Dear Colleagues and Friends,
Preparing the next generation of nurse leaders requires innovation in all aspects of education, research and clinical practice. Next generation innovation demands the elements of curiosity, willingness to engage in new ways, teamwork, purpose driven perspective and positive energy. In this issue of UAB Nursing, all elements of next generation innovation are evident in the many stories and in the introduction of our new strategic plan, Boldly Blazing Forward, Elevating Excellence to New Heights (2024-2028).
Curiosity to explore new possibilities is noted in the creation of our new Student Success Champions Program that has reduced attrition to just 2 percent across all programs. Engaging students in meaningful ways helps them to succeed in our programs and grow in personal resilience.
Willingness to engage in new ways is apparent in our efforts to embrace artificial intelligence. In preparing students to responsibly use new and emerging technologies, we equip them for innovation and health care transformation. Teamwork is seen in our numerous interprofessional collaborations across academics, research and practice. Demonstrating that together we are stronger is reflected through our simulation efforts, enduring academic-practice partnerships, accredited nurse residency programs, and a new Growth with Purpose research initiative.
Purpose driven perspective is reflected in our many investments in people to build faculty development capacity and grow our next generation of leaders and innovators. Examples of these efforts are noted in our new Faculty Academy, internal fellowship programs in innovation and health policy, research mentorship efforts and cultivation of national leaders in professional organizations.
Positive energy abounds with our focus on enhancing access, engagement and well-being for faculty, staff and students. Our new Pathway to Professional Nursing program showcases our efforts to immerse ourselves in the community to build the future health care workforce. Similarly, the efforts of our WE CARE grant with the opening of our Wellness Room, initiation of Wellness Rounds and support of a School-based social worker complement other initiatives such as the opening of neighboring Unity Park and creation of new open air gathering places.
Because innovation happens within the context of relationships, providing opportunities to engage, celebrate and show appreciation is crucial. These pages reflect celebrations of milestones such as annual student events, recognition of individual and team accomplishments and appreciation of alumni and donor philanthropy. We proudly share past successes and aspirations for the future introducing our new strategic plan.
We hope you enjoy this issue of UAB Nursing, which outlines our efforts for preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators. We remain ever thankful for the support of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, partners and friends.
Go Blazers!!
Maria R. Shirey, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, ANEF, FACHE, FNAP, FAAN
Dean & Fay B. Ireland Endowed Chair