Tara Hulsey, PhD, RN, CNE, FAAN, dean of the WVU School of Nursing.

How would you describe yourself as an academic leader?

I enjoy building teams and strategic vision. I view the academic unit as a team and value the unique strengths each member of the team brings to the organization. I am passionate about the nursing profession and the students that we have the privilege to teach.

What appeals to you about the WVU School of Nursing?

I share the values held by the WVU School of Nursing. Caring is the essence of our profession, and service goes hand in hand with that. I also value diversity and enjoy a true exchange of ideas that happens when diversity is embraced.

What is something you have accomplished in your career that you take great pride in?

I am quite proud of the accomplishments made in my previous role as dean in Charleston, South Carolina. We tripled the bachelor of science in nursing enrollment, completed a $4 million building expansion for the college, and transitioned from a school of nursing to a college of nursing and allied health with programs in health promotion, kinesiology, physical education, and athletic training. Additionally, we developed and implemented the first master of science in nursing program for the university.

What is a challenge that you had to overcome in your career and how did it make you a stronger person?

I had to overcome a fear of taking risks. Early in my career, I tended to stay within areas that were familiar to me and to not think outside the box strategically. My participation in several national leadership fellowships, in particular the Robert Wood Johnson Executive Nurse Fellowship, helped me to overcome that challenge. I now know the benefits of taking risks as long as they are well thought through and informed ones.

What advice do you hope to offer your future students at WVU?

I would tell our nursing students that they have chosen a wonderful, challenging, rewarding profession and would encourage them to remember that learning does not end. Lifelong learning is paramount.