Dr. Courtney Ross appointed dean of GSW’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences

AMERICUS, GA (December 4, 2024) – Georgia Southwestern State University is excited to announce the appointment of Courtney Ross (’07), RN, CNL, NE-BC, as the next dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, as well as the inaugural recipient of the Sandra Daniel Endowed Chair. Ross will officially begin his role on Jan. 15, 2025.

Ross, a native of Americus, Ga., has over 20 years of experience in collegiate and post-secondary education, holding various academic and leadership roles such as collegiate instructor, course manager, clinical faculty, division chair, department chair, associate dean, dean, and interim vice president for academic affairs. His professional background also includes serving as a faculty member, program chair, charge nurse, and subject matter expert, as well as leading academic and clinical partnerships to improve health outcomes in diverse communities.

“As an alum of Georgia Southwestern State University, I consider it both an honor and privilege to serve as the next Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences,” stated Ross. “I look forward to building upon the generational legacy that has had a profound impact across communities – locally, regionally, and nationally. I am thrilled to work alongside the outstanding faculty and staff, as well as our community stakeholders and affiliates, as we continue providing a solid educational foundation to those desiring to pursue careers within the nursing and health sciences fields.”

Ross holds a Doctor of Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina, a Master of Science in Biomedical Science from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, a Master of Science in Nursing from Augusta University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Georgia Southwestern State University. He is a registered nurse with dual certifications as a clinical nurse leader (CNL) and Nurse Executive (NE-BC). Ross is an active member of the American Nurses Association and the National League for Nursing.

“Dr. Ross brings diverse experience, dedication, and leadership to this important role as we continue to advance our mission of providing exceptional healthcare education and services,” stated Jill Drake, Ed.D., provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “We are confident his leadership, vision, and commitment to student success will inspire the continued growth and excellence of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Courtney Ross to GSW, where his expertise will help shape the next generation of nursing professionals and healthcare leaders.”

Ross currently serves as the dean of nursing and chief nurse administrator/educator at St. Paul’s School of Nursing in Staten Island, N.Y., as well as a virtual faculty member and subject matter expert at Walden University College of Nursing in Minneapolis, Minn. He previously served as dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions as well as interim vice president of academic affairs at Baltimore City Community College in Baltimore, Md.

In his previous roles, Ross has demonstrated a proven ability to foster innovation and excellence in both education and patient care. His leadership in program development, strategic planning, and accreditation processes has led to the successful growth and expansion of nursing programs in several institutions. Furthermore, Ross has been an advocate for faculty development, building collaborative environments that empower faculty and students alike to engage in high-impact learning experiences.

Ross’s work has contributed to the improvement of healthcare systems and nursing practices. His experience in grant writing and securing funding has furthered institutional goals related to research and student success. His commitment to advancing nursing education through evidence-based practices and interprofessional collaboration will be invaluable as he leads GSW’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

“We want to thank Dr. Teresa Teasley for serving as interim dean, Dr. Michele Ragsdale for her role as interim associate dean of undergraduate programs, and Dr. Jessica Ouzts for her service as interim ASN coordinator,” said Drake. “Their dedication and leadership during this transitional period have been invaluable. Additionally, we want to extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Rachel Abbott for her role as chair of the search committee and to the committee members for their dedication and hard work.”

GSW looks forward to his leadership in advancing our mission of preparing students for careers that make a lasting impact on health and well-being in our community and beyond.