Jacob Fuhrer |
When she came to UP in 2005, Joanne Warner only intended to interview for a faculty position – which she got.
But when the associate dean of the School of Nursing announced her departure during Warner’s first week, she saw an opportunity and took it. She rose quickly through the ranks and took the dean’s chair.
All that will change come July, when Warner will step aside and begin her retirement.
Nursing was Warner’s chosen career since second grade, a goal she says she maintained throughout her life – minus a brief stint when she considered drama.
“[Nursing] has been such an exquisite match with what I wanted to do in the world,” she said. “I love the challenge of deep science and deep knowledge.”
Emmy Rosinbum, Warner’s administrative assistant who worked with her for nearly nine years, will be sad to see her go.
“She’s had a profound influence on my life,” Rosinbum said. “She’s warm and caring and values everyone.”
Rosinbum lauded Warner’s ability to create a comfortable workplace and welcoming culture within the School of Nursing.
Warner says nursing requires a balance of cognitive abilities, knowledge and an authentic connection to people who are in need. She believes there is great power in understanding the politics behind healthcare.
“If you can influence policy, you can influence the community, the nation, the world,” she said.
Warner was the first graduate of Indiana University to receive a doctorate in health policy.
She later took her skills to the state legislature, managing four successful campaigns and two school board campaigns.
She is pleased with what she has been able to accomplish as dean of the School of Nursing.
“My biggest point of pride is building a team of faculty and staff that is second to none,” she said.
Warner said she hopes her position is filled by someone who will continue the strong trajectory, innovation and sense of excitement that students and faculty have in the School of Nursing.
Provost Thomas Greene says UP is in the beginning stages of the hiring process for the new dean and is assembling a search committee to review candidates.
“We want the new Dean to continue to foster the best in nursing education right here on the Bluff,” he said in an email.
As for Warner, she says she will miss the people at UP the most.
“UP is a very special place with a profound community,” she said.
Jacob Fuhrer is a reporter for The Beacon. He can be reached at fuhrer17@up.edu.
