Welcome from Dean Nickitas
You Belong Here—And Don’t You Dare Think Otherwise!
You Belong Here isn’t just a slogan; it’s a testament to your courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to make a world-changing difference. As you step through the doors of the Nursing and Science Building each day, remember the passion that brought you here. Ask yourself: Why Rutgers-SNC? Why now? The answer lies within your heart—because you are destined to thrive, grow, and lead.
Welcome, in-coming first-year, transfer, and accelerated students as well as our continuing undergraduate and graduate students. On behalf of the entire Rutgers School of Nursing–Camden family, I am beyond thrilled and deeply honored to extend our warmest greetings to you—our future nursing leaders.
At Rutgers School of Nursing, we understand the tremendous investment you’ve made—your time, your energy, and your determination—to become a registered professional nurse. You may face challenges along the way but know this: you are building a community and culture where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging matters. It also means finding your way to embrace every opportunity and every hurdle as a step toward greatness. Your journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth every ounce of effort. You are already here, right where you belong at Rutgers-Camden. And now, it’s time to push forward, stay on course and finish strong.
This school is more than just a place to learn; it’s a community where you will evolve into a skilled, competent and compassionate professional. The faculty and I have walked in your shoes—we know the struggle, the sacrifice, and the rewards that come with it. Our advice is to stay focused, stay disciplined, stay safe, and stay true to your values, even when doubt creeps in. Remember, belonging comes in many forms, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all journey.
If you know your “why” and make every moment count, you’ll soon realize why You Belong Here—and how that belief will carry you through to success.
Before I close, let me leave you with this: What matters most to me, as your dean, is that you know you belong to us. Scarlet Red and Proud! The skills, knowledge, and experiences you gain here will not only elevate your academic journey but also prepare you for the demands of your future career. Your commitment to seeing this program through is a monumental step toward achieving your dreams and becoming the extraordinary nurses we know you will be.
Thank you for your dedication to excellence. I wish you all the best in this program and eagerly look forward to celebrating your achievements as you advance toward your future. Hope everyone has a great Spring 2025 Semester!
Best wishes now and always,
Donna Nickitas, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, CNE, FNAP, FAAN
Welcome Back from Spring Break 2025
SNC Dean's Leadership Circle Members
Mr. Mark Baiada
Dr. Margaret Barton-Burke
Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago
David Williams, PhD
Ms. Linda Wray
Mr. Al Smith, CPA
Terri Veneziano, MSN
Reverend Dr. Dyheim T. Watson Sr.
Paschal Nwako, PhD
Donna Nickitas, PhD
Dr. Lynne Borucki
Helene Burns, DNP
Mr. Nicholas (Nick) Cangelosi
Kathy Devine, DrNP
Natasha Dravid, MBA
Diane Juliano, DNP
Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake