UA Capstone College of Nursing Welcomes Hill Crest Foundation Visiting Professor in Nursing
The Capstone College of Nursing is pleased to welcome Dr. Leigh Holley, who joined The University of Alabama as the Hill Crest Foundation Visiting Professor in Nursing in January. Dr. Holley brings expertise developed through teaching at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels as well as teaching NCLEX prep for new graduates nationally. In the last several years, she has served as a consultant in both higher education and legal forums.
“Dr. Holley’s qualifications align perfectly with the needs of the College at this time,” said Dean Julie Sanford. “We could not be more excited to have her join us.”
Dr. Holley’s work will focus on curriculum development and implementation of a master’s entry practice nursing degree (MEPN) at the College that allows students who previously earned a bachelor’s degree in another major to enroll on a track to become a master’s level practicing nurse.
“My hope as the inaugural Hill Crest Visiting Professor is that CCN can expand Alabama’s accessibility to health care through more providers offering quality care, thereby improving health outcomes statewide,” said Dr. Holley. “I believe the MEPN offers an excellent opportunity in the form of an accelerated pathway for those desiring an advanced nursing degree and career in health care.”
“I am hopeful this program can improve health and wellness by increasing the number of nursing providers caring for Alabama and across the entire mid-south.”
“We are proud to be offering the MEPN, a progressive new program at CCN that will help us meet the growing health care needs of this state. Dr. Holley’s background and expertise will ensure the success of this essential program,” shared Dr. Amy Lee, CCN Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.
In 2024, Hill Crest Foundation, Inc., pledged $250,000 ($50,000 annually for five years) to create this visiting professor position. The addition of named visiting faculty positions allows the College to attract and retain nationally recognized scholars and experts in the field of nursing, like Dr. Holley, who will further the quality of teaching and research at the Capstone College of Nursing.
“We are happy to partner with The University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing and are thrilled to see that Dr. Holley’s work will be used to address the nursing shortage,” said Mr. Charles R. Terry, Jr., Director of Hill Crest Foundation.
Dean Sanford added, “It is the generosity of donors, like Mr. Terry and the Hill Crest Foundation, that best positions the Capstone College of Nursing to address the needs of our community. We are extremely grateful for their partnership in this endeavor and look forward to welcoming our first MEPN cohort in 2025.”