Leading during loss: Death of a beloved faculty member

In any job setting, the sudden or expected death of a coworker can cause profound grief and loss. Moreover, in academic settings there are unique challenges that warrant further discussion. Given the aging of the nursing professoriate, the shortage of nursing faculty, and the medical advances prolonging our life expectancy, we can forecast a greater frequency of loss of faculty while employed. The impact of a faculty member death on colleagues, staff, and students can cause great distress and therefore requires careful attention and consideration for all. As Deans and Directors at Schools of Nursing, how do we navigate grief and mourning, supporting others while experiencing some of the same feelings ourselves? This requires a careful balance, as our actions can create an impact on the culture and health of our colleges and schools of nursing and those who work and attend classes therein.