Lora Cooper-Yoakum, FNP-BC

Lora Cooper-Yoakum earned dual bachelor’s degrees in nursing and biology from the University of Tennessee Knoxville and a master’s degree in nursing from East Tennessee State University. She went on to earn her degree as a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. With her extensive education and hands-on experience, Lora has demonstrated her ability to bring a wealth of expertise to both her patients and the academic field.

Having a wide array of clinical experience in internal medicine, primary care, oncology, and rheumatology, Lora focuses on disease management through advanced therapeutic interventions and patient education. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her ability to diagnose and treat a wide array of rheumatologic conditions, employing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve her patient’s quality of life. Beyond clinical work, as a professor at South College, Lora has designed advanced nursing courses, equipping future healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of nursing. She is also an active member of the Association of Women in Rheumatology (AWIR), Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP), the Tennessee Rheumatology Society (TRS), and Rheumatology Nurses Society.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Lora cherishes time with family and enjoys the outdoors, often hiking, or simply walking out in nature. Passionate about her community, she is actively involved in helping the less fortunate and volunteering. Lora’s love for helping others extends to leading a drama dance team for local youth, caring for neighbors, and coming to the aid of abandoned pets.