In an official ceremony hosted by Chancellor Carol Folt, UNC-Chapel Hill welcomed Dean Nilda (Nena) Peragallo Montano to Carolina and the School of Nursing community yesterday. Members of the faculty and staff joined current students, retired faculty, alumni, campus officials and local media at the event, which was held at the Carolina Club at the George Watts Hill Alumni Center on campus.
Chancellor Folt highlighted the pioneering spirit that has been a hallmark of Carolina Nursing throughout its history, claiming many firsts in nursing education in North Carolina and in service to the people of the state. She joined Provost Dean in thanking the search committee for their efforts in securing Peragallo Montano for Carolina Nursing, both hailing her as a fitting leader to drive further innovations in education and to advance the research and service missions of the School.
Folt also thanked Dr. Donna Havens, for her great work as interim dean of the School for more than two years.
Peragallo Montano used her time at the podium to thank everyone for the warm welcome to UNC: “Southern hospitality is alive and well here at Carolina,” she said. Of her decision to leave her 13.5-year post as dean and professor at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Sciences, she said “I wouldn’t have left Miami for just any position. It took something as unique and exciting as the opportunity to lead this School of Nursing at this world class University on this beautiful campus to lure me away.”
Welcome, Nena!
Media related to Nena’s welcome:
UNC hopes to help in nationwide nursing shortage — ABC 11
UNC announces Nilda Peragalla Montano as the new dean of the School of Nursing — The Daily Tar Heel