May 1 — Professor delivers state of science address on future of nursing education
Heather M. Young, a professor at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, delivered the State of the Science Address in Education, “From Disruption to Design: Strengthening the Future of Nursing Education,” at the 2026 annual conference of the Western Institute of Nursing. The presentation explored how nursing education must evolve in response to rapid changes across health care, technology, workforce demands and student expectations. Drawing on decades of leadership in nursing education and leadership development, Young challenged educators to move beyond reacting to disruption and instead intentionally design systems that prepare nurses to thrive in increasingly complex care environments. The address highlighted the importance of innovation, flexibility and partnership in preparing the next generation of nurses and nurse leaders. Young challenged assumptions about nursing education and urged nurse leaders to examine and address professional structures that limit our future possibilities. Young emphasized the need for academic programs that integrate emerging technologies, strengthen pathways into the profession, and support learners across diverse communities and practice settings. She also underscored the role of nursing schools in addressing workforce shortages, advancing health equity and preparing graduates equipped to lead system transformation.

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