Advanced Practice Providers Committee
The Advanced Practice Providers (APP) Committee is dedicated to supporting nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and advanced practice providers working in pediatric neurosurgery. Through education, collaboration, mentorship, research, and professional networking, the committee provides valuable opportunities that strengthen clinical practice while advancing patient care.
Whether you’re new to pediatric neurosurgery or an experienced APP leader, our community offers educational programs, journal clubs, quality improvement initiatives, leadership opportunities, and resources designed to support your professional growth and connect you with colleagues across the specialty.
Roles and Responsibilities
- The primary responsibility of the APP committee is to facilitate networking and engagement of APPs within the pediatric section.
- The committee serves as a liaison with the Executive Committee as it pertains to APP practice and involvement within the pediatric section.
- The committee supports efforts of the APP subcommittees as they relate to membership, engagement, education, and conference planning.
- The committee supports research opportunities and updates for clinical practice as it pertains to APP practice within pediatric neurosurgery.
What We Do
Build Connections
Create meaningful networking opportunities among APPs across pediatric neurosurgery.
Education
Provide journal clubs, educational resources, webinars, and continuing professional development.
Research & Quality Improvement
Support research collaboration, quality improvement initiatives, and evidence-based clinical practice.
Leadership
Encourage APP involvement within the Pediatric Section through committee service and leadership opportunities.
2025-2027 APP Committee Members
- Michelle Buontempo (Chair)
- Jennifer Amon
- Mandy Breedt
- Alicia Cook
- Lauren Delgado
- Ana Diaz
- Samantha Himsworth
- Emily McClernon
- Lisa McLennan
- Katrina Moya
- Elisha Peregino
- Lucia Ruggieri
- APP Senior Advisor: Haley Vance
Member Submissions
Contribute to the collective intelligence of the pediatric neurosurgery community.
Annual Meetings
Our regular assemblies serve as the cornerstone for professional development and networking within the pediatric subspecialty.
Need Help?
Contact our team for section information or technical support.
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Transition of Care Committee (TOCC) – Heath Care Provider Subcommittee
- Dr. Smruti Patel (Co-Chair)
- Haley Vance, DNP, CPNP-AC (Co-Chair)
- Jennifer Amon
- Mandy Breedt
- Graciello Gallo
- Christine Gumma
- Dr. Sarah Hartnett-Wright
- Samantha Himsworth
- Trisha Leonard
- Lisa McLennan
- Natasha Raman
Share your staffing model today: Complete the APP practice questionnaire and send responses directly to Jennifer.Amon@childrens.harvard.edu
Upcoming APP Journal Clubs – Zoom
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
7:00pm (Eastern Time) via Microsoft Teams
APP Journal Club Host: Jennifer Amon, MSN, CPNP, PMHS (Boston Children’s Hospital)
Article: Advanced practice providers in pediatric neurosurgery: a single-institution analysis of clinical and surgical productivity
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
7:00pm (Eastern Time) via Microsoft Teams
APP Journal Club Host: Mandy Breedt, ARNP (Neuroscience APP manager, Seattle Children’s Hospital)
