After a year and a half of meticulous planning, the USF College of Nursing marked its 50th Celebration Week with a series of five signature events that captivated faculty, staff, students, and supporters.

The Buzz on Nursing: Past, Present, and Future
The week commenced with a jolt of excitement during our first event, “The Buzz on Nursing: Past, Present, and Future,” where Buddy Brew Coffee and breakfast boards fueled attendees. Dr. Lockwood, executive vice president of USF Health joined Dean Menon and Dr. Alicia Rossiter to share in the telling of the college’s rich academic history. We initiated the process of filling our Time Capsule with items that capture the essence of our College's history, achievements, and aspirations. This Time Capsule will serve as a tangible connection between our past and future, preserving the legacy we have built and the dreams we hold dear. We look forward to the day when we will bury this Time Capsule, symbolizing our commitment to shaping the future of nursing.

The Alexander and Victoria L. Rich Distinguished Lecture
On Tuesday, the much-anticipated Alexander and Victoria L. Rich Distinguished Lecture brought retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Michaela Rae Shafer, PhD, MSN, RN to the college. Dr. Shafer's presentation, "Shattered, Suffering, and Silenced: Sharon's Story," resonated deeply with the many faculty, staff, and students in attendance and highlighted the gravity of patient safety protocols. 

BBQ & Trivia
Wednesday brought food and fun to the celebration in the form of BBQ lunch, ice cream treats, and a nursing trivia event hosted by the college's very own Director of Wellbeing Amelia Phillips.

Golden Jubilee Gala
Thursday night marked the pinnacle of the 50th Celebration Week with the Golden Jubilee Gala, presented by Tampa General Hospital, held at the elegant Tampa Museum of Art. The event had been sold out for months, reflecting the widespread support for the college. The evening featured heartfelt sentiments from Dr. Charly Lockwood, Kelly Cullen, Judy Genshaft, and Dean Menon. The keynote speaker for the evening was Allison Massari, who shared her extraordinary story of triumph after burning alive.

Retro Skate Party
Friday afternoon featured a Retro Skate Party that transported everyone back in time. United Skates of America venue decked out in neon lights and disco balls, and participants donned their best '70s, '80s, and even '90s attire!

The USF College of Nursing's 50th Celebration Week left a lasting impact. This historic occasion not only celebrated the college's rich history, but paved the way for an even brighter future for our future bull nurses. The week's events have instilled a profound sense of pride around our shared vision for the next 50 years of nursing excellence!

We kicked-off our 50th year with the inaugural Scrub Run 5K in February. Get your running or walking shoes ready for our second annual Scrub Run 5k on Saturday, February 17, 2024!

Funds raised from this event will be used to support student success at the college as it continues to grow. So scrub in, lace up, and help us honor the nursing workforce- past, present, and future.

Register now