Central Ohio Technical College dean for technical studies receives national award for leadership in nursing education

Dean Sandra Walker of Central Ohio Technical College was surprised when she was presented with the 2020 Bobbie Anderson Leadership Award by the Foundation of the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN). Walker did not know that fellow OADN board member Dr. Michael R Bleich. Walker has worked in COTC's nursing program for over 15 years, holding a variety of positions. Walker has been recognized for broad understanding of the field of nursing, her steady demeanor, and her commitment to educating students and advancing the field of nursing to widen the impact of graduates on the community.

When Sandra Walker joined COTC in 2004, she began as a part-time instructor. The next year she became a full-time faculty member, then in 2013 Walker was named Dean of Health Sciences. Finally, in 2019 she accepted her current role of Dean for Technical Studies. In this role Walker has advocated for the importance of associate degree nursing programs saying, "Associate degree nursing education is critical — it provides a portal of entry for students who would otherwise not have access to nursing education and graduates nurses who can make a positive impact on the health of our communities."

In the nomination of Walker, Dr. Bleich praised Walker's dedication to her students and her community, "From a distance, I understand that [Walker] plays a strong role in mentoring next generation leaders and was heralded for being able to tend to the 'big picture' while using her considerable operational expertise to guide others. She sees the national and state perspective and brings it home to her college and vice-versa, speaks to the real-world issues and brings those to the forefront. Never boisterous, always calm, people listen to her advice and recommendations because they come from a place of advancing the profession and serving the greater good."