The College of Nursing is deeply committed to fostering a community where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. That commitment comes to life through VIBES (Valuing Impact, Belonging, Engagement and Success), a College of Nursing committee that strengthens connection, elevates a wide range of perspectives, and creates meaningful opportunities for engagement among students, faculty, and staff.
Currently chaired by Natasha Ansari, PhD, MS-NE, RN, CNE, Assistant Professor (Clinical), VIBES leads initiatives focused on belonging, collaboration, engagement, and outreach, helping cultivate a supportive and dynamic environment. One such initiative is the VIBES Research Engagement Series, an open, monthly event bringing together faculty, staff, students, and community members for conversations on healthcare, research, lived experiences, and nursing practice. Participation is voluntary, creating a welcoming space to engage at one’s own pace, while speakers from across campus and the broader community share insights that encourage critical reflection on healthcare systems, patient experiences, and the role of nursing in advancing dignity and community-centered care.
“What has been most meaningful to me is seeing people feel comfortable enough to ask questions, share perspectives, and connect through topics that can sometimes feel difficult, vulnerable, or deeply personal,” says Dr. Ansari while reflecting on her experience. “Each session is a reminder of how powerful conversation and community can be in shaping not only stronger nurses and gerontologists, but more thoughtful, compassionate, and self-aware humans. Being involved with this series has reinforced how deeply people value spaces where they can learn from one another in authentic and meaningful ways. I’ve especially loved watching students, faculty, staff, and community members engage with such curiosity, openness, and vulnerability.”
Recently, topics have included:
- Dr. Julie Valentine: Forensic Nursing, Addressing Gender-Based Violence, and the Start by Believing Initiative
- Narratives & Impact: Understanding Nursing Student Experiences
- Faith, Spirituality, and Religion in Healthcare
- Cultural Humility in Nursing Practice: Evidence-Based Approaches to Patient Care
- Rural Health in Utah with Dr. Kathi Mooney, Dr. Djin Tay, and Dr. Rebekah Perkins
- Trauma-Informed Care for Health Care Professionals
Through open dialogue and shared perspectives, the VIBES Research Engagement Series creates space to explore complex issues impacting patients, learners, healthcare professionals, and communities. It reflects the College of Nursing’s ongoing commitment to preparing nurses who think critically, engage thoughtfully, and provide compassionate, culturally responsive care across a wide range of settings.