McMurry’s Strategic Move in Healthcare Education
McMurry University celebrated a historic occasion this February, marking the 100th anniversary of the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing (PHSSN) and the university’s full ownership of the program. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at the school’s Hickory Street facility on February 6 launched a bold vision years in the making that promises to strengthen McMurry’s role as a leader in nursing education and healthcare workforce development.
More than 150 nursing students, faculty, staff, alumni, healthcare partners, and community leaders gathered for the event. Vice President of Institutional Advancement Michael V. Hutchison ’87 opened the program by introducing his daughter Maggie, a junior McMurry student and nursing major. Maggie shared how her childhood experiences in the hospital — and the compassionate care she received from nurses — inspired her to pursue a career in nursing through opportunities now provided by the McMurry University Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing.
It was also the first major public appearance for McMurry’s new president, Dr. Lynne Murray. “I can’t think of a more fitting occasion to kick off my tenure than with all of you celebrating this milestone for McMurry and the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing,” Dr. Murray said. “Today marks the culmination of years of planning, deliberation, and coordination. It wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless dedication of so many of you here with us today, whose vision for the future brought us to this pivotal moment.”
Joined by School of Nursing Dean Dr. Donalyn Alexander, Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Cynthia Martin, and a cohort of nursing students, Dr. Murray helped officially cut the ribbon. Hendrick Health CEO Brad Holland also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of strong nursing education and partnerships at a time when hospitals across the country face significant nursing shortages.
Following the ribbon-cutting, guests toured the nursing school facility, featuring an advanced simulation lab, realistic practice spaces, and interactive learning environments. Students posed for photos at a McMurry-themed booth, sharing their excitement for what lies ahead.
Smart Growth: A Strategic Move for McMurry
McMurry’s complete acquisition of the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing represents a strategic move that positions the university for long-term growth and stability. Transitioning from a shared consortium model to full ownership allows McMurry to invest directly in the school’s development, elevate its reputation, and reinforce its role as a regional leader in nursing education. This change enables the university to provide greater program stability, expand resources, strengthen faculty support, and sharpen its focus on preparing students to meet the evolving demands of healthcare education.
This move also strengthens McMurry’s competitive edge in a crowded higher education landscape. Healthcare continues to be one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the country, and demand for qualified nurses is only increasing. Full ownership allows McMurry to respond more quickly to workforce needs, expand enrollment capacity, and make targeted investments in cutting-edge technology like simulation training.
Key to this strategy is the development of innovative partnerships. In early 2024, McMurry announced a collaborative agreement with Texas Wesleyan University, creating a pipeline for pre-nursing students to transfer into McMurry’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This partnership expands McMurry’s reach and helps address the critical nursing shortage in Texas by opening new pathways for students to enter the profession.
Longstanding collaborations with healthcare partners, including Hendrick Health, continue to provide essential clinical experiences and reinforce McMurry’s role as a trusted healthcare education partner in the region.
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, McMurry’s nursing program stands as a leader in West Texas, offering a rigorous, high-quality education that prepares graduates for success. Students graduate ready to earn licensure as bachelor-prepared registered nurses or master-prepared advanced practice registered nurses, equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide exceptional care.
“We are excited about the opportunities this transition brings for our program and students,” said Dr. Alexander. “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.”
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