Note from Dean de Castro

As we move into spring, I am grateful for the many ways our alumni community continues to advance the mission of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences through leadership, service and a shared commitment to transforming health care.

Recently, I was glad to have had the opportunity to celebrate SU alumna Dr. Antwinett O. Lee, '97, '17, on her induction into the Washington State Nurses Hall of Fame. Known as a “mentor extraordinaire,” Dr. Lee has had an impactful career supporting colleagues and students. As an educator and leader, she has created and sustained programs that open doors for aspiring nurses, reflecting the kind of mission-driven difference we are proud to see in our alumni.

[From L to R: Butch de Castro, Antwinett O. Lee, Heather Bissmeyer]

I was also thrilled to learn about Erin Martin, '13, another alum from our SU Nursing program, who competed in the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games (story here). Goes to show you that Redhawk Nurses are amazing in and beyond patient care settings. Her mention of how a Jesuit education prepared her to deal with complex health care situations illustrates the meaningful formation our students graduate with.

Looking ahead, I hope you will stay connected with us through several upcoming opportunities:

On April 16, our community will come together for SU Gives, Seattle University’s annual 24-hour day of giving. I invite you to join me in supporting student scholarships and funds within the college. This year, when we receive 35 gifts to any of our three priority funds, we will unlock an additional $25,000 pledged collectively by the Arnold Family Foundation, David and Krysten Bourdon, Retired Major General Barbara Holcomb, Susan Wedgewood, and my family. The funds identified for SU Gives are vital to expanding access to education and preparing students to lead with compassion, equity and excellence in their fields.

Later in the month, on April 30, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of our Diagnostic Ultrasound program. This milestone offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the program’s legacy since its founding in 1976 and to welcome alumni back to campus. I am especially looking forward to gathering with members of our community and recognizing Joan Baker, the program’s founder, whose vision and commitment have shaped its enduring significance and reputation throughout the region.

We will also host the Drs. Luth M. and Narciso P. Tenorio Endowed Lectureship on May 20, featuring journalist Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Her invited talk, “Social Prescribing: How Reconnecting to What Matters is Transforming Health and Health Care,” will explore innovative approaches to care that align closely with Seattle University’s mission and values. I hope you will join us for this thought-provoking event.

Thank you for your ongoing engagement with the college and for the many ways you support our students and strengthen our community.