Shirley A. Thorn, PhD, RN serves as Assistant Professor at Loewenberg School of Nursing, University of Memphis. She recently completed a Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She holds a Master of Nursing Degree (MN), with a major in nursing administration, from the University of Manitoba, Canada, and a Master of Administration Degree (MAdmin), with a major in public policy, from the University of Regina, Canada.

Research and Teaching

Dr. Thorn’s current research focus is health information exchange; she recently completed a study using grounded theory methodology. Dr. Thorn is currently publishing her recent research and is an accomplished presenter. Her areas of academic expertise include healthcare informatics, nursing administration and leadership, and public policy administration. Dr. Thorn brings international diversity with prior experience in a variety of clinical areas and leadership positions in acute care hospitals across Canada. She has held senior management positions, including the role of Senior Project Manager with the Government of Canada. She currently teaches in the graduate programs and Executive Master of Nursing program.

Dr. Thorn serves on the Technology Committee, Graduate Curriculum, and Graduate Council at Loewenberg School of Nursing and the Teaching and Learning Advisory Committee (TLAC) at the University of Memphis. In addition, she serves on the TN State working group, Health Information Partnership (HIP-TN), which coordinates health information exchange across the state. Recently, she was asked to join the Medication History Advisory Group for the State of TN.  

Dr. Thorn holds membership in the American Nurses Association, American Organization of Nurse Executives, Sigma Theta Tau International, American College of Healthcare Executives, ANA-Caring Nursing Informatics Organization, and the National League of Nursing. 

Scholarship

Dr. Thorn is a member of the Executive MSN program, which receives funding from a Health Resources and Services Administration grant (grant range 1-1.2 million dollars)- Dr. Thomas (PI).