Dallas Ducar, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, CNL (she/her/hers)
CEO
Transhealth Northampton
Who/what inspires you?
Trans kids! Especially the
GenderCool Project, which is a youth-led movement bringing positive change to the world. They are helping replace misinformed opinions with positive experiences meeting transgender and non-binary youth who are thriving. They remind me about the superpowers that all trans folks have - that we have learned to be resilient in the face of a world that can be abjectly harmful and come out stronger and more radiant. We need worldwide movements like this to show the true beauty, vibrancy and strength of our communities.
Do you have a mentor who has been instrumental to your career and, if so, whom and how? The late John Arras was a mentor to me when I studied philosophy and bioethics. He impacted and molded many with his wry wit and genuine compassion. He was a vibrant, deeply moral, profane professor with a side-splitting sense of humor. He was never afraid to ask the difficult questions and inspired many to reflect on life and the choices each of us makes each and every day. Perhaps most importantly, he always reminded everyone around him never to take things too seriously.
What words of wisdom might you pass on to those entering the field?
To chase happiness and joy. So often, students are so focused on how to get to the next place, to climb the ladder, especially coming out of school. It’s so vitally important to follow what makes you happy and to spend time truly reflecting on this. We only get one life and we have the great opportunity to make it a good one. Work less, play more, and follow your passions.
We are excited to share that Dallas will be speaking about how to work together to create affirming and empowering healthcare at ANAC2022! Learn more about our annual conference and save the date for Nov. 17-19 in Tampa, Florida. Registration opens May 15!
