Patricia Ruiz has been an Ambulatory Nurse for more than 16 years. She graduated with honors and received her Bachelors Degree in Nursing from University of St. Thomas in Philippines. In 2008, Patricia received a Master's in Health Administration from Teacher's College, Columbia University in New York and she is currently enrolled at Hofstra University for a Masters in Business Administration. In 2009, Patricia received certification as an Advanced Nurse Executive from ANCC. She is the current vice chair of AAACN's Leadership SIG and is a member of AONE, NYONE and Sigma Theta Tau. Patricia's career in the United States started in 1994. She started as a staff nurse for a multi-specialty Ambulatory Group in Brooklyn, New York. Patricia had a progressive career and specialized in Ambulatory Surgery, Endoscopy and Ambulatory Chemotherapy. Patricia was the Director of Patient Care Services and Quality at North Shore -LIJ Health System. She was part of a team which oversees clinical operations and quality for more than 900 physicians practicing at more than 90 practice locations, spanning four counties in Long Island and Queens, New York.