From the dean: Seeing the whole in health

Dear Friends, 

This issue of Minnesota Nursing magazine truly reflects the vibrant and expansive impact nurses have today, reaching every corner of health and community. It spotlights our steadfast commitment to preparing nursing leaders who lead with compassion and expertise. Nurse leaders also deeply understand the intricate connections between people, their environments and the systems that shape wellbeing.

Our cover story features how this commitment is being woven directly into the Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum. By integrating whole person health into every dimension of learning, our students are preparing to lead with both clinical excellence and human understanding—providing transformative care that recognizes the complex interconnections that shape wellbeing. It is a powerful reflection of how our school continues to educate nurses who bring both intellect and empathy to every encounter.

In the research pages, there’s a fantastic story on how Associate Professor Robin Austin is building a standardized, whole-person approach to improve documentation and representation of menopause symptoms to ensure for better research and care. And you’ll read how Assistant Professor Seol Ju Esther Moon is using wearable data to help individuals with opioid use disorder recognize early signs of relapse —demonstrating how technology, guided by nursing insight, can strengthen recovery.

From BSN student Siham Dahir’s drive to become an advocate for change to Theresa Tsosie-Robledo continuing her education to bring expertise in informatics to Indian Health Services, our students continue to inspire us with their stories and transform health. Another, PhD candidate Andi Seppelt worked across disciplines to invent a safeguard for caregivers and patients during violent episodes. MN alum and current DNP student Tara Dillon shared how she’s using her education to support nurses and other health professionals understanding of the lasting effects of trauma.

I find immense joy and hope in these stories and trust you do as well. They are powerful reminders of our purpose and the impact at the School of Nursing. We warmly invite your thoughts and feedback — your voice is essential to shaping our school’s future. Thank you for your continued engagement and support.

In gratitude, 

Connie White Delaney
Professor and Dean