Past Alumni Reunions

On April 29, 2023, more than 75 alumni and guests attended the in-person All Alumni Reunion. It was a picture-perfect day and all in attendance enjoyed the chance to get together to reminisce about the past and celebrate the many exciting developments at UMSON. The BSN Class of 1973 celebrated their 50th reunion with the traditional Heritage Class induction ceremony during the reunion program and a special Tea with Dean Kirschling in the afternoon.  

This year we continued the tradition of inviting all alumni to attend the annual reunion. Kelly Doran, PhD ’11, MS ’08, RN, FAAN, delivered a presentation for continuing nursing education credits. There was a new school tour as well as tours of the Bench Research Labs, the Clinical Simulation Labs, and the Living History Museum. Attendees enjoyed viewing a new exhibit honoring two trailblazing UMSON alumnae whose legacies have shaped not only the nursing field, but also the city, the state, and beyond: Esther E. McCready, DIN ’53, the first African American to gain admittance to UMSON, and former state Sen. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, MAS, BSN ’80, RN, FAAN, whose names are now etched on the façade of the newly renovated building.  

Group photo from Reunion 2023

The formal program opened with Stacey Conrad, Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations, welcoming alumni, and guests. Malinda Peeples, MS ’97, RN, CDCES, FADCES, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee. Dean Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report. 

Kata Orosz, BSN Class of 2023, spoke about the importance of the scholarship support she received from UMSON.

L to R: Dean Jane Kirschling, George Zangaro, Malinda Peeples

The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to George A. Zangaro, PhD ’05, MS ’98, RN, FAAN, who shared inspiring remarks about his nursing journey and the role that UMSON played in his leadership development. 

After the formal program, everyone gathered for a buffet lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center where they had plenty of time to mingle and socialize from classmates and colleagues. 

In the afternoon, a new program feature, the inaugural UMSON Alumni Story Slam, was held. Four alumni and one current student shared a special story about their nursing journey.  

L to R: Lauren Saunders, BSN ’13; Tosin Olateju, MS ’15, BSN ’11; Karen Mack, MS ’20, BSN ’83; Gloria Lay, MS ’14; Sarah LaMonaca, BSN ‘23

To top of the afternoon, an alumni networking social was held that included, to everyone’s delight, a visit from UMB’s Comfort Dog, Officer Poe and his handler, Officer Summers. 

Class of 1973 50^th Reunion Group photo

Row 1 L to R: Cathy Attanasio, Kay Sieber Concha, Jacquelyn Murphy Ramsey, Nancy Miller, Christine Kirk Shippen, Beth O’Connell, Roz Sody Kurman, Deborah Holladay Harper, Brenda Barnes Wharton, Berlyn Carlson, Dean Jane Kirschling
Row 2 L to R: Brenda Jackson Hensley, Beverly Bradford Scott, Christina Corcoran, Mindy Baylor, Mary Budelis Kerney, Marcia Nawrot Kearney, Diane Majeski-Felle, Mary Bonnano
Row 3 L to R: Judith Grebla, Vicki Burt, Carolyn Stewart Valente, Shirley Guy, Diane Feickert-Eichna, Robin Nida, Paula Wiegel-Thrasher

Class of 1963 celebrating their 60th reunion

L to R: Carol Wolfe, Donna Gipner, Jane Penny, Rebecca Jones, Sarah Chedester, Hermi Nudo, Anne Davidson Bruce, Patricia Eagen

Class of 1983 celebrating their 40th reunion

L to R: Pamela Tuma Broussard, Margaret Lyon Jones, Marianne Moulet, Karen Mack, Kristi Brennan

View the 2023 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery

On Sept. 24, 2022 more than 80 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing for the first in-person reunion event since 2019. The weather was beautiful and everyone who was able to attend in-person enjoyed the opportunity to reunite and learn more about the latest developments at UMSON. The BSN Class of 1972 celebrated their 50^th reunion with a Heritage Class induction ceremony during the reunion program.

This year’s reunion built on the initiative of inviting all alumni to the annual reunion. Two UMSON alumni delivered professional presentations eligible for continuing nursing education credits. There were tours of the Bench Research Labs, the Clinical Simulations Labs, and the Living History Museum as well as an unveiling of a sculptural replica of Parsons Hall (the School’s former residence hall, 1922 - 98) in the courtyard that includes a time capsule to be opened in 25 years.  

After registration and mingling during the continental breakfast, alumni went on one of three tours: Bench Lab Research, Simulation Lab, or Living History Museum.

The formal program opened with Stacey Conrad, associate dean for development and alumni relations, welcoming alumni, and guests. Malinda Peeples, MS ’97, RN, CDCES, FADCES, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee. Dean Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report.

View a Recording of the Reunion

Abigail Goitom, BSN Class of 2023, spoke about the importance of the scholarship support she received from UMSON. 

Karen Doyle, DNP ’20, MBA, MS ’91, BSN ’85, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN received the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared inspiring remarks about her nursing journey.

(left to right) Dean Jane Kirschling, Karen Doyle, and Malinda Peeples

After the formal program, alumni gathered for a festive buffet lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center where they had a chance to connect with their classmates and colleagues. 

In the afternoon, two Continuing Nursing Education lectures were offered:

• “Addressing Social Determinants of Health and Social Isolation: The Belong to Baltimore Study”
  Yolanda Ogbolu, PhD ’11, MS’06, BSN ’04, CRNP-Neonatal, FNAP, FAAN
• “UMB CURE Scholars - A Partnership with No Limits and Infinite Possibilities”
  Ann Marie Felauer, DNP ’18, CPNP-AC/PC

View the 2022 View a Recording of the Lectures

The final event of the day was a networking reception for alumni to reminisce and reflect on a special day of learning and reconnecting at the School of Nursing.

Class of 1972 50^th Reunion Group photo

Row 1 L to R: Roni Udelson Scharf, Natalie Kiernan Rook, Patti Hong, Susan Grysavage, Jean Marie Jones, Alice O’Keefe Demarais, Dean Jane Kirschling
Row 2 L to R: Mary Harding, Melinda Michaels Stewart, Mariah Dolan McCarthy, Barbara Brisentine, Karen Cucina, Jean Carol Clark
Row 3 L to R: Lynda Kuester Lankford, Kati Croft Machtley, Patricia Speer Orchard, Emilie Deady, Pamela Chalmers Hedin, Anne Costello Knauer

View the 2022 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery

More than 160 alumni registered for the second virtual All-Alumni Reunion, held April 24, 2021.

• Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Bill and Joanne Conway Dean, presented an update about UMSON’s building expansion and response to COVID-19
• J Taylor Harden, PhD, MS ’77, BSN ’72, FGSA, FAAN, the 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, shared remarks about her nursing career
• BSN Class of 2021 graduate Sharla Chinniah thanked alumni for their contributions to student scholarships
• the Class of 1971 celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Attendees chose from four compelling alumni lectures related to COVID-19 and the challenges it has created for nursing.

Watch a Recording of the Event

See alumna J Taylor Harden, PhD, MS '77, BSN '72, FGSA, FAAN receive the 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award

On April 13, 2019, more than 100 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing for the second annual all alumni reunion. The BSN Class of 1969 celebrated their 500th reunion with a festive dinner on Friday night and the Heritage Class induction ceremony during the reunion program.

This year's reunion built on the initiative of inviting all alumni to the annual reunion. UMSON alumni delivered the four professional presentations offered for continuing nursing education credits. There were tours of the Bench Research Labs, the Clinical Simulations Labs and the Living History Museum as well as a chair yoga class.  

(left to right) Reunion Lecturers – Fran Lessans, Marla Oros and Phyllis Sharps

After registration and mingling during the continental breakfast, the two Session I lectures were held:

• “Nursing’s Journey to Excellence: A Community of Practice that is Diverse and Inclusive”
  Phyllis Sharps, PhD ’88, BSN ’79, RN, FAAN

and

• “Becoming an Entrepreneur”
  Fran Lessans, MS ’85, BSN ’80, RN
• “Turning Passion and Purpose into a Successful Consulting Business”
  Marla Oros, MS, BSN ’84, RN

At the program, Laurette Hankins, associate dean for development and alumni relations, welcomed alumni and guests. Carmel McComiskey, DNP ’10, MS ’96, RN, FAANP, FAAN, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee.

Dean Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report, and Jake Rodriguez (pictured, right), BSN Class of 2019, spoke about the importance of the scholarship he received from UMSON.

(left to right) Dean Jane Kirschling, Daniel O’Neal, and Carmel McComiskey

Daniel O’Neal III, MSN, BSN ’66, RN, received the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared remarks about his journey as a nurse researcher, scholar, and clinician and the role his more than 30 years of military service played throughout his career. 

Following the program, alumni gathered for a festive buffet lunch in the Southern Management Corp. Campus Center where they had a chance to connect with their classmates and colleagues.

In the afternoon, two Session II lectures were offered:

• “Evolving Ethical Issues and Practice Implications”
  Connie Ulrich, PhD ’01, RN, FAAN

and

• “The Quality and Safety Mandate”
  Kathleen White, PhD, MS ’78, RN, FAAN

The final event of the day was a networking reception for alumni to reminisce and reflect on a special day of learning and reconnecting at the School of Nursing.

Class of 1969

View the 2019 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery

View the full gallery.

April 27, 2018:
Heritage Class Luncheon

On April 27, the BSN Class of 1968 celebrated their 50th reunion with a special program and Heritage Society induction ceremony followed by an intimate luncheon in the Dean’s Conference Room. Alumna Pat Snyder and Cynthia Sikorski, senior associate director of alumni relations, collaborated on a slide show of snapshots from Pat's nursing school days. Everyone had a chance to share personal memories from their time at UMSON and what they have been doing since graduation.

April 28, 2018:
All Alumni Reunion

More than 140 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing on Saturday, April 28, to reunite with classmates and friends. This year’s reunion had a different twist in that all alumni were invited to participate which brought back a wide variety of alumni, some of who had not been back to campus in years and were delighted to reconnect. Five professional presentations on a variety of compelling topics were delivered by UMSON alumni for continuing nursing education. The culminating event was a networking reception that brought alumni together to relax and reflect on a wonderful day well spent.

After registration and time to socialize during the continental breakfast, tours of the Bench Research Labs, the Clinical Simulation Labs and the Living History Museum were held. This year a new program was offered – Chair Yoga – taught by UMSON alumna and adaptive yoga instructor, Cathy Rees, BSN '83.

At the program, Laurette Hankins, associate dean for development and alumni relations, welcomed alumni and recognized the milestone reunion classes. Carmel McComiskey, DNP ’10, MS ’96, RN, FAANP, FAAN, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee.

Dean and Professor Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report.

L to R: Dean Jane Kirschling, Robin Newhouse and Carmel McComiskey 

Robin Newhouse, PhD '00, MS '99, BSN '87, RN FAAN, received the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared remarks about her journey as a nurse researcher, scholar, and clinician and how her career evolved from her educational and research experiences at UMSON. 

Following the program, alumni gathered for a festive buffet lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center where they were seated according to class years or degree programs.

In an effort to provide programming to a wider audience, two lectures were offered concurrently from 2-3 p.m.:

• "Navigating Cancer Survivorship"
  Jennifer Wenzel, PhD, MS ’00, RN, CCM, FAAN
  DNP student MiKaela Olsen, MS, APRN-CNS, AOCNS, FAAN
• "Creating and Sustaining Healthy Workplace Environments"
  Dorrie Fontaine, PhD, MS '77, RN, FAAN
  Cheryl Cioffi, DNP '11, MS '00, BSN '99, RN, ANP-BC, NEA-BC, FACHE  

and from 3-4 p.m.:

• "One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Overview of U.S. Drug Policy"
  Katherine Fornili, DNP '16, MPH, RN, CARN, FAAN
• "Global Health: Nursing Leadership and Practice" 
  Yolanda Ogbolu, PhD '11, MS '05, BSN '04, RN, CRNP-Neonatal, FAAN
  "Global Health Scholarship: Fulbright Experience in Nigeria"
  Adanna Agbo, DrPH (c), MPH, MS '07, RN, PHNA-BC
  "HRH Rwanda"
  Trish Milburn, DNP '12, MS '93, CRNP

A keynote lecture, "Bioethics Then and Now: Contributions of Nurse Bioethics" by Christine Grady, PhD, RN, FAAN was offered from 4-5 p.m.

The final event of the day was a networking reception for alumni to reminisce and reflect on a special day of learning and reconnecting at the School of Nursing. 

On Saturday, April 29, alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing to reunite with classmates and friends and renew their pride in their alma mater.

At the program, Laurette Hankins, associate dean for development and alumni relations, welcomed alumni and recognized each class group. Christine Kirk Shippen, MS ’98, BSN ’73, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee.

Dean Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1967 in honor of the 50th reunion class. The Class of 1967 was inducted into the Heritage Class.

Student speakers Dominque Duval, BSN ’17 and Jessica Shapiro, MS/CNL Class of 2018, shared their inspiration for becoming a nurse and their appreciation for the scholarship support they received.

Karen McQuillan receives the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award. L to R: Christine Shippen, MS ’98, BSN ’73, president, UMSON alumni association; Karen McQuillan, MS ’86, BSN ’81, and Dean Jane Kirschling

Karen McQuillan, MS ’86, BSN ’81, received the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared remarks about her journey as a nurse and the lessons she has learned along her career path.

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corp. Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the event so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure.

The final event of the day was an informative and motivating lecture, “Hope in Immigrant Healthcare: la esperaza” presented by Karen Scheu, DNP ’12, FNP-BC, RN, assistant professor, family and community health, UMSON.

View the 2017 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery.

On Saturday, April 16, more than 100 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing to reunite with classmates and friends and renew their pride in their alma mater. 

 

Laurette Hankins, associate dean for development and alumni relations, welcomed alumni and recognized each class group. Christine Kirk Shippen, MS ’98, BSN ’73, UMSON Alumni Association president, served as the program emcee.

Dean Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1966 in honor of the 50th reunion class. The Class of 1966 was inducted into the Heritage Class and also received the University of Maryland Baltimore Foundation(UMBF) 2015 Distinguished Service Award for raising more than $58,000 for the Class of 1966 Endowed Scholarship.  

Student speaker Sawyer Spurry, MS class of 2017, shared his inspiration for becoming a nurse and his appreciation for the scholarship support he received. Elizabeth “Liz” Ness, MS ’93, received the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared remarks about her journey as a nurse and the process of finding her passion.

Class of 1966 Endowed Scholarship Fundraising Committee receives the UMBF 2015 Distinguished Service Award
l. to r.: Sue Dorsey Wilson, Geri Mendelson, Claire Payne Greenhouse, Rosemary Eliott Noble, Dean Jane Kirschling

 

Elizabeth Ness, MS ’93, receives the 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award

l. to r.: Chris Shippen, MS ’98, BSN ’73, president, UMSON Alumni Association; Ness; Kirschling

Student speaker Sawyer Spurry, MS class of 2017

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corp. Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the event so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure. The final event of the day was an informative and motivating lecture, “Courageous Care,” presented by Karen McQuillan, MS ’86, BSN ’81, CNS-BC, CCRN, CNRN, FAAN.

View the 2016 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery. (Click “Show Info” in the upper, right corner of the photo to see the caption.)

Reunion Class Photos

Classes of 1951 and 1961

l. to r.: Ellen Kwiatkowski, DIN ’51; Janet Stewart Rowan, BSN ’61

 

Class of 1956

front row, l. to r.: Josephine Nocke Gillen, Lillie Baxter Largey, Jean Friese Yeakel

back row, l. to r.: Sarah Barnes Keating, Caroline Cooper Lister, Shirley Jane Bramble Lentz 

Class of 1966

front row, l. to r.: Kirschling, Cynthia Cole Franklin, Susan Katz Leibowitz, Carole Harryman Ricker, Pat Knights Beneshan, Carol  Hale Crawford 

middle row, l. to r.: Rosemary Elliot Noble, Sharon Leiderman Hanopole, Geri Mendelson, Diane Merwitz Postol, Karen Hall Reichert, Vicki Duke, Marilyn Allen Jameson, Ann Riutort Brookens

back row, l. to r.: Nancy Baumann Lerner, Dan O’Neal, Judy Hoar Carpenter, Jane Lenderking Talbott, Susan Dorsey Wilson, Claire Payne Greenhouse, Judy Miller, Gayle Evans Miller

Class of 1971

front row, l. to r.: Flo Strawser, MaryMartha Kuhn, Zoe Bouchelle 

back row, l. to r.: Gail Giles Kestler, Barbara Miller O’Connor, Mary “Muffy” Deeley, Linda Golla Anezin, Anne Hoehl Hale

Class of 1976

front row, l. to r.: Cynthia Divens Sweeney, Romona Lewis 

back row, l. to r.: Vicki Roberts Lentz, Teresa Gray-Jones, Valerie Patterson Richardson

Class of 1981

front row, l. to r.: Margaret Koehler, Denice Davis, Sue Nonemaker, Ellen Friedler Goldstone, Linda Thomas

middle row, l. to r.: Christine Birch Rogers, Anne Grafton, Kathleen Connors de Laguna, Karen Schmitt McQuillan

back row, l. to r.: Linda Schroeder Wadsworth, Ellen Bernstein Allin, Lisa Smith McCarl, Barbara Lehman Fitzsimmons, Margaret Craig Kimbell

 

Class of 1986

l. to r.: Nancy Kubasik, Corinne Friend Fender, Laura Hearson

Class of 1991

Left to right: Tracey White, Faye Glace Trageser

Class of 1996

l. to r.: Robin “Rio” Ratermanis, Conrad Gordon, Beth Ann Martucci, Felicia Kilby Benjamin

 

Class of 2001

l.to r.: Dawn Clayton, Christine Provance Dawson

 

Class of 2006

l. to r.: Renae McDermott, Jessica Burry Wright, Ashley Cavallaro

 

Class of 2011

l. to r.: Nicole Brynes, Michele Rosales

CNL Group Shot

l. to r.: Renae McDermott, Jessica Wright, Erin O’Grady Barnaba, Carrie Fisher Jacobs

 

On Saturday, September 19, more than 75 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) to reunite with classmates and friends and reconnect with UMSON. 

 

At the program, Laurette Hankins, Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations, welcomed alumni and recognized each class group. Christine Kirk Shippen, MS ’98, BSN ’74, and Alumni Association President served as the program emcee. Dean Kirschling presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1965 in honor of the 50th Reunion class. Student speakers, Jessica Galang, BSN Class of 2016 and Mustafa Alrubaiee, shared their inspiration for becoming a nurse and their appreciation for the scholarship support they received. 

Laurette Hankins at the podium

Chris Shippen at the podium

Student Speaker Jessica Galang

Student Speaker Mustafa Alrubaiee

 

The Class of 1965 was honored during the Heritage Class Induction Ceremony where they received a commemorative stole and pin from Dean Kirschling. 

Class of 1965-

Row #1 left to right: Claudia May Smith, Marlene Hockenberry Cianci, Valerie Barkley, Kay Edelman, Dean Jane Kirschling

Row # 2 left to right: Patricia Sheyka Kidd, Ellen Rothfelder, Dianne Matheny Carofino, Karen Seaman Brauner

 

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the event so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure. The final event of the day was an informative and inspiring lecture

If you attended the 2015 Alumni Reunion and have not yet sent in your survey, you can access the survey here.‌ Your comments and suggestions are appreciated and will help with planning for the 2016 Reunion.

Click here to view the 2015 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery! (Click Show Info in the upper right corner of the photo to see the captions.) 

Click here to view the 2015 Alumni Reunion slide show! (Click Show Info in the upper right corner of the slideshow to see the captions.)

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Reunion Class Photos

Class of 1950

Left to right: Mary Dowe McDonough, Barbara “Muzzy” Tawney

Class of 1955

Left to right: Mary Koutrelakos, Shirley Liberman, Toni Gonzalez, Shirley Brown Teffeau, Dean Jane Kirschling

Class of 1960

Left to right: Sandra Warner, Dean Jane Kirschling, Gwen Taylor Rodney

Class of 1965

Caption: Class of 1965 50th Anniversary Heritage Class

Row #1 left to right: Claudia Smith, Marlene Hockenberry Cianci, Valerie Barkley, Kay Kellerman Elmer, Dean Jane Kirschling

Row # 2 left to right: Patricia Sheyka Kidd, Ellen Parker Rothfelder, Dianne Matheny Carofino, Karen Seaman Brauner

Class of 1970

Left to right: Pat O’Donnell, Christina Borowsky

Class of 1975

Row#1 left to right: Phyllis Davis Vendemia, Margaret Widner-Kolberg, Mary Deborah Hauf Wilson, Sheri Blatt Stern, Catherine Bailey, Kathy Paul, Debbie Gilbert Glassman, Dean Jane Kirschling

Row #2 left to right: Kathie (Gregory) Becker, Connie (LaMonica) Groves, Peggy Chamberlain Wilmoth, Elaine Bundy, Mary Anne (Melo) Conley

Class of 1980

Seated, left to right: Gena Stiver Stanek, Laurie Wittelsberger Miller, Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, Tammy Dykes Paxton

Standing, left to right: Dean Jane Kirschling, Nancy Goldstein, Regina Rawson Smith, Vannesia Morgan Smith, Diane Coopwood Wolf, Karen Cromwell, Connie Jastremski, Laurel Ann Renaud

Class of 1985

Left to right: Margaret Matula, Carol Swamidoss, Angela Mason Cooper, Joan Twigg, Lori Black

Class of 2000

Left to right: Gladys Ngatchou-Happi, Joyce McMahon, Elizabeth Agbetsafa-Awuah, Theresa Hynes

Left to right: Theresa Hynes, Gladys Ngatchou-Happi, Joyce McMahon

Class of 2005

Left to right: Greg Raymond, Sarah Miller, Lori Mooney

On Saturday, April 26, more than 100 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) to reunite with classmates and friends and reconnect with UMSON. Alumni, many of whom traveled great distances to attend the event, enjoyed catching up over continental breakfast and coffee. Dean Jane Kirschling informally welcomed alumni as she visited them at their tables.

At the program, Associate Director for Alumni Relations Cynthia Sikorski welcomed alumni and recognized each class group, prompting enthusiastic displays of school spirit and camaraderie. Liz Ness, MS ’93, and Alumni Association President served as the program emcee. Dean Kirschling presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1964 in honor of the 50th Reunion class. A panel of class leaders shared their perspectives on their UMSON education and the most valuable lessons they learned: Mary Lou Reilly, BSN ’59, Mary Beth Sheehe Merolla, BSN ’64; Connie Perry Simon, BSN ’69; Hershaw Davis, MSN, BSN ’09; and Katrina McGowan, MS/CNL Class of 2014 and Graduate Nursing Association Vice President – shared the value of their UMSON education and the most important lessons they learned while they were nursing school students.

Left to right: Mary Lou Reilly, Mary Beth Sheehe Merolla, Connie Perry Simon, Hershaw Davis, Katrina McGowan

The Class of 1964 was thrilled to be honored during the Heritage Class Induction Ceremony where they received a commemorative stole and pin from Dean Kirschling. They were also recognized for having achieved the largest turnout at the reunion.

Row #1 left to right: Dean Jane Kirschling, Gwen Myers Nolte, Frances Wyand Xenakis, Florence Hyde Berch, Marilyn Soltoff Schmitter, Lynne Hodgson Oliver, Mary Beth Sheehe Merolla

Row # 2 left to right: Judith Kane Parker, Linda DeLosier Humbert, Carolyn Wescoe Schweitzer, Marilyn Poland Laken, Gail Cameron Hooper, Peggy Edelman Heffner

Row # 3 left to right: Katherine Jean O’Hare Reichelt, Carol Taylor Prince, Sharon Kettells Hawkins, Louise Stark Simmers, JoEllen Kupin Marek, Cindy Schwartz Johnson

The 2014 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Colonel Marla De Jong, PhD, MS ’93, RN, FAAN, Dean of the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.  The Distinguished Alumni Award was reestablished in 2009 to honor and recognize an alumnus annually for his/her dedication to excellence and for exceptional professional achievements. 

Left to right: Dean Jane Kirschling, Marla De Jong, Liz Ness

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the event so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure. The final event of the day was an informative and inspiring lecture on “Evidence-Based Practice and Palliative Care: How I Learned to Love the EBP Process” by Marian Grant, DNP ’10, RN, CRNP, Assistant Professor, Organizational Systems and Adult Health, UMSON.

• View the 2014 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery! (Click on a photo to see its caption.)
• View the 2014 Alumni Reunion slide show! 

Reunion Class Photos

Class of 1973 - Largest Turnout!

Back (L-R): Bonnie Miles, Jackie Mellott Melonas, Berlyn Carlson, Beverly Bradford Scott, Mary Jo Spontak Dennis, Paula Wiegel Thrasher, Robin Nida, Nance Cambardella Crockett, Donna Feickert-Eichna, Nancy Miller, Shirley Guy, Frances Gordon, Rebecca Simons Stanevich, Vicki Burt, Kathy Burke Clark

Front (L-R): Mary Budelis Kerney, Christine Kirk Shippen, Debby Harper, Judith Ferere Moreau, Christine  Cassler Greifzu, Lynne Saffer Goldstein, Mindy Hayes, Jane Holsinger, Jane Woodward McMurray, Susan Layos, Beth O’Connell , Ginny Everstine

On Saturday, April 27, more than 135 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) to reunite with classmates and friends and reconnect with UMSON. Alumni, many of whom traveled great distances to attend the event, enjoyed catching up over continental breakfast and coffee. Dean Jane Kirschling informally welcomed alumni as she visited them at their tables.

At the program, Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations Laurette Hankins welcomed alumni and recognized each class group, prompting enthusiastic displays of school spirit and camaraderie. She introduced the program emcee, Alumni Association President, Liz Ness, MS ’93. Dean Kirschling presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1963 in honor of the 50th Reunion class. A panel of class leaders shared their perspectives on their UMSON education and the most valuable lessons they have learned. The panel included: Shirley Wantland, BSN ’58; Carolyn Cook Handa, BSN ’63; Bonnie DiPietro, MS ’85, BSN ’78; Karen Mack, MS ’01, BSN ’83; and Noah Bennett, BSN ’13 and Class of 2013 Nursing Student Government Association President.

The Class of 1963 was thrilled to be honored during the Heritage Class Induction Ceremony where they received a commemorative stole and pin from Dean Kirschling.

The 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Darlene Curley, MS ’82, BSN ’80, RN, FAAN, executive director of The Jonas Center for Nursing Excellence. The Distinguished Alumni Award was reestablished in 2009 to honor and recognize an alumnus annually for his/her dedication to excellence and for exceptional professional achievements.

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the afternoon so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure. The last event of the day was an informative and inspiring lecture on “Successful Aging” by Barbara Resnick, PhD ’96, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP, Professor, Organizational Systems and Adult Health, and Sonya Ziporkin Gershowitz Chair in Gerontology, UMSON.

• View the 2013 Alumni Reunion Photo Gallery! 

Reunion Class Photos

Class of 1948

Back (L-R): Hortense "Bunny" Bunting Tegler, Betty Byers Cooper, Annetta Muir Richter

Front (L-R): Peggy Novotny Sappington, Jean Warfield Keenan

Class of 1953

Back (L-R): Mary Muir Dilzer, Ruth Rogerson Josten, Kari Lenning Schoening, Verna Zang Martin, Sue Hulse Wood

Front (L-R): Carolyn Myers Baer, Shirlie Reheard O’ Leary, Fae Renninger Reber, Esther McCready

Class of 1963

Back (L-R): Connie Eastman, Anita Ruhling Sapp, Margarethe Cammermeyer, Donna Smith Douse, Christine Garner O’Brien, Judith Hanlon Cleaver

Middle (L-R): Ann Davidson Bruce, Donna Warfield Gipner, Carol Haina Wolfe, Cynthia Jennette, Carolyn Cook Handa, Joella Warner

Front (L-R): Dean Jane Kirschling, Ann Reiter, Jane Dimling Morris Penny, Linda Breese Brian, Hermi Nudo, Sara Walter Chedester, Theresa Tyler Hommel

Class of 1968

Back (L-R): Carol Kubelius Libonati, Patricia Warfield Snyder, Roz Riordan Kendellen, Joanne Farrell Damon, Lucy Boland

Front (L-R): Harriet Palmer Willis, Lynda Otte

Class of 1978

Back (L-R): Robin Miller Smith, Kathleen Stilling Burkhart, Dianne Ruggles Fullerton, Diane Applegate Rybinski, Ron DeGrange

Middle (L-R): Shirley Smith Edwards, Lonn Alafriz, Suzanne Joyce Wingate, Eileen Curran Thompson

Front (L-R): Dean Jane Kirschling, Margaret Horan, Elizabeth “Betsy” Schuyler Niemyer, Bonnie Grady DiPietro , Debra Penuel Oelberg, Voncelia Squires Brown

Class of 1983

ack (L-R): Theresa Wingert Sutton, Beth McKee, Mary Taylor Barnes, Lori Schroeder Allen, Nina Klein Ungar, Laura Walter Triola, Marianne Miller Moulet, Elizabeth Thomas Shotland, Cheryl Brown Stillman

Front (L-R): Linda Fritsch Walsh, Lisa Schlossbach Chamberlain, Karen Mack, Amy Collins, Shiree Kwash, Kristi Brown Brennan; Sheila Epps Lee

Class of 1988

Back (L-R): Marcie Snyder O’Reilly, Stephanie Baker Zafonte, Michelle Walz Culp

Middle (L-R): Katherina “Kitty” Vander Vat Violette, Kathy Beiter Weich, Angelia Parraway, Amy Stetter Engelmann, Lisa Stambolis

Front (L-R): Dean Jane Kirschling, Donna Bouey, Linda Ellwood, Patricia Magno Sweet, Kathleen Burks

Trauma, Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing Master’s Specialty 30th Anniversary

On Friday, November 2, alumni, faculty, former faculty, and current students gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the University of Maryland School of Nursing’s (UMSON’s) Trauma, Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing master’s specialty. Many guests traveled great distances to attend the event, and everyone enjoyed a wonderful and memorable celebration.

Tours of the University of Maryland Medical Center’s new R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center expansion and UMSON’s Clinical Simulation Labs were offered from 2-3 p.m. The Shock Trauma tour included a visit to the new heliport landing pad during which an actual landing occurred.

A formal program was held from 3:30-5 p.m. with a lively group of panelists. Dean Janet Allan,PhD, RN, FAAN, delivered welcome remarks and Kathryn Von Rueden, MS, RN, CNS-BC, FCCM, associate professor interim specialty director for Trauma, Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing, and clinical nurse specialist at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, introduced the panel.

Dorrie Fontaine, PhD, MS ’77, RN, FAAN, dean and Sadie Health Cabaniss professor of nursing, University of Virginia School of Nursing, discussed the Trauma, Critical Care and Emergency Nursing specialty from a historical perspective. 

Karen Doyle, MBA, MS ’91, BSN ’85, RN, NEA-BC, vice president, nursing and operations, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and president-elect, Society of Trauma Nurses, described some of the trends in trauma nursing.

Kathleen Cox, MS ’07, RN, ACNP-BC, CCNS, talked about some of the trends in critical care advanced practice nursing roles, sharing some of her experiences as an advanced practice nurse at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, Texas.

LCDR Carla A. Pappalardo, MS ’11, RN, ACNP-BC, CCNS, CCRN, clinical nurse specialist, Critical Care Nursing Department, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, , detailed trends in critical care and advanced practice nursing in the military.

Patricia G. Morton, PhD ’89, MS ’79, RN, ACNP, FAAN, professor and associate dean for academic affairs, UMSON, and acute care nurse practitioner, University of Maryland Medical Center, talked about the current state of UMSON and future plans related to the Trauma, Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing master’s specialty. 

Following the program, guests enjoyed a reception in the Bess & Frank Gladhill Room in the University’s  Health Sciences/Human Services Library, where they were able to view downtown Baltimore from a great vantage point.

Special thanks to Dr. Patricia Morton and Kathryn Von Rueden, who worked closely withLaurette Hankins, associate dean of development and alumni relations, and Cynthia Sikorski, associate director of alumni relations, to create a memorable occasion.

Click here to view the Trauma, Critical Care, and Emergency Nursing master’s specialty 30th anniversary slide show! (Click Show Info in the upper right corner of the slideshow to see the captions).

Class of 1982 - Largest Turnout!

Row 1, L to R: Rita Der-Stephanian Postal, Ann Williams, Peggy Riddle Maher

Row 2, L to R: Claire Bohince Pagano, Patty Pumroy Sengstack, Rita Przygocki, Barbara Hrabowski, Kathleen Krall Leach, Laurel Moody

Row 3, L to R: Patricia McGrow Rudrow, Susan Winzer Martin, Bonnie Elliot Murphy, Ann Tierney Scheele, Molly Ernst Durkin, Laurice Lucas, Mary Kay Ratigan, Diane Carpenter Lazzeri, Cynthia Fox, Jardiolyn “Joji” Patterson, Diane Stanoski Michalek, Mindy Serp Doring 

On Saturday, April 28, more than 130 alumni and guests returned to the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) to reunite with classmates and friends and reconnect with UMSON. Alumni, many of whom traveled great distances to attend the event, enjoyed catching up over continental breakfast and coffee. Dean Janet Allan informally welcomed alumni as she visited them at their tables.

At the program, Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations Laurette Hankins welcomed alumni and recognized each class group, prompting enthusiastic displays of school spirit and camaraderie. She introduced the program emcee, Alumni Association President-Elect, Liz Ness, MS ’91. Dean Allan presented a State of the School report that included a retrospective on life in 1962 in honor of the 50th Reunion class.  Kimberly Rice, a Class of 2012 master’s student and executive board member of the Graduate Nurse Association, shared her nursing school experiences and talked about the path she has taken from Cornell University, where her studies focused on biology and medical anthropology, to the Clinical Nurse Leader program at UMSON.

The Class of 1962 was thrilled to be honored during the Heritage Class Induction Ceremony where they received a commemorative stole and pin from Dean Allan. 

The 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Dorrie K. Fontaine, PhD, MS ’77, RN, FAAN, dean, University of Virginia School of Nursing, and Sadie Heath Cabaniss Professor of Nursing. The Distinguished Alumni Award was established in 2009 to honor and recognize an alumnus annually for his/her dedication to excellence and for exceptional professional achievements. 

During her remarks, Dr. Fontaine described her years at UMSON as a student and professor and some of the mentors who directly impacted her career choices, including Ann Seymour Madison, PhD, who was present in the audience as a member of the 50th Reunion Class of 1962.

Following the program, alumni gathered for lunch in the Southern Management Corporation Campus Center and enjoyed the chance to socialize. After lunch, tours of the Bench Research Labs and the Clinical Simulation Labs were conducted. The Living History Museum was open during the afternoon so that alumni and guests could visit at their leisure.  The last event of the day was an informative and inspiring lecture on palliative care by Deborah Witt Sherman, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN, ANP-BC, FAAN, a professor at UMSON.

View the 2012 Alumni Reunion slide show! (Click Show Info in the upper right corner of the slideshow to see the captions.)

More than 140 alumni and guests gathered at the School of Nursing Saturday, April 30, to enjoy a special day of reuniting with classmates and reconnecting with UMSON. The day began with lively socializing over continental breakfast and coffee. Alumni had an opportunity to reminisce with Dean Emeritus Nan Hechenberger, PhD, RN, who traveled from Pennsylvania to share in the festivities.

Highlights of the program, emceed by Alumni Council President Deborah Schofield, DNP ’09, MS ’95, included Dean Janet Allan’s presentation on the State of the School and the induction of the 50th Anniversary Class of 1961 into the Heritage Class. Outgoing National Student Government Association President Nicole Brynes, BSN ’11, shared her nursing school experiences, which rekindled many fond memories from those in the audience. The 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Donna Havens, PhD ’91, a professor at the School of Nursing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She delivered an engaging presentation about how the research she conducted as a PhD student at UMSON influenced the direction of her future research interests and her professional career path. For more than 20 years, Dr. Havens has studied and published articles about the organization of nursing and outcomes in hospitals; the nursing work environment; nurse executive leadership, turnover, and outcomes; involvement of staff nurses in decision-making; magnet hospitals; and frontline staff engagement in quality and safety initiatives.

A luncheon, followed by tours of the UMSON Clinical Simulation Laboratories, the Living History Museum, and the Center of Excellence in Disorders of Neuroregulatory Function, topped off the day.

Click here to view the photos from the 2011 Alumni Reunion! (Click Show Info in the upper right corner of the slideshow to see the captions.)