Little-Stoetzel Named Dean of Nursing

Graceland University is pleased to announce that Sharon Little-Stoetzel, PhD, R.N., CNE, has been appointed as the permanent Dean of the School of Nursing. With a career spanning more than two decades at Graceland, Dr. Little-Stoetzel brings a wealth of experience in nursing education, program development, and clinical practice.

Dr. Little-Stoetzel first joined Graceland in 1998 as an Assistant Professor and has since held key leadership roles, including Dean and Associate Dean of Nursing. She has been instrumental in expanding Graceland’s nursing programs and played a vital role in launching new initiatives that will shape the future of nursing education at the university.

“I am excited to work with the faculty and staff in the School of Nursing as we start the Lamoni prelicensure BSN nursing program and the BSN-to-DNP program in Independence,” said Dr. Little-Stoetzel. “While we are launching these new programs, we are also ensuring that our DNP, MSN, RN-BSN, and Prelicensure BSN in Independence remain strong. I want to help maintain the excellence that Graceland Nursing is known for and serve the communities in our areas. I also look forward to working with our community partners who assist us in educating our students.”

Dr. Little-Stoetzel’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for Graceland’s nursing program, as the university continues to expand its offerings to meet the growing demand for highly skilled healthcare professionals. With extensive experience in both academia and clinical practice, she is well-positioned to guide the School of Nursing into the future while upholding its long-standing tradition of excellence.

“Dr. Little-Stoetzel has been a critical part of the revival of our nursing programs and helped lead the charge as we bring nursing to Lamoni,” said Graceland President Dr. Joel Shrock. “She is an exemplary leader, and I look forward to collaborating with her as she steers the School of Nursing into its next chapter.”

For more information about Graceland University’s School of Nursing and its programs, visit www.graceland.edu/nursing.