The College of Nursing and Health Sciences recognized two distinguished faculty members—Jennifer Laurent, Ph.D., APRN, and Rebecca Nagle, D.N.P., APRN—with prestigious endowed professorships during a campus ceremony held on May 13.
Laurent was named the inaugural Holly D. and Robert E. Miller Professor of Clinical Practice in Nursing, while Nagle was appointed the Holly D. and Robert E. Miller Green and Gold Professor of Nursing. These honors celebrate the enduring philanthropic legacy of the late Holly and Bob Miller, whose generosity continues to shape healthcare education and practice throughout Vermont.
“These professorships are a testament to the Millers’ extraordinary commitment to improving the healthcare experience for patients and families,” said Noma Anderson, Ph.D., dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. “Dr. Laurent and Dr. Nagle exemplify the excellence, compassion, and innovation that define our college. Their work not only advances nursing education and clinical practice but also inspires the next generation of healthcare leaders.”
The ceremony was led by Rosemary Dale, Ed.D., APRN, CNHS associate dean for clinical practice, clinical professor of nursing leadership, and chair of the Department of Nursing, who introduced the honorees and presented them with their medallions.
Laurent, a UVM faculty member for over 20 years, is widely recognized for her research on childhood obesity, with influential publications in JAMA and Nature Neuroscience. She has played a pivotal role in mentoring nurse practitioner students and advancing primary care education. In addition to being named the Holly D. and Robert E. Miller Professor of Clinical Practice in Nursing, Laurent holds the Holly D. and Robert E. Miller Endowed Professorship of Nursing Practice.
Nagle, a UVM alumna and faculty member for more than two decades, has led innovations in pediatric nursing, integrative health, and compassionate care. Her pioneering work in culinary medicine and planetary health has helped shape a more holistic and sustainable approach to nursing education.
These endowed professorships are part of a broader legacy of giving by the Millers, whose support has enriched numerous institutions in Vermont.
