JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing celebrates 50 years of excellence

The JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing (JAGDSON) at Lamar University commemorated its 50th anniversary with a soiree and open house, celebrating its enduring commitment to nursing education and community partnerships. The event highlighted the school’s rich legacy, its state-of-the-art facilities, and its role as a leader in nursing education.

The celebration included an awards ceremony honoring outstanding individuals for their contributions to the nursing profession. Award recipients included Ruthie Robinson for Excellence in Nursing Research, Denise Boutte for Excellence in Nursing Volunteerism, Beverly Welch for Excellence in Nursing Leadership, and Gina Hale for Excellence in Nursing Education. Judy Dishman received the Honorary Nurse Award, while Kathy Rodgers and Jennifer East were recognized for Excellence in Nursing Practice and Excellence in Nursing Health Policy, respectively.

Director of the JAGDSON Dr. Joseph Tacy, emphasized the school’s vision for the future.

“We embody our motto, ‘A Spirit of Caring, A Vision of Excellence,’ and remain dedicated to advancing nursing education while serving our community. With exceptional faculty, staff, and benefactors, we continue to set the standard for nursing education nationwide,” he said.

The school offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN-to-BSN, and RN-to-MSN pathways. Graduate students can pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with specializations in Nursing Administration or Nursing Education. A dual MSN/MBA degree is also available.

Central to the school’s educational approach is its innovative Simulation Program, which includes high-tech simulation labs, standardized patient scenarios, and clinical skills labs. These resources allow students to gain hands-on experience in realistic healthcare environments, preparing them to address complex patient needs with confidence.

JAGDSON is the first endowed school at Lamar University and partners with over 90 clinical agencies, ensuring students receive diverse and high-quality learning experiences. Additionally, the school offers scholarships and graduate assistantships to support students pursuing their nursing careers.

Since its founding in 1974, the school has gained recognition for its graduates' high pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and their strong reputation among healthcare employers.

For more information about the JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing and its programs, visit http://www.lamar.edu/nursing.