- Scholarship support remains our No. 1 need. Student Joseph Simon began a career in law enforcement. After witnessing vastly different social structures and circumstances, he was inspired to pursue a career in mental health through our Psychiatric-Mental Health NP program. Scholarship support allows him to balance life, academics and clinical experience—a common theme for many students. Without these funds, some would have to choose a different path, and others would be faced with financial sacrifices detrimental to their families.
- Focused on health equity. As nurses and educators of future nurses, we are committed to addressing health disparities, which disproportionately affect people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those with disabilities and rural residents. This year, we launched new initiatives to understand and influence the causes and consequences:
- The Center for Research on Inequalities and Health connects nursing faculty and researchers with colleagues in the College of Arts and Science on projects to increase equity across populations. It is an honor to partner in this trans-institutional initiative.
- The Health Equity Fellowship supports this signature area in two ways. Through Dec. 31, gifts and pledges of at least $100,000 to health equity research will be matched dollar for dollar. Additionally, fellowship awards will support faculty and student engagement in equity work.
- Addressing a CRNA shortage. The U.S. also faces a shortage of certified registered nurse anesthetists. With area health leaders, we have identified sites for clinical training and placement; we are actively working to develop, and secure approvals for, our own CRNA program. It is expected to start in 2026.
These and other programs are only possible with your continued involvement and support. Together, we can empower the next generation of nurses to make meaningful differences in the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world.
Please consider a gift today to join our mission by giving online.
This fall, I travel with the chancellor and other Vanderbilt leaders for Dare to Grow events. I hope to see you at some point so I can thank you in person and share about the meaningful impact you have on our students, research and the nursing profession.
Best regards,
Pamela R. Jeffries, PhD, RN, FAAN, ANEF, FSSH
Dean and Valere Potter Professor of Nursing, RWJF Nurse Executive Fellow Alumna
