Dr. Lori Tolson, CRNA, APRN

As a native South Floridian, Dr. Lori Tolson is proud to be an alumnus of all Florida schools. She attended Florida State University for her undergraduate studies and then returned to school to pursue her Nursing degree from Broward College. After being inspired by taking care of critically ill patients, she decided it was time to achieve a higher level of nursing education at Barry University. She obtained her Masters of Science in Anesthesiology in 2012 and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of North Florida in 2022.

Dr. Tolson currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology at Barry University, where she helps educate the next generation of Nurse Anesthetists. Previously, as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, a Level 1 trauma center, she promoted the translation of evidence-based research into bedside practices, such as opioid-free anesthesia and fluid monitoring and management. During this time, Dr. Tolson found fulfillment in preparing Resident Registered Nurse Anesthesiologists from diverse backgrounds. Helping to lead the anesthesia department as Vice-Chief of Advance Practice Providers, Dr. Tolson encouraged providers to follow high practice standards for patient safety, accountability, and effective-efficient care.

Dr. Tolson is actively involved in advocacy work with the Florida Association of Nurse Anesthetists (FANA). She has served on the FANA Government Relations Committee (2023-2024) and the Member Services Committee (2024-present), and is currently a Co-Chair contributing to legislative strategies and planning CRNA Lobby Day at the Capitol. As a candidate for the 2025-2026 FANA Board of Directors, she supports the organization's strategic priorities, including achieving independent practice for CRNAs and increasing membership to strengthen the profession's voice in Florida.

Scholarly work and interests include increasing patient safety through effective team communication, leveraging technological advances in healthcare simulation and education, and preparing future providers to rise to the challenge of caring for our most critically ill patients.

Drawing from her experience as a two-time All-American Division I tennis player, Dr. Tolson emphasizes traits such as determination, perseverance, and discipline in her teaching and advisory roles. Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Tolson enjoys spending time with her family, including her beloved pets. She is passionate about technological innovations, particularly in space exploration through ventures like SpaceX, and remains dedicated to lifelong learning.