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Institutional Advancement

College of Nursing Dean’s Circle

Join the CON Dean’s Circle

Support the education of the next generation of nurses. Learn more about membership courtesies at the link below.

Join or Renew Your Membership

About the College of Nursing Dean’s Circle

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences seal for the College of Nursing, featuring a circular emblem with the university name, a central shield labeled “Nursing,” a lamp symbol, the motto “To Teach, To Serve, To Research,” and the year 1953.

The College of Nursing Dean’s Circle brings together alumni, faculty, staff, and friends who are committed to strengthening the nursing workforce across Arkansas.

Your support provides flexible funding that advances nursing education, expands clinical training opportunities, and equips students and faculty with the tools they need to serve patients in hospitals, clinics, and rural communities throughout the state.

Members at every level are leaders in their commitment to advancing nursing education.

Meet the Dean

Headshot of Sarah J. Rhoads, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Nursing

Sarah Jane Rhoads, Ph.D., DNP, FAAN
Dean and Professor
College of Nursing
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Your Support Makes Possible

Dean’s Circle gifts have made possible meaningful investments in nursing education and student success, including:

  • Students’ attendance at the Southern Nursing Research Society Conference
  • Simulation training and EPIC electronic health record preparation
  • Faculty and student leadership development
  • Emergency aid to support students facing financial hardship
  • Educational and research equipment

Together, Dean’s Circle members are helping build a stronger, more prepared nursing workforce for Arkansas.

Current Members

Alphabetical order by last name.

  • John C. Byrd, M.D. and Laura Byrd
  • Sarah A. Carter, M.D.
  • Patricia Cowan, Ph.D. and Dwight Cowan
  • Fern Cross
  • Pat Dodson
  • The Honorable Mike Gibson and Mrs. Marsha Gibson
  • Donna L. Gullette, Ph.D., RN, APRN, ACNP-BC, AGACNP-BC
  • Dr. Linda C. Hodges and Mr. Robert C. Orr
  • Sara Tucker Jouett
  • Christy A. Low
  • Susan R. Manley, M.D. and Michael O. Manley
  • Becky and Billy May
  • Richard Estelita and Charles Penix
  • Sarah J. Rhoads, Ph.D., DNP, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB, APRN
  • Cheryl K. Schmidt, Ph.D. and Michael J. Schmidt, M.D.
  • Mike Spades, Jr.
  • The Judd Hill Foundation Trust
  • Trish Wright, Ph.D.

Updated 2025.