For Richard Staple ’24, nursing was always part of the conversation.
His mother, Karen Staple, earned her Master of Science in nursing as a family nurse practitioner from Molloy University in 2012 and often spoke highly of her experience. While her enthusiasm introduced him to the University, Richard says his decision ultimately came down to Molloy's reputation for nursing excellence.
“My mom definitely advertised Molloy,” he said with a laugh. “But what really convinced me was the strength of the nursing program. I saw how competitive it was to get in, and that told me a lot about the quality of the education.”
Today, Staple is putting that education to work as a public health nurse and case manager with the Nassau County Department of Health's Bureau of Tuberculosis, where he helps manage active tuberculosis cases throughout Nassau County. Working with hospitals, physicians and public health officials, he coordinates care for patients, supports contact investigations and helps prevent the spread of disease within the community.
His role allows him to combine clinical knowledge with compassion, communication and advocacy. Staple finds the work rewarding, explaining that while helping people through a challenging time, he is also making a positive impact on the community.
Discovering Public Health Through Nursing
Staple knew he had made the right choice about attending Molloy during his first clinical rotation at Mercy Hospital.
“The program was really comprehensive,” he said. “When I got into clinicals, I realized how well-prepared we were. Molloy doesn't just teach you the information. It teaches you how to apply it with actual patients.”
One course in particular helped shape the direction of his career: Public/Community Health Nursing Practice.
As part of the class, students traveled into New York City to conduct community assessments and evaluate factors that influence health outcomes. The experience introduced Staple to the broader impact nurses can have beyond traditional healthcare settings.
“That class was probably the most influential for me,” he recalled. “It was the first time I really saw how public health could be a pathway within nursing. It showed me how much of healthcare happens outside of a hospital and how important it is to understand the communities you're serving.”
The experience ultimately inspired his interest in public health and helped lead him to his current role.
Nursing Beyond the Bedside
According to Marcia Gardner, EdD, RN, dean of Molloy's Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Staple's career highlights the many ways nurses serve society beyond hospital walls.
“Richard's career is a wonderful example of how nursing is woven into so many aspects of our lives,” Gardner said. “When people think about nursing, they often picture bedside care, but nurses are making an impact in public health, education, research, policy, and community outreach every day.”
Gardner noted that tuberculosis treatment requires long-term commitment and support from healthcare professionals.
“Tuberculosis treatment can be a lengthy process, and patients need encouragement, planning, and ongoing support to successfully complete treatment,” she said. “Public health nurses play a vital role in helping patients stay engaged in their care. Their work benefits not only the individual patient but also the health and safety of the entire community.”
For Staple, that intersection of patient care and community impact is what makes public health nursing so meaningful.
Making the Most of the Molloy Experience
Beyond the classroom, Staple embraced opportunities to become involved on campus and develop as a leader.
Among his favorite memories was being selected to host Molloy's Maroon Madness pep rally in 2019, an experience that pushed him outside his comfort zone. He was also recognized as Editor of the Year for his work with MolloyLife Media's News Content Department, where he strengthened his communication and leadership skills.
Today, Staple is continuing his education by pursuing a Master of Public Health at the University at Albany, building on his nursing foundation and passion for service.
Looking back, he credits Molloy with teaching him that nursing is about far more than treating symptoms.
As he builds a career dedicated to improving community health, Staple's journey reflects the values at the heart of a Molloy education: academic excellence, service to others and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities alike.