Marie O’Toole, EdD, RN, FAAN Associate Dean for Stratford Campus and Professor UMDNJ-School of Nursing Marie O’Toole brings to her new post a global perspective as well as a commitment to making a difference at the local level. A recognized expert on transcultural nursing, she has worked and studied in many international settings, including Africa, Cuba and Vietnam. “Yet,” says this Haddon Heights, NJ resident “in all my travels, I’ve come to realize how much I love Southern New Jersey. I am determined to help improve health outcomes in our communities in this part of the state.” Prior to coming to UMDNJ in May, O’Toole was chair and professor of the Department of Nursing at Nazareth College in Rochester, NY, where she received a federal grant to establish a transatlantic, dual-degree nursing program offered by Nazareth in conjunction with Laurea University of Applied Sciences in Vaanta, Finland and Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary. At UMDNJ-School of Nursing, O’Toole will explore grant opportunities to support student learning abroad. “Nursing students can expand their horizons by caring for diverse patients in diverse geopolitical settings while working alongside local healthcare professionals,” she notes. “The students gain a global perspective that enhances their ability to provide culturally competent care here in the U.S. and internationally.” O’Toole earned her BSN and MSN from the School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania and her EdD from the Graduate School of Education, Department of Social and Philosophical Foundations at Rutgers University. She is a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing and a 2003-2006 Robert Wood Johnson Executive Nurse Fellow. She received the U.S. President's Call to Service Award, for her more than 4,000 hours of service with Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO).

My baby graduated from Indiana University this past week end. With his degree in Optometry. I am so proud of him! He will be moving back to Indiana in a few weeks and starting his Optometry career back here (home). He will begin his new job on June 9, 2008, In Cincinnati, Ohio. His girlfriend also completed her (LPN) nursing degree this week also. She will stay at school and continue her degree to be an RN. This week my niece, Paula Ann also completed her RN (nursing degree) and she will graduate in December. Congratulations Drew, Steph and Paula! I am so proud of all 3 of you!