Regional health care leaders have determined that the nursing shortage has reached an all-time high and it is placing a strain on the Florida healthcare infrastructure. Barry University has responded by launching the Barry School of Nursing, formed from the foundation of the former College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the Nursing Program, originally created in 1953. The establishment of the School, led by a new dean, will accelerate the development of novel approaches to preparing the nursing workforce of the future. It will also unlock potentials for students and faculty to meet the demand and supply of entry-level professional nurses; nurses engaged in advanced practice; and nurse scientists and educators. The School will be housed in the newly structured College of Health and Wellness with the School of Social Work and all other health-related programs.
Dr. Tony Umadhay is named Dean of the Barry University School of Nursing.
Tony Umadhay, PhD, CRNA, APRN has been named Dean of the School of Nursing. Dr. Umadhay brings nearly thirty years of experience to the position, having served as a clinician, hospital manager, and educator. He has deep connections and strong affiliations with South Florida community health leaders and hospital organizations. He joined the Barry faculty in 2006 and recently served as associate dean of academic affairs. As associate dean, Dr. Umadhay expanded the use of simulation and online pedagogies in both undergraduate and graduate programs. He earned the rank of professor of anesthesiology and teaches across disciplines, bringing his expertise to a wide range of students. Dr. Umadhay is recognized nationally and internationally as a leader in his field as evidenced by grant awards, elections, and appointments by nursing professional groups, and achievement awards.
“As a nurse who migrated to fill critical US workforce gaps in the 1990’s, I am once again humbled by the opportunity to serve during this pivotal transition phase of the 2020 pandemic.” A native of the Philippines, Dean Umadhay is the first person of color to lead nursing at Barry University and the first known Filipino American male named dean of a school of nursing in the US.
The School of Nursing, complemented by other health-related programs in the College, will be well equipped to overcome the many barriers to educating more nurses: increasing support to faculty, providing more technology resources, building stronger clinical partnerships, and furnishing additional support to a diverse nursing student body.
“I am very pleased that Dr. Umadhay will be leading our newly launched School of Nursing at such an important time in our profession. I look forward to working with him to advance our programs and serve our community,” said Vice Provost of Health and Wellness, John McFadden
Barry University, School of Nursing is home to nationally recognized undergraduate (BSN), graduate (MSN), and doctoral programs (DNP, PhD). Learn more at www.barry.edu/nursing.
