In an exciting start to the BYU College of Nursing Scholarship and Professionalism Symposium, Dean Jane Lassetter welcomed Dr. Mark Ott, the newly appointed Dean of BYU’s Medical School, to address the assembled nursing students.
Dr. Ott shared heartfelt reflections on his gratitude for nurses, a sentiment shaped over his career from his early experiences as an orderly in a nursing home to his final day in the operating room. Highlighting the unique impact nurses have, Dr. Ott expressed, “As you serve, people will love you for the rest of their lives. They will name their children after you, write thank-you notes, and bring gift baskets. Most importantly, they will be grateful for what you can do for them that they cannot do themselves.”
The introduction concluded with Dr. Ott’s vision for students across both schools to make a lasting impact, providing Christlike care that would touch thousands of lives.
Jake Loutensock, a fifth semester nursing student who attended the event shared how he was excited for potential future student partnerships. "I loved that he was here and I loved that he had a desire to have a connection with the nursing school since we are all medical professionals," said Jake. "Seeing his support early this morning made me excited to see that connection."
Dean Lassetter voiced her enthusiasm for collaboration between the College of Nursing and the new medical school, foreseeing enriched opportunities in research and learning. “I am so excited about the possibilities for collaboration between the College of Nursing and the medical school in research and learning,” said Dean Lassetter. “In so many ways, I'm just thrilled about it. It's going to be so good for us and for the university.”
