Colleen Conway-Welch,
CNM, PhD, FAAN, FACNM, passed away on October 12 after a courageous battle with
cancer. A true nursing education pioneer and visionary, Dr. Conway-Welch served as dean
of the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing (VUSN) for 29 years from 1984
until 2013, when she was named dean emeritus. She transformed nursing education
there, pursuing innovation and launching its accelerated master's degree
program and its PhD and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. Under her leadership,
VUSN became a nationally ranked professional school known for its excellence
and innovation. Dr. Conway-Welch was also known as a strong advocate of advanced practice
nurses and a leader who put others first and inspired them to excellence. She
was active nationally in health policy and education and served on numerous
national health committees. For her many extraordinary contributions to the
profession, the American Academy of Nursing in 2016 named her a Living
Legend.
Read the Vanderbilt University release.
About ACNM
With 6500 members, ACNM is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. ACNM promotes excellence in midwifery education, clinical practice, and research. With roots dating to 1929, our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM provides research, administers and promotes continuing education programs, establishes clinical practice standards, and creates liaisons with state and federal agencies and members of Congress to increase the visibility and recognition of midwifery care.
American College of Nurse-Midwives
409 12th St SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024-2188
Phone: 240.485.1800
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