Alumni Spotlight: Darrel Foister Jr. 鈥� Serving Alaska as a Nurse Practitioner
by Jessica Degnan |
快盈v3鈥檚 School of Nursing alum Darrel Foister Jr. earned his Master of Science in Nursing and now works as a family nurse practitioner serving Alaskans. After retiring from the military, Foister chose to pursue a new path in health care and completed the Alaska AHEC Scholars program to better understand the unique needs of rural communities. 鈥淎HEC really opened my eyes to the healthcare needs across Alaska,鈥� he said. His experience at 快盈v3 prepared him to transition into advanced practice nursing. Now, Foister is dedicated to improving access to care in the state he proudly calls home.
Name: Darrel Foister Jr.
Educational background:
- Associates of Applied Science, Paramedical Technology from Kenai Peninsula College.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science, Registered Nurse, with a minor in diet and nutrition, from the 快盈v3
- Master of Science, Family Nursing Practice, 快盈v3
Unit you graduated from: School of Nursing
Hometown: Kasilof, AK
Current location: Palmer
Place of employment: Capstone Family Medicine
Job title: Family Nurse Practitioner
How long have you worked at this organization and/or been in this position?: One year
Please describe your duties and responsibilities in your current role.:
A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in private practice plays a multifaceted role, blending clinical expertise with patient-centered care. Here's a breakdown of key jobs and duties::
Clinical Responsibilities, Conduct Comprehensive Assessments, Perform physical exams, obtain health histories, and evaluate patient concerns across the lifespan (pediatrics to geriatrics), Diagnose and Treat Conditions, Identify acute and chronic illnesses and implement evidence-based treatment plans, Prescribe Medications and Therapies, Manage medications, including controlled substances, and prescribe appropriate treatments (within state licensure and collaborative agreements), Order and Interpret Diagnostic Tests, Request labs, imaging, and other tests; interpret results to guide clinical decisions, Provide Preventive Care, Administer immunizations, perform screenings (e.g., Pap smears, cholesterol checks), and educate on lifestyle and wellness, Patient Education and Counseling, Offer guidance on disease prevention, management of chronic conditions, and health promotion.
Why is your work important? What impact does your work have on individuals and communities? What do you love about your job?:
My work is deeply meaningful to me because it allows me to serve as both a healthcare provider and a leader within my community. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have the unique opportunity to care for individuals and families across the entire lifespan鈥攆rom birth to end-of-life. Many of my patients are not just clients; they are my neighbors, friends, and even family members. This connection adds a profound sense of purpose to the care I provide.
I am privileged to be a trusted voice in guiding my patients through their health journeys, helping them navigate both routine care and complex health challenges. Whether it鈥檚 supporting a new mother, managing a chronic condition, or providing comfort at life鈥檚 end, I strive to offer compassionate, evidence-based care that reflects the values and needs of my community.
I truly love my job because it allows me to build lasting relationships with families and make a tangible difference in the health and well-being of the people I care about most.
What motivated you to pursue a career in healthcare, and how did your experience at 快盈v3 College of Health help shape your goals?:
After graduating from high school, I chose to serve my country by joining the United States Air Force, where I worked in Security Forces. This experience instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment to service鈥攙alues that continue to guide my professional journey.
Upon returning home, I reconnected with a friend and local Soldotna Police Officer who encouraged me to take advantage of my GI Bill benefits and explore a career in emergency services. I began by enrolling in an EMT-1 course, which sparked a deep interest in pre-hospital care. Motivated by that experience, I advanced through EMT-2 and EMT-3, eventually earning my Firefighter I certification and a degree in Paramedicine.
My time at the 快盈v3 ( 快盈v3) played a pivotal role in shaping my career path. The education and hands-on training I received there laid a strong foundation for clinical excellence and helped me establish a clear vision for my future. 快盈v3 gave me the steppingstones to pursue higher education while providing a meaningful and impactful career in healthcare. It was through this journey that I discovered my passion for continued learning and my aspiration to practice independently as a healthcare provider.
Why did you choose to attend 快盈v3?:
I chose the 快盈v3 ( 快盈v3) for several important reasons. First, after completing my military service, my family encouraged me to return home to Alaska to pursue my education. Staying close to home allowed me to reduce living expenses while benefiting from the support of my loved ones during this important transition. 快盈v3鈥檚 affordable tuition for in-state residents made it a financially practical and accessible choice as I pursued my academic and professional goals.
More than just a practical decision, attending 快盈v3 was a personal one. I am proudly Alaskan raised, and I鈥檝e always felt a deep connection to this state. Alaska offers a unique way of life that I truly embrace, from hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the summer, to hunting in the fall and snowboarding in the winter. The natural beauty and sense of community here are unmatched. Choosing 快盈v3 meant I could continue to live, learn, and grow in the place I call home.
How has your education at 快盈v3 College of Health helped you contribute to your community and make a positive impact in the lives of others?:
Beyond the privilege of caring for individuals in my community and striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those I encounter daily, I also have the honor of serving as the Treasurer for the Alaska Nurse Practitioner Association. This prestigious role has allowed me to contribute to the advancement of the nurse practitioner profession across our vast and unique state.
I believe that I would not have been afforded this opportunity without the education and support I received through the 快盈v3 ( 快盈v3). My time at 快盈v3 not only equipped me with the clinical knowledge and skills to succeed as a Family Nurse Practitioner but also empowered me to take on leadership roles within the professional community. Through this position, I have the chance to support fellow NPs, advocate for our profession, and help build a stronger, more connected healthcare community across Alaska.
What was your personal and/or professional journey that led you to your current career?:
I have intentionally chosen a path rooted in community service, and each step of my journey has built upon the last, guiding me toward a meaningful and fulfilling career in healthcare. It has not always been an easy road鈥攖here have been challenges, sacrifices, and moments of doubt鈥攂ut every experience has contributed to my growth, both personally and professionally.
From serving in the military to working in emergency services and ultimately becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, my journey has been defined by a steadfast commitment to helping others. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I鈥檝e had along the way, each of which has reinforced my dedication to making a difference in the lives of those around me. My experiences in the medical field have not only shaped who I am today, but have also given me a profound sense of purpose and pride in the work I do.
Who influenced you most during your time at 快盈v3?:
Oh, wow where do I start, considering my entire college experience has been through the 快盈v3, I have so many people to thank. First, I have to give a special shout-out to the Perrys at Kenai Peninsula College (KPC), who were instrumental in sparking my initial interest in the medical field. Their encouragement and support helped set the foundation for everything that followed.
During my undergraduate studies, I was fortunate to learn from Dr. Tom and Dr. Toscano. A quick side story: my second daughter was born the day before my pharmacology final in Dr. Toscano鈥檚 class. Thanks to her thorough preparation and excellent teaching, I still managed to pass the exam with flying colors despite getting very little sleep the night before.
In graduate school, I was supported and inspired by Dr. Coffman, Dr. Brissette, and Assistant Professor Baker. One of the most rewarding aspects of this stage in my education has been the ability to form real connections with my instructors. At this level of professional practice, it's incredibly meaningful to be able to call them colleagues and even friends. It is a great relief knowing I can still reach out for a quick consultation when I'm facing a particularly challenging patient case, their ongoing mentorship is something I deeply value.
Share your best college memory.:
I would be remiss if I didn鈥檛 mention one of the most meaningful parts of my journey. I met my wife at the Kenai Peninsula College (KPC) campus. Together, we now have four wonderful daughters.
At the time, I was a paramedic student, and one of our responsibilities was to assist EMT students during "stab lab" a lighthearted nickname for IV insertion practice. That鈥檚 where I met my wife, who was an aspiring EMT-II. What began as a shared commitment to emergency medicine quickly grew into a lifelong partnership, both personally and professionally.
What were some of the most valuable lessons you learned while studying at 快盈v3 and how have they helped you in your career?:
One of the most valuable lessons I鈥檝e learned throughout my journey is that hard work truly pays off. Spending the majority of my adult life in school has taught me the importance of perseverance, discipline, and a relentless drive to keep moving forward, even when the path is challenging.
This mindset of grinding through the tough moments, staying focused, and pushing beyond comfort zones has become a core part of who I am. It has shaped not only my work ethic but also my commitment to lifelong learning. I鈥檝e come to appreciate that growth doesn鈥檛 stop at graduation; there鈥檚 always more to learn, more to improve, and more ways to serve others through my profession.
At the same time, this journey has reminded me to recognize my own worth. Every long night, early morning, and hard-earned achievement is a testament to the dedication I鈥檝e poured into this path. Knowing how much I鈥檝e invested helps me carry myself with confidence and pride in both my personal and professional life.
What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at 快盈v3 and are looking to build a successful career in healthcare?:
While healthcare requires individual responsibility, it is ultimately a team effort that thrives on collaboration and strong leadership. I wouldn鈥檛 be where I am today without the support of my peers and study groups during undergrad and the teamwork in my master鈥檚 program were essential to my growth. We faced challenges together, celebrated victories, and supported one another through setbacks. These experiences reinforced my belief that healthcare is most effective when we work as a unified team supporting, learning, and leading together.
Describe 快盈v3 in three words.:
Supportive - with a great community of classmates and faculty and professors with open door policies.
Hands-On - which has helped me as a practitioner with a practicing degree
Community - With it being a local college with deep roots in the community I was able to accomplish all of my RN and FNP clinical hours within the state of Alaska.
How did your education at 快盈v3 prepare you for what you are doing today?:
快盈v3 introduced me to the AHEC (Area Health Education Center) Scholar Program, which has opened countless doors for me and significantly shaped my career path. Through this program, I was able to expand my clinical knowledge, build connections across the healthcare field, and gain valuable experience serving rural and underserved communities.
Most notably, my involvement with AHEC helped me secure a highly competitive residency position an incredible honor, as only four providers were selected. This unique opportunity is available to nurse practitioners only within a limited window after graduation, making it all the more meaningful.
Participating in this residency will not only deepen my clinical skills and confidence but will also directly benefit the patients I serve. The advanced training and mentorship I receive will allow me to deliver more comprehensive, informed, and patient-centered care throughout my practice.
Can you share a particularly rewarding experience or accomplishment from your career that you're proud of?:
Although my career as a provider is still in its early stages, every day brings a new adventure and a valuable opportunity to grow. I am proud of the strides I鈥檝e made so far and remain committed to becoming a trusted and respected provider in my community.
Each patient interaction whether it's with someone new or a familiar face is meaningful to me. I take great pride in delivering compassionate, thoughtful care and in building lasting relationships with those I serve. These daily experiences not only strengthen my clinical skills but also deepen my sense of purpose and reinforce my dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of my patients.
How has being a graduate of 快盈v3 College of Health impacted your life, and what advice would you give to others considering pursuing a degree from this institution?:
This journey has had a profoundly positive impact on my life, and I鈥檓 incredibly proud of what I鈥檝e accomplished. Reaching my goals has not only brought personal fulfillment, but it has also reinforced my sense of purpose and resilience.
One of the most meaningful aspects of this achievement is the example it sets for my children. I hope that by witnessing my dedication and perseverance, they see that success is possible through hard work and determination. My greatest hope is that my journey inspires them to dream big, work hard, and believe in their ability to accomplish whatever they set their minds to.
What is something people may not know about you?:
This is a tough question, as I tend to be a pretty open book. However, something that many people may not know about me is that during high school, I participated in a short-term exchange program to Magadan, Russia. The experience gave me a unique opportunity to immerse myself in Russian culture and learn firsthand about the region's rich history, particularly its role during World War II.
What are your future goals and aspirations, and how do you plan to use your education and experience to achieve them?:
My current goal is to join the Army National Guard and serve as a Family Nurse Practitioner. This opportunity will not only allow me to give back through military service but will also support my long-term ambition of pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing. At this point in my life, I truly see myself as a lifelong learner. As long as there鈥檚 a curiosity to satisfy or a challenge to grow from, I鈥檒l continue striving to learn, evolve, and reach new goals.
How has being a graduate of 快盈v3 impacted your life, and what advice would you give to others considering pursuing a degree from this College of Health?:
Being a graduate of 快盈v3 has impacted my life in countless meaningful ways. It gave me the confidence and character to pursue my goals, whether that meant volunteering in a fire department, working in the emergency room of one of Alaska鈥檚 largest hospitals, or joining a respected and well-established family practice. 快盈v3 didn鈥檛 just provide me with an education; it opened doors to incredible opportunities and laid the foundation for a fulfilling career that allows me to support both my family and my community.
My advice to anyone considering the medical field is this: it鈥檚 a vast and diverse profession with something for everyone. If you feel even the slightest pull toward it, take the leap. I had no idea that sitting in on an EMT 1 class would eventually lead me to become a nurse practitioner but taking that first step made all the difference. You never know where one decision might lead, but you have to be willing to start.
Is there anything else you would like to share?:
Go Wolves!