FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - The College of Education and Health Professions announces the appointment of Thomas A. Kippenbrock to direct the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing, commencing July 1, 2003.

"We are pleased that a nationwide search attracted Dr. Kippenbrock to the university. He brings the experience and enthusiasm necessary to lead the continuing growth of the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing," said Reed Greenwood, dean of the college. "He combines experience in research-intensive nursing institutions with a demonstrated commitment to developing advanced nursing degree programs."

Kippenbrock replaces Marianne Neighbors, professor in the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing, who had served as interim director of the school.

"I value the research-focused environment of the University of Arkansas and the opportunities for interdisciplinary research on campus and in the community," Kippenbrock said. "I also welcome the challenge of working with faculty and the healthcare community to initiate graduate nursing programs, especially in light of the support the UA administration has shown nursing education."

Kippenbrock said that it can be challenging to bring together the human resources and the faculty required to increase enrollment. The university recently provided funding necessary to nearly double enrollment in the nursing program, making it possible for 60 new students to enter the Mann School in 2003.

Kippenbrock received his master’s in nursing and his doctorate in higher education administration from Indiana University, where he went on to serve as assistant chair of nursing administration and teacher education from 1989 to 1993. In addition, he served as associate dean and interim director of the University of San Francisco School of Nursing and as assistant dean of the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing. Most recently, as chair of the nursing department in the Arkansas State University College of Nursing and Health Professions, he launched the first nurse anesthetist program in the state.

Kippenbrock’s research and publication contributions have focused on men’s health, men in the nursing profession, and advanced practice nurses in rural areas, particularly in the Mississippi Delta and southern states. His scholarly publications also include examinations of professional issues and practices, such as hospitalized patient falls, student attrition, and nursing administrator turnover.

In addition to his academic experience, Kippenbrock brings extensive professional practice to the position. He has more than seven years working experience in hospitals, including positions as surgical and medical ICU staff/charge nurse and as clinical research nurse coordinator at both university and public hospitals in Indiana and Nebraska.

He has been recognized for achievements in nursing and in research, including receiving the 1993 Excellence in Research Award from the Indiana chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the nursing honorary society. The University of Nebraska Medical Center honored him for Achievements in Nursing in 1995.