Bhimani inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Teachers

Associate Professor Rozina Bhimani, PhD, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE, CRRN, Long Term Care Professor in Nursing, received the Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education Award and was inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Teachers. This honor is awarded by the University of Minnesota to exceptional candidates who have been nominated by colleges for excellence in graduate and professional education.

Bhimani holds both research-focused (PhD) and clinically-focused (DNP) doctorates in nursing—the first individual in the State of Minnesota to do so. Her teaching is informed by both her research in neurological disabilities and movement disorders and her clinical practice at Northpoint Health and Wellness Center in North Minneapolis.

“Throughout her faculty career at the University, her passion for teaching and learning has been directed at excellence in research, teaching, developing new courses, advising, and mentoring international, students of color, and English as a second language (ESL) student,” wrote Cynthia Peden-McAlpine, PhD, RN, ACNS-BC, professor emeritus, in a nomination letter.

Letters from former students emphasize Bhimani’s commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments and advocating for students of color.

“Dr. Bhimani is a strong advocate for minority students. She provides a safe space for minority students to discuss their concerns,” wrote Grace Gao, PhD, DNP, RN-BC, LHIT-HP, in a nomination letter. “When students are navigating a doctoral program, they need someone who will support and guide them like Dr. Bhimani who strives to support and empower minority students to succeed and achieve their goals.”

The Graduate and Professional award was established in 1999 to recognize contributions to graduate and professional education. Recipients are chosen for excellence in instruction; involvement of students in research, scholarship, and professional development; development of instructional programs; and advising and mentoring of students.

Recipients carry the designation of Distinguished University Teaching Professor throughout their careers at the University of Minnesota.

Bhimani joins 10 School of Nursing faculty and faculty emeriti who carry the designation of Distinguished University Teaching Professor, including Melissa Avery, Lyn Beringer, Donna Bliss, Mary Chesney, Laura Duckett, Kathie Krichbaum, Ruth Lindquist, Susan O'Conner-Von, Cynthia Peden-McAlpine and Mary Rowan.