Nancie Deckard received her Master of Science in Nursing from Duke in 2023, concentrating in Veteran’s Healthcare. A standout student, Deckard earned the Bonnie Jones Friedman Humanitarian Award and DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students.

When Kimberly Coston arrived at Duke University School of Nursing, she had a specific career goal in mind.

After studying psychology as an undergraduate and working in a psychiatric hospital, she planned to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner. What she did not anticipate was how many different directions a nursing career could take.

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into healthcare, nurses are encountering AI-powered tools in their daily practice, from risk prediction models and clinical alerts to documentation support and patient prioritization systems. Yet many clinicians have had little formal training on how these technologies work, their limitations, or how to incorporate them appropriately into patient care.

A recent celebration held at the Washington Duke Inn brought together faculty, family, friends, and colleagues to recognize the newest members of the School's emeriti community and celebrate decades of service and impact.

"The title of Emeritus or Emerita is more than a recognition of years of service," Dean Michael V. Relf, PhD, RN, ANEF, FAAN, said in his welcome remarks. "It reflects a legacy of impact. It is a testament to careers that have elevated Duke Nursing and expanded our reach locally, nationally, and globally."

The Duke University School of Nursing Board of Visitors serves as an important advisory group, bringing together accomplished leaders from healthcare, business, education, and philanthropy who help advance the School's mission. Through their expertise, perspectives, and commitment to nursing education, Board members provide valuable guidance as the School prepares nurse leaders, advances scientific discovery, and improves health for communities locally and globally.

When Christian Shepler, BSN’25, graduated from the School of Nursing’s pre-licensure program, he stepped directly into one of nursing’s most demanding environments: the ICU. Now, just over a year into his career, Shepler reflects on the lessons, clinical preparation, and communication skills that helped him move from student to confident bedside nurse—and how Duke prepared him for the pace and pressure of high-acuity care.

Lem Scott, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CNE, is Assistant Professor at the Duke School of Nursing and Director of the Psychiatric-Mental Health Major.