McMurry University proudly announces its full ownership of the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing (PHSSN) as it celebrates 100 years of nursing education excellence in Abilene. This pivotal transition highlights McMurry’s commitment to preserving and building upon PHSSN’s century-long legacy as a leader in preparing compassionate and skilled nursing professionals.
“For a century, Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing has set the standard for nursing education in West Texas,” said McMurry President Dr. Sandra S. Harper. “As we honor this legacy during PHSSN’s Centennial year, McMurry is excited to take the reins fully, ensuring a bright and innovative future for our nursing program.”
With full ownership, McMurry University is positioned to invest directly in PHSSN’s growth and reputation, solidifying its role as a regional hub for nursing excellence. The change enables McMurry to provide stability, enhanced resources, faculty support, and a renewed focus on excellence to strengthen the program and meet the evolving demands of healthcare education. In alignment with these goals, McMurry announced a strategic partnership with Texas Wesleyan University in December that will provide students completing Texas Wesleyan’s Associate of Arts in Science (pending SACSCOC approval) a seamless pathway to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through McMurry.
With a 96% first-time NCLEX national licensure exam pass rate, full program approval from the Texas Board of Nursing, and accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the McMurry nursing program is committed to delivering a rigorous, patient-centered education that prepares students for success in healthcare. Graduates of the program are eligible to earn licensure as bachelor-prepared registered nurses and/or master-prepared advanced practice registered nurses, entering the workforce equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to provide exceptional care.
“We are excited about the opportunities this transition brings for our program and students,” said Dr. Donalyn Alexander, dean of PHSSN. “McMurry’s full ownership allows us to offer a cohesive and enriched educational experience, drive innovation in healthcare education, and strengthen collaborations with our healthcare partners. With McMurry’s and PHSSN’s strong reputations, resources, and extensive network, we are well-positioned to recruit and graduate exceptional nurses, helping to address the growing demand for skilled professionals while ensuring our graduates embody compassion, dedication, and professionalism throughout their careers.”
“The Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing has been a cornerstone of the Hendrick Health campus for years, producing outstanding nurses who go on to serve our community with excellence and compassion,” said Hendrick Health CEO Brad Holland. “McMurry’s leadership ensures this legacy will continue, and we are proud to support their commitment to advancing nursing education. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership as we work together to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
The community is invited to join in celebrating the McMurry University Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing centennial at the official ribbon-cutting and grand opening on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at 2149 Hickory St, Abilene, TX 79601.
For more information about the McMurry University Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing and its programs, visit mcm.edu/nursing.
Contact
Nicholas Ocheltree, Director of Integrated Communications
ocheltree.nick@mcm.edu
325-260-3963
