Dean's Welcome

Dean's Welcome

Do you dream?

As an academic nursing educator for 30 years, my professional dream has gone something like this, If I could have the opportunity to build a nursing school with the best faculty, right-fit students, and adequate resources, I would. Mississippi State University, the Meridian community, and the Riley Foundation paved the way for my dream to come true.

Led by a dream-team faculty, MSU-Nursing offers an innovative and accelerated path for second-degree students to earn a master’s and prepare for licensure as a registered nurse. This entry-to-professional nursing program can be completed in 12 months. We welcome students with diverse life experiences who have the maturity, intelligence, and resilience to be successful in this engaging, competency-based plan of study. Graduates will be practice-ready to lead effective interprofessional teams at the patient bedside (wherever that may be).

Readiness for professional nursing is not easy, but it is necessary to strengthen the nursing workforce and serve the citizenry. You will not be alone. Building community within MSU-Nursing means living our commitment to belonging – creating space for people to learn, discover, serve, and advocate. You belong.

Like many, MSU-Nursing aims for all people to have what they need to live their healthiest lives. We invite you to explore our program, ask questions, and share your story. We want to hear from you.

I believe MSU-Nursing can shift the culture of healthcare in Mississippi and beyond – for many generations – by working with others committed to the high ideals of nursing education, scholarship, and caring for all. Dream big! Join us as we address the social determinants of health and health equity more comprehensively by developing professional, powerful, practice-ready nurses.

We look forward to knowing you at MSU-Nursing – where caring matters.

Mary Stewart Signature

Mary W. Stewart, PhD, RN, CNE, FAAN