A school of nursing and the inaugural dean: A descriptive case study

Using descriptive case study methodology, the impact of an inaugural dean on a School of Nursing is explored from the perspective of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), the School Chairperson and the faculty and staff in the School. Advantages of this administrative structure were identified by the various constituencies. Faculty and staff identified consistent leadership, strategic planning, increased internal and external visibility of the School; and focus on faculty scholarship and development. From the VPAA's perspective, a dean was a buffer between him and the nursing faculty as well as someone who could resolve student issues without involving him. Allowing the dean to make decisions at the executive level provided the VPAA with the time to focus on other areas for which he was responsible. Creating the dean position also helped to indicate the School of Nursing's importance to Mount Saint Mary College (MSMC). Further research should be conducted on the impact of a dean on the community partners and on obtaining external funding, including alumni donations.