Debra Lyon named interim Dean of the College of Nursing

David R. Nelson, M.D., Senior Vice President for Health Affairs, UF & President, UF Health

I am pleased to share that Debra Lyon, Ph.D., R.N., FNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN, has accepted the position of interim dean of the UF College of Nursing starting on July 1. Her appointment will provide a smooth transition period until a new dean is in place.

Dr. Lyon is well-qualified to assume this leadership role. She currently serves as the executive associate dean and the Kirbo Endowed Chair. She has been in these roles since she joined the college in 2014, assisting with the day-to-day management of the college and serving as a trusted resource to department chairs and assistant and associate deans. As chief operating officer, she served as delegate to various committees of the university and academic health center. Dr. Lyon, who was inducted in the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing Researcher Hall of Fame last year, is a prolific author, publishing over 150 articles throughout her career, with over 4,500 citations and an extensive history of NIH research funding to support her work.

I am appreciative of Dr. Lyon serving in this role as we continue in the search for the college’s next dean. I look forward to updating you soon when there is additional information to share.

Lastly, I want to give special recognition to Dean Anna McDaniel, who is in her final weeks leading the UF College of Nursing. Thanks to her visionary leadership, the college is in a great position for a new dean to build upon the momentum gained during her tenure. Thank you, Dean McDaniel, for your 10 years of service and dedication as dean.

Sincerely,

David R. Nelson, M.D.
Senior Vice President for Health Affairs, UF &
President, UF Health