Jackson Free Press

A University of Mississippi School of Nursing search committee affirmed the leadership abilities of Dr. Kim Hoover this month by choosing her to serve as dean.

The search committees selected Hoover over four candidates in a nationwide search. Hoover, who joined the school faculty in 2003, served as interim dean after Dr. Kaye Bender stepped down in 2009.

"This speaks well of the school and the work that the faculty has done in building programs and the faculty practice. Dr. Kim Hoover earned this position based upon her demonstrated leadership abilities and collaboration across the state and the nation," Janet Harris, UMMC chief nursing executive officer and chairwoman of the search committee, said.

Hoover earned her master's degree in nursing from UMMC in 1994 and her doctorate in clinical health sciences in 2000. She started at UMMC in 2003 as a professor and associate dean for academic development and evaluation. In addition to serving as dean, Hoover is also a professor for UMMC's School of Health Related Professions.

As a project director, researcher and consultant, Hoover played an important role in forming the Mississippi Office of Nursing Workforce. She is also a member of the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science.

"Dr. Hoover has demonstrated the vision, creativity, intellect and collaborative spirit that are essential to lead the School of Nursing in this period of challenge and opportunity," Dr. James Keeton, UMMC vice chancellor for health affairs said in a statement.