Mary Wakefield named Visiting Scholar of Healthcare Policy

The College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines (CNPD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mary K. Wakefield as Visiting Scholar of Healthcare Policy.

Mary K. Wakefield, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, served as the Acting Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from March 2015 through January 2017 and as Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) from March 2009 through April 2015. A Devils Lake native, Wakefield has focused her policy work on improving health status for underserved populations, increasing health equity and providing health care services to people who are geographically isolated, and economically or medically vulnerable.

CNPD is fortunate to benefit from both Dr. Wakefield’s extensive health policy experience as well as the close alignment of her policy focus and CNPD’s mission. Dean Gayle Roux, Dean of CNPD, believes Dr. Wakefield’s work at UND will have far-reaching benefits. “We’re thrilled to facilitate this opportunity for our students and faculty. We are very grateful to Dr. Wakefield for sharing her unique perspective with us. Having been the highest ranking nurse in the country, she brings a broad view of health care.”

A true Leader in Action, Dr. Wakefield previously served as associate dean for rural health at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences at UND during her prestigious career in a variety of leadership positions. In addition to her work at CNPD over the next two years, she will also be establishing academic appointments at other universities. Dr. Wakefield’s commitment to facilitating progress in healthcare, and her willingness to share her knowledge and experience will be valuable additions to the interprofessional team at CNPD.