Professor appointed School of Nursing PhD Program director

Professor Becky Christian, Ph.D., R.N., has been appointed director of the University of Louisville School of Nursing’s Ph.D. Program.

She will assume the role on July 1 and will begin working closely with Ph.D. students and collaborating with Lee Ridner, Ph.D., F.N.P.-B.C., School of Nursing associate dean for graduate programs, regarding operations of the program.

“Becky brings a wealth of experience throughout her career in teaching, mentoring and advising doctoral students, plus serving as a department chair,” said School of Nursing Dean Marcia J. Hern, Ed.D., C.N.S., R.N.

Professor Carla Hermann, Ph.D., R.N., is stepping down as Ph.D. Program director to focus more of her time on research. Hermann has made extensive contributions during the past six years in this role.

“Carla has done a wonderful job as director in advising and recruiting students, helping them grow as nurse scientists, with six of our graduates becoming post-doctoral fellows at other prestigious nursing schools,” Hern said. “She also conducted a very thorough and positive external review of the program during her tenure and has definitely made the office work extremely effective.”