Abstract
This article discusses the importance of collaboration between faculty members with clinical and research focused doctoral degrees. The barriers to obtaining tenure for clinical faculty members as compared to the research prepared faculty members are presented. Best practice outcomes are accomplished by using a team approach. The team uses the strenths of each of the academic bacgrounds, connecting them in collaboration and professionalism. Support for each other, with the Nursing community, provides empowerment and success in both patient outcomes and clinical excellence.