Using an organizational framework to drive change in nursing education: An action plan for nurse leaders

Background: Organizational change within nursing schools that supports growth of students, faculty, and staff from underrepresented groups occurs through purposeful strategies and commitments to building capacity for the spectra and richness of diverse perspectives.

Purpose: To evaluate framework-guided initiatives, our organization implemented to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion to achieve inclusive excellence in nursing education and leadership.

Methods: Framework-guided initiatives include a standardized diversity education model, hiring bias mitigation strategies, equitable spending, partnerships for student and faculty recruitment, and restructuring committees to include diverse perspectives. Metrics were ascertained over 3years following framework implementation.

Discussion: The findings indicate the framework provides an intentional, actionable, and scalable approach for leaders driving change toward inclusivity that can be measured to promote accountability.