Dean Neal-Boylan displays her mother’s nursing uniform in her office as a constant reminder of her own roots and how far the profession has come.Nurses often can’t escape their professions even when they head home for the day. Friends, neighbors and family members tend to bombard them with their health issues and questions.

Nurses often can’t escape their professions even when they head home for the day. Friends, neighbors and family members tend to bombard them with their health issues and questions. College of Nursing Dean Leslie Neal-Boylan says wherever she goes, she is a nurse.

“Everyone needs a nurse,” she said. “It is my honor and pleasure to be there for people. Most nurses are happy to be that person.”

The Dean’s Chart

First jobs: Babysitting and candy striping

Favorite activities: Biking, walking, reading and being outdoors

Favorite vacation: Europe whenever possible

Favorite aspect of nursing: Meeting people and interacting with patients to make their lives a little better