School of Nursing selects new research leader

The Texas A&M University School of Nursing has selected Kelly Wilson, PhD, as its next associate dean for research. She will oversee the School of Nursing’s research portfolio, effective Jan. 1.

Wilson replaces Jane Bolin, PhD, JD, BSN, Regents Professor Emeritus of Nursing and senior professor.

Currently a professor in the Department of Health Behavior in the School of Public Health at Texas A&M, Wilson is a renowned expert in child and adolescent health, sexuality, and reproductive health. As a principal investigator or co-principal investigator, she has secured more than $20 million in external grants to study adolescent and teen pregnancy, sexuality education and more.

Wilson joined Texas A&M in 2001 as a graduate research assistant in health and kinesiology. In addition to her faculty appointments, she has also held administrative roles as assistant chair and division chair for health education. Wilson earned her bachelor’s degree in health and PhD in health education from Texas A&M. She also has a master’s in health education from Texas State University.

“Dr. Wilson’s experience positions us well to continue developing innovative projects that address rural and underserved populations and help advance nursing science,” said Susan McLennon, PhD, ARNP-BC, CHPN, interim dean of the school. “Thanks to the foundation established by Dr. Bolin and her team, Dr. Wilson enters with our research productivity at an all-time high.”

The school established an Office for Nursing Research in 2018 to help its nurse scientists seek funding opportunities and increase research activities.