NEWS

Louisiana Tech University has appointed Sarah McVay, DNP, MSN, CNE, CPN, as the new director of the Division of Nursing. A 1999 graduate of Louisiana Tech’s nursing program, McVay brings more than 26 years of experience as a registered nurse in Louisiana, including 13 years as a nurse educator.

“It is a distinct honor to lead a program that not only launched my career in nursing but continues to inspire my work as an educator and mentor,” McVay said. “My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, innovation and a growth mindset. I’m committed to fostering an academic culture where students are empowered to lead with purpose and faculty are supported in their pursuit of excellence.”

McVay holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Master of Science in Nursing Education. Her career has spanned both clinical and academic settings, with a focus on curriculum development, accreditation, student success, and faculty mentorship.

She is known for her student-centered approach and has implemented innovative learning experiences, including a pediatric medical camp at MedCamps of Louisiana, providing students with hands-on experience caring for children with complex medical needs, a story covered in Tech’s 1894 Magazine and on the Beyond 1894 podcast.

In 2022, McVay founded Louisiana Tech’s chapter of the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society, which promotes academic excellence and professional growth among associate degree nursing students. She is also a key contributor to the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan, working on the CHAMP initiative (Cultivating Holistic Advising to Maximize Potential), aimed at increasing student success through interdisciplinary collaboration.

“The College of Applied and Natural Sciences is excited to welcome Dr. Sarah McVay as director of the Division of Nursing,” said Dr. Gary Kennedy, dean of Applied and Natural Sciences. “Dr. McVay brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as an RN, as well as being an accomplished faculty member. Her background well-prepares her to lead our ASN and RN to BSN programs which help meet the growing demand for skilled nurses in today’s healthcare environment.”

McVay lives in Choudrant with her husband Shane McVay, a 2000 Louisiana Tech nursing graduate and nurse practitioner at Green Clinic. They are the proud parents of four children: Madeline, Nicholas, Sophia, and Vivian.

Louisiana Tech’s nursing program is nationally recognized and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. It was named 2017 Nursing School of the Year for Undergraduate Programs by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation. The program continues to prepare highly sought-after graduates who serve in diverse nursing roles across the globe.

For more information about the Division of Nursing at Louisiana Tech, visit ans.latech.edu/nursing