Spotlight: Dr. Elynita Arella, MD, DNP, FNP-C
By Dr. Arella and Brent Davis
Elynita Nagar Arella, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP is an Adjunct Faculty member of the School of Nursing. She was born in Quezon City, Philippines and came to the United States when she was a year old and has lived in the San Fernando Valley ever since. She is the oldest and only girl of 4 children; her parents are both physicians who inspired her to be in the healthcare field. Later, she met her husband in the Philippines while in medical school, and they are blessed with four children who keep them both young and busy.
Her values were shaped early by her parents and grandparents, who consistently encouraged her to pursue her dreams and inspired her to become a physician. She recalls fond memories of spending summers and free time working at her father’s psychiatric clinic, experiences that deepened her understanding of compassionate patient care. During her childhood, her parents were actively involved in the Philippine Medical Association, and she frequently volunteered alongside them, further strengthening her commitment to service and community engagement.
Dr. Arella began her involvement with AUHS when she joined the faculty of the School of Nursing to teach Health Informatics and Nursing Leadership. She was drawn to AUHS by her love of learning and teaching and believes that education is a lifelong pursuit—that there is always something new to discover each day. This commitment to continuous growth reflects both her academic rigor and her dedication to preparing the next generation of nurses.
In her spare time, Dr. Arella enjoys spending time with her family, exploring diverse cuisines at different restaurants, and traveling together to experience new cultures.
AUHS is pleased to spotlight Dr. Arella for the inspiration she brings to her students and colleagues through her example of lifelong learning, service, and dedication to excellence in healthcare.
