The Nurses Magazine® Congratulates Dr. Michael L. Jones on His Historic Appointment as Dean of Hampton University School of Nursing

On behalf of The Nurses Magazine®, I sincerely congratulate our Managing Editor and 2026 Men of Honor: Most Impactful Men in Nursing™ Honoree, Dr. Michael L. Jones, on his historic appointment as Dean of the Hampton University School of Nursing.

This notable milestone goes beyond personal achievement; it marks a significant moment for nursing education and the profession as a whole. As the first Black man to hold the position of Dean at one of the country's oldest HBCU nursing schools and Virginia's longest-standing nursing institution, Dr. Jones exemplifies that leadership, excellence, and service transcend boundaries.

The timing of this historic announcement amplifies its importance, as it coincides with Black Nurses Week, the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Conference Week, and the release of The Nurses Magazine® Summer 2026 Men in Nursing Special Edition, featuring Dr. Sheldon D. Fields, NBNA President, on the cover. It also follows the success of our inaugural Men of Honor: Most Impactful Men in Nursing™ Awards, where Dr. Jones was honored among a distinguished group of nursing leaders whose work continues to change healthcare.

Together, these milestones send a strong message: men in nursing are at the forefront of leading, innovating, educating, researching, influencing policy, and shaping the future of healthcare at the highest levels.

Dr. Jones' appointment signifies more than just choosing a dean; it reflects the ongoing progress within the profession, emphasizing leadership rooted in excellence, vision, scholarship, and service. His selection challenges old stereotypes about nursing leadership and highlights that the profession gains strength when talented individuals from diverse backgrounds are given opportunities to serve.

For young men, especially Black men contemplating nursing careers, this historic milestone offers invaluable representation. Witnessing someone who resembles them leading a prestigious American nursing school broadens their sense of possibility. It shows that nursing encompasses more than caring for patients; it also opens pathways to roles as educators, researchers, executives, policymakers, and transformative leaders.

As our country encounters ongoing workforce challenges and rising healthcare complexity, effective nursing leadership requires dedication to innovation, mentorship, diversity, and academic excellence. Dr. Jones exemplifies these qualities. His leadership will positively impact numerous students, enhance Hampton University's legacy, and help equip future nurses to advance healthcare across the U.S. and internationally.

Dr. Jones has consistently demonstrated a passion for developing future nurses, advancing health equity, promoting academic excellence, and serving others with integrity. We are incredibly proud to have him serve as Managing Editor of The Nurses Magazine® and to recognize him as one of our 2026 Men of Honor honorees.

As we mark this significant milestone, The Nurses Magazine® is enthusiastic about forming a meaningful partnership with the Hampton University School of Nursing. Our aim is to highlight the achievements of faculty and students, promote innovation in nursing education, expand leadership opportunities, and inspire future nurses through collaboration, storytelling, and nationwide outreach. We believe that partnerships between leading academic institutions and prominent nursing media are essential for advancing the profession and elevating the voices that will shape its future.

Dr. Donel J. Richemond commented on this historic moment by saying:

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“This appointment is about more than just making history; it's about shaping the future. When men in nursing appear in leadership roles, they instill confidence, broaden opportunities, and remind the world that excellence in nursing transcends boundaries. Dr. Michael L. Jones' selection as Dean of Hampton University School of Nursing signifies a victory not only for Hampton University but also for the entire nursing field. It showcases our progress in developing diverse leaders who will educate, mentor, and inspire the next generation of nurses. This is precisely why The Nurses Magazine® remains dedicated to highlighting the voices and achievements of nurse leaders nationwide.”

— Dr. Donel J. Richemond, DBA, MSN, MBA, RN. Founder & President, The Nurses Magazine®

This moment is proud not just for Dr. Michael L. Jones and Hampton University, but for the whole nursing field. We honor his historic appointment and anticipate the positive influence his leadership will bring to nursing education, the students he mentors, and healthcare's future.

Congratulations, Dr. Jones. Your leadership keeps opening doors, inspiring future generations, and building a legacy that will reach far beyond Hampton University.