Pat Benner announced as 2025 commencement speaker
March 20, 2025
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing is proud to announce that renowned nursing theorist, educator, and author Dr. Patricia Benner will deliver the keynote address at the School’s Spring Commencement Ceremony. The event will take place on May 9 at the Dean E. Smith Center, where graduates, faculty, families, and friends will gather to celebrate the next generation of Carolina Nurses.
Dr. Benner is widely recognized for her groundbreaking “From Novice to Expert” theory, which has shaped nursing education and practice around the world. Her work has transformed the way nurses are trained, emphasizing the development of clinical wisdom through experience and mentorship.
“We are honored to welcome Dr. Benner to Carolina Nursing,” said Valerie Howard, Dean of the UNC School of Nursing. “Her insights and contributions to nursing education have inspired countless nurses and educators. We look forward to her words of wisdom as we celebrate our graduates and their journey into the profession.”
Dr. Benner’s address promises to be a highlight of the ceremony, offering graduates a powerful message as they prepare to embark on their careers, carrying forward the School’s vision: Carolina Nurses lead the profession and improve lives for the public good.
