National recognition reflects the school’s sustained commitment and success in supporting men in nursing

Rutgers School of Nursing has received the 2026 Best Schools for Men in Nursing Award from the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN), marking the ninth consecutive year the school has earned the national honor.

The award recognizes nursing schools and colleges for significant efforts to recruit and retain men in nursing, provide a supportive educational environment, and educate students, faculty, and the community about the contributions men make to the nursing profession.

The awards will be presented Oct. 15 during AAMN’s 51st annual conference, to be held Oct. 15-17 in Las Vegas.

“Men represent 16% of the Rutgers School of Nursing’s population of approximately 2,200 students pursuing entry-level and advanced degrees. According to the 2024 National Nursing Workforce Survey, the proportion of male registered nurses nationally declined slightly from 11% in 2022 to 10% in 2024.

According to the American Nurses Association, increasing the number of men in nursing helps build a workforce that more closely reflects the patients and communities nurses serve. Greater representation can also help patients feel more comfortable communicating their needs and getting the care that is right for them.

“Men remain underrepresented in nursing, and Rutgers School of Nursing is committed to addressing this,” said Angela Starkweather, dean and professor. “Students need mentors, peers, leadership opportunities, and an environment that encourages them to stay, grow, and see the many ways they can contribute to the profession. This recognition affirms the work our school is doing to create that kind of environment.”

An active Rutgers Men in Nursing chapter is another component of the school’s efforts to support men entering the profession. Open to both men and women, the student-led organization provides opportunities for leadership, professional development, advocacy, community service, and engagement with issues affecting men’s health and nursing.

The chapter’s executive board for 2026-2027 comprises President Leo Ramos, Vice President Tyrell Weir, Director of Programs Ronord Veard, Director of Correspondence Alejandra Maldonado, and Director of Public Relations Parker Thatcher. The chapter receives active support and guidance from Kofi G. Polley, executive director of administration; and Kyle D. Warren, senior vice dean for administration and student affairs and associate vice chancellor for student affairs-Rutgers Health.

Among its recent initiatives, the chapter hosted a Men’s Mental Health Awareness and Alumni Panel, bringing students and alumni together for an open discussion on mental health and wellbeing of both patients and health care providers.  Students also had the opportunity to ask questions and seek career and professional advice.

In another learning experience, chapter members participated in a global health advocacy training in New Brunswick led by organizations including Shot@Life and the Vaccine Equity Education Coalition. Speakers included John Nanni, a Rotarian and polio survivor, who shared his personal experience with vaccine-preventable disease and underscored the importance of vaccine advocacy, education, and equity.

Chapter members have also attended national events such as the annual AAMN conference.

Community service also figures prominently in the chapter’s activities. Members have volunteered at St. John’s Soup Kitchen in Newark, helping serve people in need and distribute clothing and other essentials. At a Hands of Hope food distribution event, they helped distribute groceries and freshly prepared meals to dozens of area families.

The chapter also collaborated with the New Jersey chapter of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners on a diaper collection drive to support families in neighboring communities.

Rutgers School of Nursing first received the Best Schools for Men in Nursing Award in 2018 and has earned the recognition every year since.

The American Association for Men in Nursing works to advance men in nursing and men’s health through education, practice, research, leadership, professional development, and advocacy.