Faculty Directory
Krista Estes DNP, FNP-BC
Associate Professor, Assistant Dean of MS Programs
Assistant Director to the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Interprofessional Practice and Education Council
- College of Nursing
Email Address:krista.estes@cuanschutz.edu
Primary Phone:303-724-5845
Mailing Address:
- CU Anschutz
Education II North
13120 East 19th Avenue
Aurora, CO 80045
Dr. Krista Estes is an accomplished healthcare professional and Associate Professor, currently holding the role of Assistant Dean of Master’s Programs. Formerly, she served as the Division Chair for the Division of Adult Health and Wellness at the University of Colorado College of Nursing. With significant experience in interprofessional education, she also serves as an Assistant Director to the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Interprofessional Practice and Education Council.
Having previously functioned as the Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty Director for eight years, Dr. Estes brings a diverse background to her current position. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Kansas State University and pursued nursing, achieving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing (FNP), and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from the University of Kansas.
Committed to patient care, Dr. Estes has made a meaningful impact as an FNP at Kaiser Urgent Care and in various large Emergency Departments in Kansas City. She holds certifications as an FNP through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and as a Certified Registered Medical Examiner on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's National Registry. Dr. Estes is recognized as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority in Colorado.
As a sought-after expert, Dr. Estes contributes her knowledge and skills to a non-profit organization dedicated to providing competence assessments and education services for healthcare providers. Her extensive scholarship work spans diverse areas such as simulation, interprofessional education, curriculum revision, telehealth, and skin/soft tissue infections.
Recognized as a highly regarded educator in healthcare, Dr. Estes has received the prestigious University of Colorado College of Nursing Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching for her innovative contributions to education. She actively participates in national organizations, serving as a Faculty Institute Committee Member for the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties and as Co-Chair of the Awards and Recognition Committee, Founding Member, and Advisory Council for the National Association of Family Nurse Practitioners. Additionally, Dr. Estes is a professional member of the National Academies of Practice. In her multifaceted roles as an educator, practitioner, and consultant, Dr. Estes continues to shape the field of nursing, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and inspiring future healthcare professionals.