Dr. September Nelson, who has been a proud member of the University of Portland community since 2010, begins a new role as associate dean in the SONHI this month. In her fifteen years at SONHI she’s gained deep expertise in our concept-based curriculum, exam policy, NCLEX prep, licensure processes, accreditation standards, and the data systems that guide continuous quality improvement.
Dr. Nelson earned her BS in Sports Medicine from Pepperdine University before completing an MS in Exercise & Movement Science and an MS in Nursing at the University of Oregon and University of Portland, respectively. She went on to earn her PhD in Nursing: Health Care Systems at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.
Before joining academia, September practiced as a Clinical Nurse Leader at Providence Portland Medical Center, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care and mentoring bedside nurses—a foundation she now brings to faculty development and cross-campus partnerships.
Within the SONHI, in addition to teaching she served as Director of the Learning Resource Center & Skills lab, where she partnered with faculty and clinical sites to design and staff simulation labs, manage budgets, and shift from high stakes testing to formative skills coaching. Most recently, as Director of Student Affairs she guided students through academic, mental-health, and career-planning challenges with individualized support and community referrals, earning positive feedback from students across cohorts.
Beyond SONHI, Dr. Nelson has contributed to shared governance and university leadership. She served on the Academic Senate as a member, Secretary, Chair of the Committee on Committees, and the ad hoc committee on Teaching Effectiveness. She has also participated in the Academic Strategic Planning Task Force, the Undergraduate Research Advisory Board, and serves as a confidential advocate/resource for the Interpersonal Violence Prevention Program.
Known for her warm, collaborative style, Dr. Nelson excels in supporting connection and in bridging services and departments to create an inclusive environment where every student and faculty member can thrive. In her new role as Associate Dean, she’s excited to champion student success, mentor faculty, strengthen clinical and community partnerships, and lead accreditation and curriculum innovation as SONHI embarks on its next chapter.