Faculty leadership and new clinical collaboration strengthen the College's growing nursing program.

MORAGA, CA / ACCESS Newswire / March 26, 2026 / Saint Mary's College of California continues to strengthen its nursing program through faculty distinction and the development of new clinical education partnerships designed to expand student training opportunities.

The College recently recognized Dr. Maria O'Rourke, ACNL, as a recipient of the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award: a national honor that acknowledges sustained contributions to nursing practice, education, and patient care. The award reflects decades of leadership in clinical nursing and academic instruction, as well as a commitment to mentoring future healthcare professionals.

Dr. O'Rourke's recognition is indicative of the College's broader investment in building a high-caliber nursing faculty. Her experience in clinical leadership and education contributes directly to the development of students entering a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.

In parallel with this recognition, Saint Mary's has established a new partnership to expand clinical education pathways for nursing students. The collaboration is designed to provide hands-on training in real healthcare settings, strengthening the connection between academic instruction and professional practice.

The partnership creates structured opportunities for students to engage in supervised clinical experiences, applying classroom knowledge in patient care environments while working alongside healthcare professionals. The model supports workforce readiness and reinforces the College's emphasis on experiential learning within its nursing curriculum.

"These developments reflect a focused approach to building a strong nursing program," said Carol Ann Gittens, SMC's Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs & Provost. "Faculty expertise and clinical partnerships are essential to preparing students for the demands of modern healthcare, and both are central to how we are expanding nursing education at Saint Mary's."

The combined impact of faculty leadership and clinical collaboration positions Saint Mary's to meet increasing demand for qualified nursing professionals. As healthcare systems continue to grow and shift, the College's approach prioritizes preparation, adaptability, and the integration of academic and clinical training.

Saint Mary's continues to expand its nursing program with an emphasis on faculty excellence, clinical access, and student outcomes, reinforcing its role in preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Founded in 1863, Saint Mary's College of California is a nationally recognized Catholic, Lasallian institution located in Moraga, California. Known for its rigorous academics, personalized education, and strong sense of community, Saint Mary's prepares students to lead with integrity, purpose, and compassion. The College offers undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the liberal arts and supported by Division I athletics. Learn more at www.stmarys-ca.edu.

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For more news and information about St. Mary's College of California, please visit https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/news.

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Media Contact: Mike Janes
Phone: (510) 571-7497‬
Email: mej10@stmarys-ca.edu

SOURCE: Saint Mary's College of California