UVM College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Michael Cannizzaro on his appointment as associate dean for academic affairs for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

Dr. Cannizzaro is a respected educator, researcher, clinician, and academic leader whose work has advanced faculty development, curriculum innovation, and student success. He previously served as associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Michael Cannizzaro Appointed Associate Dean for Academic... | The University of Vermont

Today we’re excited to welcome Dean LaRoche as the new dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Vermont.

Dean LaRoche begins his role with a passion for innovation, collaboration, and supporting students, faculty, and staff.

If you see him around campus, be sure to say hello and help us give him a warm welcome!

UVM recently unveiled a new plastinated anatomy lab, giving health sciences students an innovative way to study the human body.

Funded through a federal appropriation secured by former Senator Patrick Leahy to support UVM's growing occupational therapy program, the lab features professionally prepared specimens that are long-lasting and highly detailed. Students can explore muscles, nerves, and organs in three dimensions without needing to perform dissections.

Part of a broader investment in advanced teaching spaces, the lab is already making a difference in how students learn and prepare for patient care.

UVM Celebrates Opening of New Plastinated Anatomy Lab | The University of Vermont

It’s summer, and Rowell Building is quieter than usual, but the hallways are still filled with focused activity as HLTH 2530 Emergency Medical Technician students put their skills to the test in a staged mock school bus crash.

In this course with Nursing Professor Tyler Molleur, students are preparing for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam through hands-on, scenario-based training. Clinical simulation events challenge them to lead teams, think critically under pressure, and demonstrate a full range of essential hands-on skills. From patient assessment and airway management to trauma response, CPR, and emergency care across the lifespan, these future EMTs are building the knowledge and judgment needed to save lives.

📸 Photos by Meredith Grasso

After five years of thoughtful leadership, Dean Noma Anderson is preparing to retire, and the CNHS community is reflecting with gratitude.

Joining UVM in 2021 during an unprecedented time, she led with clarity and care, expanding programs, improving facilities, and strengthening our commitment to health equity and collaboration. But her greatest impact may be in how she led.

“Noma’s leadership is rooted in bridge building. . . she gives everybody grace - to be themselves and to grow.” - Provost Linda Schadler

“She leads with kindness, respect, and the ‘platinum rule’ - treating others how they want to be treated. She leaves people better than she found them.” - Dr. Michael Cannizzaro

Thank you, Dean Anderson, for your kindness, vision, and dedication to the success of CNHS.

So many special moments shared with family, friends, and faculty. 💚 Cheers to the CNHS Class of 2026 and everyone who supported them along the way!

During National Nurses Week, we’re celebrating the impact of nurses and those who support the profession.

UVM alumna Alison Gates Brown ’78, MPH, BSN, is helping open new pathways into nursing through a generous gift with her husband. Their support is expanding opportunities for students and strengthening care for our communities.

It’s a powerful reminder of how much nurses give every day, and why investing in their future matters.

Read more: https://www.uvm.edu/cnhs/news/uvm-alumnas-gift-opens-pathways-nursing

Join us on May 6 for the 2026 Zeigler Research Forum at the Davis Center.

The forum will feature a keynote address by Jana M. Iverson, Ph.D., exploring how early mobility shapes communication, learning, and intervention approaches for infants with motor delays. In addition to the keynote, the morning will include more than 70 student poster presentations, data blitz talks, and awards highlighting innovative research across health and medicine.

8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Davis Center
Learn more:

Zeigler Research Forum | The University of Vermont Date & Time: May 6, 2026 | 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Location: UVM Davis Center