Dr. Joseph D. Tariman, PhD, MBA, RN, ANP-BC, FAAN, has built a career that bridges cutting-edge research, clinical innovation, and academic leadership. An internationally renowned nurse researcher, educator, and clinician, his work has transformed the way older adults with myeloma are cared for, while inspiring nurses across the globe to pursue research and leadership in the profession. His election as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing in 2016 cemented his reputation as a thought leader in oncology nursing and healthcare innovation.
Dr. Tariman’s research journey began in 2002 at Northwestern University, where he joined the myeloma research program and became co-investigator on numerous clinical trials. These pivotal studies led to the FDA approval of six novel therapies, giving him the platform to serve as a key opinion leader in myeloma care. His expertise extended to editing three editions of the only nursing book on myeloma and co-authoring eight book chapters, covering topics such as stem cell transplantation, survivorship, and side effect management. His own research has focused on shared decision-making and patient-reported outcomes, leading to the development of validated tools like the Acceptability Scale and the Shared-Decision Making Competency for Nurses. These instruments, now translated into multiple languages, are used internationally in advancing patient-centered cancer care.
His leadership extends far beyond research. As a founding member of the International Myeloma Foundation’s Nurse Leadership Board, Dr. Tariman has guided clinicians worldwide in publishing articles on novel therapies and survivorship care. His contributions have shaped the education of nurses working with myeloma patients and provided essential frameworks for patient engagement and advocacy.
Asked about his pathway into academic leadership, Dr. Tariman points to his Northwestern experience as pivotal. “During my decade-long tenure at Northwestern University, I had the opportunity to serve as a co-investigator on clinical drug trials that led to the FDA approval of six novel therapies for myeloma, which enabled me to become an expert in this field,” he reflects. Following his PhD, he began teaching at DePaul University, where he launched the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in multiple specialty tracks and helped secure a 10-year accreditation status. Later, at Rutgers University-Camden, he forged an innovative partnership with a federally qualified health center to address primary care gaps in Camden, New Jersey. These roles, he notes, prepared him for his current position at Creighton University, where he leads six specialty tracks in advanced practice nursing and administration.
His Filipino heritage is central to his leadership vision. “My Filipino values, such as bayanihan (communal spirit), kapwa (fellowship), pakikisama (cooperation), and Catholic values focused on loving and serving God, are the foundation of my leadership style,” he explains. These values inform his ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and inspire students to lead with purpose. He sees strong alignment between Filipino values and Creighton’s Jesuit mission, particularly the principles of cura personalis (care for the whole person) and magis (seeking the greater good).
As Associate Dean for Graduate Nursing Programs, Dr. Tariman’s priorities are clear: advancing research and scholarship, fostering teaching innovation, and stewarding program growth. “My goal is to increase the program’s research and scholarship footprint and support innovations in teaching and clinical practicum,” he says. He envisions expanding practice partnerships, joint appointments, and residency opportunities, positioning Creighton’s graduates as leaders recognized for clinical excellence, critical thinking, and social responsibility.
Dr. Tariman also reflects on the unique challenges and opportunities for Filipino nurses in academia. He sees great potential for Filipino educators to shape the future of nursing education globally, but emphasizes the importance of articulating values and demonstrating how cultural perspectives enhance nursing’s mission. “Filipino nurses must amplify how these values contribute to the overall mission and vision of the nursing profession, both locally and globally,” he notes.
His message to the next generation of Filipino nurse leaders is rooted in authenticity and purpose. “Stay true to your life values. Follow your dreams and aspirations unconditionally. Do realize that your trajectory to becoming nurse leaders and educators is unique. Draw strength from your inner core values. Do not rely on external or materialistic sources of energy and happiness. Live a meaningful and purposeful life both at home and at work.”
From groundbreaking myeloma research to building nationally recognized academic programs, Dr. Joseph Tariman’s career demonstrates the power of scholarship, leadership, and cultural heritage. His journey is a testament to the impact of nurse leaders who combine scientific rigor with human compassion, and his vision for Creighton University promises to shape generations of socially responsible nurse practitioners and scholars.
