college celebrates five decades of progress

VILLANOVANURSING

FALL 2003

A PUBLICATION OF THE VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF NURSING

College Celebrates

Five Decades of Progress

College Celebrates

Five Decades of Progress

Published by the Villanova UniversityCollege of Nursing, St. Mary’s Hall,Villanova, Pa. 19085-1690.

Editorial Board:Ann M. Barrow, ’86 B.S.N., ’91 M.S.N.,

R.N., EditorMarcia Costello, Ph.D., R.D.Patricia K. Bradley, Ph.D., R.N., C.S.Elizabeth Dowdell, Ph.D., R.N.Cynthia Hoens ’97 B.S.N., ’01 M.S.N., R.N.Catherine Todd Magel, Ed.D., R.N.Bernadette RauCarol Toussie Weingarten, Ph.D., R.N.M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN,

Ex Officio

Produced in cooperation with the Alumni Magazine Consortium, basedat the Johns Hopkins University. AMC Editor: Donna Shoemaker. Designer: Pamela Li

Standard class postage paid in Villanova, Pa. 19085-1690

VILLANOVA NURSINGVol. 23, No. 1 Fall 2003

Features“An Odyssey of Uninterrupted Progress” . . . . . . .6Cross-training in Nursing and Sports

Gives Students an Edge . . . . . . . .Back Cover

DepartmentsVital Signs at the School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Programs for Future Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Faculty Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11College News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

You are cordially invited to the 26th AnnualDistinguished Lecture in Nursing, co-sponsored

by the College of Nursing and Alpha Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.

The guest speaker is L. Antoinette Bargagliotti,D.N.Sc., R.N., dean and professor, The University

of Memphis Loewenberg School of Nursing. She will address “Restructuring Nursing

Out of Nursing Service.”

Tuesday November 4, 20037:30 p.m.

Villanova Room, Connelly Center

Join faculty and fellow alumni for a reception preceding the lectureship in the

President’s Lounge, Connelly Center, at 6 p.m.

This event is supported by a grant from the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies.

For more information, call (610) 519-4900.

On November 4, L. AntoinetteBargagliotti, D.N.Sc., R.N.will be the guest speaker forthe Distinguished Lecture inNursing.

An Invitation to the Final Major Eventof the College’s 50th Anniversary Year

For more information on these upcoming events, call (610) 519-4900.

Fall 2003

October 24-26 Homecoming Weekend at VillanovaUniversity

October 26 Alpha Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta TauInternational induction brunch

November 2 Undergraduate Open House program forprospective students

November 4 Nursing Alumni Reception and 26th AnnualDistinguished Lecture in Nursing.The speaker is L. Antoinette Bargagliotti,D.N.Sc., R.N., dean and professor,The University of Memphis LoewenbergSchool of Nursing (see box).

Spring 2004

March 23 Graduate Open House for prospective students

March 28 Nursing Alumni Society Graduation Tea

College of Nursing Candidates’ Brunch

April 15 Alpha Nu Research Day

April 17 College of Nursing Annual Mass andAwards Ceremony

May 15 College of Nursing Convocation

May 16 Villanova University Commencement

Mark your calendar!

Cover Photos:Scenes from the College’s history andfrom this year’s anniversary events aregrouped around a celebratory banneron campus. Among those depicted are(left of the banner) Bing Bing Qi ’94M.S.N.; two Nursing students fromOman; (bottom row, from left) SusanChianese Slaninka ’69 B.S.N.; Nursingstudents modeling historical uniforms;and Brig. Gen. Hazel Johnson-Brown(USA ANC, Ret.) ’59 B.S.N., Ph.D.,R.N., FAAN.

Individual cakes at the 50thAnniversary gala on April 26 featured the logo, done in icing.

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At the 50th Anniversary Mass celebrated at St. Thomas of Villanova Church on April 26,Dean Fitzpatrick welcomes Sister M.Margarella O’Neill, O.S.F., one of the Collegeof Nursing’s two founding co-directors.

Vital Signs at the School

Dear Alumni and Friends of the College of Nursing:

With this new academic year, a new phase in our development as a college of nursing also commences. This year will see the inaugurationof our Ph.D. program. Moving ahead and making progress is the

mantra of our College. To move forward to new goals is energizing, despite thevery real effort and sometimes tedious tasks that are required to advance ouragenda for nursing education at Villanova University. Your interest, encourage-ment and support help to propel us.

Along with many of our faculty, I have had the opportunity to serve Villanovalong enough to be able to reflect clearly on where we have been, where we arenow, and where the College must go if we are to maintain a leadership positionamong schools of nursing. Charting the course and implementing our strategicplan both imply change. Our longterm experience at Villanova facilitates ouridentification and documentation of those essentials that should not change, aswell as those things that must change if we are to continue to thrive. Most cer-tainly, our challenge will be to create nursing education for the future—a futureinfluenced by technology, a fragmented health-care system, a demand for morenursing research, and political and economic exigencies—while remaining com-mitted to the preservation of our Catholic Augustinian values, our emphasis onthe individual learner and our service ideal.

The extraordinary 50th Anniversary gift of a $4 million endowment from theConnelly Foundation to the College will be significant in helping us meet thechallenge in many important ways. We are extremely grateful for the confidencethat the Connelly Foundation and the Connelly family have demonstrated in usthrough this endowment.

The rest is up to us. As alumni and friends, you play an important role in our continued progress.

Your financial contributions will be increasingly important, but your ongoinginterest and active involvement in the College and its students are essential aswell. It is my privilege to have served as dean for these 25 years. I can assureyou that there is always more to do, and as we continue to move ahead, I thankyou for your support. Ours is a future full of possibilities!

Sincerely,

M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAANConnelly Endowed Dean and Professor of Nursing

4 V I L L A N O V A N U R S I N G

Doctoral Program to Address Acute National Shortage of Faculty

Adoctoral program in Nursing hasbeen announced by M. Louise

Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, theConnelly Endowed Dean and professor ofNursing. The new Ph.D. program isdesigned to prepare nurses as teacher-scholars for academic careers in highereducation. It will address a national needfor nurse educators, who are increasinglyin short supply. The proposal for theDoctoral Program in Nursing was reviewedand approved by the Villanova UniversityBoard of Trustees in April 2002 and reaffirmed this past April.

Doctoral education in nursing buildsupon baccalaureate and master’s prepara-tion through emphasis on research and theory development. Villanova’s new Ph.D.program is distinguished by its specialfocus on the application of nursing knowl-edge and scholarly inquiry that address

professional and practiceconcerns as they relate tothe pedagogical process.

The Ph.D. program innursing seeks to educategraduates who will be:

■ well-prepared to teach diverse populationsof students in a variety of educationaland clinical settings using state-of-the-arttechnology,

■ equipped to provide leadership as thearchitects of curricula and masters ofevaluation,

■ active contributors to the advancementand development of research and

■ active participants in the various rolesof faculty members within an academicinstitution.

The programwill combine inno-vative and tradition-al modalities andwill offer distancelearning opportuni-ties in the Fall and

Spring semesters, as well as on-site experi-ence during Summer sessions. The lengthof the program (designed as 51 credits)will vary depending on a candidate’s previ-ous education, currency of graduate educa-tion and individual needs. Students will beadmitted during the Spring Semester 2004and will begin courses next June.

Although the nursing shortage hasreceived considerable press, the shortageof nursing faculty is even more acute, asdocumented by the American Associationof Colleges of Nursing, the NationalLeague for Nursing and other nursing

First Class Begins 14-Month BSNExpress Program

The College of Nursing’s BSNExpressprogram enables students with a bache-

lor’s degree in another discipline—and whohave fulfilled prerequisites and met admis-sion requirements—to earn a Bachelor ofScience in Nursing degree in 14 months.BSNExpress students may earn their degreewith full tuition support through an innova-tive partnership with the Jefferson HealthSystem, based in Radnor, Pa.

In May, the program’s first class of 26men and women, ranging from 23 to 43years of age, began their coursework. Theycome from a variety of backgrounds, withdegrees in physical education, chemistry,biology, criminal justice, psychology, com-puter science, Spanish and English, amongothers. Many students have commentedpositively on the quality of the faculty andthe support that faculty members offer tothem. They also remark on the College’sarray of learning resources.

This first class recognizes the commu-nity spirit at Villanova. Student KatyFranklin says, “Villanova professors drawon (our) life experiences and nurture theunique strengths of each individual. Thesupport and encouragement I receive frommy fellow students make the challengingcurriculum more manageable. I am proud

to be in the first class of the BSNExpress. Ilook forward to continuing Villanova’s 50-year tradition of compassionate care in aclinical setting.”

BSNExpress students take the samecourses and participate in the same numberof clinical hours as do traditional, four-yearNursing students, but do so in a compressedtimeframe. The BSNExpress programbegins in May of each year and ends inAugust of the following year. Studentsmust be able to devote considerable time totheir studies, due to the program’s intense,concentrated nature. “The students areworking hard and yet are very excitedabout this new program. They are receiv-ing a high-caliber education in a programthat maximizes their prior degrees and pre-pares them to enter the workforce quicklyas competent professionals,” saysMaryanne V. Lieb ’85 M.S.N., R.N., coordinator of BSNExpress.

Because the cost of additional educa-tion may inhibit qualified students frompursuing nursing as a career and becauseof the critical shortage of nurses, JeffersonHealth System offers tuition awards forstudents in the BSNExpress program. Inexchange, the students must agree to workat any one of Jefferson’s many premier

hospitals and care delivery sites for 24months after graduation. The members ofthe Jefferson Health System include AlbertEinstein Healthcare Network, FrankfordHospitals, Magee Rehabilitation, MainLine Health and Thomas JeffersonUniversity Hospitals, Inc.

For more information aboutBSNExpress, call Lieb at (610) 519-6596,e-mail her at [email protected] visit www.nursing.villanova.edu/bsn/bsn_express .

Assistant Professor Mary Ann Cantrell ’89M.S.N., Ph.D., R.N. confers with BSNExpressstudent Elijah Yakpasuo, who is from Liberia.

By inaugurating this program,Villanova will contribute to

the essential supply of nursingfaculty for the future.

PROGRAMS FOR FUTURE LEADERS

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Last spring, 30 individuals interested inworking in the pharmaceutical research

arena participated in a new College ofNursing Continuing Education course,“Introduction to Clinical Research.”Offered on five consecutive Saturdays inMarch and April, the course was developedand taught by two nurses employed inpharmaceutical research. Robin Wells,M.S.N., R.N. is a senior clinical researchassociate for Cephalon, Inc. in WestChester, Pa., and Jo Dole, Ph.D., R.N. is adevelopment project coordinator forAstraZeneca in Delaware.

The course provides an introduction tothe world of pharmaceutical research, aswell as an opportunity to explore the multi-ple responsibilities of clinical researchcoordinators (CRAs), and clinical researchcoordinators (CRCs). Its goals are to iden-tify the multiple roles and responsibilities

Members in Nursing

A Tribute to the College’s Staff Whether we think about the day-to-day opera-tions of the College of Nursing or the huge undertaking of the 50th Anniversary year-long celebration, the College would not be where it is today without the efforts of itsstaff. We are thankful for and honor the contributions of these talented individuals whoare a valuable part of the College family. They are (from left) Ann M. Barrow ’86B.S.N., ’91 M.S.N., R.N.; Sharon Roth-DeFulvio; Thomas Galia; Marie Paolucci; GeriHansen; Mary Murphy; Susan Leighton; Louisa Zullo; Bernadette Rau; Carol Rae;Denise Meikle; Barbara Nolan; Colleen Meakim ’84 M.S.N., R.N.; Mimi Snyder; andBrooke Eastwood.

Continuing Education Offers Clinical Research Course

of those involved in managing clinical trials and to explore regulations and controlsthat influence pharmaceutical research.

The diverse group of students in thecourse included R.N.s, clinical specialists,medical technologists, a medical socialworker, a clinical scientist, research associ-ates, information scientists, quality man-agement coordinators and registered dieti-cians. More than two-thirds of them hadalready had experience in clinical research.

Participants enjoyed the detailed pre-sentations, group activities, exposure tocurrent employment opportunities, theexperiences of the presenters, and themany sample protocols and forms.

For information about the course, call contact Louisa Zullo, program assistant, at (610) 519-4930, e-mail her at [email protected] or visitwww.nursing.villanova.edu/cont ed .

education accrediting bodies. Nearly two-thirds of the existing professoriate in nurs-ing will be eligible to retire within the nexteight to 10 years, but only 40 percent ofnewly graduated nurses with doctoraldegrees seek careers in academia. By inau-gurating this program, Villanova will con-tribute to the essential supply of nursingfaculty for the future as the College ofNursing takes its next developmental step.

The College will seek highly qualifiednurse applicants who are committed to aca-demic careers. With a 20-year track recordin graduate education and 50-year historyof quality undergraduate education in nurs-ing, the College is well-positioned to movein this direction.

For further information about the doc-toral program, call (610) 519-4900 or visitwww.nursing.villanova.edu .

Welcome, Class of 2007!

It’s been a banner year. This fall, theCollege of Nursing welcomed 82

incoming freshmen from 14 states, fromMaine and the East Coast to way outWest—California, Oregon, Washingtonand even Hawaii.

The College not only exceeded its tar-get of 80 new students, but doubled thenumber of applicants received the previousyear. Among these outstanding freshmenare a Presidential Scholar, three VillanovaScholars and five Navy ROTC full schol-arship recipients. This exceptional Class of2007 will continue the College’s 50-yeartradition of excellence.


A two-day conference byVillanovans, and for Villanovans,launched the 50th Anniversary

weekend. On April 25-26, alumni andfriends of the College of Nursing gathered

at the VillanovaConference Center for“Advancing NursingScholarship,Education andLeadership: 50 Yearsof Achievement.”

The conference showcased alumni

successes in

Conference Highlights Achievements of Villanova Nurses

research, clinical practice, management,nursing education, and military and publicservice. A consistent theme heard through-out the sessions was the solid preparationin knowledge, skill and service that eachgraduate received within the ethical frame-work of Villanova University. During theirdistinguished careers, these alumni havedrawn upon their Villanova Nursing educa-tion and its values to guide them.

In her opening address on Friday, M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N.,FAAN, spoke on “The Odyssey andVision: a Dean’s Perspective.” TheConnelly Endowed Dean and professor

At the College of Nursing 50th Anniversary Conference, Dr. Rosalie Ghilardi Mirenda ’59 B.S.N., president of NeumannCollege, delivers to fellow Villanovans her keynote address on“The Unique Mission of Catholic Nursing Education.”

he College of Nursing’s yearlong celebration ofits 50th Anniversary culminated with a weekendof festivities and tributes on April 25-27. The spir-ited events reflected the theme of the anniver-sary—“A Heritage of Distinction: Transforming

Hearts and Minds.” The special events began with atwo-day conference that drew Villanova nurses fromaround the country and the world. Many stayed onSaturday evening for the Anniversary Mass andAwards Ceremony, followed by the black-tie galawith its very special announcement of the ConnellyFoundation’s $4-million endowment for the Collegeof Nursing. On Sunday, the Alpha Nu brunch concluded the festivities.

Throughout the celebration, the steadfast mission of the College—and the talents and achievements of its alumni—were acknowledged in many ways. In“Celebrating Fifty Years,” a multimedia presentation

on Saturday, guests could see scenes depicting life in theCollege since its founding in 1953.

Each anniversary event attracted participants withvaried backgrounds and areas of expertise. Together,these individuals represent a unique quilt of people,emblematic of the College’s 50-year history and thosewho have shaped it. This historic occasion also fore-tells the extraordinary future to come.

M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, theConnelly Endowed Dean and professor of Nursing,has described the College’s first five decades as “anodyssey of uninterrupted progress.” As the Collegedevelops its new doctoral program, creates additionalopportunities for international study for students andexpands its programs at all educational levels, itremains committed to its values and embraces itsfuture in shaping nursing, health-care delivery and our social fabric.

“An Odyssey ofUninterrupted Progress”

T

of Nursing drew upon her 25 years ofexperience in guiding the College.

In the keynote address, Rosalie GhilardiMirenda ’59 B.S.N., D.N.Sc., R.N., presi-dent of Neumann College in Aston, Pa.,illuminated the mission of Catholic nursingeducation. The Nursing alumna citedVillanova as an exemplar of this mission,for it is “where my professional journeybegan,” she noted. “Catholic Augustinianhigher education at its best blends theactive and contemplative styles of life,”she observed. “The Augustinian synthesisbetween mind and heart and the reciprocitybetween love and knowledge are distinc-tive features of Catholic Augustinian edu-cational institutions, and, indeed, mostchallenging for all responsible for achiev-ing the mission. As administrators, faculty,graduates and learners in this environment,

A Special Thank-You from the 50th AnniversaryCo-chairpersons

To all who contributed to makingour 50th Anniversary celebration

a huge success, we offer a specialthank-you! Our appreciation extendsto each of you, and especially to M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N.,FAAN, the Connelly Endowed Deanand professor of Nursing; the AlphaNu Chapter of Sigma Theta TauInternational; the Nursing AlumniSociety; the U.S. Army and the U.S.Navy; the Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin,O.S.A., ’58 A&S, University presidentand his staff; John R. Johannes,Ph.D., vice president for AcademicAffairs at Villanova, and his staff; andmany other campus departments andoffices. Without their support, the celebrations would have been muchmore modest.

Most importantly, we would like toextend our sincere and deep apprecia-tion to the many alumni who workedtirelessly on committees, to the hon-orary committee members, and to thealumni who contributed memorabiliaand attended many of the events.Without your efforts, our celebrationswould not have been as successful. To our faculty and staff, we also saluteyour invaluable efforts. To quote thedean, “The entire series of events farexceeded my expectations.” We hopeyou enjoy the re-cap of events in this magazine.

It was a very busy anniversaryyear—lots of work, lots of fun, butbest of all, a renewal of alumni rela-tionships. Thank you!

Rose Woytowich O’Driscoll, ’64 B.S.N.

Nicole Blanche Guerin, ’88 B.S.N.

West Campus, conference participantscould visit with fellow alumni as well asnetwork professionally.

On Saturday, Gloria Ferraro Donnelly’63 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N., FAAN, dean andprofessor at Drexel University’s Collegeof Nursing and Health Professions, sharedher “kaleidoscopic view” of nursing edu-

cation. Subsequent sessions addressedinformation technology, distancelearning, the College’s worldwideinfluence and the future contribu-tions to be made by alumni.

In viewing the poster exhibit ondisplay, participants learned about the research of Villanova Nursing faculty members.

Concluding the conference was adistinguished panel whose memberscontemplated the life of the College

and coalesced the viewpoints expressed byVillanova nurses throughout the weekend.The panel was titled “Fifty Years ofDistinction: Gateway to the Future.” Thosetaking part were Vernice Ferguson, M.A.,R.N., FAAN, FRCN; Lucille Joel, Ed.D.,R.N., FAAN; and Margaret McClure,Ed.D., R.N., FAAN. (Villanova awardedFerguson and Joel honorary degrees in1988 and 1989 respectively.) The modera-tor was Nan Hechenberger ’56B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N. Thepanelists were united intheir predictions ofeven brighter daysahead.

Those who attendedthe conference wereoverwhelminglypositive in theirevaluation of theprogram and thechance to renewacquaintancesand meet colleagues prac-ticing in diversesettings orteaching.

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(From left) M. LouiseFitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N.,FAAN, the ConnellyEndowed Dean and professor of Nursing, visits with two conferenceparticipants: moderatorKathleen M. O’Leary ’79B.S.N., M.S.N., R.N. andpresenter James C.McCann ’72 B.S.N.,D.N.Sc., R.N., CANP.

we are all responsible forachieving the mission.”(The College has pub-lished her address in acommemorative booklet.)

Mary Duffin Naylor’71 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N.,FAAN, the Marian S.Ware Professor inGerontology at theUniversity ofPennsylvaniaSchool ofNursing, in heraddress providedinsight into theimpact ofresearch on nurs-ing practice.

On Fridayafternoon and Saturday, more than 20alumni of the undergraduate and graduateNursing programs presented multiple con-current sessions, which were moderated bymore than a dozen other Nursing alumni.These Villanova nurses, who have gone onto distinguish themselves professionally,came back to share information about their

lives and contributions.In the Friday ses-

sions, alumni presentedtheir research findings,along with their viewson trends in health care

for the United States ingeneral and for specific

populations such asoncology patients,the elderly and theunderserved. Thepresenters offeredengaging discus-sions on hownurses are shapingpolicy, healthservice and publicservice.

At a receptionFriday evening atDundale on the

Conference presenter HelenBodkin Connors ’64 B.S.N.,Ph.D., R.N., FAAN discusses“Information Technology:Today and Tomorrow.”

Gloria Ferraro Donnelly ’63 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N., FAANreflects on “Nursing EducationThrough the Looking Glass: A Kaleidoscopic View” to open the Saturday conferencesessions.

Mary Duffin Naylor ’71 B.S.N.,Ph.D., R.N., FAAN offers herthoughts on “ResearchImpacting Practice” during herconference address.


A t the St. Thomas of VillanovaChurch, the Rev. Edmund J.Dobbin, O.S.A., ’58 A&S,

University president, and more than 20other priests concelebrated the AnniversaryMass on Saturday, April 26. The College’sfaculty, staff, students and alumni partici-pated in the liturgy, as did CampusMinistry and its pastoral musicians. SisterM. Margarella O’Neill, O.S.F., one of thetwo founding co-directors of the Divisionof Nursing (which became the College ofNursing) was on hand and was recognizedfor her pioneering role.

Father Dobbin in his homily drewattention to the College’s anniversarytheme. Transforming hearts and minds is atthe core of the College of Nursing, he said.Father Dobbin described the College’salumni as skilled professionals and caringindividuals who are recognized as sucharound the world.

The College commissioned a unique50th Anniversary Medallion, which waspresented during the awards ceremony toDonna Zimmaro Bliss ’81 B.S.N., Ph.D.,R.N., FAAN, FGSA. “Nursing is a caringprofession but it is also an intellectual pursuit—Donna exemplifies both,” noted M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN,the Connelly Endowed Dean and professorof Nursing. Dr. Bliss is recognized nation-ally and internationally for her teaching,clinical expertise, scholarly publicationsand well-funded research.

Following her graduation fromVillanova, Bliss worked in critical care

Ceremony Celebrates College’s History and Honors a Top Nursing Scholar

at the Hospital of theUniversity of Pennsylvaniaand earned two advanceddegrees from Penn: hermaster’s degree (as a criti-cal care clinical nurse spe-cialist) and her Ph.D. (in1992). She then became afaculty member at theUniversity of Minnesota,where she is the Professorin Long-Term Care ofElders and a Horace T.Morse-Alumni AssociationDistinguished Teacher. Herresearch there at the Centerfor Nursing Research onElders explores the rela-tionship between physio-logic function and nutritionand their enhancement ofquality of life in the elderly.Bliss is also the associateeditor of Nursing Research.

Bliss has receivednumerous grants, writtencountless articles, presentedher work around the countryand served on many committees andboards. She shares her expertise with students and colleagues by teaching andmentoring. Her contributions to the pro-fession and its body of knowledge are recognized frequently, as evidenced by herselection for membership in the AmericanAcademy of Nursing.

Also at the awards ceremony, Elise

Dean Fitzpatrick (left) and the Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, O.S.A.,’58 A&S, University president (right), congratulate DonnaZimmaro Bliss ’81 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N., FAAN, FGSA, who wasawarded the College of Nursing 50th Anniversary Medallion. Dr. Bliss is joined by her husband, Thomas Bliss, and their sons,Matthew (third from left) and John.

Dear Fellow Alumni:There is so much to share when telling the story of the College ofNursing’s 50th Anniversary celebration. In the Villanova tradition,there was plenty of time to catch up with good friends and goodfood. During the cocktail reception after the opening day of theconference, we enjoyed the evening breeze and classical guitarmusic on the veranda at Dundale, the University’s Victorian man-sion on the West Campus. At conference breaks and brunch at theVillanova Conference Center, we mingled while marveling at thedesserts and the beautiful woodland setting.

During several events, we admired our tools of the trade displayed behind glass…yes, there were exhibit cases with all ofthe College’s memorabilia, such as the first tuition bills that wereonly hundreds—and not thousands—of dollars. There were glasssyringes, old filmstrips and the original meeting minutes fromwhen the College was founded. We delighted in the tributes tothose who shaped the College’s history, including the oil painting

in memory of Sister M. Alma Lawler, C.R.S.M., who was one of thetwo founding co-directors. There was also an enormous timeline showing all of our significant events over the last 50 years.

In the multimedia presentation, “Celebrating Fifty Years,” wesmiled as we glimpsed fellow Villanova nurses. It was fun to seestudents modeling the old uniforms (remember that cap?) andfreshman Orientation attire (oh, those beanies!). The Wildcat mascot was as energetic as ever, presenting a cake and leading the band in “Happy Birthday” for the Nursing students who gath-ered in Fall 2002 to kick off the anniversary season. Graduate students had their own cake and celebration during their GraduateScholars’ Day in April.

Throughout the past year, our 50th Anniversary banners havebeen hard to miss. They were festively displayed on St. Mary Hall andfluttered along Ryan’s Way for all to see. The College’s mission andspirit were also reflected in our commemorative calendar—a collec-tion of photos, people and events that captured what we are all about.

A Letter to Those Who Could Not Join Us for the Celebrations

Robinson Pizzi, M.S.N., R.N., CRNP,assistant professor of Nursing, was recog-nized for her 25 years of service. DeanFitzpatrick described Pizzi as “an exem-plar for her students and peers…an excel-lent teacher and clinician.” Pizzi’s expert-ise in gerontology, as expressed throughher teaching and service, was cited asgreatly influencing the care of older adults.

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One of the most notable events ofthe College of Nursing’s 50thAnniversary weekend came dur-

ing Saturday evening’s gala, on April 26,when the Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, O.S.A.,’58 A&S, University president, announcedthe Connelly Foundation’s $4 millionendowment of the College’s initiatives.The 450 guests gathered in the VillanovaRoom of the Connelly Center were enthu-siastic in their response to the news, forthe endowment represents a significantinvestment in the College’s future initia-tives and marks the College’s founding.

This latest gift to the University fromthe Connelly Foundation has resulted inthe establishment of an endowed deanshipin the College of Nursing. Dean M. Louise

Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, dean ofthe College since 1978 and professor ofNursing, has become the first ConnellyEndowed Dean. This portion of theendowment provides the resources neededto enhance program development, supportprofessional development of students andfaculty, and greatly assist in keeping theCollege’s programs responsive to the ever-changing and challenging needs of thehealth-care system and the profession.

A second portion of the endowmentwill be allocated to enhance technologyand laboratory resources for teaching andlearning in the College.

A third portion expands the Connelly-Delouvrier International Scholars Programto support Nursing students, both for

international study experiences andmulticultural experiences in theUnited States.

At the gala, Emily C. Riley, theConnelly Foundation’s executive vicepresident and a former Villanovatrustee, offered remarks on behalf ofher sister, Josephine C. Mandeville(the Foundation’s president andCEO), the Foundation’s officers andits board. Riley summarized theFoundation’s evaluation of theCollege’s graduates, indicating thatthey are well-educated and highlyregarded. The Connelly Foundationwas established in 1955 by the lateJohn F. and Josephine C. Connelly.(Riley and Mandeville are theirdaughters.)

Gala Evening Culminates in the Announcement of Connelly Foundation’s Endowment for Nursing

As a token of the University’s grati-tude, Father Dobbin presented theConnelly Foundation with a crystalplaque, highlighting the vision that theFoundation has shown in its support of theCollege. He noted that the 50thAnniversary celebration and the endow-ment reflect the leadership of the College,as well as the enormous impact of theCollege on the University. Father Dobbinsaid he anticipated a “wholesome and richfuture” for the College, and he recognizedthe remarkable contributions of DeanFitzpatrick over the past 25 years.

The dean presented to the Connelly

Cmdr. Steven J. Wyrsch (NC, USN) ’86 B.S.N., M.H.A.,R.N., FAHM, FACHE and Capt. Joan Huber (NC, USN,Ret.) ’73 B.S.N., M.S., R.N., CNAA,BC enjoy the gala. Both were conference speakers representing the Navy Nurse Corps.

Father Dobbin presents a crystal commemora-tive piece as a token of gratitude to Emily C.Riley of the Connelly Foundation.

The pride we felt throughout the conference as we sharedaccomplishments and goals for the future continued on intoMass—another moving occasion. We heard soaring music andwonderful tributes that evening at the St. Thomas of VillanovaChurch. Afterward, a bagpiper led the 450 guests to the ConnellyCenter for the gala dinner. There, we caught up with more friendsduring the cocktail hour and enjoyed this wonderful party. At thereception, students were garbed in nursing attire from those fivedecades. Their starched uniforms, caps and long skirts elicitedmany fond memories and smiles.

It is evident that others see us as a premier college of nursing.In the displays at the gala, there were so many congratulatoryletters—from deans, politicians, military and civilian leaders and many others—that we couldn’t read them all. Dinner wasfantastic, as was the setting. The Villanova Room was trans-formed, with the 50th Anniversary gold decorations reflecting thesparkling white lights. The icing on the cake—literally—was the

50th Anniversary logo decorating our individual desserts—almost too beautiful to eat!

We all remember the vitality we discover at every Villanovaevent, and that same energy has infused each celebration duringthe College’s yearlong anniversary. The enthusiasm of Villanovanurses across the generations was inspirational. As we reconnect-ed with classmates, we rejoiced in what makes the College ofNursing so special—dedicated people with diverse talents. Weknow you were with us in spirit!

Cordially,

Ann M. Barrow ’86 B.S.N., ’91 M.S.N., R.N.Coordinator of College Relations

1 0 V I L L A N O V A N U R S I N G

A brunch on Sunday April 27, sponsored by the Alpha NuChapter of Sigma Theta Tau

International, concluded the weekend-long50th Anniversary celebration. The guestspeaker was a Villanova Nursing alumnawho served as chief of the Army NurseCorps from 1979 to 1983. In her talk, “A Heritage of Distinction: One Nurse’sJourney,” Brig. Gen. Hazel Johnson-Brown(USA ANC, Ret.) ’59 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N.,FAAN imparted the wisdom she gainedduring many years of professional servicein the military and later in nursing educa-tion. Villanova awarded the alumna anhonorary doctorate in 1981. She is a for-mer member of the Villanova UniversityBoard of Trustees.

Several members of the Nursing under-graduate Class of 1966 reunite at thebrunch with a former faculty member.(Front row, l-r): Elizabeth Kelly Keech ’66B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N., assistant professor ofNursing, and Annette Paczkowski Day ’66B.S.N. (Back row, l-r): Judith Klimek ’66B.S.N.; former faculty member CassOblacznyski M.S.N., R.N.; Patricia GradySchneider ’66 B.S.N.; and Barbara ParkDrake ’66 B.S.N.

During the brunch, Lois BuchananWilmer ’86 B.S.N. (left) converses withher former teacher, Col. Julia BolandPaparella (USA ANC, Ret.), associate professor emerita of Nursing (right), asBetty Ann Curran ’57 B.S.N., a memberof the first graduating class, looks on.

Alumna Who Led Army Nurse CorpsAddresses Alpha Nu Brunch

Foundation a display copy of the 50thAnniversary College of NursingMedallion. It symbolizes how much theCollege appreciates the Foundation’sunderstanding of the needs and goals ofnursing education, as well as of the vitalrole nurses play in society. The deandescribed how the ConnellyFoundation’s endowment supportingNursing reflects the values shared by theFoundation, the University and theCollege, ultimately leading to positiveinfluences on patient care.

The College also honored its endur-ing partnerships with clinical agencies,several of which have been associatedwith the College since its founding. Eachagency received a crystal flame etchedwith the 50th Anniversary logo. TheCollege similarly recognized the Orderof St. Augustine, the U.S. Army, the U.S.Navy, professional organizations, and theCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences fortheir support and longstanding relation-ship with Villanova Nursing.

Guests at the gala viewed congratula-tory letters, historical displays and an oilpainting commissioned in memory of theCollege’s other founding co-director,Sister M. Alma Lawler, C.R.S.M. Theportrait of Sister Alma, painted by theRev. Richard Cannuli, O.S.A., was fund-ed by alumni donations and given to theCollege by the Nursing Alumni Society.Father Cannuli is director and curator ofthe Villanova Art Gallery in the ConnellyCenter and professor of studio art.

“Nursing: the Heart of the Matter,”was the theme chosen the Very Rev.Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A., ’71 A&S, D. Min., for his remarks at the gala.Father Reilly is Prior Provincial of theEastern Province (St. Thomas ofVillanova) of the Order of St. Augustineand a member of the VillanovaUniversity Board of Trustees. Heobserved that the College of Nursing’sgraduates desire to lead with the heartand the head. It was the theme that hadresonated in Father Dobbin’s homilyearlier that evening.

In the center is the featured speaker at thebrunch, Brig. Gen. Hazel W. Johnson-Brown(USA ANC, Ret.) ’59 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N.,FAAN, former chief of the Army Nurse Corps.With her are (l to r) Dr. Linda Copel, associ-ate professor of Nursing and Alpha Nu presi-dent; Rose Woytowich O’Driscoll ’64 B.S.N.,the College’s assistant dean for administrationand the 50th Anniversary co-chairperson;Army Lt. Col. Michael McDonald; Col. JuliaBoland Paparella (USA ANC, Ret.), associateprofessor emerita of Nursing who was honored for her service to the Army NurseCorps and to the College; Patricia Harris ’92B.S.N., ’01 M.S.N., brunch chairperson; andDr. Nancy Sharts-Hopko, professor ofNursing and Alpha Nu treasurer.

At the brunch, Col. Julia BolandPaparella (USA ANC, Ret.), associate professor emerita of Nursing, was honoredfor her military service and her influenceon the development of the College ofNursing.

As the many generations of Villanovanurses headed back home after the week-end’s festivities, they could reflect on howthe anniversary theme of “A Heritage ofDistinction: Transforming Hearts andMinds” might continue to prove inspira-tional in the future as well.

You Support our Future!

Your Annual Fund contributions make adifference! Sincere thanks for your

ongoing support of our endeavors. Youhelp ensure a bright future for the

College of Nursing.

F A L L 2 0 0 3 1 1

FACULTY FOCUS

Research Project Focuses on Exercise and African-American Women

There are many barriers to regular exer-cise. Some may be internal (among

them, lack of interest or perceived value) andothers are external (such as the weather, thecost or neighborhood safety). A new researchproject by two College of Nursing facultymembers will examine the exercise barriersexperienced by two clinical populations ofAfrican-American women: those with cardio-vascular disease and those with breast can-cer. For their multi-phased study, SaraReeder, Ph.D., R.N. and Mary Pickett, Ph.D.,R.N. chose these two populations becauseepidemiological evidence reveals that African-American women have the poorest out-

comes following cardiovascular eventsand breast cancer diagnosis.

Clinical data are sparse aboutthese two high-risk groups sinceprior studies have not success-fully recruited substantial num-bers of African-Americans.Heart disease death rates aremore than 40 percent higherfor African-Americans than forCaucasians. The death rate

for all cancer is 30 percenthigher for African-Americans than forCaucasians. African-American women have a

higher death rate from breast cancerdespite having a mammographyscreening rate that is nearly thesame as that of Caucasian women.

Overall, numerous studies haveshown the benefits of exercise inreducing heart disease and breastcancer. The American CancerSociety Guidelines on Nutrition andPhysical Activity, the American HeartAssociation and the U.S. Departmentof Health and Human Services allrecommend that adults adopt aphysically active lifestyle. Thegroups agree that adults “should engage inat least moderate activity for 30 minutes or

more on five or more days of the week.”Furthermore, “45 minutes or more of moder-ate-to-vigorous physical activity on five ormore days of the week may enhance reduc-tions in the risk of breast and colon cancerand heart disease.”

The two faculty members bring a uniqueset of research skills and experiences to sup-port their project’s success (see page 12). Dr. Reeder, an assistant professor, has astrong and sustained background in the careof patients with cardiovascular disease andhas conducted studies examining the out-come of women who have had myocardialinfarction. Dr. Pickett, an associate professor

who has focused her research on oncologynursing, has six years of collaborative experi-ence as part of a multi-institutional study thatexplored how a self-paced walking exerciseprogram could be beneficial in women diag-nosed with breast cancer.

Testing the effects of an exercise interven-tion is a challenge in light of the fact thatmost Americans live sedentary lifestyles andmay resist increasing their level of physicalactivity. Prior research reveals that approxi-mately half of those who attempt to incorpo-rate an exercise program revert to their previ-ous activity levels within three to six months.

Claire Manfredi, Ed.D., R.N., former assis-tant dean and director of the graduate

program in Nursing, retired in June. Over thepast eight years, she has guided the graduateprogram to become the internationally knownresource that it is today.

On May 20, a reception was held in Dr.Manfredi’s honor in the President’s Lounge ofthe Connelly Center. At the College of NursingConvocation on May 17, Dean M. LouiseFitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, the ConnellyEndowed Dean and professor of Nursing,awarded the College’s Medallion to Dr.Manfredi for her outstanding service.

Dr. Manfredi Retires

At the College of Nursing Convocationin May, M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D.,R.N., FAAN, the Connelly EndowedDean and professor of Nursing, awardedthe College’s Medallion to Dr. ClaireManfredi, Ed.D., R.N. (right), whoretired in June.

Earlier in her career, Dr. Manfredi practicedin staff development and nursing administra-tion at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Elizabeth,N.J. After earning her doctoral degree fromTeachers College, Columbia University, shetaught nursing administration in the graduateprogram at the University of Rhode IslandSchool of Nursing.

In 1985, Dr. Manfredi joined Villanova’sNursing faculty. She taught nursing adminis-tration for many years before becoming thedriving force behind the graduate program.Under her leadership, it expanded from two toseven concentrations and has seen steadygrowth in its enrollment. Prior to her retire-ment, Dr. Manfredi had been assisting withpreparing for Villanova’s new doctoral pro-gram in Nursing. She is known for her skillsin grant writing and management, her gen-erosity as a mentor and teacher, and her quietvolunteer work with those less fortunate.

New Appointments

In 2002-2003, the College of Nursing wel-comed an assistant dean, three faculty mem-

bers, a member of the professional staff and acoordinator of the BSNExpress program.

■ Marguerite Stuhler Schlag ’68 B.S.N.,Ed.D., R.N. in July became assistant dean anddirector of the graduate programin Nursing. She comes from theRobert Wood Johnson UniversityHospital in New Brunswick, N.J.,where was the assistant vicepresident for professional prac-tice, education and research. Dr.Schlag succeeds Claire Manfredi, Ed.D., R.N.,who retired in June (see page 11).

Dr. Schlag oversees the expansion and fur-ther development of the M.S.N. program and isimplementing the College’s recently approvedPh.D. program to prepare nursing faculty. “I amdelighted to be returning to Villanova,” she noted.“I am looking forward to working with the facultyand administration to continue our long traditionof preparing excellent clinical nurses and initiat-ing the doctoral program to ensure nursing facul-ty for the future.”

She earned her M.S.N. at Case WesternReserve University and her Ed.D. at RutgersUniversity. During her career, she has focused onnursing education. She taught at Villanova’sCollege of Nursing (1970 to 1973) and held a faculty appointment at Rutgers.

Dr. Schlag served as a member of Villanova’sBoard of Trustees (January 2000-June 2003) andwas the honorary chairperson of the College of

Nursing’s 50th Anniversary celebration. The Collegein 1998 awarded her the Medallion for Leadershipin Nursing Practice and Health Care Delivery.

■ Mary Pickett, Ph.D., R.N. in August wasappointed a full-time associate professor after serv-ing as a visiting associate professor since 2001.

Dr. Pickett teaches communi-ty health and oncology nursing.Her clinical, teaching andresearch focus has been inoncology nursing. She has inves-tigated quality of life issues relat-ed to breast cancer and prostate cancer patients,chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, andpalliative care. Widely published, she has con-ducted many funded research studies and hasbeen a faculty member at the University ofPennsylvania, the University of Rhode Island andThomas Jefferson University.

She received her B.S.N. from Salve ReginaUniversity, her M.S.N. from St. Louis University andher Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.

■ Sara Reeder, Ph.D., R.N. in August 2002joined the College as a full-time assistant profes-sor. For the past two years, Dr. Reeder has been

teaching part-time in the graduateprogram, including an Internet-based nursing research courseand “Advanced Pathophysiology”and “Nursing Care of Adults.”She also teaches a sophomore

health assessment course.Dr. Reeder received her B.S.N. from Howard

University and her M.S.N. and Ph.D. from theUniversity of Maryland.

Her clinical background in critical care nursingincludes 20 years of service in the U.S. Army

Reserve Nurse Corps, where she achieved the rankof lieutenant colonel. She served on the faculty at theUniversity of Pittsburgh and Tuskegee University.

Her research is focused on cardiovascularnursing. In Pitt’s Postdoctoral FellowshipProgram, she investigated predictors of myocar-dial reinfarction in women. She published severalarticles related to cardiovascular health.

■ Assistant Professor Elizabeth “Beth Ann”Reedy Ph.D., R.N., who joined the faculty inAugust 2002, recently was awarded her doctoratein nursing from the University of Pennsylvania.As a doctoral student, shereceived federal funding to studythe care of premature infants inthe United States between 1900and 1950. The results of herresearch were published inNursing History Review. She also received sever-al honors, including the Student Research Awardfrom the Association for the History of Nursingand Penn’s University Fellowship Award.

She received her M.S.N. from the Universityof Pennsylvania and her B.S.N. from Gwynedd-Mercy College. Her clinical practice specialty ispediatric critical care. She now applies that expert-ise in teaching clinical and theory courses in parent-child nursing to undergraduates. Dr. Reedyhas also taught at Thomas Jefferson University.

■ Ann M. Barrow ’86 B.S.N., ’91 M.S.N., R.N.joined the College in September 2002 as coordi-nator of college relations. She is responsible forplanning and implementing marketing strategies,exploring partnership opportunities, participatingin recruitment efforts, offering editorial and Websupport, and assisting with continuing educationprogram planning and alumni affairs.

Publications

Theresa Capriotti ’95 M.S.N., CRNP, DO, clinicalassistant professor, “Stricter Cholesterol GuidelinesBroaden Indications for the Statin Drugs,”MedSurg Nursing, 12 (1), 51-57.

Linda Carman Copel, Ph.D., R.N., CS, DAPA,associate professor, chapters on “PsychosocialConcerns of the Individual and Family,”“Homeostasis, Stress and Adaptation,” and “HealthPromotion and Education” in Brunner andSuddarth’s Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing(10th ed.), co-edited by Suzanne C. Smeltzer,Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, professor, and Brenda G. Bare,R.N. (2003, Lippincott).

Elizabeth Dowdell, Ph.D., R.N., assistant professor, “Urban Seventh Graders and Smoking: A Health Risk Behavior Assessment,” Issues inComprehensive Pediatric Nursing, 25, 217-229.

Janice Hinkle, Ph.D., R.N., CNRN, assistantprofessor, “Pharmacology Update: Neuroprotectionfor Ischemic Stroke” (with L. Bowman), Journal ofNeuroscience Nursing, 35 (2).

Barbara Ott, Ph.D., R.N., associate professor,“Oncology Emergency: Spinal Cord Compression”

(with J. A. Flounders), Oncology Nursing Forum, 30, (1), E17-23.

Mary Pickett, Ph.D., R.N., associate professor,“Adherence to Moderate-Intensity Exercise duringBreast Cancer Therapy” (with V. Mock, M.E. Ropka,L. Cameron, M. Coleman and L. Podewils), CancerPractice, 10 (6), 284-292.

Elise R. Pizzi, M.S.N., R.N., CRNP and GaleRobinson-Smith, Ph.D., R.N., assistant profes-sors, “Maximizing Stroke Recovery Using PatientSelf-care Self-efficacy.” Rehabilitation Nursing, 28(2), 48-51.

Elizabeth “Beth Ann” Reedy, Ph.D., R.N.,assistant professor, “From Weakling to Fighter:Changing the Image of Premature Infants,” NursingHistory Review, 11, 109-128.

Nancy Sharts-Hopko, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN, pro-fessor, “Assessing Rigor in Qualitative Research,”Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care,13 (4), 84-86.

Suzanne C. Smeltzer, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, pro-fessor, “Reproductive Decision Making in Womenwith Multiple Sclerosis,” Journal of NeuroscienceNursing, 34 (3), 145-157. Also co-edited Brunnerand Suddarth’s Textbook of Medical-SurgicalNursing (10th ed.), (2003, Lippincott).

Awards and LeadershipAchievements

Theresa Capriotti ’95 M.S.N., CRNP, DO, clini-cal assistant professor, in April receivedVillanova’s Student Government AssociationTeacher of the Year Award for Nursing, based onstudent votes. In 2002 she received Villanova’sprestigious Christian R. and Mary F. LindbackAward for Distinguished Teaching.

Linda Carman Copel, Ph.D., R.N., CS,DAPA, associate professor, presented a researchsession on “The Lived Experience of PartnerAbuse in Physically Disabled Women” at theAPNA 16th Annual Conference of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing: Integrating Practice,Research, and Education, held in Dallas, Texas, in October 2002.

Lynore DeSilets, Ed.D., R.N.,BC, assistantdean and director of Continuing Education inNursing and Health Care, was named co-editor ofthe Administrative Angles column of The Journalof Continuing Education in Nursing.


In Memoriam

Joan T. Large ’54 B.S.N., Ed.D., R.N., associate professor emerita of Nursing andformer director of the College’s graduate program, died of organ failure in Darby, Pa.,

on September 16. She was 75 years old. A Philadelphia native, Dr. Large was a graduate of the Hahnemann School of Nursing

who completed her B.S.N. at Villanova. She received her master’s and doctoral degreesfrom Columbia University. Early in her career, she taught pediatric nursing at Villanovaand in 1966 was instrumental in establishing the Alpha Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.

Dr. Large went on to teach nursing at Temple University and later taught in the graduate nursing pro-gram at Rutgers University-Newark. She returned to Villanova and became the first director of theCollege’s graduate program when the M.S.N. program was inaugurated in 1980. She held that positionuntil her retirement in 1988. Villanova honored her by granting her emerita status.

Throughout her career, Dr. Large was active in professional organizations, especially the PennsylvaniaNurses Association and the Committee for the History of Nursing Museum at Pennsylvania Hospital. Shewill be remembered for her commitment to the nursing profession and her loyalty to Villanova.

She is survived by her sister, Jeanette Large.Contributions in Dr. Large’s memory may be made to Villanova University College of Nursing,

Villanova, PA 19085 or the Museum of Nursing History, 761 Sproul Rd., No. 299, Springfield, PA 19064.

Rosemary Schiller-Okolowski, M.S.N., R.N., longtime faculty member in the College of Nursing,died of pneumonia on April 22 in Springfield, Pa. She was 58 years old.

Born in Scranton, Pa., she received her B.S.N. in 1968 and her M.S.N. in 1970 from the University ofPennsylvania School of Nursing. She was appointed to Villanova’s Nursing faculty in 1970 and was a val-

ued colleague. The assistant professor taught maternal child health and research method-ology to countless students. An expert clinician and educator, she was recognized for herability to make complex topics easily understood.

Family, friends and colleagues attended a May 19 memorial service in CorrChapel at Villanova. Schiller-Okolowski was remembered for her devotion to her students; her sharp analytical mind; her tremendous sense of humor; and her love ofthe beach, baseball and books. Repeatedly, fellow faculty members recalled her as

“the smartest person I know.”Her husband, Dr. John A. Okolowski, died in 2000. She is survived by her brother, Vincent Visoskas,

and two daughters, Amy and Nell.Memorial donations will be used to purchase nursing books for Falvey Memorial Library, and may

be sent to the Rosemary Schiller-Okolowski Memorial Fund, c/o of Villanova University Office ofDevelopment, 800 Lancaster Ave., Villanova, PA 19085.

Belle Erickson, Ph.D., R.N. and MarycarolMcGovern, Ph.D., R.N., assistant professors, inMay 2003 received honorable mentions forVillanova’s Christian R. and Mary F. LindbackAward for Distinguished Teaching.

M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN,the Connelly Endowed Dean and professor ofNursing, celebrates 25 years as dean of theCollege of Nursing. She came to the College in1978 after serving as an associate professor atTeachers College, Columbia University. At theCollege of Nursing’s 50th Anniversary gala, theRev. Edmund J. Dobbin, O.S.A., ’58, Universitypresident, recognized her years of leadership andservice to the College. Faculty and staff honoredher at the May 2003 Convocation, where a cita-tion was read and she was presented with a com-memorative pendant. Dr. John R. Johannes, vicepresident for Academic Affairs, also recognizedthe dean’s leadership at the ceremony. Dr.Fitzpatrick is the first to hold the endowed dean-ship made possible by the Connelly Foundation’srecently announced endowment of the College(see page 9).

Colleen Meakim ’84 M.S.N., R.N., directorof the Learning Resource Center, presented

“Development of a Skills Lab EvaluationInstrument” (with C. Sando, L. Rockstraw and S. Wahl) at the Fifth National Conference onNursing Skill Laboratories, held in San Antonio,Texas, in June 2003.

Mary Pickett, Ph.D., R.N., associate profes-sor, presented “Depressive Symptoms in MenFollowing Radical Prostatectomy,” (with R.McCorkle, J. Robinson and E. Giarelli) at the 15thAnnual Scientific Sessions of the Eastern NursingResearch Society, held at Yale University in March.In May, she became president-elect of the AlphaNu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.

Gale Robinson-Smith, Ph.D., R.N., assis-tant professor, was awarded tenure last spring.An outstanding educator in psychiatric nursing,she became a faculty member in 1997.

Nancy Sharts-Hopko, Ph.D., R.N., FAAN,professor, in January was appointed as a consultant to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’sAdvisory Committee on Obstetric and GynecologicDevices. She served as a regular member from2000 to 2003. She is the editor of the AmericanJournal of Nursing Maternal Child Nursing Bookof the Year, 2003.

Suzanne C. Smeltzer, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN,who in May was promoted to professor and whoalso serves as director of Nursing Research, pre-sented “Knowledge About Bone Mineral DensityTest Results: Necessary But Not Sufficient” (withV. Zimmerman) at the 2002 State of the ScienceCongress, held in Washington, D.C., in September2002. She is president of the Eastern NursingResearch Conference and was honored with theJournal of Neuroscience Nursing Award forWriting Excellence for 2002.

Bette Wildgust, R.N., CRNA, adjunct assistantprofessor, was elected as CRNA educator representa-tive (through 2009) for the Council on Accreditationof Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.

Joyce Willens ’83 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N.,assistant professor, presented “Pain and PainManagement” at the American InterventionalRadiology Nurses Association meeting in SaltLake City, Utah, in March. She also was one of 15pain management experts invited from across thenation to participate in the National PainManagement and Oncology Nurse Care ClinicalAdvisory Meeting in Las Vegas in July, sponsoredby Endo Pharmaceuticals.

Barrow comes from Lippincott Williams &Wilkins where she was publisher of a major

nursing Web site. She was also involved in new businessstrategies and market research.Barrow’s previous publishingexperience includes developingeducational materials for multiple

media for the nursing, physician and allied health markets.

Her clinical practice specialty is adult criticalcare nursing. The Nursing alumna was also acritical care lecturer and an adjunct clinical facultymember at Thomas Jefferson University.

■ Maryanne Valentine Lieb ’85 M.S.N., R.N.,assistant professor, is the new coordinator of theB.S.N.Express program. This accelerated 14-month program gives college graduates a way tocomplete their nursing courses and clinical prac-tice. “The B.S.N.Express program provides awonderful opportunity for individuals to achievetheir dream of becoming a nurse, and does sowith the highest degree of integrity. To be part ofthat is wonderful for me,” says Lieb.

Experienced in teaching adult learners, Liebformerly was professor of nursing at DelawareCounty Community College in Media, Pa., andhas also taught nursing at TheBryn Mawr Hospital School ofNursing. She earned her under-graduate degree at NeumannCollege. In 2000, Villanova’sCollege of Nursing honored herwith its Medallion for Service.

F A L L 2 0 0 3 1 3


Barbara Felder ’00 B.S.N., R.N., OCN hasdedicated her 14-year nursing career to

the care of cancer patients. She practiced inhome health settings and later became a staffnurse in the University of PennsylvaniaCancer Treatment Center’s Hematology/Oncology Outpatient Clinic, where she practices today.

Not one to slow down in terms of her edu-cation and exploration of issues in oncologynursing, after earning her B.S.N. at Villanova,Felder continued right into the College’s AdultNurse Practitioner master’s degree program.

While in her current position in outpatientoncology, Felder published “Multiple Myelomaand Its Treatment” in the November 2002Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing. Hercase study illustrated the complexities of carefor these patients. By the time her article waspublished, Felder had already completed theyearlong research project she conducted asher independent study in the Nursing master’sdegree program. Two faculty members guidedFelder’s work: Suzanne C. Smeltzer, Ed.D.,R.N., FAAN, now professor, and Barbara Ott,Ph.D., R.N., associate professor.

Motivated by an interest in truth-tellingand whether it affects hope in patients, Felderset about to investigate the theoretical under-pinnings. She conducted her study, “Hopeand Coping in Patients with CancerDiagnoses,” at an outpatient cancer treatmentcenter. The 183 participants (male andfemale) had varied cancer diagnoses and wereat different points along the disease trajectory,from newly diagnosed to end stage; 71 per-cent had advanced disease. Felder began herresearch with a concept analysis of hope andthen developed her own definition. She thenfound a theoretical framework and tools thatused the same framework she did. To studycoping, Felder also obtained a definition, tooland theoretical framework.

Participants in her study completed twoevaluation tools, the Herth Hope Scale and theJalowiec Coping Scale. Felder’s findings indi-cated that levels of hope were consistentlyhigh across all diagnoses and the disease tra-jectory. She sees many implications for nurs-ing. “Nurses have a responsibility to foster

COLLEGE NEWS

and maintain hope. To paraphraseJean Watson (a noted nursing theo-rist), care is always possible, evenwhen cure is not.” The alumna’s studyoutlines characteristics of hope, hopefostering and hope hindering behav-iors of nurses, and suggests hopeassessment tools to assist nurses inpatient care.

Her research already has had animpact on the Philadelphia-areaoncology care community. Felder pre-sented her work at the College ofNursing’s Graduate Scholars’ Day inApril, and at the Oncology NursingResearch Symposium and theSymptom Management Rounds at theoutpatient center where she works.She looks forward to reaching morecolleagues and is currently preparinga manuscript for publication.

Felder is a member of theOncology Nursing Society, the AlphaNu Chapter of Sigma Theta TauInternational, and Phi Kappa Phi. InApril, she was recognized for herachievements with the Nursing AlumniSociety Graduate Scholarship.

She hopes more nurses will becomeinvolved in research and contribute to theadvancement of nursing knowledge. She saysshe felt a “tremendous sense of accomplish-ment” once her research was completed.After she receives her M.S.N. in December,Felder plans on remaining in direct patientcare, concentrating on the area she findsmost satisfying: palliative care. “End of lifeissues are very important. Many patients canbenefit from palliative care—it brings qualityof life to those who have incurable diseases. I believe it should begin at the time of diag-nosis,” she says. The alumna intends to useher research findings in practice. Nurses, shesuggests, “can reframe unrealistic hope intosomething more constructive. There is no sit-uation that’s hopeless; there’s always some-thing we can do.”

To learn more about Felder’s researchfindings, contact her at [email protected] .

Graduate Student Studies Hope and Coping in Cancer Patients

The study undertaken by Barbara Felder ’00 B.S.N.,R.N., OCN already has had an impact in oncology care in the Philadelphia area. She encourages other nurses to become involved in research.

“Many patients can benefit from palliative

care...I believe it should begin at thetime of diagnosis.”

—Barbara Felder ’00 B.S.N.,R.N., OCN

“…to inspire hope is the nurse’s specific task…the goal of nursing is to help the patient reach out for a plenitude of being that is always possible, in spite ofbiological limitations against which medicine is helpless.”

—Sister M. Vaillot, 1970

For the fifth year in a row, a group ofCollege of Nursing seniors opted to

experience their “Community Health/HealthPromotion” clinical rotation in an impoverishedrural community in Peru. As part of a SpringBreak mission trip, 11 Nursing students, threeNursing faculty members and five CampusMinistry students traveled to the Augustinianmission in Chulucanas. The Campus Ministrystudents helped rebuild the home of an elderlywoman. The one-week trip was arranged withthe assistance of Campus Ministry and theRev. Richard Appicci, O.S.A., director of theAugustinian Mission Office.

The College of Nursing sponsored its fac-ulty, the students raised funds to cover theircosts and members of the Villanova communityalso generously helped support the College’sefforts. This year’s donations enabled thegroup to bring a supply of prenatal vitaminswith iron. They also brought equipment suchas blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes, andcontinued their efforts on educating parishworkers in taking blood pressures.

During the weeks before leaving for Peru,Nursing students planned their health educa-tion presentations on diabetes, maternal nutri-tion, sexually transmitted diseases, heart healthand hygiene. By having their materials trans-lated into Spanish, the students could assurethat their efforts in Peru would be ongoing

In a Peruvian Village, Seniors Provide Health Assessments and Wellness Programs

after they returned home. Their presentationswere well-received by the local nurses as wellas by the parish health workers who serve theircommunities as health-care resources.

As word spread of the Nursing students’daily afternoon presentations, attendancesoared from 22 the first day to more than 80by the end of the week. Parents brought theirchildren for impromptu exams while elderlyresidents sought advice on arthritis and otherhealth problems.

Nursing students spent mornings on homevisits, encountering poverty, another cultureand the gratitude of the people. Guiding thestudents were assistant professors ElizabethKeech ’66 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N.; Karen McKenna’70 B.S.N., M.S.N., R.N.; and Debbie Wimmer’83 M.S.N., R.N., PNP. Wimmer joined the tripthis year to complete general pediatric assess-ments so that health needs of children couldbe met on future trips.

Two highlights of the trip were the highregard the people had for nurses, and theirrespect for the students. While the studentsfound it challenging to adapt their knowledgeand skills to nursing and health promotion ina Third World community, they took great satisfaction in being able to provide much-needed care to those who rarely have accessto health care.

In Chulucanas, Peru, Katie Brennan talks with community members about healthy diets. As a Nursing senior last spring, she chose to do a clinical rotation in an impoverished area.

Assistant Professor Debbie Wimmer ’83M.S.N., R.N., PNP completes an impromptuphysical assessment on a Peruvian child.

F A L L 2 0 0 3 1 5


In June, seven students from the College ofNursing traveled to Honduras for a week as

part of the clinical requirement for their“Community Health/Health Promotion”course. Arrangements were made through theassistance of Campus Ministry with the Rev.Dennis O’Donnell to stay at Amigos de Jesus,a Catholic orphanage.

In preparation for the trip, the studentsworked with two Nursing assistant profes-sors—Elise R. Pizzi, M.S.N., R.N., CRNP andKaren McKenna ’70 B.S.N., M.S.N., R.N.—togather data about health problems.

Once the students had identified theregion’s major health problems, they devel-oped educational presentations to be given inSpanish. They focused on hypertension man-agement; breast-feeding, breast self-examina-tions and breast health; sexual developmentand feminine hygiene; and maternal and gen-eral nutrition. The students and their educa-tional sessions—delivered at local schoolsand at the health clinic in Macualiza—werewell-received.

Another goal of the trip was to assess thecommunity’s pediatric needs, especially thehealth of the boys at Amigos de Jesus andother nearby orphanages. Assistant ProfessorDebbie Wimmer ’83 M.S.N., R.N., PNP joinedthe other faculty members to assist with thisproject.

Based on the students’ successful healthpresentations, they were encouraged to pro-vide other sessions, and they quickly did so.For the boys at Amigos de Jesus, the stu-dents gave presentations on male sexualdevelopment and personal hygiene. And forthe padrinos (the couples who supervise theboys) and other workers at the orphanage,the students demonstrated first aid, seizuremanagement and the Heimlich maneuver.

Faculty and students met with the nurse incharge of the clinic in Macualiza, and throughher generosity all of the boys at Amigos deJesus were immunized against measles,rubella and tetanus.

The students and faculty also did physi-cal assessments on 26 boys at Amigos deJesus and 34 girls at La Flecha, a localgirls’ orphanage. This provided not onlyvaluable assessment experience for the stu-dents but also a rare opportunity for thechildren to have their medical needsassessed and documented.

During the week, students soon redefinedtheir understanding of the terms “hot” and“humid.” Because the orphanage’s water sys-tem had failed before their arrival, they livedwith extremely limited access to clean waterfor most of the trip. One by one, theyaddressed and eventually surmounted eachchallenge. The students learned a great deal,both as nurses and as people, and communitymembers received invaluable health informa-tion and services. Nursing faculty membersare exploring the possibility of returning toHonduras.

The College of Nursing is proud toannounce its latest award for baccalaure-

ate students, the Petro Award, made possibleby the generous donation of Joseph Petro andDr. Helen Yura Petro. The couple establishedthe Joseph and Helen Yura Petro NursingTheory Award this year “to honor the Collegeof Nursing during its 50th Anniversary and toacknowledge its role in enhancing professionalnursing education and practice.”

The Petro Award emphasizes the centrality of

theory and theory development to the practiceof nursing. It will be presented to the baccalau-reate Nursing student who best exemplifies theutilization of nursing theory in the practice ofprofessional nursing.

The award was established in part inmemory of Dr. Mary Blackburn Walsh for hernearly 40 years’ work in the development ofthe Nursing Process and Nursing’s HumanNeed Theory. Dr. Yura Petro, an internationallyrespected nurse scholar to whom Villanovaawarded an honorary doctorate in 1984, is apioneer in this field. Her seminal work withDr. Walsh on the development of the NursingProcess greatly influenced the profession.

Nursing Students Make an Impact on Health in Honduras

Couple Honors College’s 50th Anniversary by Establishing the Petro Award

As a senior this spring, Julia C. Gannon (center) became the first recipient of the Joseph and Helen Yura Petro Nursing TheoryAward, presented at the College of NursingConvocation. With her are M. LouiseFitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN, the ConnellyEndowed Dean and professor of Nursing, andJohn R. Johannes, Ph.D., vice president forAcademic Affairs at Villanova.

Jade Grof ’03 B.S.N. assesses the heart soundsof a girl at the La Flecha orphanage duringthe Nursing students’ trip to Honduras.

At the clinic in Macualiza, Honduras, SonnieKekulah ’03 B.S.N. (left) and Andrea Piscitello’03 B.S.N. document the height and weight ofa resident of the Amigos de Jesus orphanage.Next, they will administer his first childhoodimmunizations.

F A L L 2 0 0 3 1 7

The College of Nursing held an afternoontea for its 2003 undergraduate and grad-

uate scholarship recipients and invited guests.Those honored on April 15 at the VillanovaConference Center were:

Kimberly Baron ’03 B.S.N. Mary Alice Holland Scholarship

Jessica CeramiClass of 2004Nursing Alumni Society UndergraduateScholarship

Annette FahyClass of 2004The Robert and Frances Capone Alumni Award

Barbara E. Felder ’00 B.S.N., R.N.Nursing Alumni Society Graduate Scholarship (see page 14)

The Rev. Francis X.N.McGuire, O.S.A., ’32

A&S, D.D., who as the 24thpresident (1944-1954) ofVillanova founded the Collegeof Nursing, died on May 9 atSt. Joseph Villa in ChestnutHill, Pa. He had been residingthere during the renovation ofSt. Thomas of VillanovaMonastery on campus. FatherMcGuire was 93 years old.

Beloved by the faculty,staff, administration and alumni of theCollege, Father McGuire was a familiar fig-ure at the College of Nursing Mass eachspring. He was an honored guest at theCollege’s 50th Anniversary StudentCelebration in October 2002. It was the lastpublic event he was able to attend. FatherMcGuire was “a raconteur, telling stories ofhis life, and the many famous people he’dmet,” recalled M. Louise Fitzpatrick, Ed.D.,

R.N., FAAN, the ConnellyEndowed Dean and Professor ofthe College of Nursing.

Father McGuire was born inthe Bronx, New York. In 1927 heentered the Augustinian novitiatein New Hamburg, N.Y., and pro-fessed his solemn vows in 1931.After receiving his bachelor’sdegree from Villanova, he wassent to Rome to continue hisstudies and was ordained apriest there on July 21, 1935.

In 1939, he received his doctorate in divinityfrom the Gregorian University and returnedhome to begin his career at Villanova, as pre-fect of studies. In 1941, he became vice pres-ident, and three years later was appointedpresident.

During his decade as president, FatherMcGuire oversaw the transformation of thecampus from college to comprehensive uni-versity. Just 34 years old when he was

named Villanova’s youngest president, heundertook initiatives that dramaticallytransformed both the physical campus andthe institution’s visibility. Chief amongthese were the establishment of theCollege of Nursing and the VillanovaSchool of Law in 1953. Father McGuirewas known for his vision and the develop-ment of new programs, his ability to raiseoutside funds, and his wisdom and conge-niality. He brought much favorable atten-tion to Villanova.

He continued serving at a number ofAugustinian institutions, and in 1996returned to St. Thomas of VillanovaMonastery. In good weather, he often saton the lawn outside, where he spoke withstudents and watched the University’s con-tinuing growth.

Following a Mass of Christian Burial atSt. Thomas of Villanova Church, FatherMcGuire was interred at the Augustiniancemetery on campus.

Andrea Rowley ’03 B.S.N., R.N. Jannetti Publications MedSurg NursingScholarship

Kathleen SchwartzClass of 2006Julia B. Paparella Scholarship

Kelly L. SmithClass of 2005Undergraduate Nursing Senate Award

On May 17, the College of Nursing heldits annual Convocation for B.S.N. and

M.S.N. candidates in the St. Thomas ofVillanova Church. The following awards were presented:

College of Nursing Medallion forDistinguished Academic AchievementJanelle B. FacchinoB.S.N. candidate

JoAnn A. FloundersM.S.N. candidate

Scholarship and Award Recipients Honored at an Afternoon Tea

Convocation Awards Presented atSt.Thomas of Villanova Church

In MemoriamThe Rev. Francis X.N. McGuire, O.S.A., ’32 A&S, D.D.

Founder of the College of Nursing

H. Elaine McCaully Award for Clinical ExcellenceDorianne StellatoB.S.N. candidate

Villanova Alumni Association AwardBridgette M. CarterB.S.N. candidate

Spirit of Nursing AwardCynthia O. TigalekouB.S.N. candidate

The Joseph and Helen Yura Petro Nursing Theory Award Julia C. GannonB.S.N. candidate

Founders’ AwardAmy M. GardnerB.S.N. candidate

ALUMNI NEWS

1950sConstance Morris Badger ’58 B.S.N.retired as a nurse practitioner in theSchool District of Philadelphia.

1960sMary Greipp ’60 B.S.N., professor andchair of the Rutgers UniversityDepartment of Nursing, received the2003 Outstanding Alumni Award fromthe University of Pennsylvania School ofNursing, honoring her outstanding teach-ing and research maintained throughouther career. She received her M.S.N.degree from Penn and her doctoraldegree from Rutgers.

1970sGloria J. McNeal ’70 B.S.N., Ph.D.,APRN, BC has been named assistantdean of student affairs and associateprofessor with tenure at the University ofMedicine and Dentistry of New JerseySchool of Nursing. In addition to heradministrative duties, she serves as thelead faculty member for the master’sdegree program acute/critical careadvanced practice nursing track. Dr.McNeal is the author of the AACN Guideto Acute Care Procedures in the Homeand the recipient of numerous awards forher outstanding work. Mary DuffinNaylor ’71 B.S.N., Ph.D., R.N., FAAN,the Marian S. Ware Professor inGerontology at the University ofPennsylvania School of Nursing, recentlyreceived the school’s first annual ClaireM. Fagin Distinguished Research Award,recognizing her research in transitionalcare for older adults. During a May pro-gram at the school honoring her contri-butions to the profession, she presenteda session on her work, “Transitions inHealth: Building Bridges ThroughScience.” Jo Ann A. Flounders ’75B.S.N., ’02 M.S.N., CRNP, OCN, CHPN,a recent graduate of the College’s AdultNurse Practitioner program, is a nursepractitioner at Consultants in MedicalOncology and Hematology in Drexel Hill,Pa. While a graduate student, shereceived the College of NursingMedallion for Distinguished AcademicAchievement. Her independent study, aseries of self-study modules and compe-tencies, was titled “Self-Study Programand Clinician Competency Tool forAssessment and Management ofOncologic Emergencies.” These individ-ual modules are being published onlinein the Oncology Nursing Forum.

1980sSusan Dehaven Garruto ’81 B.S.N. isworking as an independent registerednurse first assistant in Louisville, Ky.Janice L. Reilley ’85 B.S.N., Ed.D.,assistant professor of nursing at WidenerUniversity School of Nursing, receivedher doctoral degree at Widener’s gradua-tion ceremonies in May. She earned herM.S.N. degree in 1988 and is a memberof Sigma Theta Tau, Kappa Delta Pi andPhi Kappa Phi.

News from Our Graduates


1990sCapt. Brittany R. Speers (USA ANC) ’93B.S.N. is in Iraq with the Army’s 28thCombat Support Hospital, 20 milessouth of Baghdad, taking care of warwounded from both sides. She is sta-tioned out of Womack Army MedicalCenter, Fort Bragg, N.C. JenniferO’Rourke Tiffen ’95 B.S.N., R.N.,M.S., APN is an NCLEX content associ-ate for the National Council for the StateBoards of Nursing in Chicago. Sherecruits nurses and nurse educators toassist in the development of the nursinglicensure exam. Julianna L. Olson ’96B.S.N. was selected to receive the StateAward for Excellence (representingWisconsin) by the American Academy ofNurse Practitioners at its national con-vention in Anaheim, Calif. Lt. KimShaughnessy Lavelle (NC, USN), ’97B.S.N. has been on active duty in theNavy Nurse Corps for six years, spend-ing the first two and a half years as acritical care nurse at Naval MedicalCenter in San Diego, then the next threeand a half years assigned to NavalHospital Camp Lejeune, in CampLejeune, N.C., where she worked as alabor and delivery nurse and later as thebusiness manager of the obstetricsdepartment. She recently started in theNurse Midwifery program at GeorgetownUniversity. Li-Ling Lin ’97 M.S.N.,R.N., Ph.D. graduated in May from thedoctoral program of the School ofNursing, University of Texas at Austin.Her dissertation was titled “JugglingBetween Maternal and Student Role:Multiple Role Adaptation Among WomenWho Are Re-entering School in Taiwan.”She also published “PsychosocialFactors Related to Nausea, Vomiting,and Fatigue in Early Pregnancy” in TheJournal of Nursing Scholarship.Kathleen M. Boyden ’98 M.S.N.,Ph.D., R.N. graduated last spring fromthe University of Virginia with her doc-torate in nursing. Her dissertation wastitled “Impact of PersonalityCharacteristics on Pain and FunctionalStatus in Fibromyalgia.” Her overallfocus is the treatment of chronic painusing complementary and alternativetherapies. René Pieja-Grim ’98 M.S.N.achieved national certification in casemanagement from the American NursesCredentialing Center. She is a case manager at Reading (Pa.) Hospital andMedical Center. Kawkab Dout Shishani’99 M.S.N., Ph.D., of Amman, Jordan,recently received her doctoral degree inwomen’s health from the University ofPittsburgh and is now teaching inJordan. She received an $11,500 grantfrom the World Bank in 2003 in recogni-tion of her commitment to improving thelives of Jordanian women and children.She also received a $2,400 studentaward in gerontological nursing, theSzeming Sze Award from the L.I.S.Z.Foundation, in recognition of academicexcellence and ongoing work in geron-tology. She presented at the 27th annualmeeting of Transcultural NursingSociety, the Eastern Nursing Research

Portrait of our Alumni

In preparation for the 50th Anniversaryseason, the College of Nursing com-

missioned a study of its alumni. Here aresome of the highlights from the respon-dents:

■ At least 47 percent have earned amaster’s degree and 6 percent haveearned a doctoral degree.

■ 88 percent are currently employed,most of them in nursing, either full-time or part-time. The majority

(42 percent) are employed in a hospi-tal-based clinical practice, with 20percent in a non-hospital clinicalpractice setting and 12 percent innursing education.

■ Many have served as a board officer,presented at conferences, receivedresearch grants, or authored bookchapters or professional articles.

It is clear that we continue to have aproud heritage of distinction.

Society and the fourth annual SigmaTheta Tau International scientific meeting.Lori Musolf Neri ’99 M.S.N., R.N.,CRNP, is coordinator/practitioner for TheCenter for Cardiac Risk Prevention at TheHeart Care Group, P.C. in Allentown, Pa.Neri co-authored, with Susan Talbot ’01M.S.N., R.N., CRNP, the article “Use ofEzetimibe in a Cardiac Risk Prevention”(in press) for The American Journal for

Nurse Practitioners. The co-authors outlined the findings of their researchwith hyperlipidemic patients and effectivepharmacotherapy.

2000sEnsign Tiffany Ann Dodson ’00 B.S.N.,commissioned into the Navy NurseCorps on June 30, is stationed at NavalHospital Pensacola in Pensacola, Fla.

In Memoriam

Sister Joseph Ellen Doran, O.S.F., ’55 B.S.N. died in June at Assisi House in Aston,Pa. She was 81 years old. She served as a nursing supervisor for 18 years at St. AgnesMedical Center in Philadelphia. She was also a practical nursing instructor and started anursing ministry.

Joan Martin Doyle ’56 B.S.N. died on September 21, 2002, in Norristown, Pa. Sheserved in the Navy Nurse Corps during the Korean conflict.

Drucilla-Marie Edmonds Gleaves ’58 B.S.N., of the Mt. Airy section ofPhiladelphia, died in September 2002. She was a retired nursing educator and adminis-trator from the Medical College of Pennsylvania nursing school in Philadelphia.

Dr. Barbara Lowery ’66 B.S.N., of Villanova, Pa., died in October 2002. She wasassociate provost and Independence Professor of Nursing Educationat the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. An internationallyknown and highly respected nurse researcher, Dr. Lowery was also alongtime supporter of Villanova’s College of Nursing and a chartermember of the Alpha Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.She was a 1985 recipient of the College of Nursing’s AlumniMedallion.

Jean Callahan ’77 B.S.N. died on May 12, 2002, in Norwalk, Conn.Dr. Jean Arrell Brown ’86 M.S.N. died on April 7 in Westtown, Pa. She was most

recently a faculty member at Immaculata University. Jennifer Robinson ’94 B.S.N., died on May 18, 2002, in Newark, N.J.Sandra Alves ’00 M.S.N., of King of Prussia, Pa., died in September. She was a

nurse anesthetist at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, Pa. Eileen S. Lupton ’03 B.S.N., of Lake Forest, Ill., died when a porch collapsed on

June 29 in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. A Memorial Mass celebrated atVillanova on July 2 was attended by faculty, staff and friends.Lupton, 22 years old, was looking forward to her career in pediatric nursing. She was described by one of her Nursing professors, Dr. Carol Toussie Weingarten, Ph.D., R.N., as “thekind of nurse you’d want taking care of your family member.”Lupton’s admission essay for Villanova reflected her view of herchosen profession. She wrote that “God gave us two arms. Onefor helping ourselves and the other for helping our neighbor....I feel I am able to benefit mankind to the best of my ability as a nurse.” A memorialfund has been established in her name to support students who seek to become nurses. Contributions may be made to the Eileen Shea Lupton Memorial ScholarshipFund, Lake Forest Bank and Trust, P.O. Box 5010, Lake Forest, IL 60045.

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Call for Nominations to the Nursing Alumni Society — and Send Us Your News!

Greetings from the Nursing Alumni Society

To nominate yourself for the followingpositions in the Nursing Alumni Society,please complete this form and mail forreceipt by December 15, 2003.

I wish to be nominated for:❏ Treasurer ❏ Board member

Use this form as well to send us your news for the next Villanova Nursing magazine and to receive futureCollege of Nursing e-mail newsletters.

Mail this form to:Nursing Alumni SocietyCollege of Nursing800 Lancaster Ave.Villanova UniversityVillanova PA 19085-1690To update your alumni profile, please call the Villanova Alumni Association at 1-800-VILLANOVA or e-mail [email protected] .

Dear Fellow Graduates:

The Nursing Alumni Society had awonderfully busy and successful

year. We have 181 active (dues-paying)members and welcomed 101 B.S.N. and36 M.S.N. graduates. With your support,we continue to award annual undergradu-ate and graduate scholarships, sponsorthe tea for Nursing degree candidates,and contribute to the College of NursingMass and Awards Ceremony. We arealways looking for meaningful ways toparticipate in student life, and this year wewill begin attending the “Welcome Back”picnic for new and returning students.

The highlight of the academic yearwas the 50th Anniversary celebrations.There was something for everyone—stu-dents, alumni and friends of the Collegeof Nursing. If you attended any of theseevents, I am sure you enjoyed them.Those who weathered the torrentialdownpours of Alumni Reunion Weekendin June were delighted with the multi-media retrospective of the College’s history by decades. The Nursing AlumniSociety’s anniversary gift to the Collegewas an oil portrait of Sister M. AlmaLawler, C.R.S.M., one of the two found-ing co-directors of the College.

We extend congratulations and bestwishes to Marguerite Stuhler Schlag ’68B.S.N., Ed.D., R.N., the new assistantdean and director of the graduate pro-gram. We also extend congratulationsand warm thanks to M. LouiseFitzpatrick, Ed.D., R.N., FAAN on theoccasion of her 25th anniversary asdean. She has tirelessly led the Collegethrough its evolution, developing it intoone of the premier Catholic schools ofnursing.

This new year brings a few changesto our alumni board. Many thanks toKathryn Ralph Brooks ’78 B.S.N., ’84M.S.N. for a job well done. We welcomePatty Snyder ’84 B.S.N. to the board.Please think about participating in theballot process. We will be looking for atreasurer and a board member to join usnext spring. You may contact a boardmember through our Web site(www.nursing.villanova.edu/alumni) orcomplete the self-nomination form below.Use the same form to sign up for an e-mail newsletter being developed—another way to keep up with the College.

If you have not visited our Webpages, take a moment to do so. Be sureto check the e-mentoring area. This pro-gram has enabled Nursing alumni toidentify their areas of expertise and signup for mentoring via the Web.

Please mark your calendars for thisyear’s events: the 26th AnnualDistinguished Lecture in Nursing(November 4), the Nursing AlumniSociety Graduation Tea (March 28, 2004),and the College of Nursing Alumni Massand Awards Ceremony (April 17, 2004).We enjoy seeing you and appreciate yourparticipation. If you have any questionsor ideas, or would like to volunteer yourtime and energy, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Joanne F. Gurney ’71 B.S.N., ’88 M.S.N.President, Nursing Alumni Society

Serving on board the USNS Comfort are (from left) Cmdr. Maryalice Morro ’83B.S.N., Ltjg. Colleen Mahon ’00 B.S.N. and Ensign Rebecca Carmichael ’01B.S.N. They were pictured during refueling operations in the Persian Gulf in lateMarch, shortly after Operation Iraqi Freedom began. In April, the Collegereceived a joint statement from these three Navy nurses: “On the occasion ofVillanova’s College of Nursing’s 50th Anniversary celebration, we alumni servingon board the USNS Comfort find ourselves in the midst of turmoil and tragedyand have relied on the skills and knowledge learned from Villanova’s outstandingCollege of Nursing. Our education and experience thus far have prepared us wellto meet the many challenges we face; to adapt, respond, create, teach and care.We collectively agree that in this time of strife, we are proud to care for the menand women fighting to bring freedom to the Iraqi people.”

The College’s 50th Anniversary has spurred an even greater interest

among alumni in becoming involved in the College of Nursing. If you are looking to help future Villanova nurses,consider the following opportunities. You may also complete an online form(www.nursing.villanova.edu/alumni) to letus know of your interest in volunteering.

Opportunities to assist prospectiveundergraduates:■ meet with or call prospective candi-

dates in your region to answer theirquestions (November through April);

■ contact accepted students in yourregion to offer your congratulations(February through April);

■ host social get-togethers at yourhome for candidates in your region(April through August);

■ share your expertise by giving a 15-minute talk about your specialty to high school students who areexploring the profession. (For moreon this Spring Semester program,called Discover Nursing, visitwww.nursing.villanova.edu/Announcements/Discovernursing.htm).

If you are interested in assistingprospective undergraduates, contactMary Murphy at (610) 519-7651 or by e-mail at [email protected] .

Share Your Thoughts...

If you are interested in sharing withprospective students your reflectionsabout Villanova and the College ofNursing, please visit the NursingAlumni Society Web site (www.nursing.villanova.edu/alumni) andcomplete the testimonial form.

Become Involved in Nursing’s Future

Opportunities to assist prospectivegraduate students:

If you’re an M.S.N. graduate of theCollege, consider coming to campus fora Graduate Studies Open House inOctober or next March to speak withprospective M.S.N. students. ContactGeri Hansen at (610) 519-4934 or by e-mail at [email protected] formore information.

On basketball courts, softball fieldsand indoor/outdoor tracks, three

College of Nursing students are puttingtheir talents into play. As they strive forathletic achievement, they’re learning toengage in teamwork, develop personaland team goals, and stay committed anddedicated. The lessons they learn in ath-letics also are proving useful in theirstudy of nursing.

Sophomore Jenna Viani had the won-derful experience of being part of one ofthe biggest upsets in the history ofwomen’s basketball: the Wildcats’ winover the University of Connecticut onMarch 11. Villanova’s 52-48 defeat ofthe Huskies ended UConn’s 70-gamewinning streak, earning the Wildcats theBig East title and advancing them to theNCAA tournament. This game “wasmost definitely the most exciting experi-ence of my basketball life,” Vianiacknowledges. “Being an athlete takes alot of determination,” she realizes, but italso helps her develop into “being a

good teammate.” She adds,“These qualities I will takeinto my career as a nurse.”

The women’s softball teamtravels around the country—avery demanding schedule.Sophomore Kristen Strait,third baseman for the Wildcats,says playing softball is “help-ing me out considerably withmy study of nursing. I havelearned how to work with alldifferent kinds of people, howto accept and work with peoplewho have different opinionsand views.” Strait credits hermother, who is a nurse, asbeing influential in her owncareer choice.

Likewise, senior Paul Moser trackshis interest in nursing to his mother’scareer. Last spring, Moser was a mem-ber of Villanova’s NCAA NationalChampionship distance medley relayteam. “It is very difficult to balancenursing and track as I advance in my

nursing careerstudies,” hesays. “I amlucky to have a greatsupport team,which consistsof my profes-

sors, my coach and my mother, who’s a nurse.” Moser’s most memorablemoment on the team occurred as afreshman. After he completed his firstevent, Marcus O’Sullivan, Villanova’strack and field head coach and a three-time Olympian, came over and com-mended him.

As the College’s student-athletesbecome experts in managing time, juggling schedules and developingteam-building skills, they find thoseskills can cross over from the field,court or track to the hospital, clinic or wellness center.

Cross-training in Nursing and Sports Gives Students an Edge

Villanova UniversityCollege of Nursing

800 Lancaster AvenueVillanova, Pennsylvania

19085-1690

Nonprofit organizationU.S. Postage

PAIDVillanova, PAPermit No. 5

Sophomore JennaViani excels atoffense for theVillanovaWildcats. While atOur Lady ofLourdes HighSchool, thePoughkeepsie,N.Y., student wasinducted into theNational HonorSociety.

Hailing from Oregon, Kristen Strait trans-ferred to Villanova after her freshman year in college. The sophomore travels all over the country with the women’s softball team.

Paul Moser, a senior from New York State, isa top 400/800-meter runner in the Big East.

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college celebrates five decades of progress

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