Note From the Associate Dean

By Christine Rodriguez

Christine Rodriguez, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, MDiv, MA, FNYAM, FAAN

Headshot of Dr. Rodriguez

At the Office of Nursing Impact, we unite planetary health, diversity and belonging, and simulation education under one shared vision: advancing humanity through impact. By weaving innovation, cultural responsiveness, and global engagement into every learning moment, we aim to uplift lives, fortify communities, and shape a compassionate, courageous future.

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

It is with deep gratitude and an unwavering commitment that I embraced the role of inaugural Associate Dean of Nursing Impact at Yale School of Nursing (YSN). Together, we stand at the threshold of a new era, one defined by our shared commitment to Inclusive Brilliance (IB), where every voice, every perspective, and every talent across our beloved community is weaved into the very fabric of our shared mission.

The Office of Nursing Impact (ONI) brings together three dynamic teams across our school: the Office of Planetary Health and Global Engagement (PaGE), whose bidirectional partnerships amplify our reach and responsibility for human health across our planet; the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) which ensures our community values are not only spoken, but deeply lived; and the Yale Simulation Unit (YSN-SU), where the future of clinical education unfolds via immersive, human-centered learning that sharpen our learners’ clinical acumen.

Each of these teams carries its own distinct expertise, yet they are deeply united by a singular vision: to advance humanity through impact.

In the years ahead, you will witness their integration in purposeful and intentional ways. From simulation experiences grounded in person-centered care and human dignity, to planetary health initiatives that address the urgent and intersecting challenges of our time, such as climate disruption, pandemics, biodiversity loss, and global inequity, we are committed to weaving our expertise seamlessly into every learning moment. In doing so, we strive to build a model of education that is innovative, culturally responsive, and globally engaged; thus, transforming not only how we teach and learn, but also how we lead and serve. Our success is not solely measured in metrics, but ultimately in the lives uplifted, the communities fortified, and the future shaped by compassion, courage, and a spirit of collaboration.

It is a humble honor to serve in this capacity and a true privilege to lead alongside such dedicated colleagues and our wider community. I look forward to all that we will create, together.

Most Humbly,

Christine Rodriguez

Associate Dean of Nursing Impact

See All Features in this Annual Report

Click here to see the full report