Jessica Lara, MSN, RN

Jessica earned her Associate of Science in Nursing from Wilkes Community College in 2014, followed by her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in nursing education from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She is a recipient of the DAISY Award and the Graduate Achievement Award. 

Her nursing experience spans several specialties, including medical-surgical nursing, post-anesthesia care (PACU), hematology/oncology, and emergency medicine. Jessica discovered her passion for nursing education while precepting novice nurses and nursing students. She went on to work full-time as a nursing instructor in the community college setting, where she further developed her love for clinical education and simulation-based learning.

Jessica is passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where students can build confidence, strengthen critical-thinking skills, and grow into competent, compassionate nurses. In 2026, she joined Appalachian State University as a full-time clinical faculty member and looks forward to continuing to grow as a nurse educator and pursuing additional professional development in the future.

Outside of work, Jessica lives in Wilkes County with her husband and their three children. She enjoys balancing family life with her passion for nursing and helping shape the next generation of nurses.

Title: Clinical Instructor

Email address: Email me

Phone: (828) 262-7063

Fax: (828) 262-8066

Office address
542-J Leon Levine Hall