Faculty: Cancer Systemic Therapy Certification Course
Kate Heighton, RN, MN, CON(c)
With over a decade of experience at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre, Kate joined the Learning Institute in 2020 as a Nurse Educator with a focus in Cancer Care. Kate holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Nursing from Dalhousie University, and maintains a Canadian Nurses Association specialty certification in Oncology. In the past, Kate has also taught and supported oncology-related courses at Dalhousie University’s School of Nursing.
Like many of her Learning Institute colleagues, Kate has a passion for teaching and lifelong learning and is excited to play a role in supporting both novice and experienced nurses in their transition to oncology practice.
At home, a husband and two little girls keep Kate on her toes and her days filled with giggles. Kate loves to travel to new places and would love to see more of the world; until that time, Kate has found joy in learning a few do-it-yourself renovation skills for her home in Halifax, NS.
Katlyn Norris, BN, RNCC, CON(C)
Katlyn joined the Learning Institute in Winter 2025 as a Nursing Instructor IV with Cancer Care focus. Katlyn’s clinical background includes seven years of hands-on systemic therapy administration within a community-based clinic as well as former Clinical Practice Leader within the same clinic. She holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Memorial University's Centre for Nursing Studies (2014), has been a Chemotherapy Certified RN since 2018 and became CNA-certified in Oncology in 2020.
Her previous experience combined with her most recent role as an instructor allows her to provide valuable insights and mentorship to learners, helping them develop the skills needed for success in oncology nursing. Katlyn enjoys building relationships with other professionals and collaborating to ensure oncology nurses are well informed, practicing in safe environments and achieving a satisfying work-life balance.
Katlyn revels in the simple pleasures of life, including a good cup of coffee and playing Nintendo Switch with her son and husband. She’s also a fan of snacks, always on the lookout for the next tasty treat to enjoy with her family (including their Golden Doodle, Willow!).
Jenna Hartlen, RN BScN, CON(c)
Jenna joined the Learning Institute in December 2025 as a Nursing Instructor IV with the Cancer Care program. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Dalhousie University in 2018 and began her career in inpatient oncology, where she spent five years providing specialized care to complex oncology patients. During this time, she obtained her chemotherapy and stem cell transplant certifications and developed a strong passion for oncology, teaching, and lifelong learning. She further advanced her skills by earning her CNA Oncology certification in 2022.
Building on her clinical experience, Jenna transitioned into the role of Clinical Nurse Educator with the Learner Experience and Student Learner Placement team. In this role, she supported the transition to practice for internationally educated nurses, fostering confidence, competence, and professional growth. Her oncology background, educator experience, and commitment to learner-centred teaching have positioned her to build strong collaborative relationships and contribute meaningfully to learner development. Jenna is excited to support the skill and knowledge growth of oncology nurses through her work at the Learning Institute.
Outside of work, Jenna enjoys going for walks, spending time at the beach, and loves exploring new Airbnbs with her husband, son, and their dog, Moose. Much of her free time is happily spent chasing after her son, who loves anything with wheels.
Program Administrative Officer
Lexi Stevens, BMgmt
Lexi has joined the Learning Institute for Health Care Professionals in January 2025 supporting Cancer Care and the Woman & Children’s Programs as a Program Admin Officer. She has completed an undergraduate degree in Business Management at Dalhousie University and a Psychologically Safe Leadership Certificate through the University of New Brunswick. Lexi enjoys being a part of the motivated team at the Learning Institute and hopes to continue to build on her knowledge and skillset.
In her spare time, Lexi is at local framer’s markets with friends or walking her dog, Horton. She also volunteers weekly at the Ronald McDonald House, providing comfort and support to Nova Scotian families.