Washburn University School of Nursing celebrates 50 year anniversary

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Topeka community members are invited to stop by Washburn University (WU) to help celebrate its nursing school’s 50th anniversary next month.

WU announced on April 11 in a press release that its nursing program is celebrating 50 years of service in May. The celebration, which is open for all to attend, consists of an open house and showcase in honor of WU’s nurses.

“Washburn nursing graduates serve as the core of health care providers in Northeast Kansas, and we are so proud to honor and continue this legacy,” said Dr. Jane Carpenter, dean, Washburn University School of Nursing. “Throughout 2024, we are hosting several events that recognize the vital role Washburn nurses play in our communities as well as the exciting future that lies ahead.”

WU spokeswoman Lori Hutchinson says this event features interactive opportunities such as tours of the Washburn mobile health clinic, a kid’s station with hands-on activities, demonstrations in learning and simulation labs along with a photo booth and refreshments. Alumni can share memories of WU’s School of Nursing and and see posters made by current students.

“We want to create a fun event that alumni, friends and the community can enjoy alongside current students, faculty and staff,” said Lori Edwards, associate professor of nursing, Washburn University, and co-chair of 50th anniversary committee. “This is an important milestone for Washburn and our community, and we are looking forward to reconnecting with other alumni and former students as we celebrate the special place that is Washburn.”

Emporia locals rally to save Quaker Park

While the event is free and open for the public to attend, registration is encouraged ahead of time. People are encouraged to bring canned goods, non-perishables and/or personal hygiene items to help stock the Bods Feeding Bods Food and Commodities Pantry to help WU students.

Hutchinson says a more formal celebration for WU’s School of Nursing is set for Saturday, Sept. 28 with more details to be released at a later date. The open house is scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 3 at Petro Allied Health Center on WU’s campus.

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.