Vicky Kent

Associate Professor Vicky Kent sings the praises of Towson University’s nursing program. In fact, Kent actually does study voice and has performed in public, singing arias, light opera, choral music and wedding solos.  Public is a good word for Kent. As a nurse and educator, her passion is public health nursing. “I love being in the community with lots of people, groups and families. I have a keen interest in reducing chronic illness. My goal is to keep people out of the hospital.”

Kent says that TU’s nursing program is distinctive because students collaborate with other non-nursing departments to learn how health issues impact patients socially, physically and emotionally. “Basic counseling is a part of nursing. The human interaction is why many of us became nurses. We like people!”

“TU's nursing program is distinctive because students collaborate with other non-nursing departments to learn how health issues impact patients socially, physically and emotionally.”

Towson students get to know a lot of people during their studies. To stay in tune with the community, they are expected to visit patient homes, day care and nursing centers, and seek funding to sustain community health programs. While excellent bedside care is still a priority, a modern nursing career encompasses much more. Social policy, technology, counseling, and an understanding of diverse cultures are prominent factors.

In order to understand the complexities that students face, Kent is adamant that student voices be heard in the classroom and in the field. “Student ideas are respected here. There’s a mutual respect between faculty and students that is important to me.”

As Kent and her students move through the community, they bring a hopeful message to those struggling with health issues: We are here to listen. We are here to learn. We are here to help.