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When leaders from the School of Nursing learned there was a critical need for health care services at a new permanent supportive housing site in Austin for older adults exiting homelessness, they stepped up. Now, more than a year later, the onsite health clinic at Pecan Gardens, operated by the School of Nursing, has become a cornerstone of care for residents aged 55 and older who are disabled and working to overcome chronic homelessness.

Even nursing students could use a recess break sometimes, especially one that teaches a lesson. That’s why Lynn Rew sent her class out to the School of Nursing courtyard a few years ago. “I remember one fall when I was teaching the honors research course, and I had a hard time getting the students interested in research,” Rew shared. So, she made a game out of it.

After a remarkable career spanning more than three decades, Professor Emerita Jane Dimmitt Champion, PhD, DNP, MSN, MA, FNP, AH-PMH-CNS, FAAN, FAANP, retired from the School of Nursing in 2025 after 13 years of service, leaving behind an indelible legacy of excellence in teaching, research, clinical practice and global mentorship.

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing is excited to introduce the next group of Social Media Ambassadors for 2026. Building on the success of this year’s inaugural program, this initiative continues to highlight the vibrant student community and the unique experiences that define life at the UT Austin School of Nursing.

Ana Loera, RN, primary care nursing supervisor at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing’s Children’s Wellness Center (CWC), received the SON Star Award for Texas Nursing staff in December 2025.

For Christy and David Dauphin, giving back to the School of Nursing is more than a personal mission—it’s a way to help shape the future of nursing. Through the Christy and David Dauphin Graduate Fellowship in Nursing, the couple supports graduate students who are focused on pediatrics, have financial need and are graduates of a Texas high school.

For Sharon (Leyland) Ahrari, MSN ’93, RN, the dream of becoming a nurse began as a child in her grandparents’ home in San Antonio. “I borrowed my grandmother’s long white half-slip, a white blouse from Catholic school and a large white dinner napkin folded into a triangle on which, I drew a cross with a red crayon, pinned the napkin into my hair with bobby pins, and thus began my nursing career.”

A devoted friend and generous supporter of the School of Nursing, philanthropist and businesswoman Luci Baines Johnson has long been a dedicated advocate for nursing, health care and the well-being of older adults. Her commitment to advancing the nursing profession, particularly in gerontological nursing, has earned her widespread respect and, most recently, recognition as an Honorary Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) in 2025.

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing recently launched the Center for Clinical and Community Partnerships (C3P), an initiative designed to become a dynamic hub linking academic, clinical and community spheres of health and wellness.

Nurse leadership goes beyond managing teams; it shapes the future of health care. Nurse leaders advocate for patients, influence policy, drive innovation and improve systems. They navigate complexity, empower teams and champion positive change. As health care grows more person-centered, the need for skilled, compassionate nurse leaders is greater than ever.