Kim Brown, clinical assistant professor, at the University of Tennessee College of Nursing has been named the inaugural director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. This became effective on May 15.
Brown is a first-generation African American college graduate from a rural community in East Tennessee. Brown is a leader in the College of Nursing and demonstrates success in implementing DEI-focused initiatives in numerous courses in the undergraduate nursing program.
“I am excited to work with our faculty, students, and staff to provide support, direction, and guidance to achieve the DEI goals of the college,” said Brown.
Brown views the opportunity of the director role as focused, intentional work aimed at increasing access and flexibility related to opportunities to participate in the College of Nursing’s vision and mission of leading care, creating partnerships, and improving health.
“Working towards improved diversity, equity and inclusion are critical areas for the College of Nursing,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college. “Brown’s experience as a nurse leader, an excellent educator, and her most recent work on the college’s diversity action plan, provides her with key attributes to be successful in leading our efforts in this important area.”
Brown previously served as the chair of the undergraduate student affairs committee, and chair-elect for the diversity advisory council at the college. Brown was recently chosen by the National League for Nursing for the LEAD program. LEAD is designed for nurses in education and practice who have recently been challenged with the rapid transition into leadership positions, those in leadership positions who desire a formal leadership program, and those emerging and aspiring to lead.
Brown received her BSN from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, her MSN from King University, and her DNP with a specialization in Administration from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga.
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark (865-9749498, kmclark2@utk.edu)