UTMB SON 2023 Annual Report by UTMB Health

Another Year Another Trip Around the 2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Three-generation SON family, pg. 20 SON hires new Vice Dean for Research and Assistant Dean for Translational Research, pg. 6 Interprofessional education, pg. 14

UTMB School of Nursing MISSION We improve the health of diverse populations in Texas and around the world

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT — 2023

UTMB School of Nursing

Online Master’s in Nursing Program

Online Graduate Nursing Program for Veterans

Family Nurse Practitioner Program

#10

by advancing nursing excellence through leadership,

FA S T FA C T S

clinical practice, education, research and service. VISION To create the future as leaders in innovative nursing education, promoters of high-impact research and as transformers of health and healthcare. VALUES

1st

school of nursing in Texas, and West

of the Mississippi (1890)

1st

Faculty focused on student success

in Texas to

offer Master of Science in Nursing program

1st

nursing school in Texas to offer online

graduate education (1998)

1st

Graduates more than

and only DNP

550

program in Texas to offer dual FNP/AGACNP

We, at the UTMB School of

each year

Nursing, will achieve excellence and professionalism through compassion, integrity, respect, diversity & inclusion, lifelong learning, and accountability.

Secured over

15,000 +

$9 million in research funding

alumni

2023

About the cover:

Each playing a unique role at the UTMB School of Nursing, Dr. Jacque Svoboda, Emily Svoboda, and Cheryl Day, make up three generations currently at the School of Nursing, influencing health and health care through compassion and leadership. Photo taken in state-of-the-art Health Education Center.

#44

Ranked in Blue Ridge Rankings (2023)

Terminal Degree Attainment among SON Faculty:

13 Unique

tracks to earn BSN, MSN, DNP or PhD

96%

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

2 Dean’s Message 4 Strategic Alignment 6 RISE Center 8 Research Highlights 10 Record Breaking Fundraiser 12 Innovative Student Engagement 14 Interprofessional Education 16 Mock Disaster Drill 18 Policy and Leadership 19 New UTMB President, Dr. Reiser 20 A Legacy of Compassion 22 Alumni Rejoin Faculty 24 Awards and Highlights 26 Student Achievements 28 2023 Commencement

Alumni Donor Relations

UTMB on Galveston Island Student Success Center   

2023 Annual Report Office of the Dean UTMB School of Nursing 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1132 Deborah J. Jones, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN Senior Vice President and Dean, School of Nursing Chief Integration Officer, UTMB Rebecca Sealy Distinguished Centennial Chair

Jochen Reiser, MD, PhD President CEO, UTMB Health System Professor, John Sealy School of Medicine John D. Stobo, MD Distinguished Chair

Editor: Samantha Miro, Ed.D.

Charles P. Mouton, MD, MS, MBA Executive Vice President, Provost and Dean John Sealy School of Medicine Thomas N. and Gleaves T. James Distinguished Chair

Photography: Mark Kinonen

Communications: Mary G. Havard UTMB Marketing & Communication Design: Denning & Denning Design Printing: UTMB Academic Resources

UTMB strives to maintain an environment free from discrimination against individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or veteran status. UTMB is committed to equal opportunity for students with disabilities. UTMB continually works to foster community among student veterans, honor their military service and academic contributions, and connect students to various resources, services and programs.

Message from Dean Deborah Jones

Distinction A

ccording to the dictionary, the word

“distinction” can have two meanings: to either signify a difference or contrast between things, or to demonstrate excellence that sets something apart from others. When I think of our UTMB School of Nursing, I think of both definitions. We are distinct in that we set ourselves apart from all other nursing schools through our demonstrated excellence. We differentiate ourselves through our high-impact research, our compassionate graduates, Deborah J. Jones, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN

our outstanding faculty, our innovative researchers, and our dedicated leaders. Distinction says so much about not only where we are today, as a school, but

also where we have been and the work we have done. The connections, community and culture we have built over the last five years have been created through exciting times of celebration and unfortunate moments of disconnection. But we remain steadfast in our vision to CREATE the future of nursing. Our mission, vision, and long-term goals center on the idea that nurses are the pivotal and foundational workforce in Texas, in the country, and worldwide.

Health is personal, nursing is essential, and care is universal. UTMB School

of Nursing’s contribution to health care is distinct.

HIGHLIGHTS OF DISTINCTION

Dec. 2017

Dean Deborah J. Jones begins at UTMB SON

2019 Health Education Center opens to increase opportunities for Interprofessional Education (IPE) Annual Holiday Style Show fundraiser received largest donation in its history from the Moody Foundation 2020 Published VISION 2025: SON’s Strategic Plan to CREATE the future of nursing education Earned Apple Distinguished School Designation Appointed inaugural Vice Dean for Academic Affairs Appointed inaugural Associate Dean, Global Health and Community Engagement Community Space for Health and Wellbeing created through grant funding UTMB School of Nursing celebrates its 130th year of educating nurses Created SON RISE (Research Innovation and Scientific Excellence) Center 2021 First and only DNP program in Texas to offer dual FNP/AGACNP Appointed inaugural Associate Dean for Professional Development Appointed inaugural Director of Educational Innovations The Policy and Leadership Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) program established and accepts the first cohort SON faculty, staff, and students volunteer countless hours in COVID-19 response including vaccine clinics and meal deliveries 2

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offers seven (7) unique tracks for students. • Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP) • Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP (AGPCNP) • Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) • Executive Nurse Leader (ENL) • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) • Nurse Educator (NE)

Educating and promoting a population of compassionate nurse leaders will

against tomorrow’s challenges. While we are extremely proud of the

help grow the nursing profession in ways

U.S. News and World Report that ranked

to meet the needs of our families, our

our school as one of the top 10 schools

communities, and the collective health

of nursing for graduate education in three

of the populations we serve. We need

categories, this represents only a small

nurses at every stage of life from our first

glimpse into our progress over the last

breaths to our last.

year. The 2023 Annual Report provides a

Our nurse scientists are leading high-impact research that creates positive change in health and lives of individuals

peek into our work. Another year, another trip around our distinct UTMB SON.

and communities. Through continued knowledge seeking, sharing, and lifelong learning, we are preparing leaders to take on the trials posed in the world we know today, and implement solutions

PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN Senior Vice President, Dean and Professor School of Nursing Rebecca Sealy Distinguished Centennial Chair

“Our UTMB School of Nursing prides itself on the strong commitment we’ve made, and continue to make, to student success and to preparing nurses and leaders,” said Dr. Deborah J. Jones, Dean of the school. “We are thrilled to be ranked No. 10 nationally, but not surprised. This is only one testament of how we meet our commitment to training nurses to provide the best care. We have proudly educated nurses for more than 133 years, and I am pleased that our commitment and successes are recognized nationally.”

2022 Appointed inaugural Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship AGACNP post master’s certificate approved and offered for the first time in Spring 2022 The new Nurse Anesthesia program is approved by UT System Board of Regents and SACCOS Student Success Center established through joint collaboration between SHP and SON 2023

Appointed inaugural Assistant Dean for Translational Science

U.S. News & World Report Rankings #10 in best online graduate nursing program in the country #10 best online Family Nurse Practitioner program in the country #4 best online graduate nursing programs for Veterans in the country Secured over $9 million in research funding First cohort of BSN students to partner with Hillside Health Clinic in Belize 98% NCLEX Pass Rates (5-yr avg) Strong alumni network of more than 15,000 worldwide New Rural Telehealth Certificate offered PhD in nursing program transitioned from the GSBS to the SON

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Strategic Alignment “When I began at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, my first priority was to listen and learn more about the prestigious and well-respected School of Nursing,” says Dean Jones. “I was thrilled to lead this school, and already proud of the legacy that was built here. I also recognized the potential to grow, develop, offer, and create new and unique ways to advance education, research, and innovation at UTMB SON.”

r. Jones began with both formal and informal conversations that culminated in the Vision 2025 strategic plan. The Vision was developed through a collaborative effort with input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members with the goal to set the direction for the next five years. The plan culminated into six primary strategic priorities: (1) Culture, (2) Research, (3) Education, (4) Advancing Innovation, (5), Transformation, and

C R E A T E 4

(6) Engagement. Each of these carried with it a solid priority to advance the nursing profession and to CREATE the future for the UTMB School of Nursing, while honoring its robust history. In the last five years, Dr. Jones has not only carried out these priorities in meaningful and strategic ways, but has reorganized the school to fulfill these goals through data-driven decisions and strategic resource allocation.

What we said: Culture:

Create a healthy work environment with a commitment to engage our community and to develop professionally in ways that are meaningful to each person while simultaneously working together to reach our full potential.

Research:

An investment in the necessary infrastructure to build a strong nursing research programs that is committed to improving health care outcomes and health care systems through high-impact research.

Education:

Through innovative pedagogies in a student-centered environment, we will equip our graduates to provide high-quality compassionate care in communities regionally, nationally, and globally.

Advance Innovation:

We will not only support, but foster and promote a culture of innovation and creativity aimed at addressing the challenges facing education and health care today.

Transformation:

We will invest in a meaningful way to create a healthier future for diverse populations which begins through transformative education and practice that influences systems and systems change.

Engagement:

By advancing our professional network and community partnerships, we will increase opportunities for students, faculty and alumni, and foster lasting local and global collaborations.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

“The UTMB School of Nursing has accomplished so much both within the frame of our strategic plan and beyond, I feel extremely proud of the direction we set as a team and the ways we have accomplished this,” says Jones. Not only has the SON followed the goals set forth but have done this in the most unprecedented times. “The phrase, ‘when opportunity meets preparation,’ comes to mind when I think of our successes. We cannot always predict what will happen, but we can have the solid foundation to withstand and persevere through the unknown and come out even better on the other side of challenges.”

How we have accomplished this: Nurses can work anywhere. Our goal is to create a supportive, welcoming and healthy work environment at UTMB for our faculty to meaningfully collaborate on mutual interests, but also to develop as individuals.

Professional Development, Page 24

Our researchers are well-respected experts in violence prevention. International collaboration and research can be difficult, and our faculty continue to overcome obstacles to pursue implementation science internationally. Our work will make tangible differences worldwide.

Research Highlights, Pages 8-9

Nurses don’t exist without nursing schools. At UTMB, we are preparing our graduates to not only become nurses, but to be leaders, to work on interprofessional teams, and to provide compassionate care.

Interprofessional Education, Page 14

Recognition as an Apple Distinguished School highlights our success in creating an innovative and compelling learning environment that engages students and provides tangible evidence of academic achievement. Delivering high-quality education is essential to our success, and the technology we employ keeps everyone connected and engaged. iLead, Page 13

Through our BSN Scholars Programs, our students are engaging in policy to increase their understanding of the state legislative processes, and how policies at the state and national levels trickle down into our professional roles and personal lives.

Policy and Leadership, Page 18

Being able to participate in a global health trip with students as they engage with international partners is inspiring. Watching them process through inequities in the world, and how passionately they want to be part of the solution, is an honor to witness. They are truly our future.

Innovative Student Engagement, Page 12

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

RISE Center

Research Innovation and Scientific Excellence The mission of the Research Innovation and  Key Research Areas for Optimizing Health • Population Health/Health Disparities Scientific Excellence (RISE) Center at UTMB • Chronic Disease, Disability, and is to support and facilitate the development Self-Management of nurse scientists and their research. • Precision Health Care  Biobehavioral Research Laboratory

• Resources & expertise to design, conduct, and evaluate biobehavioral projects

 Community Space for Health

and Well-being

• Community spaces to support patientcentered outcomes • Innovative interventions (Digital Health Technology)

RISE Center  Physical Spaces

• Laboratory space • Conference rooms • Consultation room • Exam room • Yoga/meditation room • Coworking desk space • Multipurpose area for stakeholder meetings & events

• Integrative Health Across the Lifespan • Nursing Education • Cancer Prevention • Violence Prevention

 Grant Development Services

• Proposal and budget development • Editing & proofreading • Writing support • Application submission • Research education & training • IRB & clinical trial consultation

 Research Support

• Biostatistics services • Data management support • Clinical study / trial management • Postaward grant management • Research publication editing • Research mentoring

RISE CENTER LEADERSHIP Jeff Temple, PhD | Professor and Licensed Psychologist, Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship Dr. Jeff Temple serves as professor, licensed psychologist, and the Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship for the School of Nursing at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he also holds the John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health. As the Founding Director of the Center for Violence Prevention (at right), his research focuses on the prevention of interpersonal and community violence. Dr. Temple has been funded through the National Institute of Justice, National Institutes of Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He has over 250 scholarly publications in a variety of high-impact journals including JAMA Pediatrics, The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, Pediatrics, and the Journal of Adolescent Health. He recently co-edited a book on adolescent dating violence, co-chaired the Texas Task Force on Domestic Violence, serves on the Board of Directors for the Society for Prevention Research, and served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Psychological Association. His work has been featured in Forbes, the New York Times, TIME magazine, the Washington Post, and on CNN and NPR.

Prevention (CVP) at UTMB

Darpan Patel, PhD | Professor, Assistant Dean for Translational Science

Centers for Disease Control

Dr. Darpan Patel was appointed in the inaugural role as Assistant Dean for Translational Science and holds the Lena Finke Distinguished Chair of Nursing Arts. Dr. Patel specializes in operating exercise clinical trials in healthy individuals and oncology patients. He has a strong background in exercise physiology with specific training on inflammatory and growth factor signaling in clinical conditions. Dr. Patel has obtained funding to support his research through the NIH, Department of Education, Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Texas Department of State Health Services, UT Health San Antonio Mays Cancer Center, Owens Medical Research Foundation and a number of other foundations. As an educator and mentor, Dr. Patel is passionate about developing the next generation of scientists that will make breakthroughs in the prevention and treatment of disease.

Bridget E. Hawkins, PhD, MBA, CRA | Director, RISE Center As Director of UTMB’s Research Innovation and Scientific Excellence (RISE) Center, Dr. Hawkins facilitates and supports the development of nurse scientists and their research, while maintaining the daily operations of the Center. The Center provides pre- and post-award support as well as grant development, biostatistics assistance, and mentoring services. Dr. Hawkins has over 20 years of research experience and has been a member of the UTMB family since 2001. She and the RISE Center Team support faculty, students and staff in their scholarly endeavors.

The Center for Violence

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

was founded to help reduce the burden of violence in Texas and across the United States through research, implementation of best practices, policy making, evaluation, training, and partnerships with community agencies. With support from the National Institutes of Health, and Prevention, National Institute of Justice, and multiple state and foundation awards, the CVP conducts innovative research to prevent multiple forms of violence. CVP serves as a resource for research, training, and technical assistance for schools, communities, policy-makers, and the general public, and supports researchers, advocates, practitioners, and policy-makers in violence prevention efforts.

We are committed to improving healthcare outcomes and healthcare systems through high-impact research. It is imperative to create a culture of research with the necessary infrastructure and collaborative partnerships. We support and promote opportunities for students and faculty to lead interprofessional teams in research and innovation.

niversity of Texas Medical Branch ranks in the top 2 percent of research institutions receiving funding from the National Institutes of Health in the latest rankings released by the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research. Overall, UTMB ranked 61 out of 2,849 research institutions. This was the first year the School of Nursing made the rankings, coming

in at 44 out of 89 institutions ranked. UTMB remains the number one recipient of NIH research funding in microbiology/immunology/ virology, and is number two in biochemistry. Other disciplines that received NIH grant money include anesthesiology, neurology, neurosciences, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacology, and public health and preventative medicine.

The NIH is the largest public funder of biomedical research in the world. The Blue Ridge rankings are determined by the whole value of NIH awards to a principal investigator’s institution and do not include research and development contracts or funding from sources other than the NIH.

Secured Research Funding

$9,000,000+

By fiscal year

In 2023, secured $9 million from organizations such as: National Institutes of Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Institute of Justice US Department of Justice National Institute on Aging Texas Department of Family & Protective Services Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

$2,643,000

$550,000 2021

2022

2023

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

UTMB SON Research Highlights

Three Principal Investigators from three distinct UTMB Schools: Dr. Huey-Ming Tzeng, professor at the UTMB School of Nursing (right); Dr. Yong-Fang Kuo, UTMB School of Public & Population Health (left); and Dr. Mukaila Raji, John Sealy School of Medicine (middle).

An interprofessional research team at UTMB Health received a 5-year, multi-PI R01 award of $2.8 million from the National Institute on Aging for their project entitled Annual Wellness Visit Policy: Impact on Disparities in Early Dementia Diagnosis and Quality of Healthcare for Medicare Beneficiaries with Alzheimer’s Disease and its Related Dementias.

he project will help with early recognition of cognitive impairment and timeliness in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) diagnosis, which are key to optimal dementia care. No studies have examined the effect of the annual wellness visit (AWV) policy on reducing disparities in ADRD diagnosis and health outcomes among community-dwelling Medicare beneficiaries with ADRD, based on the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) 4Ms framework of an age-friendly health system: “what matters,” “mentation,” “mobility,” and “medication.”

“This fantastic accomplishment is a testament to the amazing team of researchers we have across our UTMB community, and I am so proud of the work this interprofessional team will accomplish through this grant,” said Dr. Deborah J. Jones, Dean of the school. The 5-year project will use this framework in a convergent parallel mixed-methods study to inform AWV policy, and develop a practice guideline to improve the timeliness of ADRD diagnosis 8

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

and post-diagnosis dementia care, thereby decreasing health disparities and improving quality of life among Medicare beneficiaries with ADRD. The project is innovative in three primary ways. 

It involves community participatory research collaboration with a national ADRD stakeholder and policy/care advocacy group, the Alzheimer’s Association (AA) Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter and ADRD patients’ family caregivers and clinicians.



It is the very first study using multiple data sources to answer timely health disparity research questions related to older adults with ADRD. Using qualitative interview data along with three different datasets including, Medicare claims, health retirement survey-Medicare linked data, and National Health & Aging Trends study-Medicare linked data.



As recommended by the AA, this study adopts IHI’s 4Ms framework of an aging-friendly health system to examine the effect of an AWV policy on reducing health disparities using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design.

A $2 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to undertake a groundbreaking study aimed at addressing firearm injury and violence among adolescents and young adults was awarded to UTMB School of Nursing researchers. This rare opportunity, granted by federal funds, will shed light on firearm-related issues as a critical public health epidemic.

he study will investigate the link between firearm involvement in adolescence, whether as victims or perpetrators, and the predictive connection to firearm injury and violence in adulthood. The repercussions of firearm injury and violence extend to individuals, families, and society at large, with an economic burden exceeding $88 billion over five years.

Recognizing that the roots of violence often begin early in life, it is imperative that prevention efforts target various risks and protective factors. The study aims to illuminate this public health crisis across multiple layers of social ecology, encompassing individual, relational, community, and societal domains. Leila Wood, PhD

Elizabeth Baumler, PhD

Jeff Temple, PhD

Leila Wood, PhD

UTMB Researchers Earn Rare Perfect Score on NIH Grant with Violence Prevention Program

esearchers from the UTMB School of Nursing and Center for Violence Prevention received a rare perfect score, also known as the “unicorn score,” on their renewal of a nearly $4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to examine the long-term benefits of their healthy relationships program. The application highlights the ongoing research and long-term effectiveness of a dating violence prevention program, Fourth R, delivered to middle school students. Renewing this grant, the team seeks to collect four more years of

follow-up data, experimentally test the addition of a text-message based booster, and determine the cost-benefit of implementing a school-based program to prevent violence. NIH has highlighted the application as “a remarkable, highly significant [project] that can advance and have a sustained impact on the field of dating violence intervention.” Researchers include Drs. Elizabeth Baumler, Shannon Guillot-Wright, Jeff Temple, and Leila Wood.

Dr. Heidi Luft, (third from right) hosted an event to mark the kick-off of a research project aimed at adaptation and pilot testing of the Fourth R Evidence Based Intervention in Dominican Republic public schools. The event was attended by international Fourth R experts from UTMB, Canada, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic who are key decisionmakers, opinion leaders, and local thought leaders. Other UTMB representatives included Elizabeth Torres from the UTMB Center for Violence Prevention and UTMB School of Medicine students, Cristal Monzon-Hernandez and Kevin Chen.

ational Institute for Justice awarded a prestigious grant to Dr. Wood for project titled, “Safe Transitions for Teens: Assessing the Impact of Intimate Partner Transitional Housing on Adolescent Residents.” The grant is used to explore the need to develop and test community-level interventions like transitional housing offered by agencies focused on intimate partner violence (IPV) for youth who have been exposed to IPV within their homes.

This study will build upon its parent project, Safe Transitions, which examines the long-term impact of intimate partner violencefocused transitional housing can have on survivor health, safety, and economic mobility. This work takes a broad look at structural and community factors on violence prevention, and the power that housing may have on disrupting violence. By focusing on risk and protective factors, communities can enhance their abilities to support the structure and resources necessary to support families enrolled in transitional housing following IPV.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

NURSING EDUCATION MEETS A PARISIAN...

A Parisian holiday and nursing education may seem like an unlikely pairing, until you witness the combination of fashion and philanthropic support in one room! The UTMB School of Nursing’s 2022 Holiday Style Fashion Show and Luncheon was a resounding success.

his sophisticated daytime gala featured a professionally

produced runway show, exclusive silent auction packages, and a gourmet meal to gather supporters in a formal setting and recognize our student scholarship recipients. Held on November 17 at the Galveston Island Convention Center, 2022 marked the tenth year of the event, attracting more than 640 individuals from the greater Houston/Galveston area. The 2022 Holiday Style Show not only had record attendance but raised a record amount of funds for our nursing students and the leadership opportunities that the Scholars Program provides. All funds raised at this event go toward the UTMB School of Nursing Scholars Program, financially supporting

“Being an Honors Student has been the

soon-to-be nurses who

highlight of my nursing school career,”

will deliver outstanding

said Bassey. “It has provided numerous

patient care regionally

opportunities that shaped and enriched

and nationally.

my education to give me the tools

Students who enter the School of Nursing Scholars

necessary to be a well-rounded nurse.

Program are top performers who go above and

I am extremely appreciative of all the

beyond to become leaders in their field. The education

donations that made my education in the

they receive at UTMB will prepare them to fulfill

Honors Program possible. Being able

critical roles in patient care, leadership, advocacy,

to attend school without the hinderance

and policy.

of a financial burden is something for

Edima Bassey, BSN Honors student, spoke at the event about what the scholarship has meant to her and her nursing education.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

which I am eternally grateful.”

UTMB School of Nursing takes great pride in the students and

We are so grateful for this year’s event and the unprecedented

faculty that we educate, elevate, and employ to create and contribute

levels of financial support, and we are excited for its current

to the nursing profession. Thanks to our generous donors, strong

and future impacts. These gifts go far beyond the individual

alumni, successful students, incredible faculty, and supportive staff,

students who benefit. Investment in these brilliant students will

UTMB School of Nursing has paved the way for nursing education

yield great rewards for the patients, families, and communities

throughout the state of Texas for more than 133 years.

they will serve.

Through the silent auction, table sponsorships, ticket sales, and the donations, generous supporters helped raise over $400,000!

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Innovative Student Engagement “Culture is unique across time, generations and territories,” said BSN Student, Aziz Rahman. “The most amazing part of humanity is in our differences, and if we embrace them, and accept them, we learn a lot about ourselves and others. This opportunity confirmed for me what culture means and was a great way to learn and become closer to colleagues.”

UTMB Students Partner with Hillside Health Clinic in Belize

n August 2023, Hillside International Health Clinic graciously hosted a group of six UTMB undergraduate nursing students and two faculty members, Dr. Zachary Carson and Ms. Christen Sadler. During their one-week stay, between the summer and fall semesters, the UTMB group participated in Hillside’s therapy center, homecare nursing, and assisted in the established medical/clinic routine. Additionally, students provided community presentations and basic training in first aid and taking vital signs.

“This experience was educational, joyful and truly life changing,” said Dr. Carson. In a conversation as the week wrapped up, the group reflected on their time at Hillside and within the community in Punta Gorda. “I think our diverse group of students was a unique combination to support the needs of the Hillside clinic, which is ultimately what we are there to do, help serve the community clinic, and provide an educational and safe opportunity for our students,” said Carson. Sadler and Carson expressed their pride and gratitude in being able to participate in this opportunity and to help a community abroad with undergraduate students. “Interfacing with BSN students is so fascinating because they are dynamic and open minded.” says Sadler. “Being able to participate with them as they craft their future path is inspiring. I watched them process through inequities in the world, and I saw how passionately they wanted to be part of the solution. It is an honor to watch this evolution of ideas, compassion, and potential occur in our students. They are truly our future.” This collaboration would not be possible without the relationship built between Kristine Gingerich, Hillside’s Nurse and Director of Volunteer and Student Outreach and Dr. Kathleen Murphy, Associate Dean for Global Health and Community Engagement. A very special thanks to the SON Alumni Association and Dr. Michael Leger for helping to financially support this trip.

Global Health 2023 Cohort: Aziz Rahman, Allison Vincer, Kirthy Kunthara, Madelyn Kennedy, and Liam De Vassal. Not pictured: Morgan Hallford. UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

UTMB School of Nursing named Apple Distinguished School for iLead Program

he UTMB School of Nursing has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for the iLead (Innovative Learning Environment Accelerating Discovery) Program, which fosters innovation in learning, teaching, and leading with technology in the classroom. Apple Distinguished Schools qualify as centers of innovation, leadership, and educational excellence. These schools use Apple technology to connect students to the world, fuel creativity, deepen collaboration, and make learning personal. Faculty members are Apple Certified Teachers and utilize innovative ways to engage students in project collaborations, presentations, course assignments, simulation labs, and research activities. The power and immediacy of the iPad technology enhances students’ engagement and encourages critical thinking in a manner equally accessible to all students.

“We look forward to expanding iLead throughout the curriculum and further implementing innovative ideas for teaching and learning,” said Dean Jones.

along with their preceptor. This method proved to be an effective and efficient way to evaluate student clinical progress virtually versus in-person,” said Dr. Sheba Luke, MSN Program Director. The use of a videoconferencing platform for virtual clinical site visits provides the student an introduction to the concepts of telehealth as technology, and information literacy is one of the nurse practitioner core competencies. The ability to utilize technology in an innovative and proficient way will be a necessary skill to develop in future healthcare providers. The Apple Distinguished Schools program is by invitation only for accredited public and private schools that meet the program qualifications and eligibility requirements.

More than 1,500 iPads have been distributed since iLead began in summer 2019, and students have reported that the iPad has been a positive addition to their learning experience. “Having access to the iPad helped me better organize my notes and textbooks onto one device, saved me money by purchasing e-versions of the textbooks instead of paper copies, and really transformed how I utilize technology for learning,” said Daniel Frost, BSN graduate. “I appreciate the efforts that everyone at UTMB has put into implementing this technology initiative.” In addition to the undergraduate program, the graduate program uses the iPad at clinical site visits to evaluate the progress of our nurse practitioner students in their clinical setting. “Faculty observe the students via FaceTime on their iPads as the student performs a history and physical on a patient in their clinical setting 2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Interprofessional Education Key to Healthcare Teams UTMB

prioritizes interprofessional education and practice in the delivery of health care, the pursuit of health knowledge, and the promotion of healthy societies. Each of the five schools at UTMB utilize the Health Education Center (HEC) to integrate and immerse students into realistic interprofessional environments to acquire the skills and collaboration for healthy teamwork across the health sciences for the betterment of patient care. The Center is operated in a collaborative manner by experienced support staff, state-of-the-art technologies, and strategic faculty partnerships including leaders in simulation training from UTMB’s five schools. The HEC officially opened its doors in 2019 to create interprofessional practice-based learning in a state-of-the-art environment. The five-story, 160,000 square foot building houses a 77-bed simulated hospital, and encompasses five floors of cutting-edge simulation facilities equipped 14

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

with over 60 low-, mid- and high-fidelity manikins for creating real-life simulations. “Communication and collaboration are key components of healthcare teams. At the HEC, students can fail in a safe environment, to learn, grow and become confident, competent and compassionate providers.” says Dean Deborah J. Jones. “Within the HEC, there are nursing stations that sit outside of the ICU units, with control rooms behind it, all with cameras, so that the interactions between students can be recorded for debriefing later by the medical staff. This practice and reflection is so important in our education.” UTMB’s Health Education Center is an essential milestone within the university’s history and its long-term vision to improve health and lives in Texas and beyond. It provides both the space and the technology to support increased enrollment, and train students to work on interprofessional teams for the benefit of the patients they will one day serve.

Another Year, Another Trip Around the SON Utilizing the HEC, The School of Nursing has been active in immersing students in hands on healthcare environments to strengthen their skills.

School of Nursing Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Interprofessional Education and Practice

School of Public and Population Health

John Sealy School of Medicine

School of Health Professions

UTMB’S HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER INCLUDES: 77-BED SIMULATED HOSPITAL WITH 5 FLOORS OF CUTTING-EDGE SIMULATION FACILITIES FIFTH FLOOR Critical Care Simulation Complex

The top floor prepares our students for the most critical of all cases, from the emergency room to the critical care unit. Here, students learn how to work in teams to train for disasters and mass casualty situations, long before they are faced with the crises where human life is at the greatest risk. Special features on this floor include simulated operating rooms that resemble suites in the new UTMB Jennie Sealy Hospital, simulated Intensive Care Unit (ICU) unit and a simulated ICU nursing station. The 5th floor is equipped with 2 simulated operating rooms, 10 ICU rooms, multiple control and monitoring rooms, and 2 debriefing rooms. FOURTH FLOOR Standardized Patient Training Complex On the fourth floor, students work with

specially trained actors who simulate a wide range of medical conditions. This helps build students’ diagnostic skills and teaches them to see each patient as a distinct individual, reinforcing the value of compassion in health care. The floor features waiting areas and examination rooms to recreate an environment of a working clinic in order to provide students with realistic training before entering the workforce. Special features include a simulated nursing station, 16 patient exam rooms, 3 training rooms, 3 debriefing rooms, and a monitoring and a control room.

training, as well as birth, neonatal, and pediatric care training for our students. By practicing techniques using manikins, students are able to refine their skills on complex cases in low risk environments. The 3rd floor has 16 individual patient rooms covering adult, child, infant and maternity simulations. This floor also has a large flexible space that can be set up as a PACU or an OB suite, as well as 2 large debriefing rooms, 2 small debriefing rooms, and 1 monitoring and control room. SECOND FLOOR Clinical Skills Training Complex The second floor emphasizes the basic principles that all students at UTMB are required to perfect in order to pursue a career in one of the health professions. This floor hosts a virtual skills lab, where students will work on high fidelity simulators to develop expertise in the skills

they need to be successful. The 2nd floor also has 3 large skills labs offering a total of 30 physical examination spaces, a virtual skills lab, 3 debriefing rooms, and 1 monitoring and control room. FIRST FLOOR Collaborative Learning and Social Area Complex The first floor has a promenade featuring social areas, collaborative learning studios, a cafe overlooking an outdoor terrace, expansive windows, donor recognition panels, and an open staircase featuring a suspended art installation. This floor supports spontaneous interactions between students, faculty and staff to foster collaboration and creativity in problem-solving and learning. Special features on this floor include student study and lounge space, and an ambulance bay for simulated trauma exercises.

UTMB School of Nursing Undergraduate Students Summer 2022

THIRD FLOOR Women’s and Children’s Health Simulation Complex

The third floor focuses on the health needs of women and children to provide the very best in obstetrical and gynecological

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

May 6 was a Beautiful Day for a UTMB Students and Public Safety Agencies Confront Disaster Scenario Drill

he sky was blue and a cool breeze kept the spring heat at bay while a volunteer playing the part of a perpetrator was preparing to lay siege to the building that houses the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) on the UTMB Galveston Campus. Scores of health care students, EMS personnel and other emergency responders prepared to care for the “wounded” and calm the “worried well” who were congregating at the Health Education Center. Just after 10 a.m., the mock active shooter event led to “victims” spilling out of the OLLI building and into the parking lot. Medical personnel responded, while a police chase ended in a mock car wreck and more injuries. Inside the Health Education Center, the mock ER filled up fast. Those victims whose faked injuries allowed them to walk and wait did so, as others were hurried by on gurneys. Inside, students from the School of Nursing, John Sealy School of Medicine, and School of Health Professions 16

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

pretended to lift the human actors onto beds then proceeded to administer emergency care to the mannequin patients that took their place. Once attention turned to their simulated counterparts, the bloodied volunteers shuffled down the hall to the moulage room where their “injuries” were first created. A few hours later, all of the “wounded” had cleared out, the makeup used to create their wounds was cleaned off, and everyone walked away with as real a feel as possible for a disaster. This mock disaster day is funded by the President’s Cabinet Award, “Learn Together to Work Together: Saving Lives Through Interprofessional Education.” Disaster Day 2023 combined a multi-agency disaster response scenario with a UTMB police active shooter drill. It involved law enforcement, the fire department, emergency response teams, and students and staff, and tested not only their individual efficiency but also the working relationships among the groups.

“Our overarching goal with Disaster Day is to take everyone out of their comfort zone and to better understand what role they play in response to a multicasualty incident,” said Chris Connolly, the third-year medical student who acted as chief commander of the event. “These events are inherently interprofessional, and we wanted to put students and first responders in a situation where they could practice working together,” he said. “We worked very hard to make this event valuable for everyone involved, and their support and enthusiasm for interprofessional collaboration enabled us to be successful.”

MOCK DISASTER Entities involved included the UTMB Police Department, Galveston Police Department, Galveston Area Ambulance Authority, Galveston Fire Department, Galveston College EMS Professions Students, and UTMB faculty and students. UTMB Police outlined the active shooter scenario and how that would play out, while medical students wrote the case scenario for each victim. Action in the ER was guided and overseen by UTMB medical staff and faculty. Disaster Day was intended to prepare students not only for the extreme situation of an active shooter event but any kind of multicasualty incident, or MCI. “The more practice we get in, the better prepared we are if the real thing comes to our door,” Connolly said. “However, getting students exposed to an MCI also prepares them for some of the everyday realities in health care. Working in an interprofessional team is a core part of health care—we’re a group of professionals with different backgrounds, different training and different priorities working toward the same goal.” To that end, organizers were deliberate in their efforts to recruit UTMB students from all five colleges as well as EMS students from Galveston College’s EMS

program. The idea was to create a collection of health care students with different career paths—similar to what they’ll see in their future careers and put them in a position to learn from each other. “Adding in the stressful environments of field triage and emergency care was likely a challenge for many, but it was also very important as it mimics what can happen in a real health care environment,” Connolly said. “Large influxes of patients can happen at any time, for any reason. Having a faculty-guided experience like this one gives them repetitions that will help them better see their strengths and weaknesses working in interprofessional teams.” Student leaders planned the event for six months.

“Both event staff and participants adapted well to the planned and unplanned challenges we experienced during the exercise,” Connolly said. “We received great feedback from our participants, and we’re confident that the next group of student leaders can continue to develop this concept to make Disaster Day even better.”

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Policy and Leadership

Students Engaged in Policy and Leadership — Undergraduate students from our Scholars Programs visited the Texas State Capitol and Texas Nurses Association in the 88th biennial Legislative Session to learn more about leadership, policy, and advocacy. Twelve students from our Policy and Leadership Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) and BAMBI Advocacy Student Scholars (BASS) Programs visited with legislators and policy makers to learn more about how policy influences healthcare and the nursing profession. The students reported increased levels of confidence regarding their knowledge of the legislative process, and how policies at the state and national levels trickle down into our every day lives. PLUS (Policy and Leadership Undergraduate Scholars) Students presented their health care policy poster presentations and leadership lessons learned at their 2023 PLUS symposium, led by Professor Meredith Ford (left in photo). SON faculty, staff and students attended the symposium, along with leaders from the UTMB Office of Legislative Affairs.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Welcome UTMB President, Dr. Jochen Reiser In May 2023, The University of Texas System Board of Regents appointed Jochen Reiser, MD, PhD, as the next president of The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.

eiser is a world-renowned healthcare, innovation, and research leader with more than 18 years of progressive responsibility in various academic health systems and university environments. Before assuming the President role at UTMB on August 15, 2023, he served as the chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine at Rush University Medical Center Jochen Reiser, MD, PhD and held the Ralph C. Brown, MD, Professor of Medicine position. Dr. Reiser served as a member of Rush’s medical group executive committee, co-managed approximately 1,000 physicians, and played a direct role in a significant transformation of Rush, including system wide tasks such as clinical redesign, coding, and changes in quality and safety structures. Prior to Rush, Reiser was a professor of medicine, anatomy and cell

biology, vice chairman

for research in the department of medicine, and chief of the division of nephrology and hypertension at University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. Reiser also directed an NIH-funded research laboratory focused on discovering causes of kidney disease and developing novel therapies to combat renal diseases. Reiser is a leader in the field of kidney disease, with a strong focus on molecular biology and genetics. He has published more than 200 papers, and his work has significantly advanced new treatment options for renal diseases. Reiser graduated from the Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Germany, and completed his residency in internal medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. He pursued his fellowship in nephrology at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital at Harvard Medical School. He then served as an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and was the founding director of the program in glomerular disease at Mass General.

UT System Chancellor, James B. Milliken hosted a welcome reception for President Reiser at the Health Education Center in August. The UTMB community was thrilled to hear from leaders and learn more about Reiser’s vision for the institution.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

A Legacy of Compassion A family of nurses at UTMB

have created an incredible

legacy within the community. Ms. Cheryl Day, mother to Jacquelyn Svoboda and Laura Ellender, started at UTMB in 1977. Cheryl has served UTMB on both the academic and health system sides over the last 45 years. On the health system side, Cheryl developed professionally from working as a Head Nurse in the Oral Surgery Outpatient Clinic to serving as the Associate Chief Nursing Officer – UTMB Hospital Operations, Director of Patient Care Services for Women’s, Infants’, Children’s, and Austin Women’s Hospital, and Director for Education Resource Center for UTMB Nursing (ERC). Simultaneously, she expanded her teaching roles, serving as assistant professor in the undergraduate program, and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, while also earning two graduate degrees from UTMB.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Left to right: Laura Ellender (‘05), Jacquelyn Svoboda (‘99), Emily Svoboda (‘24), and Cheryl Day (‘87)

heryl’s two daughters, Laura and Jacque, compare memories of growing up, their mom working and studying at UTMB and the impact it had on their career choices. “Neither daughter wanted to be a nurse,” says Cheryl, “I didn’t want to put any pressure on their career paths.” But nonetheless, both daughters have paved their own way within their nursing journeys. While both sisters earned their BSN from UTMB School of Nursing, Jacque

graduated from the traditional BSN program, and Laura from the RN-BSN track. Laura and Jacque have since earned graduate degrees in nursing and worked in a variety of roles; Laura at the bedside in Community Based Clinics at UTMB Health, now serving as the Director of Advanced Practice Providers; and Jacque, also an experienced APRN, helps shape the UTMB School of Nursing through her role as Associate Professor and Director of Educational Innovations.

As the sisters have each grown in their careers, they credit their mom’s experience at UTMB for exposing them to a type of professional growth that is so unique to this close-knit community. Cheryl has memories of patients that impacted her. While she didn’t want to bring her work home, she knew that it likely had a subconscious impact on how she parented and cared for her own family. One memory, she recounts, was about a young woman who passed away at the same age as her daughter at the time, and it reminded her how fragile life is and how it can change in an instant. This scenario reshaped how she operated both as a nurse and a mother. The sisters tell a similar tale about initially avoiding a career in nursing, but inevitably being drawn back to this unique community, which has been pivotal in their family. Growing up at UTMB, the spaces and professionals they encountered were always associated with their mother’s nursing career. But during their teenage years, they encountered an impactful loss of their own which shaped their prospectives of the healthcare field and UTMB when their uncle was diagnosed with HIV. While navigating the health system during this time, UTMB, transformed into a compassionate healthcare environment that graciously provided holistic, humanistic centered care for their entire family. “When our uncle was diagnosed with HIV, it was at a time when people simply did not talk about this, but our family did. During the multiple hospital stays and throughout his care, it was always the nurses who provided the most compassionate and comprehensive care, not only for our uncle, but for our entire family,” says Jacque. “But even more than the physical aspects of his care, the level of dignity and respect they provided him in his final days will forever be a lasting gift.” Jacque says that it was this experience at UTMB that drove her to care for vulnerable populations and to give a voice to those who may not have the platforms or privilege to advocate for themselves. The sisters both knew they wanted to help people and more specifically, those who have been historically marginalized or underserved, and nursing is the space

As each nurse has developed in their career, they individually credit their passion for the drive to do the right thing and to care for others. “I am so proud to come from a family that is not afraid of being controversial when it means doing the right thing for people,” says Jacque.

where their goals, passion and dreams collided. Ironically now the sisters joke about their mom following in their footsteps. As they develop and grow in their careers, Cheryl continues to serve in roles that overlap with her daughters’ new leadership positions. “She follows us around,” Jacque and Laura joke, Cheryl rolls her eyes and says, “I have been here a long time, and I have experience in many parts of this hospital and the School or Nursing.” While they laugh about their individual communities overlapping in unexpected ways, they also respect each other’s areas of expertise. Jacque is nationally recognized as a leader in educational innovations. Most recently, she was selected for the Ohio State University Innovations Fellowship and the UT System Regents Outstanding Teaching Award. She is a passionate advocate for improving quality health access for vulnerable populations and educating and empowering student nurses to do the same. She continues her clinical practice in the UTMB OB/Gyn department as an Advanced Practice Nurse. Laura is a nurse practitioner at the UTMB Pediatric and Adult Primary Care Clinic and is interested in all aspects of family medicine. She often oversees nursing students in her community-based clinics as they complete their clinicals. She enjoys the opportunities to help mentor students, and values the ongoing collaborations between the UTMB Health system and the School of Nursing. “I want our students to enjoy the work at UTMB and see the rewards for staying in this amazing institution as much as I have,” says Laura. And now, with another generation of the family, Emily Svoboda, an undergraduate BSN student, the family sees UTMB in a new light. “I have a similar story,” says Emily. “I wasn’t sure I wanted to be a nurse,

but I love helping people, and UTMB has always been a professional home for me. So far, this has been an incredible experience, especially the clinicals I have completed, and it has provided opportunities I never imagined. I am grateful to be here.” After ending the conversation with this personable, empathetic and close-knit family of nurses, there is no doubt that these incredible women are passionate providers, excellent educators, incredible innovators, and the most hopeful version of the future of nursing at UTMB Health. Cheryl Day, MSN, RN, CNS Assistant Professor Laura Ellender, MSN, APRN, FNP-C APP Director Lead APP-CBC Clinics Family Medicine CBC-South Shore Emily Svoboda BSN Student Spring ‘24 Granddaughter of Cheryl Day Daughter of Jacquelyn Svoboda Jacquelyn Svoboda, DNP, APRN, WHNP-C Director of Educational Innovations Associate Professor Nurse Practitioner-UTMB OB/Gyn Department

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

UTMB SON Alumni Rejoin Community As Faculty Kimberly Abraham, DNP, RN, CPN Assistant Professor | BSN (2002) The UTMB delivery format allowed me the ability to continue working, and provided opportunities to move up the clinical ladder and develop as a leader. I returned as a professor because I wanted to provide high quality education for nurses at all levels of entry.

Safaa Al-Arabi,

PhD, MPH, MSN, CNL, RN Associate Professor PhD (2003)

Patricia Blair, PhD, LLM, JD,

MSN, RN, CNE Associate Professor PhD (2004), MSN (1984) I attended UTMB as a student because the SON had a pediatric program that fit with my goal of caring for children with chronic illnesses. The pediatric faculty mentored me throughout the program. I came back as an educator because I felt that my professional experiences would be a valuable asset in exposing students to policy issues and could contribute to acknowledging more broadly UTMB’s unique position in caring for the underserved.

Carol Bruno, DNP, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor | BSN (1976) Location and a rich history was why I chose UTMB. When I attended, baccalaureate nurses were not as plentiful as ADN nurses. Over the years, I have worked with many former UTMB graduates and was impressed with their knowledge and clinical practice. I love seeing the “AHA!” moment when students catch on to what is being taught. High standards, friendly faculty and staff, staying current with nursing practice, and the school’s reputation make me proud to teach and once again be affiliated with the nursing program.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Jill Bryant-Bova, DNP, BS, RN, LNCC, CPHQ, NE-BC Assistant Professor | MSN (2016) DNP (2023) I chose UTMB because of my service as an employee for 15 years and my experience in the MSN-Executive Nurse Leader (ENL) program. With encouragement from others, I decided to continue my education for the transition into academia. Being an educator allows me to provide knowledge to aspiring nursing students. Zachary Carson,

DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-BC Assistant Professor MSN (2018) DNP (2022)

Andrea Colburn, DNP, MSN,

AGACNP-BC, CCRN Assistant Professor | DNP (2019) UTMB has a rich historical significance for being on the forefront of delivering high-quality education and producing outstanding healthcare providers. I chose the DNP program for its reputation for excellence and a deep commitment to improving the health of our communities. For these reasons and more, I am honored to have the opportunity to teach the next generation of Advanced Practice Nurses.

Cheryl Day, MSN, RN, CNS

Assistant Professor | BSN (1987) MSN, Nursing Administration, GSBS (1990), Post-MSN, High Risk OB Clinical Specialist, GSBS (1995) After 45 years at UTMB, I have served in multiple nursing positions and assumed a number of leadership roles. I was fortunate to earn multiple degrees here in my pursuit of excellence and continued learning. I am fortunate to be part of the UTMB SON as full time faculty teaching nursing students to become the most compassionate nurses and pursue their dreams.

Christopher Edwards, PhD, RN

Assistant Professor PhD (2013)

Meredith Ford, MSN, RN, CNE

Assistant Professor | MSN (2015) I was drawn to UTMB because of its prestigious MSN Nurse Educator program. I knew I loved educating others at the bedside, but I didn’t realize how much I would love the academic setting until I worked alongside the amazing students and faculty in my final semester. I fell in love with UTMB’s collegiality, warmth, and community. I knew I wanted my career direction to end up where I felt supported, and in return, I could help my students feel the same.

Vera Gibb, DNP, APRN, FNP-C,

AQH, CCTP Assistant Professor MSN (2014), DNP (2022) The program is student-friendly and affordable, faculty are highly involved, and the school itself has a great reputation in the community. Unlike other online programs, UTMB helped with clinical placements. When it was time to pursue my DNP, UTMB was the only logical choice. Upon completing my DNP studies, I decided to join fulltime faculty to teach the next generation of NPs how to become advanced practice leaders, advocate for their patients, and provide the best care.

Mini Jose, PhD, RN, FNP-C

Associate Professor | PhD (2008) I chose UTMB PhD program for its innovative and intuitive curriculum. I came back to pursue a career here because of the positive experiences I had when I was a student here.

Shinu Joy, DNP, MSN, RN,

NPD-BC, OCN Assistant Professor | MSN (2012) UTMB is renowned in Texas for its education and graduates. UTMB also offered flexibility and the online program was conducive to my work schedule. Education has been my passion from a young age. After precepting nursing students and new graduates, I knew I wanted to contribute to the development of next generation nurses.

Cheryl Juneau, DrPH, APRN,

FNP-BC Associate Professor | MSN (1995) As a student, I recalled the collegiality among all the disciplines and the atmosphere of collaboration dedicated towards the best outcomes for the patient. It is for these reasons I chose to return to UTMB.

Shatoi King, PhD, MSN-Ed,

RN-BC, CNE Assistant Professor | BSN (2006) & PhD (2020) I chose UTMB as an undergrad student because I believed I would receive an education that would launch my nursing career. One thing that stood out to me was the history of UTMB, being the 1st nursing program in Texas and the 1st nursing program to accept African American students. For myself, that spoke volumes. I chose UTMB to complete my PhD nursing education because I knew I would benefit from the exceptional guidance of the esteemed faculty of nurse researchers. After completing my PhD, it was an honor to accept a faculty position so I could assist the next generation of nurses into the field, as this was once done for me. As stated by Florence Nightingale, “Ignite the mind’s spark to rise the sun in you.” I want to assist our students to ignite their flame in nursing.

J. (John) Michael Leger, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, CNE, CNL Professor, | BSN (1995) & PhD (2016) I preferred UTMB’s Flex-Op program for my BSN because of its reputation. I chose to return for the PhD program because of my experiences with the extraordinary faculty. After having experienced the faculty as a graduate student, I knew I wanted to offer the same level of teaching to other nurses seeking their graduate degrees. Sheba Luke, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, NEA-BC Associate Professor | MSN (2012), DNP (2015) Passion for the school’s values, nurturing environment, and desire to inspire and shape the next generation of graduate nursing students brought me back to UTMB SON to serve as a faculty member.

Bushra Manakatt, DNP,

RN, FNP-C Assistant Professor MSN (2011) & DNP (2014)

Cheyenne (Darlene) Martin, PhD, RN, FAAN Professor BSN (1966)

Dora Martin, DNP, RN,

WHCNP, RNC Assistant Professor | BSN (1998) & Post-MSN Women’s Health Care NP (2005) I once asked a RN candidate, “why nursing?” She said “Ikigai,” a Japanese term describing the “reason for being.” Through UTMB, I found my own Ikigai.

Tina Mathers, DNP, MSN, MBA,

RN, CNE Assistant Professor | BSN (2011) UTMB holds a special place in my heart as this is where I learned to be a nurse. I was an older student entering the campus doors 18 months following Hurricane Ike. Leaving my family in Houston was no easy feat, but I knew UTMB would provide me with the necessary foundations to succeed in this new career. In 2015, I returned to the nursing school as faculty and worked alongside those that impacted my career. Today, I guide students who are beginning to learn what it takes to be a successful and compassionate nurse. My career has turned full circle, and I am honored to be at UTMB.

Hoang Nguyen,

PhD Associate Professor, Biostatistician PhD (2002)

Stephanie Rosser,

DNP, APRN, ACNPC, CCRN-CMC, NEA-BC Assistant Professor, BSN ( 2008), MSN (2011)

Kimberly Rumsey, DNP, MSN,

RN, CNE Assistant Professor BSN (1982) UTMB was my choice because of its strong reputation and educational excellence. The first day I visited the island and the campus, I felt comfortable and welcomed. I made many long-lasting friendships while I lived in Galveston, including my husband. The ongoing reputation of UTMB’s School of Nursing as a leader in educating new nurses influenced my decision to return to UTMB as an educator. Though the Health Education Center (HEC) was still a concept, the commitment to innovation and technology was evident and contributed to my decision-making. Educating students continues to confirm my decision to return to my roots and give back to the university that gave me the foundation to do so much over the years through nursing.

Jacquelyn Svoboda, DNP, APRN, WHNP-C Associate Professor | BSN (1999) As a BOI and the daughter of a longtime nurse leader here at UTMB, the School of Nursing was always my first choice when seeking my undergraduate nursing degree. I knew the SON would provide a solid foundation for the start of my nursing career based on the history of program success, and I knew the community would provide unique, rich experiences and promote lifelong friendships with students who would become nursing colleagues. After 14 years in clinical nursing practice, I chose to return to UTMB SON as an educator because I truly believe in the mission. Josie Tombrella, DNP, APRN,

AGPCNP-BC Assistant Professor | BSN (2004), MSN (2008), Post-MSN Certificate AGPCNP (2011) I wanted to attend a school affiliated with a teaching hospital, and I knew there would be excellent clinical opportunities in Galveston and the nearby Texas Medical Center. I chose to further my education at UTMB due to the wonderful experience I had as an undergraduate student. I did not hesitate to come back to the school as an educator, the place where I began my nursing journey and to join my esteemed former professors. I am grateful for the quality education and training I received as a student at UTMB, and strive to provide that same experience for my students today.

Roy Trahan, PhD, RN, CCRN-K

Assistant Professor | BSN (2008) & PhD (2014) UTMB’s RN-BSN program was online and convenient while working full-time as a bedside nurse. Once enrolled, I realized that the program and faculty were exceptional. I graduated the same semester Hurricane Ike devastated the island and the program didn’t miss a beat. My experience in the undergraduate program led me directly to the BSN to PhD program with the most extraordinary PhD faculty mentoring me. My intention was always to become an educator, but because of my great relationship with the PhD nursing faculty, I chose UTMB to begin my career as an academic. In simple terms, it was all because of the faculty.

Lisa Wagner, PhD, MPH, RN

Assistant Professor | PhD (2020) I chose UTMB to complete my BSN to PhD track because I knew the university had a reputation for rigorously training their doctoral students. I chose to apply to UTMB as a professor because I knew the SON had high first-time pass rates, which was a reflection of their excellent professors and adherence to high academic standards.

Rebeka Watson Campbell, PhD,

RN, CNE, Associate Professor BSN (2005) & PhD (2011) I come from a family of nurses. When I made the decision to become a nurse myself, UTMB was the only school I considered. When it was time to pursue graduate school, I came back to my alma mater for guidance and was honored to be included as a member of the first cohort of BSN—PhD students to complete the program. I stayed as faculty because of the culture and the pride I have for this school and our graduates.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Faculty Service

 Dr. Annalyn DeMello, Assistant Professor, joined the Board of Directors for Texans for Safe and Drug-Free Youth. This organization is committed to working to end underage alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. Dr. DeMello has done terrific work in this sphere, and we appreciate her commitment to this important mission.

 Dr. Sheba Luke, Associate Professor, was selected to participate in the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) 2023-2024 Faculty Leadership Mentoring Program. The program provides the opportunity to further develop leadership knowledge and skills.

 Dr. Jeff Temple was appointed to the Society for Prevention Research (SPR) Board of Directors, and to chair the SPR Board Advocacy Committee. His service will help to promote high quality prevention science, influence policy, and reduce disparities and inequality. Dr. Temple also serves on the Health, Behavior, and

Context Study Section, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Initial Review Group. Through his memberships and participation in this national biomedical research group, he will contribute to the expansion of science regarding healthrelated behavior and it influences.

“Our dean is committed to a healthy work environment and a culture that offers mentorship, professional development, and helping others succeed,” says Rounds. “It isn’t necessarily me, or my department, but the support we have to create a sense of belonging and value that is so important.”

inda Rounds, PhD, APRN, FNP, FAANP, FAAN, was appointed by the SON Dean to foster an environment of professional development and lifelong learning. In the role of Associate Dean for Professional Development, Dr. Rounds has been instrumental in mentoring faculty and supporting an environment that encourages our community to pursue their professional goals and passions. Percent of Faculty with or Pursuing Terminal Degrees

57% 2017

96% 2023

Dr. Rounds reminds us that in today’s environment, nurses can go anywhere, but it’s her goal to support a welcoming environment and provide resources to be successful and contribute in meaningful ways. Serving in a teaching role since 1983, her passion to develop leaders and promote high standards within the nursing profession has helped place her in leadership positions and influential roles on state and national organizations.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Rounds was instrumental in developing our gerontological nurse practitioner program in 1985, which became a fully online program in 1998, the first of its kind in the state of Texas. She led the development of UTMB’s DNP Program, and has been a frequent curriculum consultant for NP programs throughout the country and internationally. Dr. Rounds is a Fellow in the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nursing and currently holds the Betty Lee Evans Distinguished Professorship in Nursing. She served as the advanced practice nursing representative to the Texas Board of Nursing for 12 years and served as President of the Board for 11 years. She is also an inaugural member of the UT System Academy of Health Science Educators.

Dr. Linda Rounds was named a Piper Professor of 2023 for her strong commitment to student success and mentorship. The Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation is a non profit, charitable corporation focused on post-secondary education in Texas. Each year, the foundation honors 10 Piper Professors from across Texas for their dedication to teaching in addition to outstanding academic, scientific, and scholarly achievement.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Faculty Honors and Awards

my of Health Science Education, which recognizes outstanding educators from UT System health science institutions, to support excellence in all aspects of health science education, educational scholarship, and leadership.  Dr. Jacquelyn Svoboda, SON Director of Educational Innovations, was selected for The Ohio State University College of Nursing National Innovation Fellowship Program. Dr. Svoboda will join world-class innovators, creators and entrepreneurs who are passionate about bringing innovation to life.

 Dr. Kristen Starnes-Ott, SON Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, was selected as a 2023 Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. Fellows of the AANA are recognized in their field for being outstanding practitioners, educators, researchers, and advocates. Dr. Starnes-Ott was also selected for membership in The University of Texas System Kenneth I. Shine, M.D., Acade-

 Professor, Huey-Ming Tzeng, PhD, RN, FAAN, received the 2022 Gold Medal Award from the Good Samaritan Foundation. Dr. Tzeng’s strong connection to the community and amazing work on fall prevention has impacted countless lives and families in our community. She is a mentor, leader, advocate, and scholar who continues to serve in meaningful ways.

 Beth Ulrich, EdD, RN, FACHE, FAONL, FAAN, Professor in the Department of Graduate Studies, has earned the Nell J. Watts Lifetime Achievement in Nursing Award form Sigma Theta Tau. This is one of the most prestigious honors bestowed by the Board of Directors, and given to a Sigma member who has demonstrated exemplary achievements in nursing throughout their lifetime.

Dr. Beth Ulrich received the 2023 Nephrology Nurse Educator Award by the American Nephrology Nurses’ Association last month. The ANNA Nephrology Nurse Educator Award recognizes excellence and outstanding contributions to the education of nephrology nurses and/or patients.

Dr. Svoboda was also named a recipient of the 2022 University of Texas (UT) Regent’s Outstanding Teaching Award (ROTA). This prestigious award recognizes faculty members at UT System’s eight academic and six health institutions who have demonstrated extraordinary performance and innovation in instruction. The ROTA awards are the Board of Regents’ highest honor and are among the largest in the nation for rewarding outstanding faculty performance.

Karen Robbins (left) and Lesley Dinwiddie (right), both served as a Past President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association, nominated Ulrich for the award.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Faculty Honors and Awards

 Dr. J. Michael Leger (at left) serves on AACN’s Health Policy Advisory Council (HPAC). This council was initiated to provide significant insights to guide the association in its development of policy statements surrounding current and emerging areas in health, healthcare, and higher education.

 The second annual Interprofessional Education and Practice Symposium was well attended this year. UTMB faculty, staff, and students from the five schools, including the School of Nursing, showcased outstanding projects in which they collaborated across disciplines with the common goal of improving human health. School of Nursing faculty and alumni were awarded as the Inaugural IPEP Champions for their service. Champions included Drs. Kimberly Abraham, Annalyn DeMello, Pamela Harris-Haman, Connie Heard, Jackie Meyer, and Hoang Nguyen. Dr. Bushra Manakatt was recognized as one of five who received Excellence in Interprofessional Education Award for Educators.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Student and Alumni Achievements

 Nursing PhD graduate, Dr. Kandice Rachal Bledsaw, was awarded the most innovative abstract and poster presentation award at the Children’s Hospitals’ Association for Solutions for Patient Safety (SPS) Spring 2023 National Session. Her poster presentation titled, “The Integration of an Oral Health Educator Enhances MBI-CLABSI Prevention for Pediatric BMT Patients” earned the Judges Choice award.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

 BSN Population Health course clinical group received first place at the 2023 School for Public and Population Health Symposium. The poster was titled “The Impact of an Immersive Partnership Between Population Health Nursing Students and Higher Up Texas.” Congratulations to students: Athena Ho, Aziz Rahman, Danny Kanafani, Kaustub Adhikari, Lindsey Macphail, Aylin Gloria, Joshua Lowe, Venessa Mak, Katherine Lephuoc, and Carolyn Keith.

 PhD student, Kennessa Landry, MSN, RN, was presented a scholarship award from TNA District 9 that will support the completion of her education. She was one of only three nursing students from across the Houston region selected for the Scholarship. Kennessa, center, is shown alongside faculty honorees Dr. Huey-Ming Tzeng and Dr. J. Michael Leger.

 Dr. Amber High, a 2023 Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) graduate, is the recipient of the 2023 American Association of Colleges of Nursing Excellence in Advancing Nursing Practice Award. This award recognizes an outstanding final DNP project from a DNP student at an AACN member school. Dr. High’s project focused on a novel peer support process for anesthesia clinicians who experience personal or professional trauma after a clinical event, known as second victim phenomenon.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS

Student and Alumni Achievements

 Dr. Erin Perez, three-time SON alumna, was selected as part of the Texas team by the National Academy of State Health Policy (NASHP) for the new Institute to Improve Care for People with Serious Illness. Currently she serves as Chair for the Texas Palliative Care Interdisciplinary Advisory Council. Dr. Perez, along with four others will be working on a twoyear project centered around increasing access to high quality supportive palliative care through innovative value add and quality care models while creating the first state supportive palliative and hospice care score cards.

 The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth named Dr. Cindy Weston, (SON ‘89) as the founding dean of its new College of Nursing. After a nationwide search, Weston was selected to lead the strategic planning, recruitment of personnel, and development of partnerships for the college. Dr. Weston was also selected as a fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Induction into the AANP is one of the highest recognitions in the nurse practitioner profession with 908 members.

 UTMB School of Nursing was named Community Partner of the Year by Higher Up Texas. Our partnership with HUT and Dickinson ISD, in which our BSN students provide mentorship to high school seniors who are interested in health care, has been a tremendously rewarding endeavor for all involved. Pictured (left to right): Carla Voelkel, Superintendent of Dickinson ISD; Dr. Deborah Jones, UTMB SON Dean; Anthony Annunziato, HUT Founder; Rick Gornto, HUT Founder; Dr. Billye Jones, Principal of Dickinson High School; Hillary Gramm, HUT Executive Director; Dr. Annalyn DeMello, SON Assistant Professor; and Dr. Cherry Beckworth, SON Clinical Associate Professor.

 UTMB School of Nursing alumna, Dr. Robin L Hardwicke, is the 2023 recipient of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) State Award for Excellence in Texas. Dr. Hardwicke graduated from the UTMB School of Nursing in ‘99 and currently serves as an HIV medicine provider with UT Physicians and as a professor of internal medicine with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

 PhD student, Jeni Page, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, received a dissertation award from the Southern Nursing Research Society for her proposal, “Telomere Length, Physical Activity, and Race-Specific Variations in Prevalence of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: The Cardiovascular Health Study.” For the same study, Jeni was also selected for the Jeane B. Kempner fellowship to continue this project at UTMB. Through this research, Jeni will examine the relationship between physical activity, and innovative, modern genetic-based approaches to chronic disease prevention.

 Two UTMB School of Nursing alumni were recently honored and recognized by Texas Nurse Practitioners (TNP) at their 2022 conference. Dr. Erin Perez (SON ‘10, ‘13, ‘19) received the 2022 Community Impact Award and was named TNP’s President-Elect. Julian Quiceno Lopez (SON ‘17, ‘21) was presented with the TNP Rising Star award for his efforts with the St. Vincent’s Clinic in Galveston.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Celebrating Achievement UTMB School of Nursing held its 2023 commencement ceremony on April 25 at Moody Gardens Convention Center, with graduates’ families and friends invited to celebrate in person or view via livestream. Dr. Jessica Peck, UTMB School of Nursing alumna, delivered the powerful and motivating commencement address. “UTMB gave me courage to dare to dream and opened the door for me,” Peck stated. Congratulations, 2023 graduates! The SON leadership, faculty, alumni and staff wish you the best! D E G R E E S A N D C E R T I F I C AT E S A W A R D E D

AGACNP’s

Doctors of Nursing Practice

AGPCNPs

Clinical Nurse Leaders

Nurse Educators

Alumni and Donor Relations We take great pride in the active role that our alumni play in our school’s success. For over 130 years, we have educated nurses in innovative ways to meet the demands of health care in Texas and beyond. We believe that by advancing our professional network and community partnerships, we continue to increase opportunities for our students, faculty, and alumni. Through the substantial contributions of our alumni, we foster lasting collaborations to advance the institutional shared mission of improving the health for the people of Texas and around the world together.

UTMB SCHOOL OF NURSING

Neonatal Nurse Practitioners

Executive Nurse Leaders

Certificates

RN-BSNs

Family Nurse Practitioners

298

Traditional BSNs

UTMB School of Nursing

Studying, working and playing on Galveston Island A

healthy work environment creates a committed and engaged community, working together to reach our full potential. Our school is committed to employing and educating a workforce whose diversity mirrors the populations with whom we serve.

For more than a century, UTMB Health has served Texas and Texans from its historic Galveston campus, long anchored by the John Sealy Hospital. The 12-story hospital is in the midst of a multimillion dollar renovation that includes enhanced

technological capabilities, expanded patient rooms, including a new Mother/Baby Labor & Delivery Unit and Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and an improved hospital exterior to ensure a healing environment for patients and their families.

Success isn’t an accident. It’s a result. The Student Success Center (SSC) offers academic support services for students such as virtual, in-person, and “after-hours” appointments to accommodate students’ schedules. The Schools of Health Professions and Nursing collaborated to develop, implement, and fund a Student Success Center model. The SSC builds a deep and lasting bond between the

students and the university. The center strengthens the support network for on-campus, distance, and hybrid students to meet their short and long-term academic goals. The SSC connects students to campus and community resources and services to help overcome barriers that interfere with academic success.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

1114 Mechanic Street Galveston TX 77555-1132

Our UTMB School of Nursing is proud to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees designed to meet the unique needs of each nursing professional. To learn more, visit nursing.utmb.edu