AACN Mourns the Loss of Louise Fitzpatrick, Long-Time Dean at Villanova University

Dr. Louise Fitzpatrick, who served as the dean of the College of Nursing at Villanova University since 1978, passed away on September 1 after a battle with cancer.

We are deeply saddened by Dean Louise Fitzpatrick’s passing. She is a legend among leaders in academic nursing, known for her complete dedication to the Villanova University College of Nursing and advancement of its mission.  Dr. Fitzpatrick fostered a global focus and the advancement of excellence in nursing education and research.  She will be missed by all, but remembered always for her contributions to nursing and health.

said AACN Chair Juliann Sebastian

At Villanova, Dr. Fitzpatrick expanded the College of Nursing’s academic programs, including initiating the master’s and doctoral programs, as well as an accelerated BSN program for second-degree students. She developed distance-learning strategies and clinical simulation initiatives with a focus on scholarship and research. During her tenure, three centers were established: the Center for Nursing Research, the Center for Global and Public Health and the MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education.

Dr. Fitzpatrick supported AACN throughout her tenure as dean at Villanova and served on the Finance Committee, the Task Force on Accreditation, and the Nominating Committee. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Dean M. Louise Fitzpatrick Fund, Villanova University College of Nursing, 800 E. Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085.

A live stream of Dr. Fitzpatrick’s funeral service will be shown on Villanova’s web site on September 6. For more information, click here.