November 19, 2024
East Texas Baptist University Teague School of Nursing Assistant Professor Dr. Antay Waters has been appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Perinatal Advisory Council. Dr. Waters, the only advanced practice nurse on the 19-member council, will serve a three-year term. The council is tasked with developing and recommending neonatal and maternal care standards for clinical care settings across the state.
"As both a nurse educator and advanced practice nurse, I see how vital it is to bridge the gap between clinical practice and nursing education," Dr. Waters said. "Through my service on the Perinatal Advisory Council, I'm not just shaping policies - I'm helping create a framework that will influence how we educate the next generation of nurses. When we strengthen the connection between evidence-based practice, policy development, and nursing education, we create a powerful ripple effect that enhances care for mothers and newborns across Texas. Each student we teach, each standard we set, brings us closer to excellence in maternal and neonatal care for all Texans."
In addition to this prestigious appointment, the Texas Health & Human Services Commission has also selected Dr. Waters to serve as a Texas Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (Texas AIM) Implementation mentor. In this role, she will lead efforts to implement evidence-based practices that improve maternal health outcomes statewide.
"Dr. Antay Waters' appointment to the Texas Perinatal Advisory Council is a testament to her exceptional expertise and dedication to advancing maternal and neonatal care," ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. "As a member of our faculty and a leader in women's health, Dr. Waters exemplifies East Texas Baptist University's commitment to Christ-centered excellence in education and service. Her work on the council will shape healthcare standards across Texas and inspire the next generation of nurses to pursue compassionate, evidence-based care that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of families. We are incredibly proud of Dr. Waters and the impact she will continue to have on our state and beyond."
Dr. Waters brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to these roles. She holds advanced degrees in nursing administration, women's health, and midwifery, along with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Currently pursuing her PhD in Nursing at the University of Texas at Tyler, Dr. Waters also has a rich clinical background in women's health and perioperative services and owns a surgical first-assist practice.
"ETBU's Teague School of Nursing is beyond proud of Dr. Waters on this appointment by Governor Abbott," Teague School of Nursing Dean Dr. Nicole Fant said. "We see her Christian servant leadership and expertise in our field daily. We are happy the state will benefit from what Dr. Waters brings to the table in setting perinatal policies."