Graceland’s heralded School of Nursing continues to be a leader in nurse education
Graceland University is proud to announce that its School of Nursing has been ranked the #2 nurse practitioner program in the state of Iowa by RegisteredNursing.org. This prestigious recognition reflects the school’s dedication to excellence in education, clinical practice, and preparing future leaders in healthcare.
The ranking places Graceland’s program among the top choices for aspiring nurse practitioners, underscoring the university’s commitment to high-quality instruction and hands-on learning.
Dr. Sharon Little-Stoetzel, Dean of the School of Nursing, expressed her pride in the accomplishment, saying, “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. We focus on preparing nurse practitioners who are not only skilled clinicians but also compassionate, thoughtful professionals who make a difference in their communities. I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
Graceland’s nurse practitioner program is known for its rigorous academic standards and personalized support, helping students excel in their careers. With a combination of innovative curriculum and real-world clinical experiences, the program equips graduates to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. Graceland offers master’s of nursing in three online options: family nurse practitioner, acute care adult gerontology nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Students can also gain certificates in those same disciplines and a post-graduate educator certificate. View all Graceland’s nursing programs.
This recognition reaffirms Graceland’s position as a leader in nursing education and strengthens the university’s mission to empower students for meaningful lives and productive careers.
Press Release
September 8, 2026
Students interested in becoming athletic trainers now have a faster and more affordable path to a master’s degree through a new partnership between Graceland University and Grand View University. The new program offers both 3+2 and 4+2 options for earning both an undergraduate degree in Allied Heath from Graceland followed by the Master of Science in Athletic Training from Grand View.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
September 2, 2026
Graceland University mourns the passing of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who died Sept. 1, 2026. An alumna, longtime faculty member and university leader, O’Daniels dedicated nearly 40 years to serving Graceland and its students.
Press Release
August 31, 2026
Graceland University and Logan University have established a new 3+3 articulation agreement that provides Graceland Allied Health students with an accelerated pathway to earning both a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 20, 2026
Michelle Fillinger ’97 Schamp has been named Associate Dean and Executive Director of Residence Life. In this role, she will provide leadership for the university’s residence life program while fostering a residential experience that supports student learning, leadership, and community.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
July 6, 2026
Graceland University has named Dr. LaVerne Manos as the new Dean of the School of Nursing effective July 31.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for Graceland University men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
