Photo of Judy Neubrander

Judy Neubrander

Illinois State University Provost Janet Krejci has named Judy Neubrander the new dean of the Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN).

“The Mennonite College of Nursing’s rich history and strong programs provide a solid foundation for the future,” said Neubrander. “I look forward to collaborating with the college’s faculty, staff, students, alumni, and constituents as we work together to continue to move the college forward.”

Neubrander comes to Illinois State from Western Carolina University, where she served as director of the School of Nursing. During her tenure, she led the implementation of a doctorate of nursing practice program, created the School of Nursing Development Council, and has secured more than $3 million in funding from organizations—including the Health Resources and Services Administration—to enhance access and increase diversity in nursing. She was also instrumental in the planning and development of a new College of Health and Human Sciences building on the campus.

“Dr. Neubrander’s talents and experience are a perfect fit for the Mennonite College of Nursing,” said Provost Krejci. “She is clearly a mission-driven visionary leader, with lived values that align with MCN, our Educating Illinois mission and our outstanding nursing programs, faculty, and staff.”

Neubrander’s nursing and administrative research has appeared in such scholarly publications as the American Journal of Nursing, the International Journal of Orthopaedic and Trauma Nursing, the Journal of Best Practices in Health Professions Diversity: Research, Education and Policy, and the Journal of Professional Nursing. Neubrander has made presentations across the United States on the importance of diversity in the nursing workforce, as well as improving faculty and student performance.

An active nurse throughout her academic career, Neubrander is a nurse practitioner volunteer with the Good Samaritan Clinic of Jackson County, North Carolina, and has traveled to provide nursing services to Haiti and Ecuador.

Neubrander earned a family nurse practitioner post-graduate certificate from the University of Alabama, a bachelor’s degree in nursing from William Jewell College, a master’s degree in education and adult health from the University of Kansas, and a doctorate from North Carolina State University.

Contact Media Relations at (309) 438-5631 or MediaRelations@IllinoisState.edu