Dr. Deborah Lafond is the Chief Executive Officer of PANDA Education Consultants, PLLC, a position she holds with distinction. Prior to this, she served as the Clinical Director of the PANDA Palliative Care Team at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC, a role she occupied with great dedication and expertise. Notably, she retired from her clinical practice at Children's National in May 2020, marking the culmination of a long and illustrious career in the field.
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Lafond has earned numerous degrees, including a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Maryland, a Masters in Nursing from the University of Hawaii, and a Bachelor's in Nursing from the University of Maryland. These academic credentials have served as a solid foundation for her distinguished career in nursing.
With a background in pediatric oncology advanced practice nursing, Dr. Lafond has spent 22 years specializing in neuro-oncology, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the field. Her expertise in this area has earned her recognition as a Sojourns Scholar in pediatric palliative care, a prestigious honor that recognizes her contributions to the field.
Dr. Lafond has also presented her research on models of primary pediatric palliative care delivery at the National Academies of Science, Medicine, and Engineering, a testament to her dedication to advancing the field through innovative research and collaboration. Additionally, she serves as a national ELNEC trainer and a trainer for EPEC-Pediatric, disseminating her knowledge and expertise to a wider audience.
Dr. Lafond's research interests are focused on primary pediatric palliative care and integrating these principles into oncology practice, a reflection of her passion for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for children and families affected by cancer. Throughout her career, Dr. Lafond has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration, making her an invaluable asset to the field of pediatric palliative care.
