The VCU School of Nursing has unveiled its new strategic plan, "Charting Futures: A strategic plan for nursing education," which will serve as a visionary roadmap to guide its work through 2029. This comprehensive plan underscores the school’s commitment to advancing healthcare transformation through education, research and practice.

"Charting Futures" defines the pillars, strategic drivers, and themes that will empower the school to fulfill its mission of championing health and well-being while positioning itself as the premier institution for those leading healthcare transformation. Guided by core values of curiosity, integrity, compassion, inclusion, and collaboration, the plan establishes a framework for achieving excellence in nursing education, fostering innovative research, and advancing equitable healthcare practices. It outlines objectives that ensure the school is mission-focused and adaptive, spearheading efforts to meet the evolving needs of healthcare and the communities it serves.

"We are thrilled to unveil 'Charting Futures,' which outlines our bold aspirations and strategic direction for the next five years," said Patricia Kinser, Ph.D., professor and interim dean of the school. "The plan reinforces our commitment to excellence in nursing education and sets the stage for groundbreaking research and transformative healthcare practices."

Over its 131-year history, the VCU School of Nursing has been recognized as a leader in nursing education and research. Recent accomplishments include significant increases in research funding and activity, expansion of its academic programs, growth in donor support and impactful initiatives like the school’s faculty practice and a widely celebrated community-based nurse-led wellness program.

"We are excited about the transformative potential of 'Charting Futures.' This strategic plan positions VCU School of Nursing to continue leading the way in nursing education and practice. We will prioritize a sense of belonging and collaboration throughout our collective work. With our strong foundation and clear vision, we are well-equipped to drive innovation and make a significant impact on the future of healthcare," Kinser added.

The VCU School of Nursing enrolls 930 students in academic programs, from entry-level practice through the doctorate, with a mission to champion health and well-being through the power of nursing education, discovery and practice. The school’s undergraduate program is ranked No. 31 in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings released in fall 2023, placing it in the top 5% of all undergraduate nursing programs nationwide.