When I joined Graceland in 2017, I was acutely aware of the tradition of excellence that has existed as a part of this university’s DNA. One area that has been a shining example of that excellence for more than 50 years is the nursing program.
Initiated in 1910 as a partnership with the Independence Sanitarium and Hospital Diploma School of Nursing, the Graceland nursing program’s heritage dates back almost as far as the university itself. In the 1968-69 academic year, a brave group of junior students enrolled as Graceland’s first class of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) candidates, graduating two years later in 1971.
As we celebrate the 50th year of that class, I am inspired by the rich legacy our nursing students and faculty have brought to Graceland over the years. The brave and big thinking of people like Margaret McKevit, the first chair of the Division of Nursing and former trustee; Dr. Barbara Higdon, Graceland’s president from 1984-91; and Dr. Sherri Kirkpatrick, Graceland’s first Vice President and Dean of Nursing, laid a path for future generations of nursing students and for Graceland’s community.
We reflect on the past and stand in the present of our nursing program, well-aware that the future before us is one that will challenge us in new ways. We are inspired to conceive new and creative visions in allied health and other areas in which Graceland can continue to grow to meet the increasing needs of the community we serve and in the world we live.
Look how far we’ve come since the Graceland University School of Nursing first offered a bachelor’s degree! Our distance learning program led the way for existing nurses seeking to earn their BSN. Thousands of students from around the country have participated in our online programs over the years, and nursing students now have the ability to not only pursue their master’s degree, but they can now get their Doctor of Nursing Practice degree through Graceland’s only available doctoral program.
With all we’ve accomplished over the past 50 years, I am so excited to see what the next 50 years might bring as we continue to innovate and lead the way — not just in nursing, but in all Graceland’s academic programs.
Patricia H. Draves, PhD
President
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.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
Graceland University and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Press Release
April 6, 2026
Graceland University is proud to announce that Stassi Cramm, PhD, Prophet-President of the Community of Christ and a distinguished Graceland alumna, will serve as the keynote speaker for the University’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony. The ceremony will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, in the Morden Center
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 13, 2026
Graceland University is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 11, 2026
Graceland University has announced the promotion of longtime team member Steve Edwards to Executive Director of Marketing, recognizing more than three decades of service and leadership that have helped shape the university’s communications and brand.
Press Release
December 10, 2025
Graceland University is proud to announce that Sharon M....
