We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional individuals who have earned the honor of being named GAPNA's Rising Stars. These outstanding professionals have been selected by our board for their unwavering passion and dedication to advancing GAPNA's mission — promoting excellence in advanced practice nursing to enhance the well-being of older adults.
Our Rising Stars are more than just emerging leaders; they are trailblazers who actively contribute to the future of nursing with innovative ideas, collaborative spirit, and a deep commitment to improving care for older adults. Their enthusiasm, dedication, and vision inspire us all to continue striving for excellence in every aspect of advanced practice nursing.
Join us in celebrating our latest Rising Star – Carmen Victoria Framil Suarez!
Name and credentials:
Carmen Victoria Framil Suarez, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, CNE, GS-C, CWS
Where you earned your degree(s):
BSN, University of Florida, Class of 2006
MSN, University of Florida, Class of 2008
DNP, Florida International University, Class of 2013
Employer and title:
Clinical Associate Professor, Florida International University
Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Describe a day in the life:
My mornings begin quietly—with a warm cup of coffee and a few peaceful moments before my two energetic boys, ages 2 and 5, burst into the day. After dropping them off at school, I transition into my professional world, serving as a Clinical Associate Professor and leading the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program.
My day is filled with meaningful work: developing and refining graduate-level courses, mentoring future nurse practitioners, and reviewing student projects. I am committed to advancing research that supports the health and dignity of older adults, especially those living with dementia.
In addition to my academic role, I maintain a clinical practice providing advanced wound care directly in patients’ homes—bringing compassionate, specialized care to those who need it most.
Evenings are dedicated to family: picking up my sons, helping with homework, preparing dinner, and guiding them through bath and bedtime routines. Some nights, I participate in leadership meetings with professional organizations such as GAPNA, FNA, and the Miami-Dade NP Council. I am also an active member of AANP, Sigma Theta Tau, ANA, and WOCN.
What inspired you to work in geriatrics:
My passion for geriatrics began after completing my RN program at Woodlands Care Center of Alachua County, where I discovered the joy of caring for older adults and building meaningful relationships with long-term residents. Their stories, resilience, and wisdom shaped my decision to pursue the Adult Nurse Practitioner track during my MSN.
During my DNP, I focused on helping nurses recognize low health literacy among homebound seniors and tailoring communication to meet patients’ needs. Guided by my mentor, Dr. Ellen Brown, this work deepened my commitment to improving care for older adults and those living with dementia.
More recently, I joined the GAPNA GeroPsych SIG, became a certified Gerontological Specialist, and took on leadership roles within the organization. I look forward to participating in the GAPNA Leadership Institute and continuing to advance geriatric care.
How do you see the field of geriatrics evolving in the future:
The field is rapidly evolving to meet the needs of an aging population. Trends include:
- Interdisciplinary care teams
- Increased use of telehealth and remote monitoring
- Focus on dementia care and cognitive health
- Emphasis on health literacy, personalized care, and advocacy
Geriatric professionals will continue to play a vital role in shaping a compassionate and innovative healthcare system for older adults.
What is your favorite part of your job:
I cherish building meaningful relationships—with students, patients, and older adults. Mentoring future nurse practitioners, providing in-home care, and advocating through professional organizations allows me to make a lasting impact. Seeing students grow and helping older adults live with dignity brings deep fulfillment every day.
Hobbies/Favorite activities:
Reading, watching crime documentaries, and spending time with my family.
Describe where you hope to be in 5 years in your career:
I hope to continue advancing geriatric care through leadership, education, and research. My goals include:
- Expanding mentorship of future nurse practitioners
- Deepening research on dementia
- Contributing to policy and practice improvements
- Strengthening advocacy and education efforts
How long have you been a GAPNA member:
Membership: 2 years
Leadership: Joined the GeroPsych SIG; volunteered as co-chair and have served since.
Awards and Honors:
- 2025 FNA Nursing Innovation and Creativity ICON Award
- 2022 FNA Community Action ICON Award
- 2021 FNA South Region Community Action Award
- 2021 FNA South Region Nurse of the Year Award
- 2021 Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences Excellence in Service Award
- 2021 FNA South Region Certificate of Appreciation: South Region Director
- 2021 FNA Education and Advocacy ICON Award Nominee
Any workplace honors you’d like to mention:
I am honored to be recognized as a Rising Star. My work is driven by a passion for improving the lives of older adults, mentoring the next generation of nurse practitioners, and advocating for high-quality, equitable care. I value collaboration, lifelong learning, and bringing compassion, innovation, and purpose to everything I do—whether in the classroom, the clinic, or the community.