Nashville, TN, USA

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April Kapu , DNP, ACNP-BC

As a nurse practitioner, healthcare executive, policy advocate, and educator, April has dedicated her career to advancing high-quality, equitable, and accessible care. From leading national organizations to building academic–practice partnerships and mentoring the next generation of advanced practice clinicians, she is driven by the belief that empowered providers deliver better outcomes for patients and communities.

April has served in influential roles across the healthcare landscape—as a senior leader in health systems, president of a national professional association, and academic dean focused on nurse faculty practice and local-to-global partnerships. In every role, she brings a collaborative approach, a systems-level perspective, and a deep commitment to the nursing profession and the patients it serves.

Recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives, she frequently speaks on national and international stages, publishes on clinical and leadership topics, and collaborates with legislative leaders to shape healthcare policy that improves access and outcomes. She believes in bold thinking, cross-sector partnerships, and leading with purpose.

Currently based at Vanderbilt University, she focuses on expanding education, policy, and service initiatives that strengthen the advanced practice workforce, support clinical autonomy, and promote community-based, culturally responsive care.

© Association of Pulmonary Advanced Practice Providers. 2025. All rights reserved.

© Association of Pulmonary Advanced Practice Providers. 2025. All rights reserved.