The University of 91视频 College of Nursing has been named a . This year, 91视频is one of only 21 nursing education programs nationwide to receive the NLN Center of Excellence鈩� (COE) designation, a prestigious recognition given to organizations that demonstrate sustained, evidence-based and substantive innovation in nursing education.
The College of Nursing earned COE designation in the category of 鈥淓nhancing Student Learning and Professional Development,鈥� recognizing its exceptional commitment to fostering academic excellence, innovation and student success.
鈥淭his honor signifies the dedication and tireless effort of our nursing faculty, leadership and students,鈥� said Usha Menon, PhD, RN, FAAN, FSBM, senior associate vice president at 91视频Health and dean of the College of Nursing. 鈥淲e are truly grateful for this recognition and the meaningful value it adds to those we serve.鈥�
This recognition comes as the College of Nursing is in the midst of a state-funded historic expansion to address Florida鈥檚 nursing shortage, noted Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, executive vice president of 91视频Health and dean of the 91视频Health Morsani College of Medicine.
鈥淚 want to thank Dean Usha Menon and our nursing faculty members for their hard work to ensure that we are offering the best possible education for the future nurses of Florida,鈥� Dr. Lockwood said. 鈥淭he real winners here are the people of Florida, who ultimately will receive better health care from Florida-trained nurses because we are empowering the next generation to provide top-quality nursing care to our patients.鈥�
The college鈥檚 excellence initiatives have significantly advanced student engagement, learning, and professional success. Through innovative teaching, interprofessional collaboration and a data-driven approach to student support, the college has cultivated an environment that empowers future nurses to thrive academically and lead in the health care workforce.
A standout example is the Mo-Bull Nurse Medical Clinic, which offers valuable clinical learning experiences for undergraduate and graduate nursing students while delivering free primary care to underserved populations across the Tampa Bay region.
We have all heard, 鈥業t takes a village.鈥� Nowhere is that truer than in the shared vision and values, mutual support, respect, and inclusivity among faculty, leadership and students that must come together for an extraordinary nursing program to be nationally recognized for their innovation and commitment in becoming an NLN Center of Excellence.
Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN
NLN President and CEO
Formal recognition will take place at the Honors Convocation during the 2025 NLN Education Summit in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 19.