Today, Jonas Nursing, a leading supporter of doctoral nursing education in the U.S., and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), announced that University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing PhD students Chelsea Horn and Sue H. Coltrain have been selected as Jonas Scholar’s for the program’s 2024-2026 cohort. This program aims to improve health care by expanding the pool of PhD and DNP-prepared nurses needed to educate the next generation of nurse leaders.

Horn and Coltrain join a select group of 63 of the nation’s most promising doctoral nursing students chosen for their passion for teaching, academic excellence, and research prowess. As Jonas Scholars, Horn and Coltrain will receive financial support, mentorship, and a curriculum tailored to providing students with the learning experiences they need to successfully transition into a faculty role.

“The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is deeply appreciative of the support from Jonas Philanthropies for these two PhD students who are preparing for faculty roles at this time of serious faculty shortage in the nursing profession,” shared Sandra Thomas, PhD program chair.

Horn and Coltrain join an incredibly diverse group of doctoral nursing students, with over 50 percent of its 2024-2026 cohort representative of Black, Latino, and other communities of color, ensuring that burgeoning nursing leaders reflect the patient population of their diverse communities. This group of 63 Scholars contain a multitude of research interests focused on some of the country’s most pressing challenges, including underserved populations in nursing, mental health, and veterans’ health.

Horn’s research focuses on exploring implicit biases towards breastfeeding women with opioid use disorder. Horn began her nursing career by earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Louisville in 2015. She immediately began her clinical work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she cared for critically ill premature infants and neonates across several states at various acuity levels.

Her seven years of clinical experience in the NICU have driven her research interest. During this time, she also discovered a passion for education, which led her to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Education from Bellarmine University in 2022. Her education experience includes being a clinical nurse educator, clinical instructor, and transition-to-practice coordinator. Additionally, Horn was a CAPES attendee at Emory University and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

Coltrain’s research interest is in pediatric immigrant mental health and resilience. As a Hispanic individual, she is deeply connected to her research area and passionate about making a difference in the lives of immigrant children. Coltrain is an experienced nurse with 18 years in the nursing field. Over the past 14 years, Coltrain has specialized as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, providing exceptional care and expertise in pediatric health. Coltrain’s extensive background includes significant experience in the pediatric Emergency Department, pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and work in a primary care mobile medical clinic. Coltrain graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2006 and went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 2009. Throughout Coltrain’s career, she has demonstrated a commitment to improving pediatric health outcomes and addressing their unique health needs and challenges.

In addition to her clinical work, she has a strong desire to teach and has gained teaching experience in clinical settings. Coltrain’s goal is to combine her clinical expertise, research findings, and passion for education to develop targeted interventions and policies that address the root causes of mental health disparities among Hispanic immigrant children.

For more information about the Jonas Scholars program, please visit https://www.aacnnursing.org/jonas-nursing.

About Jonas Nursing

The mission of Jonas Nursing is to enhance the nursing profession by developing nurse leaders who will address the nursing shortage by educating the future nursing workforce and by investing in the health and well-being of our most underserved communities. For more information on Jonas Nursing, visit www.aacnnursing.org/jonas-nursing.

About the American Association of Colleges of Nursing

AACN is the national voice for academic nursing representing more than 875 schools of nursing nationwide. AACN establishes quality standards for nursing education, influences the nursing profession to improve health care, and promotes public support of baccalaureate and graduate nursing education, research, and practice. For more information about AACN, visit aacnnursing.org and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and/or X.

C O N T A C T :

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

The College of Nursing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is celebrating its fourteenth annual NightinGala.

The event will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, November 8, at The Mill and Mine.

The NightinGala serves as a time to reflect, renew and reconnect with the College of Nursing as we celebrate our current standing in our mission to educate the next generation of nurse leaders and healthcare professionals. We will also celebrate by presenting the Volunteer Nursing Champion Award and the Dr. Sylvia E. Hart Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award. The Volunteer Nurse Champion Award is presented to an individual that advocates for the College of Nursing, the nursing profession, and improves health in our community and beyond. The Dr. Sylvia E. Hart Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award is presented to a graduate of the College of Nursing who exemplifies excellence through outstanding achievement, creativity and service to their profession.

This fun-filled evening will consist of dinner and both silent and live auctions. Immediately following the program there will be entertainment featuring Entice. All proceeds will support the efforts of the College of Nursing to develop and educate the next generation of nurse leaders by providing nursing students state-of-the art technology, classroom space, and equipment to receive the highest quality educational experiences.

Registration for the NightinGala is coming soon. More information can be found at nursing.utk.edu/nightingala2024.

C O N T A C T :

Kara Clark Cardwell (865-974-9498, [email protected])

As we welcome another exciting academic year at the University of Tennessee, we are thrilled to introduce our 2024-2025 College of Nursing Student Ambassadors! This dedicated group of students are committed to fostering the Volunteer spirit in our community. These exceptional individuals are not only excelling in their studies but also taking on leadership roles to mentor their peers, represent our college, and promote our values of leading care, creating partnerships, and improving health.

Join us as we celebrate the achievements and aspirations of our 2024-2025 Student Ambassadors. Get to know their stories, learn about their passions, and discover how they plan to make a positive impact in the world of nursing. We are excited to embark on this journey together and make this year one to remember!

Abigail Cassella

Hi, I’m Abby and I am an upcoming senior in the College of Nursing! This will be my second year as an ambassador and it has been great to connect with students and faculty that are a part of College of Nursing.

Avery Kerns

Hi my name is Avery Kerns and I am a junior in the Traditional BSN Program! I am also an out of state student from Northern Virginia. In addition to being a nursing ambassador, I am also a member of the Panhellenic Community and I am the Vice President of the Student Nurses’ Association!

Calla Brady

I am from Chattanooga, TN and have absolutely loved my first year at Tennessee! I have gotten involved in several things on campus, one of them being club volleyball. I have always loved to play volleyball so finding another community to build relationships has been amazing. I am excited for what the future holds this year!

Emma Grace Porter

Hey y’all! My name is Emma Grace Porter and I’m from Kingsport, Tennessee. I’m a rising junior in the College of Nursing, and I am very excited to enter my second year as an ambassador! A few fun facts about me… I’m getting married in July! I love to cook, paint, and travel. I’m looking forward to serving and getting to know everyone more this year! Go Vols!

Erica Woodward

Hi everyone! My name is Erica Woodward, and I am currently a junior in the TBSN program here at The University of Tennessee. I am so excited to be a part of the CON ambassador program and can’t wait to meet so many new faces.

Erin Mee

My name is Erin and I am a senior lead ambassador for the College of Nursing! I have lived in Knoxville my whole life and have always had an appreciation for the Volunteer Spirit our school and program embody. My hobbies include painting, weight lifting, listening to rock, and trying new foods. I also work as a nursing research assistant through the college as well! In the future, I plan on potentially being a nurse in the ED and eventually becoming a flight nurse, and seek to return to school for either research, education, or a doctorate of nursing practice in the future. Go Vols!

Joud Nofal

Hey! My name is Joud Nofal and I am from Nashville, TN but I was born in Amman, Jordan. I’m pursuing nursing with the goal of becoming a nurse anesthetist after graduation. I am also a Jones center of leadership ambassador and graphic designer for VOLthon. I am looking forward to being a nursing ambassador!

Katelyn Zazyczny

My name is Katelyn Zazyczny and I am from Pennsylvania. I am currently a junior in the BSN scholars program. I am so excited for this opportunity to be able to share my passion to others and how UT Nursing has helped me find my love for nursing.

Katie Sudbrack

I am from Cincinnati, Ohio and interested in ER nursing! In my free time I love going on walks, reading and cooking!

Kayla Wadsworth

My name is Kayla Wadsworth and I am an incoming senior originally from Long Grove, IL. Outside of school, I love to stay active, spend time outdoors, hang out with my friends and family, and am involved in Greek life and ministry on campus. I am about to start my second year of nursing school in hopes of becoming a Pediatric Nurse. Go Vols!

Laura Leaman

Hi! I am a sophomore nursing major with a minor in psychology! I am part of the women’s club ultimate frisbee team, I am a puppy socializer with Volunteer Puppy Partners, and I volunteer at the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. I hope to be a trauma nurse in the future. This summer I am spending time traveling with trips to Italy, Chicago, and the Outer Banks. I also work at a local ice cream shop. I love all things UT, and I can’t wait for the fall!

Lila York

Hi! My name is Lila York and I’m an upcoming senior in the TBSN program originally from Chantilly, VA. I am super excited for this upcoming year and to be one of our Lead Ambassadors for Nursing Ambassadors! Outside of the nursing program, I’m a tour guide on campus and I’m involved with Sevier Heights, theater, and Greek Life. I also love to hike and travel! After graduation, I’m hoping to work as an oncology or travel nurse!

Lindsay Cannon

Hi everyone! My name is Lindsay Cannon and I am from Holmdel, New Jersey. I am going into my senior year for the College of Nursing at the University of Tennessee! I am going into my second year as a College of Nursing ambassador & my first year as a CON lead ambassador 🙂 I have an internship this summer with Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN where I will be working in the ED and in the CV Surgical Transplant PCU. I am so grateful for all of the incredible and life-changing opportunities and memories that the nursing program here has led to for me. I’m forever proud to be a Volunteer nursing student!

Lydia Perrigo

Hey! My name is Lydia and I will be a junior this year. I have absolutely loved the past two years and am looking forward to starting clinicals. I am so excited to represent the College of Nursing on campus and in the community! Some fun facts about me: I’m Nashville born & raised! In my free time, I enjoy hiking, riding horses, and spending time with family and friends. My dream is to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Go Vols and go Vol Nurses!

Miana Rankin

Hi there! My name is Miana Rankin and I am an incoming junior in the TBSN program! My experience thus far at UT has allowed me to grow and flourish much more than I ever expected in my collegiate years. Our College of Nursing encourages a culture of the Volunteer Spirit, in which I have had the wonderful opportunity to engage in all aspects at our University. So far, I have been involved in Greek Life, University Honors, Undergraduate Research, an executive board member for the Student Nurses’ Association (SNA), and the most rewarding role above all, as a Student Nurse Ambassador. You truly can do it all here at UT. I am eager to share my love for this program and the lifelong friendships I have made along the way. Go Vol Nursing!

Robyn Meador

Hi! I’m Robyn from St. Charles, IL. I am super excited to start as an ambassador so I can create new connections with my peers and share my passion for nursing with others!

Saba Kent

As a junior nursing student, I am excited about the future and the numerous opportunities that the University of Tennessee has to offer. Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering in Knoxville and trying out the various coffee shops within the city. If I’m not on campus, you will likely find me outdoors on a hike. It is an honor to represent the College of Nursing as an ambassador. I am eager to embrace the journey ahead to share my passion and inspire others to pursue nursing as well.

Samantha Elliot

Hello! My name is Samantha Elliott and I am a rising junior in the college of nursing. I’m from Chattanooga, TN and interested in pediatrics! I’m currently working as a nurse tech at Fort Sanders and an Ignite Team Leader for the Jones Center of Leadership & Service. Other things I’m involved with on campus are with housing and I’m the sisterhood director for Alpha Omega Epsilon. I am super excited for what the next two years bring!!

Sydney Curl

Hi, everyone! My name is Sydney and I am from Southern Middle Tennessee. I love to travel, cook, and spend time with my family and friends in my free time. A fun fact about me is that I studied abroad with the Rome to Barcelona food study program this past January! I will be starting my junior year in the Traditional BSN program within the College of Nursing this coming August. I have been an active member of the Student Nurses’ Association since my freshman year and just became a member of the Precious Prints Committee! I cannot wait to help our future Vol Nurses in every way I can. I hope I can help make Rocky Top a place they will love and feel confident enough to call it home!

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the College of Nursing gathered on campus on May 6, to celebrate the halfway point of construction on the new Nursing Building. The celebration was marked by a beam signing for guests.

Construction on the building began in August of 2022 when the former building was demolished. The new building will remain nestled between Volunteer Boulevard and Peyton Manning Pass.

Over 150 people gathered to sign the beam that is slated to go at the entrance to the building off Peyton Manning Pass.

The $85 million, 117,000-square-foot building will have four stories, and several unique elements for Vol Nurses including: Enhanced simulation spaces, a pre-function event space, and a student commons space.

“The new Nursing Building will make a great impact on the University of Tennessee,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college. “This new space will open the door for more nurses; strengthen our reputation and rankings; and provide a space for hands-on learning, faculty collaboration, and research innovation.”

The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

UT College of Nursing celebrates nurses every day, but we are especially excited to honor them during National Nurses Week, May 6 – 12.

“Nurses are the backbone of our health care system,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college. “They work tirelessly, often in challenging conditions, to provide comfort, healing, and support to those in need.”

 At the College of Nursing, we’re proud to educate the next generation of nurses, advanced practice nurses, and nurse scientists, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in the lives of others.

Here are a few ways you can join us in honoring nurses throughout the week:

Beam Signing at the new Nursing Building:

Leave your mark on the new Nursing Building! Join us and sign a spot on a beam on May 6. Students are invited to join us from 3-4pm, faculty and staff can join between 4-5pm, and alumni and friends can join us from 5-6pm.

Students RSVP Here

Alumni and Friends RSVP Here

Alumni and Friends Event:

Join Niederhauser, fellow graduates and friends at the annual Nurses Week Alumni and Friends event on May 6 from 6-8pm. During the reception, the dean will seal a time capsule to be placed in the new Nursing Building, and special guests from the building team will have a Q&A session. This event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres and beer/wine.

RSVP Here

Ice Cream Social:

Faculty, staff, and students are invited to join us for the annual Ice Cream Social! This event will take place from 11am-1pm on May.

RSVP Here

Annual Rock Painting Event:

Each year, students will gather to paint the rock in honor of National Nurses Week! Volunteers will be painting on Tuesday, May 7 at 10am. Interested in joining them? Please reach out to [email protected].

National Nurses Week is an annual event that begins on National Nurses Day, May 6 and ends on Florence Nightingale’s birthday, May 12. To support and honor nurses around the nation, in 1998, May 8 also became National Student Nurses Day.

Interested in joining us for an event? Please email Holly Hauck at [email protected].

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Sophia Vlattas, a senior at the University of Tennessee, reflects on her time at the College of Nursing and recalls all the meaningful experiences that have impacted her nursing journey.

Vlattas, a Northern Virginia native, was inspired to become a nurse because of her passion for helping people. That passion led her to UT, and she quickly got involved on campus and in the college through SNA and the Precious Prints Project.

“The nurses I have had the opportunity to work with, and the patients I have gotten to care for have inspired me,” said Vlattas. “Especially the recipients of Precious Prints. Being able to hear their stories allows me to see the impact my work has on others.”

Vlattas spent her senior year serving on the executive team for the Precious Prints Project. The Precious Prints Project comforts grieving families with a sterling silver pendant bearing the fingerprint of their child. The project was developed at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Nursing in partnership with Precious Metal Prints, a local business. 

Vlattas played a pivotal role in the annual Sprint for the Prints that raises money for the Precious Prints Project. In 2023, the Sprint raised over $11,000 to support the Precious Prints Project.

“The team and I put so much effort into the event,” said Vlattas. “It was so heartwarming to see all of our hard work and dedication making an impact.”

Her dedication to serving others shines brightly through her work with SNA as well. Vlattas was given an opportunity to attend the National Student Nurses Association Conference in Nashville during her junior year.

“It was a great opportunity to meet with fellow nursing students and faculty from other schools, including the University of Nevada Las Vegas who we partner with for the Precious Prints Project,” said Vlattas. “I was honored to represent the college by presenting a poster regarding the Precious Prints Project.”

The experiences Vlattas has had during her time at UT have further solidified her commitment to nursing and have provided her with invaluable insights into her future career in the mother baby specialty.

“I want to be a mother baby nurse because it is such a heartwarming experience to be able to help guide and support them through this pivotal moment in their lives,” said Vlattas. “I have been able to have a mother baby clinical rotation at local medical centers. Precious Prints also allowed me to work with this patient population and develop connections with the mother baby specialty.”

She credits the support of her teachers, classmates, and family as the most influential elements of her nursing education, shaping her into the compassionate and dedicated nurse she aspires to be.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

In the world of innovative therapy approaches, a new player has taken center stage: ducks. College of Nursing PhD student Alex Sargsyan, decided to investigate the effects of Animal Assisted Therapies with Farm Animals (AATF) and its effects on depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy on individuals with traumatic brain injuries.  

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is an intervention that intentionally includes an animal as part of the therapeutic process. AATF is similar but farm animals are utilized for the therapy process.

“To our knowledge, this type of project has never been conducted anywhere in the world,” said Sargsyan. “For years, we’ve seen the profound impact of animal-assisted therapies on mental health, but there is limited research on the use of farm animals. This inspired my research.”

After going in front of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), Sargsyan started his research efforts, ensuring that every aspect of his study upheld the highest standards of ethics and welfare.

“For me, it was crucial that both humans and animals were treated with the utmost respect and care,” he emphasized.

Ducks have not been previously used as a form of Green Care Therapies. However, they have been around humans for long time. In addition to use in agriculture, they are used for amusement and entertainment. For example, Peabody Hotel in Memphis, TN conducts twice daily duck parade, where the ducks march through the hotel lobby. Ducks are highly trainable, have calming presence, and small size. Sargsyan felt that therapy with ducks would be a good starting point for his research.

As duck therapy intervention started, Sargsyan witnessed firsthand the remarkable bond that formed between study participants and their newfound feathered companions. “The joy on their faces, the sense of calm that washed over them – it was truly humbling to witness,” he reflects.

Among the most notable outcomes of the study was the statistically significant decrease in anxiety levels among participants. “It was as if the ducks had a magical touch,” Sargsyan muses. “Their presence alone seemed to melt away the worries and burdens that weighed heavily on the participants’ minds.”

Looking ahead, Sargsyan’s vision for the future is as ambitious as it is inspiring. “I dream of a world where AATF is widely recognized as a legitimate and effective form of therapy,” he shares. “And I’m committed to doing everything in my power to make that dream a reality.”

Sargsyan’s journey into the world of farm animal-assisted therapies continues, fueled by a passion for healing and a deep-seated belief in the power of quacks to change lives. And in the gentle waddle of ducks, he finds not just a research subject, but a source of inspiration, wonder, and boundless hope.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

Students in the College of Nursing are getting the opportunity to work hand in hand with alumni from the college. The Alumni Mentorship Program is more than just a program — it’s a chance for aspiring nurses navigating the complexities of nursing school to partner with an alumnus who is on the frontline of patient care.

Originally conceived as a response to the need for a structured support system, the mentorship program emerged from the Challenge Grant provided by the Division of Access and Engagement.

“The program creates mentorship dyads that connect current junior and senior nursing students with an alumnus,” said Kim Brown, director of access and engagement at the college. “The overarching goal is to increase self-efficacy by addressing a sense of isolation and barriers to self-development and professional development often experienced by students from historically underrepresented groups in nursing.”

Operated on a formal two-year virtual platform, the program’s reach extends far beyond Knoxville, bridging geographical gaps and bringing together students and Vol nurse mentors from diverse backgrounds.

“The program embraces a holistic approach to mentorship, acknowledging the intersection of identities and experiences,” said Jada Russell, executive director of academic advising and enrollment management.

Mentors bring a wealth of experience and insight to their roles. They serve as guides, confidants, and champions, offering not only academic guidance but also invaluable emotional support and encouragement to their mentees.

At its core, the mentorship program offers avenues for authentic connection and growth.

“This program has allowed me to meet my best friend,” said a mentee. “This opportunity has helped me, and I have received the best advice. Talking to someone currently working and hearing their professional experience has been beneficial.”

As the program enters its third academic year, its commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and excellence remains unwavering. Looking ahead, efforts are underway to further enhance program outcomes, including increased face-to-face engagement and team-building activities.

“This program empowers diverse, future nursing leaders, equipped with the mindset and skillset to create innovative solutions that improve health for all,” said Brown.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

A time capsule—a container storing a selection of objects chosen as being typical of the present time, buried for discovery in the future—is a way to remember and pass on symbols and objects that are worth preserving.

With construction of the new Nursing Building underway, the college sealed a time capsule at a National Nurses Week celebration on May 6. The capsule will be opened in 50 years in honor of the centennial celebration of the college. The following items were contributed by alumni, students, and friends of the college:

1. 1992 College of Nursing Uniform
2. Nurses cap
3. Plaque from Room 207 in the old nursing building
4. White coat
5. Year of the Nurse banner
6. Nursing uniform
7. Stole and honor cords
8. Old images from nursing graduates
9. Newspaper clippings from college archives
10. Issues of The Vol Nurse and the Nursing Report
11. HITS Simulated Electronic Fetal Monitoring Flyer
12. Society for Simulation in Healthcare Reaccreditation Program for HITS
13. Blueprints for Simulation Lab at Innovation North
14. Blueprints for Room 207 in the old nursing building
15. Letter from Dean Victoria Niederhauser
16. Model of new Nursing Building
17. Brick from the original College of Nursing Building
18. Image of the Jane magnolia tree in the current building’s courtyard
19. Nursing stethoscope
20. 1995 Convocation Program
21. Invitation to the opening of old nursing building

“As we seal this time capsule, we are not just preserving objects; we are preserving our shared journey in nursing education,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college. “Each item within this time capsule represents a time or event in our history. We hope that this will serve as a bridge connecting the past to the future.”

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])

The College of Nursing DNP program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, ranked among the top 25 public universities in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-2025 Best Graduate Schools ranks released on April 9.

In the new rankings, the college’s DNP program is ranked 24^th among public DNP programs. That is the highest ranking that the DNP program has placed. The college has moved up significantly in rankings over the last three years. The program has climbed over 14 spots since 2021, when it was ranked 38^th among publics.

“Our rise to 24th among public universities in the U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate School rankings underscores our dedication to fostering transformative leaders in health care,” said Victoria Niederhauser, dean of the college. “This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of our faculty, staff and students who continually strive for innovation and excellence in advancing nursing practice.”

The Best Graduate Schools rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines, including business, education, engineering, law, and nursing. Rankings in these areas are based on two types of data: expert opinion about program excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school’s faculty, research, and students.

The data for the rankings in the main six disciplines came from statistical surveys of 2,225 programs and from reputation surveys sent to approximately 5,766 academics and 10,941 professionals, conducted in fall 2023 and early 2024.
“Being ranked in the top 25 among public universities is a testament to the profound influence that our students, faculty, and staff exert in the realm of health care,” said Allyson Neal, assistant dean of graduate programs. “By harnessing the synergy of education, clinical practice, scholarship, and cutting-edge technology, we’re spearheading advancements in health through nurse-led care. Our students, who are emerging nurse leaders, are pivotal in fostering collaborations and championing health enhancements in Tennessee and beyond.”

The rankings are categorized for the year following their release because they are intended to help prospective students make decisions.

“The recent recognition of our DNP program among the top 25 public universities is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing education,” said Shelia Swift, executive associate dean of academic affairs.  “This ranking serves as an external affirmation of our collective efforts and echoes our resolve to respond proactively to the evolving health care landscape. I am immeasurably proud of what we have achieved together—faculty, staff, and students—as we continue to lead care initiatives, forge transformative partnerships, and drive meaningful health improvements both within Tennessee and across the globe.”

Visit U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools for more information on graduate school rankings.

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CONTACT:

Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])