Blaise Naive, PhD, PhD, RN, CMSRN, NEA-BC, exemplifies the modern nurse leader who seamlessly blends clinical expertise, visionary leadership, and heartfelt advocacy. With experience spanning the United States, United Kingdom, and the Philippines, Dr. Naive brings a truly global perspective to nursing education and practice. He is currently serving as a CMSRN Director for the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board (MSNCB), championing certification and professional growth in one of the most foundational specialties in healthcare.
Dr. Naive’s deep passion for medical-surgical nursing took root early in his career. “My journey into medical-surgical nursing began with a deep admiration for its complexity and its pivotal role in patient care,” he explains. He admires how medical-surgical nurses sit at the forefront of healthcare delivery, caring for diverse patient populations and advocating for positive outcomes. This specialty, often called the backbone of nursing, demands adaptability, strong clinical judgment, and a holistic approach—qualities that Dr. Naive embodied while advancing in his career across multiple countries.
His ascent to leadership within MSNCB was a natural progression, grounded in a desire to see other nurses excel. “Leadership within MSNCB felt like a natural progression of my passion for promoting excellence in medical-surgical nursing. It’s not just about individual achievement; it’s about empowering others,” Dr. Naive notes. As a CMSRN Director, he is well-positioned to help steer the future of medical-surgical nursing, ensuring that more nurses have access to the certification and professional development that can elevate their practice.
A proud Filipino, Dr. Naive credits much of his leadership style and values to his cultural upbringing: “My Filipino heritage has deeply shaped my values and leadership style. Growing up in a culture that prioritizes community, compassion, and resilience has influenced my approach to patient care and leadership.” He highlights bayanihan (community spirit) and malasakit (empathy) as core tenets guiding his work. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, he promotes teamwork and genuine care within any healthcare or educational setting he oversees. These values, coupled with a commitment to respect and humility, have been instrumental in his ability to adapt to diverse work environments and form genuine connections across cultures.
As a CMSRN Director, Dr. Naive has ambitious yet practical goals. “My primary goals include expanding access to certification opportunities, fostering professional growth, and amplifying the voices of medical-surgical nurses worldwide,” he says. His focus lies in breaking down barriers—be they financial constraints, limited awareness, or limited access to resources—that prevent nurses from pursuing certification. Furthermore, he envisions enhanced mentorship programs, cutting-edge educational opportunities, and the promotion of medical-surgical nursing’s critical role in high-quality care. “I also hope to represent diversity in leadership, ensuring that all nurses see themselves reflected in the profession’s leaders,” he adds. This leadership philosophy underscores Dr. Naive’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of nurse leaders.
For Filipino nurses aspiring to attain certification or step into leadership roles, Dr. Naive’s advice resonates with optimism and camaraderie: “I encourage you to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Certification is not just about gaining a title—it’s a way to affirm your expertise, demonstrate your commitment to patient care, and open doors to new possibilities.” He reminds them to stay true to their cultural strengths: empathy, hard work, and innovation. Dr. Naive also emphasizes the importance of leading with authenticity and forging strong collaborations, stating that the support of a community can be a powerful catalyst for success.
With his extensive achievements, global perspective, and unwavering passion for patient-centered care, Dr. Blaise Naive continues to be a driving force in medical-surgical nursing. By integrating compassion, resilience, and innovation, he not only leads by example but also inspires countless nurses around the world to embrace professional development, uphold the highest standards of care, and contribute to a more equitable and effective healthcare system.
