Mary W. Stewart, Ph.D., RN, CNE, FAAN

Mary Westfaul Stewart, PhD, RN, CNE, FAAN is the Founding Dean and Professor of the Mississippi State University School of Nursing. Since her appointment in July 2023, Dr. Stewart has led a world-class team in the development of a student-centered, community-engaged nursing school grounded in Mississippi State’s land-grant mission of access, service, and excellence.

A nurse, educator, and nationally recognized academic leader, Dr. Stewart brings more than 30 years of experience teaching, mentoring, and preparing nurses for practice and leadership. Her career has been shaped by a deep commitment to students—meeting them where they are, supporting their growth, and helping them discover their voice and purpose as professional nurses. She believes that student success is built through strong relationships, high expectations, and meaningful learning experiences that connect the classroom to real-world health needs.

Dr. Stewart’s relational leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility. She values listening first, building authentic partnerships, and creating environments where students, faculty, and staff feel respected, supported, and challenged to excel. Under her leadership, the MSU School of Nursing emphasizes academic rigor, compassionate care, ethical practice, and service to Mississippi’s diverse communities—especially those that are rural and underserved.

Prior to joining Mississippi State, Dr. Stewart held senior leadership roles at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, including Interim Dean of the School of Nursing and Director of the PhD in Nursing Program. She has extensive experience in program development, accreditation, and securing resources that expand educational opportunity and student support. She is also an accomplished researcher whose work focuses on health equity, cancer prevention, and improving outcomes for vulnerable populations in Mississippi.

A Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and a Certified Nurse Educator, Dr. Stewart is passionate about preparing nurses who are clinically excellent, socially responsible, and ready to lead change. As Dean, she is committed to building a School of Nursing at Mississippi State University that reflects the university’s values—one that prepares graduates to serve with excellence, integrity, and compassion while making a lasting impact on the health of Mississippi and beyond.

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science
University of Mississippi Medical Center
 
Master of Science in Nursing
Adult Health/Nurse Educator Role
University of Mississippi Medical Center

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mississippi College

Certified Nurse Educator (CNE®)
National League for Nursing

Fellow
American Academy of Nursing (FAAN)

International Center for Regulatory Scholarship Fellow
National Council of State Boards of Nursing

Leadership for Academic Nursing Fellow
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)

Board Leadership Development Fellow
Sigma Theta Tau International