School of Nursing becomes independent academic unit
E X C E L L E N C E T H AT I S E A S I LY AC C E S S I B L E
2021
2024 State Council of Higher Education for Virginia approves name change to College of Nursing
advancements in technology on a global scale. And just this year, the School of Nursing became a College of Nursing. A legacy of impact All the way from the charter Class of 1973 to the graduates of today, Radford nurses have exemplified excellence, compassion and leadership in every aspect of their practice. Radford nursing alumni make a difference in communities around the world. Through international partnerships and immersive experiences, students have gained invaluable insights into global healthcare systems, enriching their perspectives and shaping their future practice. During times of crisis, Radford nurses have demonstrated fierce dedication and resilience in the face of adversity. From providing vaccines to offering companionship to isolated individuals, Radford nurses have embodied the spirit of service and compassion, reaffirming their commitment to the well-being of others. Looking toward the future As the newly minted College of Nursing celebrates half a century of nursing program graduates, those involved in planning its strategic future envision it guided by its past with a mission to prepare enlightened, caring nurses who will meet the diverse needs of local and global communities. “As we look towards the future, we remain committed to preparing compassionate professionals who will meet the evolving needs of our world,” Downey said. “Our goal is to continue shaping the future of healthcare through education, research and community engagement.” With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Radford nursing is poised to lead the way in addressing the healthcare challenges of the 21st century. Guided by their mission to serve, Radford nurses will continue to make a difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities worldwide. That legacy of excellence, compassion and dedication is at the forefront as the celebration of 50 years of nursing leadership at Radford University unfolds. Reflections of a long, storied past serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of Radford nursing graduates in the community, the nation and the world.
New College of Nursing — a statewide precedent The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia recently authorized the new College of Nursing, a name change also approved by the Radford University Board of Visitors. This is the only public institution in Virginia to have a separate College of Nursing. The College of Nursing is led by Interim Dean Wendy Downey, and has learning locations in Radford and Roanoke, Virginia. “It feels like a monumental achievement for the College of Nursing in a 50-year history where we have gone in and out of being in a college, but never solely nursing,” Downey said. “I have heard from numerous alumni who have just said, ‘This has been a long time coming.’” With nursing becoming a separate college, Radford University places the profession of nursing and nursing education at the level of prestige they deserve. “I really feel like we are setting a new precedent for nursing, not only in the Commonwealth of Virginia, because we are the first public institution of higher education in Virginia to have a College of Nursing, but also in the U.S.,” Downey said. The creation of this separate college emphasizes the importance of nursing and the need for well-educated and practice-ready nurses in the world. It also continues Radford University’s devotion to the consistent evolution of educational programs in response to the healthcare needs, delivery mechanisms and technology advancements in the region, Commonwealth, nation and world.
Spring 2024
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