Newsroom - Mobile Health and Wellness Program - Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU Nursing professor named to AACN board of directors

July 23, 2025

VCU’s Audrey Roberson has been named to the AACN Board of Directors where she will help advance nursing leadership and patient safety in critical care.

VCU researchers have found a new tool to encourage pregnant women to seek treatment for substance abuse disorders

July 7, 2025

By building stronger bonds with their unborn baby, VCU researchers say ultrasounds can improve prenatal care and mitigate maternal mortality risks.

VCU Medical Center designated as a Magnet® hospital for fifth consecutive time

June 25, 2025

The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s designation puts VCU Health’s premier medical center in the top 10% of hospitals in the United States.

Dana Burns appointed director of faculty practice initiatives

June 25, 2025

A dedicated clinician, educator, and researcher, Burns will lead the School of Nursing community and academic-practice partnerships in her new role.

Lathika Mohanraj, Ph.D., appointed co-director of Biobehavioral Research Lab

June 25, 2025

With a background in biochemistry, molecular biology, and nursing, Mohanraj brings expertise in laboratory research and patient care to her new role in the Biobehavioral Research Lab in the VCU School of Nursing.

New study reveals unique long COVID symptoms for young children – what parents need to know

June 23, 2025

VCU researchers help develop resources to help families and health care providers spot subtle signs of long COVID in infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children.

Nursing students use art to explore psychiatric-mental health topics in innovative final project

June 17, 2025

As part of a final class project, VCU nursing students made art to explore complex mental health topics, turning classroom concepts into powerful visuals rooted in empathy and clinical understanding.

Clinician and educator featured on APAPP podcast to discuss evolutions and updates in asthma care and treatment strategies

June 10, 2025

Stephanie Bork, M.S.N., APRN, FNP-BC, was recently featured on the Association of Pulmonary Advanced Practice Providers podcast to discuss her work advancing asthma care through education, equity and innovation.

Unlocking the puzzle of persistent symptoms of long COVID and POTS in children

May 27, 2025

VCU researchers investigating the causes of persistent symptoms in two perplexing post-viral conditions in pediatric populations to improve future treatments.

Class of 2025: Jada Hargrove went viral for holding something more precious than her diploma

May 23, 2025

The VCU School of Nursing graduate – and her infant son – became stars on social media after commencement.

By the numbers

May 12, 2025

VCU School of Nursing is proud of the impact it makes on the profession. Here’s a closer look at some numbers that tell that story.

Next-gen nursing education: smarter tools, stronger skills

May 11, 2025

Confidence, clinical judgment, practice readiness. Learn how VCU’s curriculum overhaul is helping students with the help of smart tech and hands-on innovation.

Nursing scholarship’s price is invaluable

May 10, 2025

For Judith Price, RN, the benefit of an education always outweighed the cost.

Class of 2025: Advanced nursing degree gives Brooke Gore a chance to truly graduate

May 9, 2025

She missed the traditional walk in previous ceremonies, but she takes a big professional step forward through VCU’s clinically focused doctoral program.

VCU collaboration shapes the future of nursing with innovative residency program

May 8, 2025

A look inside the partnership between VCU School of Nursing and VCU Health and how it’s shaping the future of nursing through the Nurse Residency Program.

A question changed everything, bringing nursing alumna to VCU

May 7, 2025

Nursing alumna Marianne Krop (B.S. '65, M.S. '79) didn’t plan to become a nurse. A chance question during her sister’s nursing school interview changed everything.

Class of 2025: The spirit of brotherhood propelled Jagpal Chahal to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner

May 6, 2025

The VCU School of Nursing’s strong program lured the Canada native to Richmond to pursue his master’s degree.

Patricia Kinser is named VCU School of Nursing dean

May 1, 2025

Kinser – a nurse scientist, clinician and alum of the school – has served as interim dean since April 2024.

School honors four distinguished alumni for excellence across the profession

April 21, 2025

Honoring excellence in nursing, VCU School of Nursing recognizes four alumni who are changing health care from the bedside to the boardroom.

Mobile Health and Wellness Program expands to South Hill

April 17, 2025

VCU Health along with VCU School of Nursing strive to eliminate barriers to care in rural communities.

Gift advances health care access and senior care workforce development at VCU

April 14, 2025

A $100,000 donation from Genworth will support the Mobile Health and Wellness Program in the School of Nursing and the Department of Gerontology in the College of Health Professions, boosting their work in community health and senior care.

Meet a Researcher: Amy Salisbury, Ph.D., RN, FAAN

April 2, 2025

Explore how innovative research in maternal and prenatal care is improving health outcomes for pregnant women at risk for substance use disorder and enhancing the health of their babies.

VCU School of Nursing and VCU Health team up to launch guaranteed admission pathway for RN to B.S. program

March 31, 2025

Registered nurses at VCU Health will be guaranteed entry into the school’s RN to B.S. program, which offers a flexible, part-time option to advance their nursing careers.

Meet a Researcher: Lathika Mohanraj, Ph.D.

March 28, 2025

Discover how research in biobehavioral sciences is helping us better understand the effects of cancer therapies, offering new hope for blood cancer patients navigating survivorship challenges.

How I found my research: Cayla Ann DeGuzman studies AI’s role in training for nurse anesthetists

March 26, 2025

DeGuzman, a nursing student, says, ‘Contributing to something that shapes the future of education has been incredibly fulfilling.’

Women who paved the way at VCU

March 25, 2025

Meet a sampling of the remarkable women from the past century-plus (including Sadie Heath Cabaniss) who have shaped VCU into the school it is today.

Meet a researcher: Ingrid Pretzer-Aboff, Ph.D.

March 24, 2025

Discover how groundbreaking nursing research on wearable devices is revolutionizing care for individuals with Parkinson's disease, offering new hope for overcoming the debilitating symptom of freezing of gait.

22 VCU health sciences schools and departments rank in top 50 for NIH research funding

March 7, 2025

Among public institutions, VCU has two units — the School of Dentistry and Department of Family Medicine — in the top 10 of the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research’s 2024 rankings.

Celebrating the impact of scholarships

March 6, 2025

This month, scholarship recipients met with and thanked some of the donors who have changed their lives through support of VCU Health Sciences students at the annual MCV Campus Endowed Scholarship Brunch.

Doctoral student featured on Patients Come First podcast

March 4, 2025

Hannah Khan, a VCU School of Nursing clinical research coordinator and doctoral student, discusses how her research on mobility and brain health could transform dementia care by linking movement patterns to cognitive decline.

Virtual reality, real skills: Immersive virtual reality simulations are offering a fresh approach to nursing education

Feb. 24, 2025

Forget standing on the sidelines—Immersive virtual reality lets VCU nursing students dive into high-stakes scenarios, make mistakes safely, and build real-world confidence before they step into clinical practice.

School celebrates success of innovative academic coaching program

Feb. 21, 2025

The School of Nursing's innovative academic coaching program is helping students conquer challenges, build confidence and achieve success—and it's still growing.

School of Nursing recognized for commitment to gerontological nursing

Feb. 17, 2025

The National Hartford Center for Gerontological Nursing Excellence continues to recognize the school for advancing gerontological nursing through research, education and innovative care models.

From fingers to toes, wearable and vibrating technology from VCU inventors could help Parkinson’s patients and others

Feb. 11, 2025

The flexible, lightweight glove and 3D-printed shoe sole might restore the brain-body feedback loop that mobility conditions can disrupt.

How I found my research: Hannah Khan studies the connection between brain health and movement

Feb. 7, 2025

For Khan, a Ph.D. student in the School of Nursing, a research fellowship when she was an undergraduate ‘changed the direction of my life,’ immersing her ‘in a world of possibilities that I had previously overlooked.’

Embracing cultural traditions and health education, nursing students go the extra mile on service-learning trip

Jan. 21, 2025

Seven VCU nursing students travel to Guatemala for a service-learning experience, blending cultural immersion and health education to make a lasting impact on local communities.

From nurse to narrator with alum Michael Sullivan and his play WillJee

Jan. 16, 2025

Nursing alum Michael Sullivan draws on his experience in care and compassion for WillJee, a play that blends humor, heartbreak and healing in an unforgettable journey.

Class of 2024: For Jennifer Cousins, VCU is a family affair in the spirit of care

Dec. 16, 2024

The former teacher joined her two children on campus, pursuing a nursing degree inspired by her daughter’s medical journey.

Making the holidays inclusive for loved ones experiencing cognitive decline

Dec. 13, 2024

Recognizing how difficult the holiday season can be, VCU gerontology experts share ways to support older adults and their caregivers.

Class of 2024: Haley Austin gravitated toward nursing to play a more active role in patient care

Dec. 10, 2024

Austin started their career as a Spanish medical interpreter and was inspired by the nurses around them. This prompted a career switch, aided by VCU.

Nurse researcher talks dementia care breakthroughs on With Good Reason

Nov. 21, 2024

Lana Sargent, Ph.D., RN, discusses breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s treatment and how science is shifting from managing symptoms to transforming cognitive health after diagnosis.

Nursing scholarship aims to support women’s health

Nov. 18, 2024

The Carola Bruflat Advanced Practice Nursing Scholarship supports graduate nursing students pursuing careers in advanced practice nursing roles or specialties with a preference to students interested in women’s health or in health policy.

Nurse practitioner students partner with schools and health district to provide essential student health services

Nov. 15, 2024

Earlier this year, dozens of VCU nurse practitioner students helped Richmond families meet back-to-school health requirements while gaining valuable hands-on experience in community healthcare.

Governor Youngkin signs proclamation honoring Nurse Practitioner Week at VCU School of Nursing

Nov. 12, 2024

Nurse Practitioner Week underscores the vital role of nurse practitioners in advancing health care access and quality for Virginians.

Army Reserves and VCU School of Nursing are a powerful force for cadet Emily Smith

Nov. 11, 2024

The undergraduate senior envisions deploying on medical support missions, which combine service to country and others.

Answering the call: How VCU’s health sciences campus is unlike any other

Oct. 30, 2024

Leaders from VCU Health and VCU’s health sciences schools share their perspectives on how a dedication to academic excellence, collaborative innovation and compassionate care impact students, patients and the greater community.

‘What you’re doing really matters’: VCU and VCU Health staff recognized for their work in the community

Oct. 25, 2024

Honorees included several community health partnerships, including a blood pressure student education program and mobile health and wellness initiative.

The fridge is open for donations

Oct. 23, 2024

Trio of VCU nursing students support RVA Community Fridges to make a difference in the community – and make an impression on classmates.

VCU-led research consortium identifies distinct long COVID symptoms in children and teens

Oct. 22, 2024

As part of a nationwide study, VCU School of Nursing researchers make a significant advancement in understanding the long-term effects of COVID-19 in pediatric patients.

VCU group joins Rally for Medical Research to promote federal funding

Oct. 21, 2024

Health sciences researchers and faculty headed to Washington to urge congressional staff to prioritize NIH support.

School of Nursing researcher Lisa Brown selected as a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing

Oct. 17, 2024

Her influential work related to mother-infant feeding continues to enhance maternal and neonatal health.

School celebrates excellence in diversity recognition

Oct. 4, 2024

The VCU School of Nursing has been recognized as a recipient of the 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award, highlighting its commitment to fostering an inclusive healthcare environment.

VCU School of Nursing names associate dean of academic affairs

Oct. 2, 2024

Since joining the school in 2021, Tanner has become a driving force in shaping innovative academic programs through curriculum redesign.

Virginia Geriatric Education Center awarded $5M grant to improve care of older adults

Oct. 1, 2024

The five-year federal grant is part of an effort to advance geriatrics care in health systems across the country.

VCU undergraduate nursing program ranked among top 6% nationwide

Sept. 24, 2024

The new U.S. News & World Report annual rankings place VCU's School of Nursing undergraduate program at No. 39 and the university at No. 69 among the nation’s top public universities.

Simulation and student success: Q&A with director of the Clinical Learning Center

Sept. 19, 2024

As director of the school’s simulation program, Meredith Deegan, M.S.N., RN, CNL, is shaping the way nursing students learn through innovative simulated experiences.

How I found my research: Josselyn Valenzuela helps pregnant mothers navigate depression

Sept. 23, 2024

Valenzuela, a VCU alum and master’s student in the School of Social Work, has worked on the Mindful Moms Study since last year.

Leading with vision and experience, Debra Shockey, D.N.P. takes on a new role at the School of Nursing

Sept. 10, 2024

With a background of compassionate care and academic leadership, Debra Shockey, D.N.P., is ready to shape the future of nursing education and guide the next generation of healthcare leaders as the school's new director of graduate practice programs.

Best friends pursue bright futures in nursing together

Sept. 8, 2024

Best friends and nursing students Josie DeSilvey and Ariel Stith are navigating the challenges and triumphs of nursing school side by side. From mastering clinical skills to supporting each other through late-night study marathons, they’re proving that the journey is better together.

Triple alumna shares leadership lessons and insights from a distinguished nursing career

Aug. 27, 2024

Jeniece Roane, Ph.D., vice president of operations for the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU offers a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped her journey in and beyond the classroom.

School releases its 2023-24 annual report

Aug. 15, 2024

The VCU School of Nursing's 2023-2024 annual report highlights significant transitions, academic innovation, a rise in research rankings, expanded community outreach, and solidified partnerships, underscoring the school's national prominence and commitment to excellence.

VCU School of Nursing duo secures funding for revision of maternal mental health screening tool

Aug. 13, 2024

They are refining the language and elements of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to make it more inclusive and less stigmatizing.

Nursing alum Eileen Tangley celebrates 40 years of cardiac nursing at VCU Health

July 30, 2024

Her journey from a high school student inspired by a caring nurse to a dedicated nurse with 40 years of experience at VCU Health highlights Tangley's unwavering commitment to patient care.

VCU Quest Fund provides grants to 21 faculty-led projects that target society’s biggest challenges

July 26, 2024

Transdisciplinary research teams are pursuing advances in health, engineering, the environment, homeland security and more.

Student spotlight: Ashley Claros-Machado

July 25, 2024

First-generation Latina student Ashley Claros-Machado shares about her school experiences and her “focus on the now” philosophy

VCU Breakthroughs Fund provides grants to faculty-led projects that pursue transformative innovation

July 23, 2024

Now in its third year, the VCU Breakthroughs Fund has supported more than 30 projects through investments totaling nearly $6 million.

Mobile Health and Wellness Program joins forces with local community to promote health

July 16, 2024

The school's signature community engagement initiative is partnering with a local fitness expert to foster a healthier future for residents of Petersburg.

Student spotlight: Taiga Sherman trades the Last Frontier for a new frontier

July 15, 2024

A pre-licensure student is following in the footsteps of her family's nursing legacy while embracing a new life far from home.

Celina Cortado, member of the Class of 2026, on passion, perseverance and community

July 8, 2024

From navigating challenging coursework to finding support in the Filipino Americans Coming Together (FACT) Club, one nursing student shares her insights on what drives her to succeed.

VCU School of Nursing unveils new strategic plan

July 3, 2024

The school’s new plan, “Charting Futures: A strategic plan for nursing education,” will guide the work of the school through 2029.

The enduring inspiration of education

June 26, 2024

Two new scholarships honor one family's commitment to healthcare providers

Asthma clinic innovates with video-based education to improve patient outcomes

June 18, 2024

A team of interdisciplinary researchers at the VCU Health Asthma Clinic tackles high asthma rates in Richmond with a new patient education tool.

A century ago, 10 women made history at MCV’s segregated school for Black nursing students

June 17, 2024

The inaugural graduates from the St. Philip Hospital School of Nursing were trailblazers in health care.

Associate dean selected for inaugural class of fellows of the Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing

June 11, 2024

Stephan Davis, D.N.P., earns professional society fellowship with new academy

New study tackles chronic kidney disease in the East End community

May 23, 2024

Affiliate nurse researcher is conducting a community-based kidney disease study

Nursing researchers identify ways to help yourself and others feeling alone

May 21, 2024

A 2023 advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General reveals how loneliness can be connected to several serious medical conditions

Wellness resource for new mothers featured on With Good Reason podcast

May 20, 2024

Nursing researchers discuss perinatal mental health on national podcast

VCU Nursing and Pharmacy researchers secure grant to tackle obesity in kidney transplant candidates

May 15, 2024

Two researchers have been awarded the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Foundation and American Nurses Foundation Collaborative Care Grant, fueling research on the implementation of the Comprehensive Overweight/Obesity Management Pre-Kidney Transplant (COMPKT) program.

Nursing alumna honors her late mother with scholarship

May 11, 2024

Jeanne Duffer, along with her brother Mike Duffer, established the Ann Duffer Nursing Scholarship to support nursing students from underrepresented backgrounds who need financial aid.

Class of 2024: Erin Norwood hopes to make more space for disability in health care

May 10, 2024

Inspired by faith, family and perseverance, VCU nursing student embraces inclusivity and service to others.

Class of 2024: Inspired by his own journey, VCU nursing student Aaron Wimer aims to make an impact in mental health care

May 10, 2024

With his second degree from VCU, he will join an evolving field as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Cabaniss chronicled

May 9, 2024

Startling, little-known or long-forgotten revelations from the school's history.

From charge nurse to in charge as a managed care leader, nursing alumna reflects on a successful career

May 7, 2024

Alumna Linda Hines’ 27-year career spans roles at the bedside to the executive chair.

Many hands make right work

May 6, 2024

How the VCU Health Hub and School of Nursing team up to serve Richmond’s East End community.

Department of Health Administration partners with School of Nursing and professional associations for National Nurses Month webinar

May 1, 2024

Schools partner to host National Nurses Month webinar

Introducing the School of Nursing alumni engagement officer

April 26, 2024

Get to know Marianne Johnson: Fun facts and more

Nursing oncology research award leads to NCI grant

April 16, 2024

A new tool is giving adolescent and young adults the power to self-manage their cancer symptoms and promote self-advocacy thanks to a researcher at VCU School of Nursing.

Q&A with nurse scientist, VCU alum and now interim dean, Patricia Kinser, Ph.D.

April 15, 2024

An endowed professor and previous assistant dean for research and scholarship, Kinser has been a nursing faculty member since 2012.

Meet a researcher: Carla Nye, D.N.P.

April 9, 2024

Leading up to the school's April 11 nursing research showcase, meet some of the groundbreaking and innovative nurse scientists behind the work. Carla Nye, D.N.P., shares about two areas she researches—the efficacy of simulation education and an investigation of burnout in the healthcare professions.

Meet a researcher: Ana Diallo, Ph.D.

April 3, 2024

Leading up to the school's April 11 nursing research showcase, meet some of the groundbreaking and innovative nurse scientists behind the work. Ana Diallo, Ph.D., shares about her background, her interest in the relationship between diet and cardiovascular health and the merits of the Prescription Produce Program.

VCU School of Nursing rises in Blue Ridge Rankings

March 12, 2024

Jumping nine spots, the annual Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research's analysis of NIH funding reflects the school's growth and commitment to research

Patricia Kinser, Ph.D., appointed interim dean of VCU School of Nursing

March 11, 2024

Alumna of VCU School of Nursing and faculty member since 2012, Patricia Kinser, Ph.D., will lead the school as interim dean effective April 15, 2024.

Beyond the books

Feb. 26, 2024

How a service learning experience in the VCU School of Nursing is shaping future caregivers

With poise and grace, VCU’s first Black nursing graduate charted a path – and even schooled the faculty on a memorable day

Feb. 22, 2024

Two archival documents capture the essence of Charlotte Anne Wynn Pollard and the challenging era she navigated with courage and empathy – traits that her family still celebrates today.