Fall quarter update from Dean de Castro and other news from SU College of Nursing
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FALL NEWSLETTER
Fall Quarter Update from Dean Butch de Castro
The 2024-2025 academic year marks my second as Dean of the College of Nursing. Last year was a truly amazing experience for me—learning, living, and loving the culture and spirit of Seattle University—and I enter this academic year inspired to broaden and deepen my engagement in all that it has to offer. I hope you join me in seeking out opportunities and taking on pursuits that embody and fulfill our distinct identity as a Jesuit institution of higher learning.
Major Gift Allows Seattle University to Expand Health Programs
In an effort to fill a critical need for health care professionals in Washington state, Seattle University has established an endowed deanship to expand its nursing and health sciences education and training programs over the coming years.
This new endowment, made possible by a $5 million gift from Charles M. Pigott—retired chairman and CEO of PACCAR Inc.—will support the appointment of Professor Butch de Castro to an enhanced role as the Charles M. Pigott Dean to lead these efforts.
Seattle University Earns Top U.S. News Rankings
The U.S. News & World Report undergrad rankings for 2025 are out! The College of Nursing’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program moved up 80 places in the national ranking to #74!
“The significant rise in ranking brings us tremendous pride and reflects the continued commitment of our faculty and staff to deliver a high-quality, rigorous academic program,” said Dean Butch de Castro. “We prepare our students to be knowledge-ready and practice-ready as they move into a health care system increasingly reliant on nurses to be competent and confident to take on today’s complex patient care challenges. More than that, this year’s ranking reinforces the growing reputation of our graduates being highly skilled as much as they are selflessly compassionate.”
Seattle University also ranked highly for value, social mobility, teaching excellence and innovation.
BSN Student Spotlight: Lekasia Riley, '25
Lekasia Riley, ’25, is a first-generation nursing student at Seattle University who brings a unique perspective to her studies, shaped by her personal experiences as a patient. “I aspire to share my story with patients, offering them hope and encouragement by demonstrating that overcoming adversity is possible,” says Riley. The university’s commitment to educating the whole person and the nursing program’s focus on social justice influenced her decision to pursue her degree at SU. Her academic experience has been enriched by supportive faculty and a welcoming cohort. After graduation, she plans to specialize in nephrology or NICU nursing and pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
Congratulations to the 2024 Lois Price Spratlen Scholars
Congratulations to Kayla Clark, ’27, Katharine Mecklenburg Wright, ’25, and Kimberly Ha, ‘25, on being awarded Lois Price Spratlen Foundation Scholarships. Three of the six scholarships awarded this year went to Seattle University students. This scholarship program supports graduate students pursuing careers in advanced practice psychiatric nursing.
Staff Spotlight: Emmee Michler
Emmee Michler is a dedicated member of the Seattle University College of Nursing who has supported a wide variety of student experiences since starting her career as the administrative assistant for the Clinical Performance Lab. Currently, she works with the undergraduate programs team, supporting the Diagnostic Ultrasound and Nursing programs while also assisting the Director of Budget and Operations. With nearly two decades of experience in the aviation industry and a fulfilling role as a school librarian, Emmee brings a wealth of diverse experiences to her new position. Outside of work, she enjoys sharing life’s adventures with her husband, Greg, their two daughters, and their energetic retriever, Blue. Emmee's commitment to faith and service is evident in her work, and she cherishes the opportunity to help shape the next generation of health care professionals.
Join Us for Homecoming and Family Weekend!
Homecoming & Family Weekend is just around the corner at Seattle University. Join us on campus for a week-long celebration packed with a series of events, programs and gameday traditions for the Redhawk community to enjoy.
Support the College of Nursing
It is not too late to make plans to meet with your professional advisor before the end of the year. When you do meet with your financial advisor or estate planning attorney, please consider including the College of Nursing in your will or estate plan, or as the beneficiary of your IRA or retirement account. A modest or residual gift in your will can have a profound and lasting impact on the future of the College of Nursing for generations to come! To learn more, please contact Brigette Yates at byates@seattleu.edu.
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