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Dean's Message

Janet M. Brown

Spring is a season for exciting new beginnings and it's no different here at the College of Nursing. Great things are blossoming! The college continues to transform the Virtual Nursing Learning Center into a top-of-the-line simulation learning environment. Several years ago, we entered the age of simulation through the creation of eight patient care areas and four fully equipped examination rooms. We were able to purchase the latest patient simulators, including SimMan. Last year, faculty indicated that we needed a second SimMan because of the increase in enrollment and the creative ways that simulation had been introduced to augment clinical teaching. As a result of a very generous gift, a second SimMan will be added this spring.

An important milestone for the college is the anticipated launch of our new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program in fall 2008. Throughout the past two academic years, faculty members have been working to establish the curriculum and structure for the program, wich aims to maintain our reputation as a leader in preparing advance practice nurses.

Although this is a doctoral-level degree, it is different from the Ph.D. in that it is a professional degree rather than a research doctorate. The focus is on advanced nursing practice, and the program will strengthen graduates' preparation to practice independently. The DNP requires 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, and graduates will be prepared as experts in practice issues. The DNP will substantially strengthen the nurse's role in the health care delivery system and place nursing on par with other health professions that require graduate level education.

During the 2008-09 academic year, Valparaiso Unversity will celebrate its 150th anniversary. There are many exciting events being planned including the inauguration of our next presdient, Mark Heckler. In conjunction with the 150th anniversary celebration, the College of Nursing is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

An event you won't want to miss is the College of Nursing 40th Anniversary Gala to be held at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago on Saturday evening February 7, 2009. Plan to join everyone there for an evening of fine dining, great entertainment, and an opportunity to connect with faculty and friends. Mark your calendars! This is going to be a spectacular event you won't want to miss.

Sincerely,

Janet Brown
Dean, College of Nursing

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