GW Nursing Annual Report: 2023-2024

ANNUAL REPORT
2023-2024
REVOLUTIONIZING
HEALTHCARE
ONE NURSE
AT A TIME

TABLE OF CONTENTS
04 Message from the Dean
06 Rankings
08 By The Numbers
10 Student News & Accomplishments
14 Faculty News & Accomplishments
20 Staff News & Accomplishments
23 Academic Programming
25 Financial Overview
26 Development
28 Research
32 Centers
34 Inclusive Excellence
36 Strategic Plan

A MESSAGE FROM
THE DEAN
As I reflect on the past year, I am in awe of the unwavering commitment of our faculty, staff, students,
alumni, and donors as they continue to challenge the status quo and drive transformative change. Our
collective goal—to inspire, educate and empower nursing leaders—remains at the heart of everything
we do. Through innovation, advocacy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we are ensuring that every
individual receives the high-quality, compassionate, and equitable care they deserve. In fact, at the
George Washington University School of Nursing, we are revolutionizing healthcare, one nurse at a time!
This year, GW Nursing has once again earned multiple top-10 rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s
Best Online Master’s Programs, a testament to our dedication to academic excellence and student
success. Our cutting-edge online programs leverage the latest technology, including virtual reality
simulations and evidence-based teaching strategies, to prepare nurses for the ever-evolving demands of
the profession. With a dedicated group of faculty and staff certified in Quality Matters, we continue to set
the standard for exceptional nursing education that is both rigorous and forward-thinking.
As we move into a new era of leadership at GW, our school remains steadfast in its commitment
to shaping the next generation of healthcare visionaries. Our four strategic priorities—cultural
transformation, sustainability, curriculum redesign, and student success—serve as a guiding framework to
enhance our impact. By fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment, refining our curriculum to
meet the needs of today’s nursing students, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability, we are laying
the foundation for continued growth and innovation.
GW Nursing is more than an institution; it is a community of change-makers dedicated to advancing
health equity, influencing policy, and redefining what it means to be a nurse. Our faculty and students are
driving solutions that address critical healthcare challenges, from improving mental health care access to
advocating for policies that support vulnerable populations.
As we look to the future, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. Together, we will
continue to lead, innovate, and inspire—ensuring that GW Nursing remains at the forefront of healthcare
transformation. Thank you for being part of our journey.
Best,
Susan Kelly-Weeder, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN
Dean and Professor
The George Washington University School of Nursing
4 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 5

OUR RANKINGS
USNWR BEST ONLINE PROGRAMS RANKINGS
NATIONAL
RECOGNITION
FOR GW NURSING
PROGRAMS
USNWR BEST GRAD SCHOOLS RANKINGS
For the seventh straight year, the School
of Nursing’s graduate programs ranked
highly in the U.S. News & World Report’s
annual surveys on the nation’s top
schools of nursing.
The GW School of Nursing’s Master of Science in Nursing program was ranked #1 by
U.S. News and World Report for Best Online Master’s Programs for veterans. This is our
seventh straight year in the top 10 with a #6 ranking for Best Online Master’s in Nursing
Programs overall, #4 for nursing administration, and #7 for family nurse practitioner.
The GW Nursing online education is phenomenal. We pride ourselves on the contributions
of our faculty and staff, who are certified in Quality Matters, a program that incorporates
industry-leading best practices for online learning and education. Additionally, attention to
proven pedagogy and adherence to ongoing training and certification, has enabled us
to excel in delivering outstanding online programs for nurses.
U.S. News incorporates multiple factors in the determination of a school’s ranking, including
faculty credentials, student engagement, student support services, and peer evaluations from
deans and directors of schools of nursing. We know the comprehensive approach our team
utilizes in delivering high quality online educational programs allows our students to excel in
their chosen nursing specialty. Their success is a testament to the quality of our programming.
These rankings are a tremendous acknowledgement of all we do for our students and reflect the
GW School of Nursing continuous drive for excellence. Congratulations to all and Raise High!
Annual Report 2023–2024 | 7

ENROLLMENT BY THE NUMBERS
GRADUATES BY THE NUMBERS
STUDENTS ENROLLED
960
ENROLLMENT BY PROGRAM
32 353 302 132 118 23
GRADUATING STUDENTS IN
413
AY 23-24, GW NURSING GRADUATED 413 STUDENTS
WITH BACHELOR’S, MASTER’S OR DOCTORAL DEGREES IN
NURSING. DEGREES ARE CONFERRED IN THE FALL, SPRING
AND SUMMER SEMESTERS OF EACH ACADEMIC YEAR.
189
GRADUATING
WITH BACHELOR’S DEGREES
177 ACCELERATED BSN
12 RN TO BSN
RN-BSN ABSN MSN CERTIFICATE DNP PHD
41%
FULL-TIME
ENROLLMENT BY TYPE
59%
PART-TIME
ENROLLMENT BY DIVERSITY
CERTIFICATION
PASS RATES 2024
NCLEX 97%
111
08
ADULT-GERO ACUTE CARE
NURSE PRACTITIOTNER
GRADUATING WITH MASTER’S DEGREES
07
ADULT-GERO PRIMARY CARE
NURSE PRACTITIONER
FAMILY NURSE
63 NURSE MIDWIFERY
PRACTITIONER
03
NOT
12% SPECIFIED
FNP ANCC 94%
02
NURSING LEADERSHIP
AND MANAGEMENT
28
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH
NURSE PRACTITIONER
HAWAIIAN/
PACIFIC
<1% ISLANDER
8%
HISPANIC/
LATINO
AFRICAN
22% AMERICAN
GW NURSING
STUDENTS
45% WHITE
FNP AANP 80%
AGPCNP ANCC 82%
AGPCNP AANP 82%
85
GRADUATING
17
01
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH
NURSE PRACTITIONER
ADULT-GERO PRIMARY CARE
NURSE PRACTITIONER
WITH CERTIFICATES
03
64
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER
COMPLEX
13% ASIAN
ENROLLMENT BY GENDER
804 156
AGACNP ANCC 94%
AGACNP AACN 100%
PMHNP 92%
28
GRADUATING WITH DOCTORATE DEGREES
24
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE
04
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY

STUDENT NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
STUDENT NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
2023-2024
STUDENT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Please join us in congratulating this year’s Student Awards recipients. Selected by our
faculty, these awards recognize outstanding students for their academic achievement,
clinical performance and service to the School of Nursing community.
NOTABLE MENTIONS
PhD student Marguerite Rowell, won the Explorer Track award at GW's New Venture Competition, held annually by
GW's Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Ms. Rowell won for her venture Nurse Math, an app that addresses
the absence of financial education in nursing programs and offers step-by-step calculations for healthcare and
business formulas.
OUTSTANDING
STUDENT AWARD
Community Service
OUTSTANDING
STUDENT AWARD
Nurse Midwifery Program
OUTSTANDING
STUDENT AWARD
Nursing Leadership and
Management Program
OUTSTANDING
RN-BSN SCHOLAR
AWARD
Tabitha Northrup Claire Donovan Latricia Williams Sarah Hart
CLINICAL
EXCELLENCE AWARD
Adult-Gero. Acute Care
Nurse Practitioner
CLINICAL
EXCELLENCE AWARD
Adult-Gero. Primary Care
Nurse Practitioner
CLINICAL
EXCELLENCE AWARD
Family Nurse
Practitioner Program
Alex Tay Ellen Legrand Kendall Powell Tim Parker
CLINICAL
EXCELLENCE AWARD
Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner Program
As part of his work with the Elijeko Foundation, ABSN alumnus Andrews Nyantakyi provided bystander CPR training
for more than 200 members of the Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association, which is
comprised of traditional healers and practitioners.
PhD student Wendy Post was part of a cross-disciplinary GW team that won the annual DC Health Case Competition.
Their proposal titled, & Every Woman, received the grand prize for its creative and thoughtful approach to supporting
the mental health needs of young unhoused LGBTQ women in DC.
DNP student, Paula Scher, was selected for the American Public Health Association's 2024 Integrative, Complementary
and Traditional Health Practices (ICTHP) fellowship.
PhD candidate Heather Walsh received an NLN Foundation Scholarship Award that is designed to support diverse
nurses committed to careers in academic nursing education.
VIRGINIA NURSES
ASSOCIATION/VIRGINIA
NURSES FOUNDATION
Future Nurse Leaders Award
Candice Bailey
PAUL TSCHUDI
MEMORIAL
SCHOLARSHIP
CHARACTER AWARD
Braden Renke (Fall 2023)
Candice Bailey (Spring 2024)
DNP
SCHOLARLY
PROJECT
AWARD
Mackenzie Intlekofer
THE PAM & JOE
JEFFRIES NURSING
INNOVATION
AWARD
Genique Stanislaus
Kelly Federle
Veterans BSN student Zach McKenna earned a scholarship from the Pat Tillman Foundation, which seeks to unite and
empower remarkable military service members, veterans and spouses as the next generation of public and private
sector leaders committed to service beyond self.
GW Nursing Ph.D. student Min-Jeong (Jaime) Jeon recently received the Global Korean Nursing Foundation in
USA Scientific Ph.D./D.N.P. Scholarship Award to support her dissertation work. The award is given annually through
a national competition. The primary purpose of this award is to support future Korean nursing leaders on their
meritorious Ph.D. and/or D.N.P. projects for the advancement of nursing and clinical sciences.
The DAISY® Award
GW Nursing is proud to be one of over 200 colleges
and schools of nursing partnering with the DAISY
Foundation to present The DAISY Award® in honor of
nurse faculty and nursing students who go above and
beyond to make extraordinary differences in patients’
and families’ experiences in the clinical setting.
Congratulations to the recipients of The DAISY Award®
for Extraordinary Nursing Students!
CHEVY CARGOL
TABITHA NORTHRUP
SHANIA HICKMAN

STUDENT NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
THE REMARKABLE
JOURNEY OF
CHERYL THAXTON
GW Nursing Alumna Cheryl Thaxton, DNP, MA,
CPNP, FNP-BC, CHPPN, FPCN, FAANP has followed
a path defined by dedication, perseverance, and
a profound love of nursing. Her career spans over
three decades of exemplary service and leadership
in the nursing profession and this fall, she will be
inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of
Nursing (FAAN). “I am truly honored to receive this
induction,” Dr. Thaxton reflects. “It is a privilege to
be acknowledged among so many remarkable and
dedicated nurses. I would not be where I am without
the unwavering support of my family, friends, and
colleagues throughout the years.”
Dr. Thaxton began her nursing career with a
steadfast commitment to patient care, where
she was continually inspired by the resilience of
FROM NURSING
STUDENT TO
ACADEMIC LEADER
the pediatric patients and families she served in
both acute and primary care settings. One of the
most pivotal moments in her career was when she
established a new pediatric palliative care program
at Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center. “This
endeavor involved developing partnerships with
key stakeholders, patients, and their families while
building bridges to resources that improved the
quality of life for pediatric palliative care patients,”
she recounts. This initiative not only addressed a
critical need within the organization and community,
but also highlighted her dedication to increasing
access to resources for patients with life-limiting
illness.
Her interest in pediatric palliative care was nurtured
by key mentors such as Dr. Raymond Barfield
and Dr. Margarita Bidegain, who guided her in
understanding the unique needs of children with
cancer and chronic medical conditions. Well-known
nursing leaders such as Dr. Betty Ferrell and Mrs.
Pam Malloy also provided invaluable guidance,
helping Dr. Thaxton to align with the core values and
principles of palliative and hospice nursing.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Thaxton
finds joy in community service through church
events and spending time outdoors. Her education
at GW Nursing, where she completed both the
post-master’s Family Nurse Practitioner program
and Doctor of Nursing Practice program, has been
instrumental in her career. “As a GW alumna, I take
immense pride in the enduring support and lifelong
connections that have been fostered. The story did
not end when I graduated, though. Faculty remained
involved in my growth over the years” she says,
highlighting the influence of GW Nursing’s Professor
Emerita Dr. Joyce Pulcini, who encouraged her to
pursue a career in higher education.
“I have been so impressed in Dr. Thaxton’s ability
to move forward in her career and in her significant
contributions to nursing since graduating from GW,”
said Dr. Pulcini. “She is a great tribute to our school
and I am proud to be her mentor.”
Dr. Thaxton’s rise in academia is truly remarkable.
In September 2023, she became the Founding
Associate Dean, Professor, and Chair of Graduate
Nursing at the University of North Texas Health
Science Center (UNTHSC). She collaboratively
supported the development of the Master of
Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse
Practitioner Program and a Master of Science in
Practice Innovation at UNTHSC. The new programs,
led by Dean Cindy Weston, will serve students
across Texas and within the great community of Fort
Worth.
Her exemplary contributions to nursing have been
recognized with numerous awards, including
the Texas Nurse Practitioners Visionary Award
(2023), the Estelle Osborne Award from New York
University Rory Meyers College of Nursing (2022),
the Ambassador Award from the National Black
Nurse Practitioners Association (2022), the National
Nessa Coyle Palliative Leadership Award (2022),
and the DFW Great 100 Nurses Award (2021). She is
also a Fellow in Palliative Care (FPCN) and a Fellow
of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners
(FAANP). These accolades reflect her dedication to
advancing the field of pediatric and adult palliative
care and advanced practice nursing.
Dr. Thaxton’s work extends to underserved patients
across the lifespan, with a unique emphasis on
compassionate end-of-life care for neonates
and support for grief and bereavement. She has
provided national and international palliative care
workshops and trainings, impacting thousands of
undergraduate- and graduate-level nurses and
interdisciplinary team members. Her leadership
extends to her role as Co-chair of the National
Pediatric Palliative Care Task Force, now known as
the Pediatric Division for the National Coalition for
Hospice and Palliative Care (nationalcoalitionhpc.
org), where the Pediatric Division members
advocated for national concurrent care legislation
and other vital initiatives needed to support children
with life-limiting illnesses. The Division membership
is comprised of representatives from all 14 members
of the Coalition, three family advocates, as well
as representatives from aligned stakeholder
organizations, including the American Academy
of Pediatrics, American Psychological Association,
Association for Child Life Professionals, and the State
Coalition Network.
Dr. Thaxton’s contributions to the nursing profession
continue to inspire and pave the way for future
generations of nurses. And her advice to nursing
students is rooted in her own experiences: “There
are many amazing opportunities in nursing that will
allow you to pursue your passion for supporting
patients and families. Seek to find nursing mentors
in the field early on, and choose areas that align with
your deepest interests and career goals. Ultimately,
this will lead to a fulfilling and impactful career.”
12 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 13

FACULTY NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
FACULTY NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
GW NURSING
WELCOMES
NEW FACULTY
Amanda Nicklas | RN, MSN, CHSE
CLINICAL INSTRUCTOR
Since graduating from nursing school, Amanda Nicklas has worked in a variety of healthcare fields: labor
and delivery, telemetry, NICU, home health care and nursing education. Throughout her career, she has
proven to be a problem solver, finding solutions to systems issues. She loves collaborating on strategies
from implementing best practices to care for patients across the spectrum of healthcare. She is also
passionate about caring and educating our future healthcare professionals, leading the way to develop
compassionate and caring healthcare workers across the spectrum of health needs from birth, to chronic
illnesses to end-of-life care. Her professional and research ambitions fulfill this entire spectrum.
Cynthia Awadzi | DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, C, PMHNP-BC
CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
Cynthia Awadzi is a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
with nearly a decade of clinical experience in health care and academic settings. Before coming to GW
Nursing, she taught graduate and undergraduate courses at George Mason University. She believes in the
importance of service to the profession and currently serves as the President for the District of Columbia
Nurse Practitioner Association and as a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA)
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Dr. Awadzi earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing
and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from George Mason University. She graduated from the George
Washington School of Nursing with a Master of Science in Nursing on the FNP program track and a Post-
Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate.
Janet Radzykewycz | DNP, RN, CNE
CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
Janet Radzykewycz, DNP, RN, CNE, is a clinical assistant professor. Her diverse background includes bedside
nursing roles in emergency departments, telemetry, neurology, medical/surgical, oncology, post-anesthesia
care units, observation units, and short stay units. Additionally, Dr. Radzykewycz has made substantial
contributions to nursing education, serving as a clinical instructor, faculty for a nurse residency program,
adjunct faculty, and full-time nursing faculty. Her leadership roles encompass assistant nurse manager of an
emergency department, adult and pediatric forensic nurse examiner, relief house nursing supervisor, and
quality improvement specialist during hospital acquisitions. Dr. Radzykewycz’s extensive experience across
clinical and educational domains positions her as a valuable asset to support ABSN students in achieving
their nursing goals.
Christine Corbett | DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN, FNKF
ASSISTANT RESEARCH PROFESSOR
Christine Corbett is Assistant Research Professor and Executive Director for the Coalition for Supportive
Care of Kidney Patients. She is a practicing Nurse Practitioner specializing in kidney palliative care, and a
Trauma-Sensitive HeartMath Certified Practitioner. Dr. Corbett has over 24 years of nephrology experience
and three years of experience in Palliative Care. Her doctoral focus was shared decision-making, advance
care planning and appropriate palliative care referral for select patients with chronic kidney disease. In the
past four years, she developed, implemented, and managed the Comprehensive Conservative Kidney Care
Clinic for patients who choose to forego dialysis.
Susan Kelly-Weeder | PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN
DEAN | PROFESSOR
Susan Kelly-Weeder, Ph.D., FNP-BC, FAAN, FAANP, is dean and professor at The George Washington
University School of Nursing. In her most recent role as the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs at Boston
College Connell School of Nursing she led a successful and comprehensive curriculum revision of the
graduate APRN programs at Boston College and currently leading an extensive review of our PhD program.
Dr. Kelly-Weeder earned a B.S. in nursing from Simmons College and an M.S. and Ph.D. in nursing from the
University of Massachusetts, Lowell. She maintains a clinical practice in family and college health as a boardcertified
family nurse practitioner. Dr. Kelly-Weeder is also an active member of the American Academy of
Nurse Practitioners (AANP), the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF), the Eastern
Nursing Research Society (ENRS) and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society.
Christine Thomas | PhD, RN, CHSE-A
CLINICAL ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Christine M. Thomas is the director of simulation and experiential learning. She comes from West Chester
University of Pennsylvania where she developed the Nursing Department undergraduate simulation
curriculum and two popular undergraduate simulation elective courses. She mentored faculty in the
College of Health Sciences in the use of simulation in various departments, and collaborated with faculty to
develop Inter-professional education simulation experiences. Dr. Thomas earned her Healthcare Simulation
Educators-Advanced certification in 2020. She designed and conducts faculty development workshops on
the topic of simulation best practices nationally for National League for Nursing/Laerdal Medical. Her areas
of interest include experiential learning methods, curriculum design and evaluation methods.
Vanessa Trebelhorn | DNP, CRNP, FNP-C
CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
Vanessa Trebelhorn, DNP, CRNP, FNP-C, joins GW Nursing as a clinical assistant professor of nursing in the
accelerated BSN program. As a certified registered nurse practitioner, her practice spans occupational
health and family medicine across multiple states, including Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
Dr. Trebelhorn’s clinical background includes work in emergency departments and urgent care, with a
particular passion for primary prevention. Her areas of interest encompass fluid and electrolyte imbalances,
chronic diseases, social determinants of health in historically marginalized populations, accessibility gaps
in urban and rural communities, and sensorimotor disorders. Previously, Dr. Trebelhorn served as clinical
faculty at the University of California, Los Angeles, contributing to pre-licensure and graduate nursing
programs.
14 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 15

FACULTY NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
FACULTY AWARDS & HONORS
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
TENURE &
PROMOTION
Please join us in congratulating the following faculty members on their outstanding
accomplishments and well-deserved promotions.
Associate Professor Asefeh Faraz Covelli, Ph.D., APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP, for being inducted as a Fellow
of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP).
Associate Professor Juh Hyun Shin, Ph.D., M.S.N., RN, FAAN, is one of 253 distinguished nurse leaders
that the American Academy of Nursing (AAN) inducted into the 2023 Class of Fellows.
GW Nursing received the Best Schools for Men in Nursing Award presented by the American
Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN) national chapter.
Jennifer Walsh, D.N.P., C.P.N.P., CNE, NurseTRUST Emerging Leader Fellow.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s College of Nursing recently announced that GW Nursing
Vice Dean Majeda El-Banna, Ph.D., RN, CNE, ANEF, is the recipient of its 2023 Nursing Excellence
Alumni Award.
Melissa Batchelor, Ph.D., RN-BC, FNP-BC, FGSA, FAAN, was selected to serve as a Director at Large of
the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) Alumni Association Board of Directors. The threeyear
term began July 1, 2023.
Melissa Batchelor
PhD, RN-BC, FNP-BC, FGSA,
FAAN
Professor
Carol Lang
DHSc Nursing, MS (Ed) RN
Associate Professor
Daisy Le
PhD, MPH, MA
Associate Professor
(Tenured)
Angela Stanley
DNP, FNP-BC, PHCNS-BC,
NEA-BC
Associate Professor
Associate Professor Catherine Wilson Cox, Ph.D., RN, CEN, CNE, FAAN, ANEF, recently received the
Navy Nurse Corps Association (NNCA)’s Meritorious Recognition Award.
Senior Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, Ph.D., NNP, FAAN, was
selected to the Inaugural Cohort of the Health Equity Influencers Program (HEIP) for Nurse Educators.
Associate Dean for Health Policy and Population Science Tony Yang, Sc.D., LL.M., M.P.H., has been
selected to the joint UK Academy of Medical Sciences and US National Academy of Medicine ‘future
champions in global health research’ policy project on climate change and health.
Associate Professor Karen Kesten, DNP, APRN, CCNS, CNE, FAAN, was honored with the Outstanding
Advisory Committee Member Award from the National DNPs of Color Organization.
Research Instructor Laurie Wilson, M.S.N., RN, AGPCNP-BC, received an award from the National
Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence (NHCGNE). She received the Distinguished
Educator in Gerontological Nursing Award at the NHCGNE Annual Conference.
16 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 17

FACULTY AWARDS & HONORS
FACULTY AWARDS & HONORS
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
FACULTY AWARD RECIPIENTS
The Dean’s Excellence Faculty Awards are
given annually to recognize the undergraduate
and graduate educators who consistently
demonstrate excellence in their work with
GW Nursing students, in teaching, mentoring,
scholarship and research.
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Undergraduate Teaching
Diana Lora
Clinical Instructor in Nursing
The DAISY® Awards
The DAISY Foundation, as part of its service to the nursing profession’s role in patient care,
established The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty. The purpose of this program is to provide
colleges and schools of nursing a national recognition program they may use to demonstrate appreciation
to faculty for their commitment and inspirational influence on their nursing students.
EXTRAORDINARY
NURSE FACULTY
Janet Radzykewycz
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Graduate Teaching
Laurie Wilson
Research Instructor
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Undergraduate Student Mentoring
Adriana Glenn
Assistant Professor
Clinical Assistant Professor Janet Radzykewycz, CNE, DNP, RN, was presented with the DAISY award because
she displays outstanding teaching and leadership skills, both in the classroom and during clinical sessions.
Her dedication to her students is evident through her genuine concern for their well-being, and her
unwavering commitment to ensuring that they have a comprehensive understanding of the course material.
Her passion for her work is truly inspiring and serves as a role model for those around her.
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Teaching in a PT Appointment
Mary Doyle
Adjunct Faculty
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Civility Award
Billy Mullins
Clinical Assistant Professor
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Graduate Student Mentoring
Karen Kesten
Program Director of DNP Scholarly Projects
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Impact Award
Crystel Farina
Associate Dean for BSN Programs
The DAISY Award for
Extraordinary Faculty was
given to Janet Radzykewycz
who teaches in the
Accelerated B.S.N. program.
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Faculty Mentorship
Laurie Theeke
Associate Dean for PhD Program
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Research & Scholarship
Cathi Wilson Cox
VBSN Initiatives Coordinator
KENNETH CARR
18 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 19

STAFF NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
STAFF NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
CAREER MILESTONES
Chelsea Durbin
ASSISTANT DEAN, STUDENT ENROLLMENT & SUCCESS
Chelsea Durbin was promoted to Assistant Dean for Student Enrollment and Success.
Chelsea has more than 15 years of experience working in higher education, focusing on
student enrollment, admissions, and success. Chelsea served as the Director of Enrollment
Management for the School of Nursing prior to stepping into the role of Assistant Dean.
Preceding her work at GW, Chelsea spent over seven years at Howard Community College
working as the Director of Admissions, supporting various nursing and allied health
programs. Chelsea is an experienced student services administrator with advanced skills
in enrollment strategy, admissions, strategic planning, academic advising, retention,
recruitment, and financial aid.
Jessica Taylor
PROGRAM ASSOCIATE, DNP & PHD
Jessica Taylor accepted a new role as the program associate for the D.N.P. and Ph.D.
programs. Jessica has worked in higher education for over 12 years. After graduating with her
bachelor’s degree, she worked in administrative roles for the National Student Clearinghouse
and then found herself working in other administrative roles, primarily in the medical
field. She is currently a GW GSEHD student, working towards a Master’s in Organizational
Leadership & Learning.
Vera Thomas
DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR
Vera Thomas was hired as the full-time Digital Content Coordinator for GW Nursing. In this
role, Vera oversees the school’s social media presence, reaching over 3.8 million accounts
across six platforms. A Parsons School of Design alumna with a BBA in Strategic Design and
Management, Vera is skilled in Adobe Creative Cloud, video editing, and graphic design.
Passionate about storytelling and innovation, she leverages creativity and analytics to build
meaningful audience connections and enhance brand visibility.
STAFF ANNIVERSARIES
JULY 2023
Chantal Mosellen 10 YEARS
Tamara Helvetius 13 YEARS
AUGUST 2023
Dianne Alston 7 YEARS
Haley Stepp 6 YEARS
Karen Thompson 1 YEAR
SEPTEMBER 2023
Surafel Yilma 1 YEAR
Rebeca Kelly 1 YEAR
OCTOBER 2023
Cynthia Kelly 5 YEARS
David Mossinger 7 YEARS
NOVEMBER 2023
Sara Ali 2 YEARS
Shawn Bayrd 3 YEARS
DECEMBER 2023
Graham MacIntosh 2 YEARS
JANUARY 2024
Patsy Deyo 9 YEARS
Joy Wu 5 YEARS
FEBRUARY 2024
Idalia Alvarenga Chavez 1 YEAR
Jasmine Felix 2 YEARS
Joshua Mannix 6 YEARS
Vera Thomas 2 YEARS
Ken Schappelle 6 YEARS
MARCH 2024
Tina Le 25 YEARS
Joke Ogundiran 30 YEARS
Janice Ouellette 7 YEARS
Cody Smith 6 YEARS
APRIL 2024
Miro Liwosz 8 YEARS
Mimi Qurashi 2 YEARS
Heidi Schroeder 3 YEARS
MAY 2024
Ioana Hojda Temoka 2 YEARS
Brian Mishoe 14 YEARS
Jessica Taylor 4 YEARS
JUNE 2024
Chelsea Durbin 1 YEAR
Katie Whitman 7 YEARS
ADDITIONAL
NEW STAFF
HIRES & ROLES
Sofia Andreoli
Instructional Designer
Vivian Bowman
Dedicated Simulation Educator
Kelsey Burham
Assistant Director of Admissions
Rishika Chakraborty
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Nicole Goberdhan
Web Lead (Central Team)
Annie Harding
Academic Advisor
Laurie Kihlmire
Finance Director
Rebecca Morrow
Assistant Director of Admissions
Angelina Rimmler
Director of Clinical Placement
and Compliance
Matthew Ryan
Manager, Research Projects
Sharan Sahota
Financial Analyst
Sabrina Sherali
Program Associate
Danielle Tolbert
Research Program Assistant
20 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 21

STAFF NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
STAFF AWARD RECIPIENTS
ONLINE LEARNING & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
COURSES
ACADEMIC PROGRAMMING
10 16 160
The Dean’s Excellence Awards are given
annually to recognize outstanding staff
performance in support of GW Nursing,
its mission, vision, and values.
MAJOR REVISIONS
MINOR REVISIONS
STANDARD UPDATES
VIDEO LECTURES
4653
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Civility Award
David Mossinger
Senior Instructional
Technologist
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Excellence in Service Award
Brian Mishoe
Simulation Technology
Administrator
416
NEW
193
UPDATED
VIDEO LECTURES
VIDEO LECTURES
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Impact Award
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Citizenship Award
104
BLACKBOARD COURSE MASTERS COMPLIANT WITH AMERICANS
WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) REQUIREMENTS AND REGULATIONS
Chelsea Durbin
Director of Enrollment
Management
Ioana Hojda Temoka
Assistant Director of
Admissions
56
WORKSHOPS
DELIVERED
160
SUPPORT
TICKETS
DEAN’S EXCELLENCE
Unsung Hero Award
Tina Le
Academic Affairs Manager
44
INDIVIDUAL
QM CERTIFICATION
43 7
FACULTY
NURSING FACULTY TRAINED
USING VOICETHREAD IN 25 COURSES
31
INDIVIDUAL
STAFF
NURSING FACULTY HOLD
EXAMSOFT CERTIFICATIONS
22 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 23

ACADEMIC PROGRAMMING
PARTNERSHIPS & COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
4% CONTRIBUTIONS
SOURCES OF INCOME
Expanding Horizons: GW Nursing’s Transformative Trip to Uganda
In Spring 2024, a team from George Washington University’s
School of Nursing traveled to Makata, Uganda, for an immersive
global health experience that left a lasting impact on both
students and the local community. In partnership with Omni Med,
an NGO working with Uganda’s Ministry of Health, the program
allowed students to provide direct clinical care, conduct health
education, and engage with the local culture. Led by GW Nursing
faculty and staff, the initiative aimed to equip students with global
health competencies while addressing critical healthcare needs in
a low-resource setting. Over the course of their trip, seven students
completed 45 hours of direct client care, participating in home visits,
hypertension screenings, and school-based health education.
Working alongside Uganda’s Village Health Teams (VHTs), they
helped teach blood pressure assessment techniques and promoted
lifestyle changes to improve community health.
39%
GRADUATE &
CERTIFICATE
PROGRAM
OTHER
3% INCOME
2% FEES
TOTAL
REVENUE
FY24
ACCELERATED
52% BSN PROGRAM
Beyond clinical care, the program emphasized sustainable health education and cultural immersion.
Students trained 64 VHTs in hypertension screening, screened 85 community members themselves,
and educated over 220 children on hygiene, puberty, and menstrual health—helping craft 170 reusable
menstrual pads to reduce school absenteeism. Cultural experiences, such as visiting the Nile River and
learning Luganda phrases, enriched their understanding of Ugandan life. The trip exemplified GW Nursing’s
mission to prepare students for global health careers by fostering hands-on learning and cross-cultural
collaboration. As one student reflected, “You can’t quite explain it or teach it in a classroom setting; you just
have to go.”
GENERAL
9% EXPENSES
USES OF INCOME
2024 SELECTED PARTNERSHIPS
PURCHASED
13% SERVICES
68% COMPENSATION
TOTAL
EXPENSES
FY24
8%
UNIVERSITY FUNDED
SCHOLARSHIPS
2%
SUPPORT/
INVESTMENT
24 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 25

DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS
White Coats for Future Nursing Leaders
Philanthropic support allows GW Nursing to remain one of the leaders in nursing education.
Congratulations to all of our scholarship, fellowship and award recipients and our sincere appreciation
to donors whose generosity allowed us to award over $2 million in aid this fiscal year.
Last year, 49 donors—alumni, faculty, staff, and friends—helped fund this rite of passage. They
contributed almost $10,000 to provide incoming nursing students with their first white coats and
assist with costs, including equipment, apparel, and books, as they began their degree program.
A symbol of scientific excellence and compassion, white coats are presented to GW Nursing students
during a White Coat Ceremony to celebrate this important milestone in their nursing journeys.
Expanded Student Scholarship
Support from Bedford Falls
Foundation
Philanthropist William E. “Bill” Conway
Jr.’s latest gift to GW Nursing extends
the William and Joanne Conway
Transitioning Warriors Nursing
Scholarship Initiative, first established
with a $2.5 million gift from Conway
and his late wife, Joanne, in 2020.
The William and Joanne
Conway Transitioning Warrior
Scholars Initiative
Tazzel Kennedy
Beatrice Campbell
Alexander Trindal
Glen Ford
Gabriel Atolagbe
Chrizle June Maghanoy
Patrick Yoo
Joshua Lokke-Seunarine
Luis Figuereo
Dylan Hans
Susan Joslin
Donovan Cousan
CVS Health
Foundation Award
Madeline Robinson
SON Founding Faculty
Endowed Award
Carly Baker
The Dr. Ellen M. Dawson
Endowed Scholarship
Bernice Fairclough
Jazzmin Williams
Pam and Joe Jeffries
Nursing Scholarship
Kelly Federle Reilly
Genique Stanislaus
James M. Johnston
Trust Awards
Anjolaoluwa Ajiboye
Samantha Hicks
Katherine Young
Blake Coleman
Abebe Tessema
Ruth Jimenez
Shavonne Mattison-Spurgeon
Garrett Campbell
Naomi Goldstein
Johnson-Pawlson
Endowed Scholarship
Violet Guilford
DC Odd Fellows School
of Nursing Endowed
Shrylock Lumbao
Christina Nellis
Paul Tschudi Memorial
Endowed Scholarship
Braden Renke
Candice Bailey
GW Hospital
Women’s Board
Scholarships
Gabriel Atolagbe
Benedicta Tabiri
Toni-kay Herbert
Alexander Trindal
His latest $3.75 million gift provides $3 million in financial assistance for military veteran students
in a specialized accelerated BSN program and $750,000 in scholarships for GW’s new BSN Degree
Completion Program. The Conway’s Bedford Falls Foundation is GW Nursing’s most generous
benefactor, with total giving of $6.475 million to date.
“It was a great feeling when I found out I got the scholarship,” said U.S. Air National Guard airman
and Conway Transitioning Warrior Elizabeth Kovacich, B.S.N. ‘23, now a critical care nurse. “It felt like
someone was saying, ‘We see how hard you’re working and how much you will continue to do.’ It felt
like the highest praise. It meant so much.”
198
+13%
ANNUAL GIVING PERFORMANCE
TOTAL DONOR COUNT
IN FY24 INCLUDING 91 55
ALUMNI GIFTS
FACULTY/STAFF GIFTS
ALUMNI DONOR COUNT: FY24 COMPARED TO FY23
26 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 27

RESEARCH
RESEARCH
RESEARCH
BY THE NUMBERS
GW UNIVERSITY RESEARCH EXPENDITURES
STUDENT RESEARCH
The George Washington University hosted its annual Research Showcase, a vibrant celebration of scholarly
endeavors across disciplines. This year’s theme, “GW Research for a Sustainable and Equitable Future,”
underscored the university’s commitment to addressing complex challenges and fostering innovation.
GW students, postdocs, faculty and staff showcased research projects and scholarly work that focused on
sustainability and equity. The event was a celebration of the diverse scholarly endeavors undertaken across
the university, all focused on addressing complex challenges, fostering innovation, and creating a more
resilient and just world.
$4.2M
FEDERAL TOTAL
EXPENDITURES
NON-FEDERAL TOTAL
EXPENDITURES
FEDERAL
INDIRECT COSTS
NON-FEDERAL
INDIRECT COSTS
$3.3M
$2.8M
At the event, GW Nursing boasted three students whose work was on display. Each student engaged
with attendees as they stopped by their posters, explaining the importance of the research they have
undertaken.
$527K
$372K
$650K
FY22
FY23
FY24
Tessa Mirka Torgovitsky
ABSN Program
Nkechi Onwuemene
DNP Program
Wendy Post
PhD Program
GRANTS FUNDED
8
3-YEAR GROWTH
+2.3% +69.4%
TOTAL EXPENDITURES INDIRECT COSTS
FY23 TO FY24 CHANGE
+16.7% +74.8%
TOTAL EXPENDITURES INDIRECT COSTS
“Enhancing Patient Satisfaction
in LGBTQ+ Expectant Parents”
“The Impact of Hypertension
Education on Knowledge
and Management of Blood
Pressure”
“Black Women Shouldn’t
Die Giving Life: The lived
experiences of Black women
diagnosed with severe
maternal morbidity in the
United States”
28 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 29

RESEARCH
RESEARCH
NEW FACULTY FUNDING
Dr. Kathleen Griffith
“Modifying Adiposity Through Behavioral Strategies to
Improve COVID-19 Rehabilitation.”
This randomized controlled trial of exercise and weight
loss is designed to evaluate changes in physical
function, body composition, and changes in the global
molecular profile of adipose tissue in obese Veterans
with post-Covid conditions, also known as long Covid.
Awarding Organization: Department of Veterans Affairs
Dr. Hee Jun Kim
“Reducing disparities in chronic pain with a
tailored psychosocial education intervention for an
underrepresented population.”
This study aims to fill critical knowledge gaps in pain
disparity research by providing evidence of feasibility
and acceptability of a culturally-tailored psychosocial
pain education intervention for an underrepresented
population, using the Korean American community as
an exemplar.
Awarding Organization: National Institute of Nursing
Research
Dr. Dale Lupu
“Expanding and Promoting Alternative Care and
Knowledge in Decision-making (ExPAND) Trial.”
The primary objective of this study is to compare two
health system-based approaches for offering kidney
failure treatment options to older patients with kidney
failure, to ensure they are actively involved in a shared
decision making (SDM) process covering a full range of
choices and have meaningful access to that full range of
choices.
Awarding Organization: Patient-Centered Outcomes
Research Institute (PCORI)
Dr. Y. Tony Yang
“Strengthening Hepatitis B Birth Dose Immunization
in DC Area Birthing Hospitals and Lessons for RSV
Prevention.”
This project aims to increase the hepatitis B birth dose
immunization rate in Washington, DC, particularly
focusing on hospitals that serve a diverse population,
including a high proportion of Black infants.
Awarding Organization: Merck
“Expanding COVID-19 Vaccination Access to Hard-to-
Reach Populations in Washington D.C.”
The grant, awarded in two $1 million installments,
focuses on addressing barriers like poverty, limited
healthcare access, and medical system mistrust
among vulnerable populations including immigrants,
undocumented residents, and racial/ethnic minority
groups through targeted outreach, mobile clinics, and
partnerships with local organizations.
Awarding Organization: CDC-DC Health
“Recreational Marijuana Marketing and Young Adult
Consumer Behavior.”
Awarding Organization: National Institute on Drug
Abuse
“Cannabis Equity Policies and the Legal Recreational
Marijuana Industry.”
The overall goal of this grant is to expand on this newlydeveloped
cannabis retail-related policy database by
providing additional detailed data on equity-related
policies and their implementation and examine their
impacts.
Awarding Organization: National Institute on Drug
Abuse (NIDA)
Dr. Maritza Dowling
“Enhancing Measurement and Characterization of
Roles and Experiences of Sexual and Gender Minority
Caregivers of Persons living with Alzheimer’s Disease
and Related Dementias.”
Awarding Organization: National Institute on Aging
Dr. Catherine Cox Wilson
“Severe Burn Nursing Care in Large Scale Combat
Operations.”
The purpose of this study is to gather first-person
narratives from military nurses who cared for severe
burn patients in theater/boots on ground in Iraq and
Afghanistan, anytime from years 2001-2021.
Awarding Organization: TriService Nursing Research
Program (TSNRP)
FIRST R21 GRANT
AWARDED TO
PRIMARY PI AT
GW NURSING
The National Institute of Nursing Research has
awarded Hee Jun Kim, PhD, RN, a two-year,
$460,625 grant to address chronic pain disparities
among Asian Americans in the community. This is
the first R21 grant awarded to a contact or primary
PI at GW Nursing. The study aims to fill critical
knowledge gaps in pain disparity research. It seeks
to provide evidence of feasibility and acceptability
of a culturally-tailored psychosocial pain education
intervention for an underrepresented population,
using the Korean-American community as an
exemplar.
Dr. Kim will be collaborating with multidisciplinary
experts in pain and community-based participatory
research, as well as with Korean-American
community partners.
Dr. Sherrie Wallington
“Advancing Social Determinants of Health Research
through A CBPR Lens: A Short Course.”
Awarding Organization: NIH/NINR
“Breast Density and Me.”
This study will discern benefits of informing minority
women, especially in underserved DC wards, about
their breast density so that follow-up mammograms will
increase and ultimately reduce breast cancer mortality.
Awarding Organization: Prevent Cancer Foundation
Co-investigators include Drs. Kathleen Griffith and
Laurie Theeke from GW Nursing, as well as Dr.
Calia Morais from the University of Alabama at
Birmingham and Dr. Hee-Soon Juon from Thomas
Jefferson University. Achieving the study’s goals
will demonstrate for the first time that a nurseled,
community-based psychosocial education
intervention to reduce chronic pain for the
underrepresented Korean-American population
may be feasible and acceptable, forming the
basis for a larger efficacy trial to test the tailored
intervention.
30 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 31

CENTER FOR HEALTH POLICY & MEDIA ENGAGEMENT
CENTER FOR AGING, HEALTH & HUMANITIES
2023-2024 FELLOWS IN
HEALTH POLICY & MEDIA
CENTER FOR AGING, HEALTH
& HUMANTITIES
Milisa Manojlovich, PhD, RN, FAAN
MENTOR: DIANA MASON
Learning how to leverage Op-eds and radio interviews
to create impact beyond traditional academic products
Carrie Ann Langley, PhD, MPH, PMHNP-BC, DNP
MENTOR: TONY ROBERSON
Transitions from Incarceration: A Health Policy Analysis
Blandine Augustin, DNP, FNP
MENTOR: LAURIE THEEKE
Adopting the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit into Clinical Practice
The Center for Aging, Health and Humanities (CAHH) has continued to develop, strengthen, and explore
new opportunities to engage with our community partners based in the 4 core areas: research, health policy,
education and clinical innovations.
KEY METRICS: RESEARCH
Grant Funding: Nursing Staffing and Health Deficiencies
Primary Investigator Juh Hyun Shin, RN, PhD, received a 2023 pilot grant from the GW Center for Aging, Health,
and Humanities and GW Nursing Office of Research to investigate the relationship between nursing staffing and
health deficiencies in national nursing homes using panel data.
Grant Funding: Field-Testing Related to Dementia
Primary Investigator Priyanka Shrestha, RN, PhD, received a 2023 pilot grant from the GW Center for Aging,
Health, and Humanities and GW Nursing Office of Research to investigate the development and field-testing of
case vignettes with family care partners of persons with Delirium superimposed on dementia.
Nikki E. Akparewa, RN, MSN/MPH
MENTOR: JULIANNA GONZALEZ MCLEAN
Breaking Barriers Masterclass: Navigating Health Equity
Sterling Wilmer, BSN-RN, BA
MENTOR: KAREN DRENKARD
The Community Resiliency Project
KEY METRICS: HEALTH POLICY
Grant Funding: University Seminar Series: Towards an Age-Friendly World
In the fall of 2023, the Center for Aging, Health, and Humanities hosted the 3rd annual Age-Friendly
Ecosystem Summit. This free, regional, collaborative event was held in partnership with Age-Friendly
Alexandria, Arlington, DC, Howard County, Hyattsville, Montgomery County, and the Georgetown
University Aging & Health Program. Each session was focused on a theme that cuts across all age-friendly
domains: ageism, inclusivity, communications, and creativity. Each day of the event saw between 167-110
attendees (195 unique participants).
Taneika Duhaney, MHAP
MENTOR: MELISSA BATCHELOR
Examining the intersection of cycling, micromobility, and nursing
Anna Dermenchyan, PhD, MSN, RN, CCRN-K
MENTOR: Y. TONY YANG
Examining heart failure, respiratory vaccination rates, policies, and the impact of nursing
Lilian Bravo, PhD, RN
MENTOR: BARBARA GLICKSTEIN
Suicide prevention awareness among Latinx youth and young adults
KEY METRICS: EDUCATION
Age-Friendly Scholars Program
The Age-Friendly Scholars program is an interprofessional certificate program - led by Center Associate Director
for Community Engagement Andrew Siegel - designed to teach various health care practitioners (7-13 per
cohort) gerontology, leadership, advanced communication and teaching skills.
KEY METRICS: CLINICAL INNOVATIONS
Student Scholarship: The Gene Cohen Research Award
In February 2024, we celebrated the recipient of the Gene Cohen Research award at the Donor Dinner. Ms. Elly
Cummins, a Speech-Language Pathology graduate student, was selected. Her project allowed her to work with a
large research team focused on improving nutritional outcomes by using three handfeeding techniques with older
adults living with dementia in long-term care settings. The handfeeding techniques create an opportunity for social
engagement and engage residents in mealtimes. Elly was presented with this inaugural award at a donor dinner in
April 2024.
32 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 33

INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE
THE OFFICE OF
INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE
The Office of Inclusive Excellence (IE), formerly the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, advances
diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) through leadership, recruitment and retention, social
transformation, and education. Despite several leadership transitions since its inception in 2018, the
office has made significant progress, particularly with the appointment of a permanent Associate
Dean in October 2024.
In AY 2023-2024, IE facilitated two well-attended film screenings, collaborated with Student Services
to establish five Student Advisory Groups, and worked with the Office of Online Learning and
Instructional Technology to present a workshop on cultural humility in online education. The office
has also contributed to curriculum development, including the new undergraduate course Advancing
Health Equity through Nursing History and Theory.
IE maintains an Inclusive Excellence Council to promote DEIB in nursing education, research, and
practice. Additionally, the office joined the Bouchet Graduate Honor Society selection committee,
leading to the first-ever PhD nursing student induction in 2024. Holistic admissions processes
continue to enhance student diversity and strengthen the learning environment. The office also
champions inclusive language in marketing, curriculum, and clinical documentation.
Key opportunities for growth include expanded student and faculty recruitment efforts, mentorship
programs, DEIB curriculum integration, ongoing faculty and staff training, climate surveys, and
increased community engagement. Goals for AY 2024-2025 include strategic planning, collaborative
funding efforts, diversity metric evaluations, and DEIB-focused faculty workshops.
Emerging from a period of transition, GW SON’s DEIB initiatives are driving a more equitable nursing
education environment. Through ongoing commitment to inclusive excellence, the school continues
to foster a diverse and supportive academic community that better serves students, faculty, and the
broader healthcare system.
34 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 35

STRATEGIC PLAN
STRATEGIC PLAN
STRATEGIC PLAN PROGRESS
The George Washington University School of Nursing is entering a new era under the leadership
of Dean Susan Kelly-Weeder and University President Ellen Granberg, both of whom joined GW
in the summer of 2023. As the university works to develop a strategic framework to guide its
path forward, the School of Nursing has established four priority areas to provide structure and
direction at the school level in the interim. These priorities will enable faculty and staff to continue
their important work of driving excellence, exploring solutions, promoting growth, and shaping
revolutionaries.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
BRAND PROMISE
Revolutionizing healthcare, one nurse at a time.
BRAND POSITIONING
GW Nursing leads the essential changes healthcare demands — uplifting nursing visionaries
through education, innovation, and advocacy to transform healthcare equity and define what it
means to be a nurse.
BRAND PILLARS
CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION FOR
FACULTY AND STAFF SUCCESS
Establish and sustain a culture in
which faculty and staff are open and
respectful, creating an environment
for trust and growth.
SUSTAINABILITY FOR
LONG-TERM GROWTH
Optimize financial resources, manage
them effectively, and refine enrollment
strategies to ensure long-term
sustainability and drive growth.
Driving Excellence
We are a community of respected nursing experts and professionals who draw from
our own experiences to mentor, prepare and inspire nurses by leading the charge in
disrupting the status quo and driving transformative change for the future of healthcare.
Exploring Solutions
We educate, empower, and equip nursing leaders, providers, and scholars to explore and
accelerate equitable healthcare solutions that guarantee every individual receive the highquality,
evidence-based, compassionate care they deserve.
CURRICULUM REDESIGN
Enhance program excellence through
innovative curriculum development
and implementation.
STUDENT SUCCESS
Foster an environment that supports
all aspects of student success, from
academic achievements to career
readiness.
Promoting Growth
We are dedicated to redefining the academic landscape by cultivating an environment
where a culture of collaborative competition exists, ensuring students receive unparalleled
support and top-tier education to excel both professionally and personally.
OUR WHY STATEMENT
Shaping Revolutionaries
We provide the foundation for GW Nurses to enhance health equity for individuals, families,
and populations at local and global levels — influencing policy and culture, conducting
research, pursuing personal missions and excelling in healthcare administration.
TO IGNITE PASSIONS AND COURAGEOUSLY TACKLE CHALLENGES SO THAT
WE MAKE AN IMPACT ON THE LOCAL, NATIONAL, AND GLOBAL SCALE.
36 | The George Washington University School of Nursing Annual Report 2023–2024 | 37

Virginia Science and Technology Campus | Innovation Hall, 45085 University Drive | Ashburn, Virginia 20147
Foggy Bottom | 1919 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Ste. 500 | Washington, D.C., 20006
nursing.gwu.edu
The George Washington University does not unlawfully discriminate in its admissions programs against any person based on that person’s race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. For available states visit nursing.gwu.edu/states