Nearly half of the nursing workforce reports symptoms of burnout, yet effective, system-level solutions remain limited. Jessica Rainbow, PhD, RN, CNE, and her interdisciplinary research team are leading a $3.6 million NIH-funded project to test a nurse-driven intervention designed to transform organizational conditions in hospital settings. By integrating nursing science, systems engineering, and clinical research, Rainbow’s work demonstrates how nurse-led, evidence-based innovation can strengthen work environments, improve patient outcomes, and support a more resilient health care workforce.

Two innovative Emmons Pilot Award projects are turning big ideas into real-world impact at the College of Nursing! From strengthening faculty and student well-being to using AI and telehealth to expand rural wound care, see how our faculty are advancing nursing education and improving access to care across Arizona.

During the January 2026 Campus Clinical Immersion, DNP students took a major step toward advanced practice through hands-on, faculty-led training and a meaningful white coat ceremony marking their transition to clinical care. The immersive experience builds confidence, competence, and readiness for real-world practice.

What if cancer survivorship care could better support not just patients, but the family members walking alongside them, and do so using both mindfulness and emerging AI tools? That’s the question driving Sumin Park, PhD, RN, whose work has just earned two highly competitive national awards. Park is already making an impact with research that blends compassion, innovation, and real-world care. Her work is helping survivors and caregivers thrive, and these honors signal an exciting start to her research journey.

The University of Arizona College of Nursing proudly hosted its winter 2025 convocation and awards ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 18, at Centennial Hall.

Nearly half of U.S. cancer survivors live with ongoing pain, but safe, accessible solutions remain limited. Rachel H. Adler, PhD, APRN, and her nursing-led research team are testing an innovative, app-based music intervention designed to improve cancer pain management. By blending science, technology, and deep clinical insight, Adler’s work highlights how patient-centered, nursing-driven innovation could reduce reliance on opioids and improve quality of life for cancer survivors.

The MEPN Student Organization (MSO), led by Hannah Juarez and Allison Colvard, provides vital support, connection, and professional development for students navigating the intensity of the MEPN program. Through volunteer events, career panels, community-building activities, and wellness-focused initiatives, MSO helps students strengthen relationships and prepare for the transition into nursing practice. The organization plays a key role in creating a supportive environment that helps reduce stress, build confidence, and strengthen students’ readiness to transition into professional nursing practice.

The College of Nursing’s Rural Health Professions Program (RHPP) is expanding rapidly, with record participation, strong statewide partnerships, and renewed AHEC funding that strengthens rural clinical training, telehealth education, and overall program infrastructure. Led by director Christy Pacheco, DNP, FNP-BC, the RHPP prepares advanced practice nurses to serve rural and underserved communities through immersive clinical rotations, rural health coursework, and essential skills training. Continued investment is driving this momentum, ensuring the RHPP can keep building Arizona’s rural healthcare workforce and expanding its impact across the state.

The College of Nursing celebrates MEPN student Jesse Johnson and DNP student Reanna Draper, who were honored at the N-NURSE Symposium for their leadership and commitment to advancing Indigenous health. Through three days of dialogue, cultural learning, and collaboration, they joined Indigenous health leaders in exploring approaches to improving maternal and child wellness in Native communities. Their involvement in the INCATS program, dedication to community service, and focus on culturally responsive care highlight their roles as emerging nurse leaders working to strengthen Indigenous health and expand access to equitable, community-centered care.

This Veterans Day, the College of Nursing honors students like Air Force veteran Tery’ance Horace, who continue their dedication to service through nursing. After years of supporting his fellow airmen on the flight line, Horace has found a new purpose in health care. Now pursuing his Master of Science – Entry to the Profession of Nursing degree, he’s applying his teamwork, discipline, and compassion to help others heal, demonstrating that the call to serve doesn’t end with military service.

As the nation faces a growing nurse shortage, another crisis is emerging: there aren’t enough nursing educators to train the next generation. The College of Nursing is addressing this issue directly with its new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) specialty in Nursing Education Leadership and a post-master’s certificate in Nursing Education. Designed for nurses who want to teach, lead, and shape the future of healthcare, these programs enable students to develop advanced leadership and teaching skills while earning a top-ranked DNP degree.

Dr. Stacy Al-Saleh, a 2022 PhD graduate from the College of Nursing, is making a significant impact at Mayo Clinic through her postdoctoral research on sleep health and cognitive functioning after heart transplantation. During her PhD studies, Dr. Al-Saleh focused on health disparities and illness self-management, complemented by a minor in data and systems science. She continues to build on that foundation today, contributing to innovative, evidence-based solutions that improve patient outcomes and promote health equity, an inspiring example of how Wildcat Nurses are advancing the future of care.