Developing Leaders for the Future

Success as global leaders requires a global mindset, an appreciation of humanities and culture, sensitivity to diverse human capital, a sense of shared leadership and accountability.  The components for a successful online learning partnership developed between the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Nursing (UNMC-CON) and the faculty of the first BSN program offered in Yerevan, Armenia.   Ten nursing faculty in Armenia completed five online graduate nursing courses which were offered from Omaha, NE. The partnership is a model program and may be replicated in other regions of the world.  Principles of successful partnership are highlighted as they unfold in the story.  During an on-campus session, the Armenian nurses attended classes and workshops, and they gave invaluable feedback and assessment of what course concepts and readings were most effective for overseas learners. They said they have a great appreciation for the freedom of discussion in American classrooms and the collaboration between class members. UNMC College of Nursing faculty members were shown how the distance learning techniques offered to the Armenians provided a deep understanding and connection with professional nurses across national borders. The Armenians said they felt part of their class cohort and were comfortable joining the flow of graduate school dialogue and critical thinking. The speaker shares the challenges and outputs associated with the program – a clear success story.