Letter from the Nursing Alumni Society President

Help build a lasting legacy for future Buckeye nurses

Dear colleagues,

I am thrilled to share exciting news: the Nursing Alumni Society (NAS) Board has established our first-ever Nursing Alumni Society Scholarship. This endowed scholarship will generate ongoing support for future generations of Buckeye nurses.

This milestone comes at a pivotal time for the College of Nursing. Over the next five years, the college plans to nearly double undergraduate enrollment to help address critical nursing shortages, particularly in rural Ohio. To support this growth, the university is investing $14 million to expand enrollment and strengthen the nursing workforce statewide.

As enrollment grows, so will the need for student financial support. In response, the NAS board has committed to raising $100,000 over the next five years with each board member pledging a meaningful annual gift. This year we will launch a fundraising campaign to match or exceed those contributions.

Together, we can create a powerful and lasting difference for our students, patients and communities. I hope you will consider supporting the endowment when you renew your NAS membership or make your annual gift. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and continued commitment.

Give now

As we begin the new year, we will hold our annual board election in February for six open positions. We once again have an outstanding slate of nominees and encourage you to cast your vote as we welcome new leaders to the board.

Please also register to attend our virtual annual meeting and complimentary professional development program on March 31, 2026. Emily Funk (BSN ’05), NAS Board member and Duke University School of Nursing faculty, will present “Beyond Neil Avenue: The Global Nursing Workforce — Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going.”

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be an exciting year filled with signature events and new initiatives. Thank you for being an important part of our NAS community — we couldn’t do this work without you.

Warm regards,

Pat

Patricia Sealing, MSN ’74, BSN ’71
President, Nursing Alumni Society