University of Maryland School of Nursing Names Five New Visionary Pioneers

School’s highest honor recognizes alumnae for shaping the future of nursing through education, research, policy, and practice in celebration of 135th anniversary.

Baltimore, Md. - The University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) has named five alumnae as its newest Visionary Pioneers, the School’s highest alumni honor, recognizing their significant impact on, and contributions to, the field of nursing based on their leadership, innovation, or entrepreneurship.

The 25 inaugural Visionary Pioneers were named in 2014 during the School’s 125th anniversary celebration. Every five years, five additional Visionary Pioneers are inducted.

The new Visionary Pioneers join 30 previously recognized alumni who have rendered distinctive service to nursing and health care through clinical practice, education, and research.

The newest Visionary Pioneers will be inducted at UMSON’s 135th anniversary gala, “Leaders Who Illuminate: Celebrating 135 Years and UMSON’s Visionaries” on Sept. 18 at The Winslow in Baltimore. The honorees include:

Ann Wolbert Burgess, DNSc, MS ’59, RNCS, FAAN, professor, Boston College Connell School of Nursing

Burgess is a world-renowned expert in forensic and psychiatric nursing whose pioneering research has shaped clinical care, law enforcement, and public policy. As a faculty member at Boston College, she has advanced the understanding of trauma’s psychological effects, particularly among victims of sexual violence and serial crime. Her groundbreaking collaborations with the FBI and her widely cited scholarship have earned her numerous honors, including election to the National Academy of Medicine and designation as a Living Legend by the American Academy of Nursing.

Wanona “Winnie” Fritz, EdD, MSN ’78, NEA-BC, chief operating officer/senior vice president of operations and clinical services, HCCA International

Fritz is a global leader in health systems transformation, hospital turnarounds, and workforce development. With projects in 24 countries, she has redesigned care delivery models and strengthened international nursing education. A decorated U.S. Army nurse, pilot, and Bronze Star recipient, she continues to advocate for veterans’ health. She also served 17 years in Jordan, earning the Royal Medal of Honor. In executive roles throughout the United States and abroad, Fritz has advanced care quality, leadership development, and innovation across the continuum of care.

J Taylor Harden, PhD, MS ’77, BSN ’72, FSGA, FAAN, executive director emeritus, National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence 

Harden is an influential leader in gerontological nursing and health equity. At the National Institute on Aging, she developed national initiatives to support researchers from historically underrepresented populations and advance aging science. A Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and recipient of the Doris Schwartz Gerontological Nursing Research Award, she has mentored hundreds of early-career scientists. Her leadership has shaped national policy, research, and training programs dedicated to improving health outcomes for older adults.

Mary Etta C. Mills, ScD, MS ’73, BSN ’71, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, professor emerita, UMSON

Mills is a trailblazer in nursing informatics, health services leadership, and patient safety. At UMSON, she led the development of the first master’s and doctoral programs in nursing informatics and guided interdisciplinary research that improved care quality. She has published widely and mentored more than 40 PhD students, influencing practice and policy in the United States and abroad. A dedicated mentor, prolific scholar, and award-winning educator, Mills has shaped generations of nurse leaders. Her influence continues to be felt at UMSON, where her legacy of innovation, excellence, and service remains foundational to the School’s mission.

Shielda Rodgers, PhD ’92, MS ’83, RN, professor and associate dean for collective well-being, UNC School of Nursing

Rodgers has spent more than four decades championing equity, student success, and belonging in nursing education. At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she has led institutional efforts to advance holistic admissions, cultural competence, and inclusive excellence. She is a nationally recognized mentor, speaker, and advocate for students from historically underrepresented populations. Rodgers’ legacy is one of transformational leadership rooted in compassion and justice.

For complete biographies of these trailblazing Visionary Pioneers, please visit the 135th Anniversary website.

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The University of Maryland School of Nursing, founded in 1889, is one of the oldest and largest nursing schools in the nation and is ranked among the top nursing schools nationwide. Enrolling more than 2,000 students in its baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral programs, the School develops leaders who shape the profession of nursing and impact the health care environment.