The function of the Mental Health Educator/ Nursing Professional Development Practitioner (NPDP), previously known as Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE) or Nurse Educator, is to provide nursing professional development leadership in the development, coordination and implementation of educational programs that foster staff development and enhance the quality, safety and process of patient care. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency. In accordance with 38 U.S.C.