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Karen T. Pardue, Ph.D., M.S., RN, CNE, ANEF, dean of the �Թϱ���’s Westbrook College of Health Professions (WCHP), has been elected a distinguished fellow of the National Academies of Practice (NAP) in nursing.

Founded in 1981, the NAP is a nonprofit organization founded to advise governmental bodies on the health care system.

The association honors the scholarship and contributions of health profession disciplines — including medicine, nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and social work — toward interprofessional practice. Those elected to distinguished positions within the NAP are considered to be recognized leaders in their professions.

“It is truly an honor to have my scholarship recognized by the National Academies of Practice,” said Pardue, also a professor in the School of Nursing and Population Health. “I look forward to this national opportunity to influence clinical practice, education, research, and health policy.”

Pardue added that her election is a testament to �Թϱ���’s reputation as a national leader in interprofessional education and collaborative practice.  

“Our work in the Westbrook College of Health Professions and across �Թϱ��� aligns with NAP’s mission to advance collaborative, well-coordinated, quality health care for all,” she said. “The newly launched Center for Excellence in Collaborative Education strengthens this institutional priority and commitment.”

Pardue was appointed as dean of the WCHP in June of 2018. Previously, she served as the interim dean of the college during the 2017-2018 academic year.

In her role, Pardue heads �Թϱ���’s programs in Nursing; Nurse Anesthesia; Nutrition; Dental Hygiene; Physician Assistant; Public Health; Social Work; Applied Exercise Science; Athletic Training; Physical Therapy; Occupational Therapy; and Health, Wellness, And Occupational Studies.

Prior to 2018, Pardue served as WCHP’s associate dean for Academic Affairs (2011-2017) and its assistant dean for Undergraduate Education (2009-2011).

She joined the Department of Nursing faculty in 1996, rising to the position of department director in 2008. Before coming to �Թϱ���, Pardue was a faculty member in the University of Hartford’s College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions in West Hartford, Connecticut.