Supporting men in nursing

NIU’s School of Nursing has once again been recognized for being a Best School for Men in Nursing by the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN). It is the third time since 2017 that the nursing program has earned this distinction.

“The award is a testament to the inclusive environment of the school, especially in a traditionally female-dominated profession,” said Professor Cristan Sabio, NIU School of Nursing. “It is a nod to the faculty who provide the mentoring, guidance and encouragement for all students to succeed.”

The recognition is also an acknowledgement to the school’s efforts in recruiting and retaining men in nursing along with providing a supportive educational environment and raising awareness regarding the contributions men make to the nursing profession.

The Northern Prairie Alliance (NPA), NIU’s local chapter of the AAMN, submitted the successful application for the honor. Alexa Bachara is the current NPA president, and Sabio serves as the faculty advisor.

“If it isn’t the school’s outstanding reputation for cultivating and fostering student education, it’s the professors who make it the great school it is,” said Jonas Sales, former president of the NPA and 2024 School of Nursing alum.

The NIU program was evaluated on criteria including number of male graduates, pass rates for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), number of male faculty and community involvement.

“It’s important to give a huge thanks to Jonas, the former and current executive board members of the NPA, and the regular membership for making this award possible,” Sabio said. “Their commitment to the school and the university cannot be understated.”

Sabio, along with current and former executive NPA board members accepted the award during the AAMN annual conference held on Oct. 17 in St. Louis, Missouri.