term 2021
""Kim is a phenomenal professor and has a gift for teaching. Not only is she so well spoken and open about explaining things, she makes everyone else feel accepted and valued. I felt so safe in this class posting and speaking because of the environment she created and the warm reception."
- Student in NUCO 4559, J-Term 2021
FALL 2020: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Online
"I never in a million years thought that a graduate course would be this enjoyable. I came to this class not really knowing what to expect or what I would gain. Without a doubt, I am blown away by the way this semester turned out. This class is refreshing because it is different. I was given the opportunity to share my raw emotions which includes disgust, excitement, disappointment and fears knowing I will not be judged for it. During these unprecedented times, I needed a safe space and this class provided just that. This class taught me that it is okay to be angry, unsure, happy, dysfunctional and so much more. It taught me that my thoughts and way of viewing things are valid because there are reasons for it. Most importantly, this class taught me to always use my voice no matter the cost. That's powerful and life changing. This class rocks!"
- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2020
"I believe that as an undergrad alumni and now graduate student at UVA, that this was my absolute favorite class I have ever taken at the university. I absolutely loved learning from Kimberly Acquaviva. The projects that we did were very helpful to our learning and I felt they allowed me to use my creativity to thrive and also learn better. Thank you for such an amazing class and semester."
- Student in GNUR 6056, Fall 2020
SUMMER 2020: The COVID-19 Pandemic Continues, With Courses Online
"As a graduate student, I have had many professors throughout my academic career and she is EXACTLY the professor students want. She is the most inclusive professor I have ever had. She was very thoughtful in her approach to teach this course and set clear expectations for her students. A health policy class was not something I was super excited to take, however, after experiencing her class, health policy is something I want to be an active participant in! The way the discussion boards were formatted to allow for more natural conversations to happen versus the post and respond to your peers style was something I loved about this class. We were able to discuss difficult topics within a diverse group of students in the most respectful ways. I never thought I would say this, but I’m sad this class is over! I wish Dr. Acquaviva could teach every class at UVA! I definitely recommend taking a class with her if you have the opportunity to do so! - Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2020
"Dr Acquaviva is one of the most engaged professors I have had the pleasure of learning from at UVA. She provides timely feedback, that is actually helpful and insightful. She understands the demands on students and is willing to meet them where they are to be successful. I wish I had more classes with her! - Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2020
Dr. Acquaviva did a fantastic job of creating a welcoming learning environment embracing the views of all types of students. Dr. Acquaviva was always unbiased and objective, and supported all types of political views. I would absolutely recommend taking this class with her. This class was an outstanding experience and I learned much more than I thought I would have. - Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2020
SPRING 2020: The COVID-19 Pandemic Begins, Shifting Courses Online
"Kim is one of the most selfless, kind, accepting professors I have had the pleasure of learning from at UVA. She is ALWAYS actively listening to each persons thoughts and challenges us to see the other perspectives and varying points of view in the room. She is approachable, non judgmental, and has such a gentle spirit that is breath of fresh air in such a stressful program. I am going to miss her class but feel confident in sharing my voice, and my ability to compromise and hear other voices in my future career as a nurse. Thank you!" - Student in GNUR 6056, Spring 2020
"Dr. Acquaviva has absolutely changed the way I think about the world. I now strive to find similarities between myself and others, rather than dwell on our differences. I also better understand that a me vs. them mindset is not only challenging but completely unproductive." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"I found it difficult to participate on a daily basis in discussion boards. I brought this to the attention of Professor who quickly responded with some suggestions as to how I could participate effectively and in a timely manner. I also expressed to her some concerns for
submitting assignments due to connectivity issues and life circumstances. Not only did she provide leniency she provided hope and encouraging words which ultimately got me back on track mentally in my path for success and future endeavors. I have been so amazed in the efforts and support of all that I have encountered thus far in the school of nursing here at UVA. Professor heightened that to another level this semester. I feel it an honor to have been able to learn from her and am thankful for the opportunity to have been able to do so. I have grown both personally and professionally as a result of her instruction/ class." - Student in GNUR 6056, Summer 2020
"I am so grateful for Kim's honesty and humor throughout the entire year, but especially once we transitioned online. She is so encouraging and upbuilding, and makes a task that feels impossible something that is actually achievable. It is so evident how much Kim cares about her students and wants to them not only do well academically, but to also do well as people–genuinely taking care of ourselves while doing hard work. I loved getting to learn from and work with Kim over the past year!" - Student in NURS 4951, Spring 2020
"This course is more than just a class on health policy. Professor Acquaviva encourages her students to consider what it looks like to be a responsible nurse and citizen of the world who engages with people, political issues, and everyday life respectfully and honestly, while teaching us (her students) health policy." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"I have never felt more empowered by a professor. Kim is such a great role model and is someone who leads by example. She is always challenging us to enter difficult discussions, to challenge policies that may hurt individuals, and to strive to change the way things are done. She has given me the confidence and the power of knowledge to seek out change in my community. Kim is respectful, supportive, and a phenomenal professor. UVA is lucky to have her and I am lucky to have been taught by her." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
I have tried to be a non-judgmental and patient person but professor Kim has set an example unlike any other of what kindness and non judgement looks like. I am so thankful to learn from her and even though I know I differ in politic views, her attitude to go about having difficult conversations is one to take as an example for Congress and the entire world. I have never met someone so willing to quietly listen to opposing political views from ones own and be so respectful and polite to any view. Even though I do not have the same views, I wish more people were like Professor Kim and this world would be a more understanding and kind place. Thank you for being my professor!" - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"I felt that the shift to remote learning in this course was the most rewarding and I got the most out of it, as compared to the shift in other classes. Discussion boards were engaging and I really did feel like the prodding to post and read others' posts jump–started me into getting engaged, moreso than in other courses. Discussion boards were meaningful, and we covered a lot of new ground with person–to–person posts and deep dives into research. Early–semester policy projects were great ways to get out into the community or work in groups to apply our knowledge. I really liked course discussions as well, and am bummed, as I'm sure others are, that we didn't get the chance to end the semester in person." - Student in NUCO 6056, Spring 2020
"Kim has empowered me to start the conversations I used to shy away from. She has shown me that it is not only important to discuss issues like policy, power, race, justice but to bring them to the forefront of other people's minds. I am grateful to her and to this course for giving me the confidence to enter these tough conversations." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"This instructor made the MOST inclusive academic environment that I have been a part of. She made every student feel as though their input, views, positions were all important even if they did not align with hers and made sure everyone could learn even if it was differing from our own. She has empowered me to know that there are so many ways in which I can be involved and influence policy and the world around us. We decided to be nurses to help but we learned much more about ways we could help from that position of a nurse and with our own positions as our own person." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"Kim is the best professor I've ever had at the School of Nursing, and she cares so much about her students. Her actions prove that, and she treats everyone equally and equitably. This course is designed to make you questions your own sense of self and how that is correlated with American politics and consequential health disparities and implicit (sometimes explicit) discrimination. Not all courses are designed with this kind of humility, so I think we should all learn from that." - Student in NUCO 4056, Spring 2020
"Great class and great teacher! Professor Acquaviva graded assignments in a timely manner and enhanced our learning by giving constructive feedback in a positive and encouraging way. She's definitely very knowledgeable about the subject and you can tell she truly cares about her students and their success." - Student in NURS 6207, Spring 2018
"This professor was FANTASTIC. She was fair and ENTHUSIASTIC. I never really liked research before I took this class." - Student in NURS 6207, Fall 2016
"Nursing needs more positivity and she brings it each and every week! Some of her comments were the only nice things I heard about my nursing progression all week, and often all I had heard in over a month+. I wish more faculty brought her positivity and would really strive to create a love of learning like she does!" - Student in NURS 6207, Fall 2017
"Dr. Acquaviva is one of the best professors I've ever had in the graduate program. She respects students and her compassion for teaching is absolutely outstanding. She has her ways in igniting discussions, motivating and bringing out the best in each and every student. It was an incredible experience to have her as a Professor!" - Student in NURS 6202, Spring 2013
"Kim is a very special individual-she connects well with her students, freely shares her expert knowledge of research, offers helpful input, & and raises the level of intellectual discussions...She is supportive but doesn't spoon feed her students- she has a unique ability to inspire each student to reach their highest potential.- Student in NURS 8407, Summer 2010
"I cannot say enough about Dr. Acquaviva and her talent as a professor. Dr. Acquaviva is an open-minded instructor who genuinely welcomes feedback and is open to change. It has been evident throughout the semester that she is dedicated to us as students and in the learning process, and has treated us with a great deal of respect as adult learners. I have learned a great deal in her course and I cannot say enough about her openness, honesty, and quality as a professor. One of the best classes I have had here at GWU." - Student in NURS 6270, Fall 2012
"The excitement that Kim expressed when she communicated in either writing or verbally. She made me want to get in there and learn the concepts if they seemed difficult." Student in NURS 8403, Fall 2008
"I have been extremely pleased with the level of expertise and support that Dr. A[c]quaviva has shown throughout the entire course to the entire class. The mid-term exam was especially helpful because the exam not only tested knowledge gained, it also is a major teaching instrument as well. I think anytime a test can measure what's learned and also continue the learning process, that's a highly effective approach to teaching." - Student in HSCI 270, Fall 2007
"The instructor is too excellent. GWU is lucky to have such a talented and passionate, and really smart (brainy) instructor. The instructor is a perfect 10/10 in all aspects. PERFECT." - Student in NURS 8407, Summer 2011
"Dr. A. has been my favorite instructor in the GWU DNP program....Dr. A. is just great! GWU should clone her!" - Student in NURS 8498, Spring 2010
"Kim Acquaviva was one of the BEST professors that I have ever had in college. She was absolutely wonderful to work with. She was a fabulous teacher who was very informative and taught the subject of research very well. She was very accessible and always willing to help! When I was struggling, she even called me on the phone to help me work through the difficulties, rather than via email. It is clear that she has a great deal of knowledge in the field of research, and it shines when she is teaching!!! I wish that all professors were this interactive and helpful!" - Student in NURS 6270, Fall 2010
"The most positive aspect of the course is the instructor- Dr. Acquaviva possesses incredible knowledge and experience of grantwriting and she has an incredible ability to motivate students. She provides helpful feedback and direction and her enthusiasm for the subject and for teaching students is exceptional. She is an amazing instructor/ mentor! - Student in NURS 8407, Summer 2010
"One of the best classes I have had. Professor is an asset to the university. Would love to sit and have a cup of coffee with her and discuss some of the relevant subject matter." - Student in ELC 203, Spring 2007
"Dr. A[c]quaviva is one of the most knowledgeable, organized, enthusiastic, kind, and ego-preserving professors with which I have studied. Her feedback was always constructive and any corrective actions she made were done with the utmost respect and in the spirit of helping us be successful. Many thanks for a wonderful class!" - Student in NURS 8407, Summer 2009