
Whether impacting the health of rural and aging populations, continuing groundbreaking research, immersing in new programming, or excelling in their practice, Badger nurses are committed to propelling the health of their communities forward. As our students and alumni forge their paths, they transform the future of nursing each step of the way. The Fall 2025 issue of ForwardNursing highlights how Badger nurses are critical in providing health care throughout Wisconsin and beyond. Often, they are the missing piece of the puzzle in health care where underserved populations need it most.
Get the latest in research, education, and practice from the School of Nursing, meet the people leading the way, and celebrate the impact of alumni across the state and around the world. ForwardNursing brings you meaningful stories about and for people working to promote health and advance health care.
Featured Stories
Dean’s Letter | Fall 2025
The Dean’s Corner letter in this issue was written by Dean Scott prior to knowing she was facing health challenges, but with the understanding that she was soon to be entering into her final semester as dean. Though her circumstances changed soon after finalizing the letter, her message to the School of Nursing community is still one that resonates. We hope you are inspired and encouraged by her words.
Bridging the Gap
How UW–Madison's Center for Aging Research and Education transforms care for rural and aging Wisconsinites.
Driving Toward Heart-Healthy Change
Dr. Wan-Chin Kuo investigates social determinants of health to improve truck drivers’ well-being.
More Stories

Where Culture Meets Care
Undergraduate nursing students are benefiting from a new nursing immersion program with the Ho-Chunk House of Wellness.

Small Victories: Bringing Compassionate Care to Disadvantaged Populations
Matt Meskan, DNP’25, RN, CCHP, brings a passion for practical, patient-centered care to his work as a registered nurse and certified correctional health professional.

From the Archives
Where Are They Now? Catching Up with David Ensch ‘73 and Julia Ensch '10.

2025 NAO Award Winners
The UW–Madison Nurses Alumni Organization proudly announces the 2025 NAO Award Winners, Barbara Pinekenstein and Laura Block.

Transforming the Delivery of Mental Health Care for Those Who Need It Most
Gina Bryan, DNP, APRN, FAAN, was recently featured in the Wisconsin State Journal, discussing her work as a clinical professor and psychiatric-mental health certificate coordinator at the School of Nursing.

Scott Announces Final Year as Dean
Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN, has announced she will step down as dean of the UW–Madison School of Nursing in June 2026, concluding a decade of transformative leadership marked by growth, innovation, and a historic centennial celebration.
Read Back Issues (PDF)
- ForwardNursing Spring 2025
- ForwardNursing Centennial 2024
- ForwardNursing Fall 2023
- ForwardNursing Spring 2023
- ForwardNursing Fall 2022
- ForwardNursing Spring 2022
- ForwardNursing Fall 2021
- ForwardNursing Spring 2021
- ForwardNursing Fall 2020
- ForwardNursing Spring 2020
- ForwardNursing Summer 2019
- ForwardNursing Fall 2018