Members of the University’s Health System Board gathered at Boar’s Head Resort to mark their first meeting with new leadership: Carlos Brown as rector and Victoria Harker as vice rector. Alongside them were new board members Rudene M. Haynes and John Harris.
During the meeting, the board received updates on the School of Nursing, particularly regarding ongoing faculty shortages. The Health System Board, which monitors operations for the University Medical Center and the Schools of Medicine and Nursing, includes seven voting members and several appointed public members.
Marianne Baernholdt, the Nursing School dean, presented a strategic plan developed over the past year. This 10-year plan emphasizes four main goals: improving educational opportunities, building partnerships, leading in nursing research, and promoting trust and equity.
One significant initiative is the expansion of the Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing Program. The school also offers military nursing programs and provides financial aid to 65% of undergraduate and 68% of graduate nursing students.
Partnerships, like the one with the Westhaven CARES Center, allow nursing students to gain hands-on experience. A nurse at this community clinic collaborates with U.Va. Health and Charlottesville, enhancing local healthcare and student training.
In research, the Nursing School has been successful, securing 83 grants totaling over $14 million. This achievement highlights its goal of becoming a leader in nursing science.
However, challenges loom, including concerns about a U.S. Department of Education proposal that could limit student loan access for nursing students. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has voiced strong objections, warning this could exacerbate the existing nursing shortage.
Recent studies reveal that the nationwide shortage of nursing faculty is disrupting educational programs. Approximately 80,000 nursing students are turned away each year due to a lack of available faculty and resources. Daniel M. Brody, a board member, stressed the need for solutions to increase student acceptance rates.
Baernholdt suggested that partnerships with state legislators might provide funding to expand facilities and increase student capacity. She mentioned that other institutions have successfully utilized this model.
Interim board member Brie Gertler praised Baernholdt’s innovative approach in navigating challenges, including keeping track of promising students who face rejection, encouraging them to apply again in the future.
The board also received updates from the Medical Center and the School of Medicine, focusing on recent research and funding initiatives. In their closed session, they discussed financial matters and strategic goals.
The board celebrated a significant financial turnaround for U.Va. Health, reporting a $95 million increase in revenue over six months. This achievement reflects the institution’s strong performance amid challenges.
The Health System Board is set to reconvene on June 4-5 for its next meeting, addressing ongoing issues and strategies for improvement in nursing education and healthcare.
For more insights into the challenges facing nursing education today, visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing here.
