HAMPTON, VA — The Hampton University School of Nursing, a trailblazer in health education and the oldest nursing program in the Commonwealth of Virginia, has once again earned continued accreditation for its master’s degree program by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This recognition affirms Hampton’s commitment to preparing advanced practice nurses to meet the evolving demands of healthcare with excellence, cultural responsiveness, and clinical rigor.
The CCNE Board of Commissioners voted to grant the program a two-year accreditation, effective September 30, 2024, through June 30, 2027. The board’s action followed an in-depth site evaluation and assessment of compliance with national nursing education standards. The program remains eligible for the full five-year accreditation term pending submission and review of a focused compliance report.
“This accreditation reflects our unwavering dedication to academic excellence and leadership in nursing education,” said Dr. Danita Potter, Dean of the School of Nursing. “We are honored to continue a legacy that began over a century ago—one rooted in service, science, and social responsibility.”
A Legacy of Healing and Leadership
Founded in 1891, Hampton’s School of Nursing began as a diploma program dedicated to training African American nurses at a time when opportunities for Black women in medicine were virtually nonexistent. From its inception, the program set a national precedent for inclusion, equity, and excellence in health professions education. Over the decades, it has evolved into a robust academic unit offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees while producing nurse leaders, educators, and practitioners who serve communities across the globe.
With a foundation built on service and integrity, Hampton nurses are known for delivering compassionate care and advancing health equity in underserved communities.
Next Steps and Forward Momentum
While the master’s program met the majority of CCNE’s rigorous benchmarks, the commission identified areas for improvement related to curriculum sequencing, clinical practice planning, and documentation accuracy. The university will submit a combined report addressing these updates by December 1, 2025, with a progress report to follow in 2026.
“We welcome this opportunity to strengthen our program even further,” said Dr. Potter. “Continuous improvement is part of who we are. We see this process not as a setback but as an invitation to elevate.”
Commitment to Excellence
The Hampton University School of Nursing remains a cornerstone of the university’s academic offerings and a proud contributor to the national health workforce. With a focus on graduate-level education in advanced practice nursing, the program empowers students with the knowledge, experience, and ethical foundation needed to lead in a complex and rapidly changing healthcare environment.
“This milestone affirms the brilliance and boldness of our nursing students, faculty, and alumni,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “Hampton nurses don’t just fill roles—they lead. And that legacy continues to grow.”
