Shaping the Future of Duke University School of Nursing
Duke University School of Nursing is embarking on a strategic planning process to help shape our future and expand our impact. Over the coming months, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and key partners will have opportunities to share their perspectives through interviews, focus groups, surveys, and other engagement activities as the process continues through spring 2027.
Guided by a Strategic Planning Steering Committee representing voices from across Duke University School of Nursing and supported by our partners at Huron, we will explore how to build on our distinctive strengths, respond to a rapidly evolving landscape, and advance our mission in nursing education, research, practice, and health.
Co-Chairs
Nikki Blodgett, Assistant Dean, Healthcare Simulation and Experiential Learning; Associate Professor
Hanzhang Xu, Associate Professor
Tim Lee, Senior Business Manager, Finance
Members
Rosa Gonzalez-Guarda, Professor
Lindsay Johnson, Student Records Coordinator, Student Services
Qing Yang, Professor
Donald E. Bailey Jr., Associate Professor
Midge Bowers, Professor
Christina Leonard, Associate Professor
Bernice Alston, Director, Student Success Center
Kirsten Beattie, Senior Director of Development
Stacy Swinney, Senior Strategic Services Associate
Jill Cordell, Associate Dean, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management
Luke Velickoff, PhD Student
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we need a strategic plan?
An effective strategic plan will unify Duke University School of Nursing around a common vision and shared values, align resources to critical priorities, and outline a clear roadmap for meaningful action.
What are the key components of a strategic plan?
Please see our About the School webpage for a description of the strategic plan components including the mission, vision, and values.
Who is involved in the process?
The School of Nursing's Steering Committee is leading the development of the strategic plan. Throughout the process, we will also engage other faculty and staff in addition to students, alumni, industry and community partners, and more through focus groups, interviews, and surveys.
How can I participate?
We appreciate your interest and welcome your participation! We encourage you to provide your ideas via the online idea box and to view regular updates on the strategic planning website.
Strategic Plan Timeline
- Phase 0: Preliminary Pre-Planning
September – October 2026 - Phase 1: Environmental Scan
October – November 2026 - Phase 2: Vision & Future State Development
November – December 2026 - Phase 3: Strategy Development
December 2026 – February 2027 - Phase 4: Final Plan & Implementation Preparation
February – April 2027
Strategic Plan Components
- Mission: What is our School’s broad and enduring purpose?
- Vision: What are our priority aspirations to be realized within a defined period of time?
- Values: What are the norms, behaviors, and commitments that guide our actions?
- Priority Goals: What key areas of activity will primarily help us realize our vision?
- Signature Initiatives: What focused efforts will advance each priority goal and help us realize our vision?
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): How will we assess and report on our progress toward realizing our vision?