The University of Utah College of Nursing prepared for the 2024-2025 academic year with a series of proactive initiatives that began well before the first day of the semester. This careful planning and preparation culminated in a vibrant start to the academic year on August 19th, when the College officially welcomed students back to campus.
As new and returning students entered the building, staff from the Advancement Division successfully introduced them to the Forever Utah Network as part of the "Alum from Day One" initiative. This new platform, exclusively for University of Utah alumni, students, faculty, and staff, saw enthusiastic participation, with many students signing up for the network on their first day back.
For students, the LinkedIn-integrated network provides access to alumni who can offer insights, mentorship, and opportunities aligned with their career aspirations. Faculty and staff can also leverage the network to help students apply their learning through experiential opportunities and professional connections.
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A week prior, on August 12th, the College launched the Success Academy, a program designed to support and mentor new and early-career faculty members. The Success Academy featured several breakout sessions covering essential topics aimed at equipping faculty with practical skills and knowledge to enhance their teaching and professional presence. These efforts are part of the College's broader mission to foster faculty retention and support continuous professional development, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience for students.
Earlier in the summer, faculty participated in an informal book club organized by the CON Outreach, Collaboration & Organizational Enrichment, and Excellence in Education Programs. They read and discussed Inclusive Teaching: Strategies for Promoting Equity in the College Classroom by Kelly A. Hogan and Viji Sathy. This book, written by and for college educators, offered practical advice on creating classrooms where all students feel welcome and engaged.
During the book club meetings, faculty members shared their experiences and insights on implementing various teaching strategies, such as integrating regular check-ins with students to gauge their well-being and engagement. These discussions highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive classroom environment, particularly in online and hybrid courses where maintaining connections can be more challenging.
As the University of Utah College of Nursing embarks on the 2024-2025 academic year, these initiatives underscore its unwavering commitment to excellence in education and faculty development. The College’s mission to advance nursing education through dedicated mentorship, professional growth, and a strong sense of community is central to its vision of shaping the future of healthcare and nursing practice.
By fostering a supportive and dynamic environment, the College aims to cultivate a thriving academic community where innovative teaching and meaningful connections are prioritized. Looking ahead, the College remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals and advancing the boundaries of knowledge, ensuring a lasting impact on students, faculty, and the broader healthcare community.