2008 TCNJ Department of Nursing Alumni Newsletter

Welcome!

Dear All,

Greetings from TCNJ nursing! I'm proud to say that nursing is doing well at TCNJ.

Baccalaureate nursing education is thriving. In May 2008 we graduated 69 baccalaureate students, our largest cohort in many years. The overall NCLEX first-time pass rate for this cohort is not officially known but many graduates have been in contact with faculty to let us know that they passed the exam. Once again, the graduates were heavily recruited by regional employers and the vast majority had secured positions prior to graduation. This year we have 60 seniors, 65 juniors, 75 sophomores and 65 first year students. Applications for fall 2008 again rose as did applicants' academic qualifications. The increase in students has been challenging and faculty have done a magnificent job in securing clinical sites and experiences as well as highly qualified clinical instructors in order to maintain high quality and diverse clinical learning.

Graduate nursing education at TCNJ remains a priority. Our newest option is the Clinical Nurse Leader(R). We have graduated two cohorts so far, in 2007 and 2008. TCNJ has been part of a national pilot with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for developing and evaluating the education path and role implementation for the CNL. Similar to findings across the country, TCNJ practice partners on the project and employers in the area are finding that CNLs are making important contributions to patient care and outcomes. Nurse practitioner options in the master's program include Adult, Family and Neonatal. The Neonatal NP track is offered as part of a consortium with Jefferson University School of Nursing. Faculty are working on a new school nurse program that will meet state code and offer advancement through the MSN degree.

I urge you to read about the faculty, staff and alumni accomplishments. Dr. Gladys Word retired as of June 30, 2008. Her service to TCNJ nursing is legendary. Please see the announcement for Homecoming Nursing Alumni luncheon at which Dr. Word will be recognized. Nursing faculty and staff are presenting and publishing locally, regionally and nationally, sharing their knowledge and expertise as clinicians, researchers and educators. Two new faculty members have joined nursing this year - Dr. Stacen Keating and Dr. Kathleen Philbin - they bring significant teaching, research and clinical expertise along with enthusiasm to work with TCNJ students.

As always financial support is greatly appreciated. This year the College is seeking a goal of 10,000 alumni donations - your participation will help the College reach it's goal and provide vital support for nursing. Contributions to date have supported students and student learning through scholarships. Aspirations for nursing include continuing development of the clinical simulation laboratory, developing an honors track, global opportunities, interdisciplinary minors and courses, internships and leadership opportunities that will help students gain insights and experiences as they prepare for their careers as professionals in leading the way toward improving health care delivery and patient outcomes. Being able to support students financially helps to insure opportunities for all students. We remain committed to offering the highest quality education experiences and graduating nurses who are ready and willing to assume the professional responsibilities of leadership in all areas of nursing.

Sincerely,

Susan Bakewell-Sachs, PhD, RN, PNP-BC

Carol Kuser Loser Dean