Looking back and moving forward, we are grounded in what matters most.

At Final Exercises on May 17, the School of Nursing celebrated 257 graduates, each one entering a profession that is leading care in communities, advancing research, and meeting complex health needs with skill and compassion. As our graduates crossed the stage, I was proud to see the future of nursing carried forward through them, as it has been for generations.

As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the University of Virginia School of Nursing, along with UVA Medical Center, is celebrating its 125^th anniversary, marking 125 years of preparing nurses to meet the needs of their time.

Earlier this year, we launched a 125th anniversary website, along with expanded resources through the History Center, to share stories and milestones that have defined our School. We have also begun commemorating the occasion with gatherings that bring our community together. In March, alumni and friends joined Nancy Rizor (BSN ’80) and Randy Rizor, MD, in Atlanta to reconnect with one another and honor the achievements of our engaged alumni. Closer to home, in April, we welcomed emeriti faculty for an afternoon tea, reflecting on the contributions and relationships that continue to shape our School.

This notable anniversary invites reflection on both our history and what lies ahead. In this issue of Virginia Nursing Legacy, we highlight how our strategic framework is guiding priorities across education, research, clinical practice, and community engagement. The stories that follow show our work in action, including transforming education through new technologies and student research, strengthening partnerships that expand access to care, advancing nursing science, and supporting the wellbeing and resilience of our nursing community.

At the center of our mission and work are our people. We recognize the contributions of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, whose leadership and dedication strengthen the School and its impact. As we move through this anniversary year, we do so with appreciation for those who have helped define our School and confidence in those who will lead in the years ahead. Thank you for being part of our community.

Be well, 

Marianne Baernholdt, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN
The Pew Charitable Trusts Dean and Professor
Dean of Professional Nursing, UVA Health