SOUTH KINGSTOWN – A University of Rhode Island nursing professor is to serve as an ambassador to federal lawmakers, helping to educate Congress on the importance of funding nursing research.
Professor Mary Sullivan will serve as an ambassador to the Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research, a national nonprofit that supports nursing research by educating the public and members of Congress about its impact in health care.
URI announced Sullivan’s new role last week.
Sullivan, a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing, is the lead researcher in a 30-year study on the long-term effects of premature birth, a project that has received more than $10 million in funding.
Her own body of work, as well as her support for other nurses and research, made Sullivan an ideal candidate to serve as ambassador for FNINR, said Barbara Wolfe, dean of URI’s College of Nursing.
“I can’t think of a more worthy person than Dr. Sullivan to serve in this important role,” Wolfe said, adding that the committee in charge of choosing ambassadors received a large number of applications this year.
“She will be in ongoing contact with congressional members and staff,” Wolfe continued. “And she will serve as a resource in supporting the institute’s mission at regional nursing research conferences and with local policymakers and media to enhance their understanding of the impact of nursing science.”
Elizabeth Graham is a PBN contributing writer.
