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When Dr. Gladys Sorensen, the University of Arizona College of Nursing’s second dean, passed away on January 3 the College lost one of its most iconic figures and consistent champions.
From 1958 until her passing, Dr. Sorensen was deeply involved in the College’s milestones and successes, wearing professional hats that included Professor (1958-1967 and 1987-1988), Dean (1967-1986) and Dean and Professor Emerita (1988-2021). As recently as 2019, at the age of 98, she was still active in the College’s achievements, taking a tour of the brand-new BSN-IH program’s facilities in Gilbert, Ariz. Photos of the event depict her wearing an infectious smile as she views the brand-new labs and classrooms.
“In my conversations with her sister, Jane Pinckert, I learned that Gladys was an avid world traveler, but one with a purpose,” said UArizona Nursing Dean Ki Moore, PhD, RN, FAAN. “She consulted on the development of nursing programs in a number of countries including Ghana and Korea. This dedication for nursing education was why Gladys was among the most respected national and international nursing leaders. At the heart of her passion was the student experience and Gladys loved attending our Scholarship Tea. She gave a memorable presentation about her time as Dean at our last “in-person” Tea and the entire room was encapsulated by her enthusiasm. We are blessed for her long history of advancing our College in research and education.”
During her tenure as dean, Dr. Sorensen led the College to national prominence in nursing education. She raised the profile of graduate education in the College, particularly the PhD program, to international prominence for its excellence in nursing research. Students and alumni celebrated her excellence as a teacher, both in clinical and classroom settings, and her leadership in national nursing organizations helped shape the future of nursing and nursing education.
Read more about Dr. Sorensen here.
To honor Dr. Sorensen, please consider a gift to the Christine Heide Sorensen Scholarship Endowment, a scholarship created by Gladys in honor of her mother. Bringing together great love for her mother and dedication to advanced practice in nursing, Dean Sorensen endowed this scholarship in 2014 to support students in our DNP and PhD programs. A gift to this fund is a tribute to Dean Sorensen and a meaningful way to continue her legacy.
Please join us for a virtual memorial service on Sunday, March14 from 1:00-2:00 Arizona Time. The program will include remarks from Dean Moore and others, an opportunity to share memories via the chat and a ceremony by the Nursing Honor Guard. More details coming soon on the College of Nursing website.
