Kelly L. Wierenga PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN

Education:
Postdoctoral Fellowship Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
PhD Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
MSN Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
BSN Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI

Work and Education
Dr. Wierenga is building a research program focused on understanding the complex interactions between distress and emotion regulation. Her specific interest lies in how these factors influence physical activity self-management in individuals with life-threatening illnesses, particularly following myocardial infarction or coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This research program aims to develop and evaluate theory-driven treatment approaches that address barriers to achieving sustained moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), especially in women recovering from major cardiac events. By targeting both physical and emotional distress, Dr. Wierenga seeks to improve recovery outcomes and advance nursing science. She has taught nursing for nine years—two years at Michigan State University, seven years at Indiana University—and is currently at the Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing. Her teaching focus is on theory, research, and quality improvement. 

Committees
Dr. Wierenga currently serves as an Associate Editor for the Western Journal of Nursing Research and as an Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing. She has also served on a variety of committees, most notably in external roles, including as a member of the Board of Directors for the Midwest Nursing Research Society, a founding and executive committee member of the Emerging Scholars Network, Research Chair for the Sigma Theta Tau International Alpha Chapter, and a member of both the Early Career and Membership Committees for the American Heart Association Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing Council. Within the university setting, she has served on the Research and Scholarship Committee, Faculty Council, Faculty Council of Research Affairs, and a Mentoring Task Force.

Articles and Presentations
Dr. Wierenga has an international presence through both presentations and publications. She has authored more than 30 publications, with several receiving over 100 citations in scholarly sources. Her work is disseminated in collaboration with an interdisciplinary team that includes experts in nursing, medicine, psychology, biostatistics, and clinical practice, as well as students across all educational levels.

Community
Dr. Wierenga is also actively involved in her local community. She volunteers with The STEM Connection, an organization that engages youth in STEM principles. Additionally, she participates in her church community through music ministries and Bible study groups.