Radford University names Wendy Downey dean of the College of Nursing
Radford, VA (06/28/2024) — Radford University has selected Wendy Downey, D.N.P., as dean of the College of Nursing, following her successful tenure as interim dean.
During her two-year tenure as interim dean, Downey led several transformative initiatives. She was instrumental in renaming the School of Nursing, making Radford University the first public institution in Virginia to establish a College of Nursing. Additionally, she secured full CCNE accreditation for all nursing programs in 2023 and obtained a significant gift for the newly named JoAnn Bingham Clinical Simulation Center.
"Wendy has already been transformative as a leader of Radford's Nursing programs," Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Bethany Usher, said. "With her vision, Dr. Downey has led Radford to graduate excellent nurses and has spearheaded initiatives to improve health and well-being in Southwest Virginia and the Commonwealth."
Under Downey's leadership, student enrollment in the College of Nursing has surged, making it the second largest college at Radford University. Her innovative programs, including Direct Admission to the BSN for freshmen, the Nursing Undergraduate Recruitment Success and Engagement (NURSE) Program, and the Nursing Living Learning Community, have significantly boosted student recruitment and success.
"I am thrilled and humbled to be selected as the permanent Dean of the College of Nursing," Downey said. "We have substantial momentum built from our college's accomplishments over the past two years, and I am confident we will continue to excel, delivering the highest quality nursing education in Virginia."
Radford University is committed to being the premier destination for health education in Virginia, and to leading healthy communities in Southwest Virginia. The College of Nursing, under Downey's leadership, will play a key role in supporting this goal.
Downey brings over 35 years of experience in healthcare, leadership and academia. As a second-career nurse and exercise physiologist, Downey has extensive relationships in healthcare and communities across the New River and Roanoke Valleys. Her previous roles at Carilion Clinic, LewisGale Regional Health System, and Good Samaritan Hospice highlight her commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and healthcare excellence.
She will continue to serve as a tenured associate professor alongside her new role as dean.
Media Attachments
Wendy Downey, D.N.P., dean of the College of Nursing
Radford University
Justin Ward (540) 831-1953, jward53@radford.eduShare this Story
Recent News
- Radford University father-son duo graduating together, find home in respiratory therapy
- Media Advisory: Radford University Hosts Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies
- Radford University design students collaborate with developer to reimagine downtown spaces
- Experts Available: Shrinking Economy; Trump's First 100 Days; Food Insecurity; National Wildfire Awareness Month
- Radford University Celebrates Inaugural Teacher Apprentices Cohort on National Apprenticeship Day
- HAPPENING TODAY: Radford University Interior Design Students to Present Community-Focused Concepts for Downtown Revitalization
- Rachel Marie-Crane Williams named dean of Radford University's College of Visual and Performing Arts
- Kwabena Osei-Sarpong '05 to speak at Radford University 2025 Spring Commencement
- Radford University Earns 2025-2026 Military Friendly School - Gold Designation
- Radford University professors bridge STEM and music for early learners