First Lady Recognizes A&M-Corpus Christi Administrator

First lady Michelle Obama and Jill Biden recognized the dean of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences today, praising the college’s programs for veterans and military members.

Mary Jane Hamilton was one of 20 university deans — and the only dean from Texas — acknowledged during an event at the University of Pennsylvania announcing the commitment of nurses around the country to serving veterans and military families. The event comes on the eve of the one-year anniversary of “Joining Forces,” a White House initiative that helps military service members and their families.

The military education program at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi gives academic credit to students with military medical training, allowing them to graduate earlier.

“I am honored to be invited to be a part of the ‘Joining Forces’ announcement,” Hamilton said. “Educating our military, both active duty and veterans, to become registered nurses while utilizing their previous military medical education and experience, provides valuable persons to the health care workforce and allows us to give back to those who have given so much for us.”

“It’s a privilege to provide such a unique program for those who have served our country,” added Flavius Killebrew, the university’s president. “This recognition is a testament to the quality faculty under the leadership of Dean Hamilton.” 

The College of Nursing and Health Sciences was awarded a $178,358 grant last September to give academic credit for health care training received by students during their military enlistment. The college also received a $635,187 grant earlier last year for its eLine Military Program, an online curriculum for Texas residents with medical experience who serve in the military or are veterans.

“It’s clear from today’s announcement that the nursing community is well on its way to serving our men and women in uniform and their families,” Obama said.