Rutgers School of Nursing Alumni Association
As alumni, we work to support the mission, goals, and aspirations of our beloved and prestigious alma mater, Rutgers School of Nursing. As the school grows, we continue to build on its rich and vibrant history of nursing education, service, and research.
- Foster the social and educational interests of alumni members.
- Foster communication among alumni, students, and faculty.
- Maintain alumni interest in current Rutgers School of Nursing programs and promote the loyalty of its alumni.
- Foster continued interest in current programs of Rutgers School of Nursing, support its recruitment, and sustain its mission and related activities.
- Promote and encourage bachelor’s and advanced degrees in nursing education.
- Encourage involvement in professional nursing organizations.
Our objective is to support and sustain the aim of Rutgers School of Nursing of establishing its planned and proposed centers and institutes of excellence, and to continue our tradition of excellence in the educational preparation of professional nurses.
Alumni Resources
NEW Mentoring Collaboration
Alumni Association Mentoring Circles Program – Learn from the success of other SON Alumni and grow through peer support
Shop the School Store
Show your school spirit with branded apparel and other merch!
Alumni Association Scholarships and Awards Gala – 70 Year Anniversary Celebration
Rutgers School of Nursing is celebrating 2026 as its 70th anniversary year, marking seven decades of leadership in nursing education, research, and clinical practice. We are delighted to invite you to the Annual Nursing Alumni Scholarship & Awards Gala. This special event brings together alumni, faculty, students, and friends of the Rutgers School of Nursing to honor nursing excellence, support student scholarships, and celebrate the achievements of those who have made significant contributions to our field.
Save the Date
Thursday, December 17, 2026
Grand Marquis, Old Bridge, New Jersey
Tickets for purchase will be made available. Please check back for updates.
Nominations Open
Each year, we recognize the outstanding achievements of our alumni and give back to the future of nursing at our annual Scholarship and Awards Gala.
For questions about details or sponsorships, contact: mailto:rsonaa@rutgers.edu
Alumni Awards and Student Scholarships
Each year, we recognize the outstanding achievements of our alumni and give back to the future of nursing at our annual Scholarship and Awards Gala. Learn more below.
Alumni Showcase
Leaving the Orchestra for the Operating Room
Sean Barnawell went back to school at Rutgers School of Nursing as a nontraditional student to become a nurse anesthesiologist. Now, he is creating a nursing scholarship.
Sean Barnawell came to the realization in his 20s that his planned career path of playing guitar and double bass wasn’t going to pay his bills. Leveraging his experience as an orderly at a nursing home, he turned to the nursing profession…
Seeking Part-time Clinical Instructors
Immediate Openings Available
Help shape the future of nursing! We are seeking nursing professionals to teach clinical components for these specialties:
- Adult Health
- Maternal Health
- Mental Health
- Pediatrics
Positions require a master’s degree in nursing and a current New Jersey RN license (or eligibility). A doctorate in nursing or related discipline, specialty certification, and teaching experience are preferred.
Share your passion and expertise with the next generation of nurses.
Campus locations: Newark, New Brunswick, and Blackwood
Connect with Us
Rutgers School of Nursing values its relationship with alumni and invests in activities, events, and programs that bring maximum value to our students, alumni, and health care partners. The SON alumni network is available to our graduates, but it relies on our alumni to keep it active and effective.
Stay connected by reading our newsletters, sharing your own news, and contacting us directly.
Board and Committee Chairs
Contact us by emailing rsonaa@rutgers.edu or calling (973) 353-5415.
President
Cheryl Pantini, MST, BA, BSN, RN
Vice President
Daniela Moscarella, DNP, APN, CPNP-PC, CCRN-k
Secretary
Linda Hassler, DNP, RN, GCNS-BC, CNE, FGNLA
Treasurer
Mary Anne Casey Marra, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Alumni Mentoring Committee
Ruth Antwi, DNP, AGPCNP-B
Carmen G. Pelardis, MSN, RN, CNE
Elsie A. Rivera, PhD, DNP, APN, FNP-C
Immediate Past President
Shanda Johnson PhD, APN-C, FNP
Alumni Association Liaison
Kofi Polley
(973) 494-3030
kgp52@sn.rutgers.edu