School of Nursing History
The Lincoln University School of Nursing has a rich history rooted in visionary leadership, commitment to excellence and the desire to meet the ever-evolving needs of the healthcare industry. The journey began in the late 1960s with the determination of Helen Monroe, a trailblazer who not only broke barriers but also laid the foundation for a nursing program that would go on to become a pillar of the university’s academic offerings.
A Visionary Leader: Helen Monroe’s Legacy
Helen Monroe, a graduate of Florida A&M with a master’s degree in nursing from St. John’s University, joined Lincoln University in the late 1960s when local hospitals were seeking programs to train more nurses. As a woman of color entering a predominantly white and male-dominated profession, Monroe faced significant challenges, yet her dedication and passion for healthcare prevailed. In 1969, she established the Nursing Department at Lincoln University, marking the beginning of a lasting legacy that continues to shape the nursing profession in central Missouri and beyond.
Monroe is fondly remembered by colleagues, students, and family for her leadership, vision and unwavering commitment to student success. In her honor, the university maintains a mentorship program bearing her name, ensuring her legacy of excellence endures for future generations of nursing professionals.
Growth and Expansion of the Program
Under Monroe’s leadership, Lincoln’s Nursing Department rapidly grew to become the primary training hub for nurses in central Missouri. The introduction of the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Nursing degree in 1969 paved the way for future growth, with the department expanding its reach to include a second location in Rolla and a satellite evening program at Fort Leonard Wood to cater to military personnel and their families.
As the healthcare landscape evolved, so too did the needs of the workforce. In the 1990s, there was increasing demand for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. In response, Lincoln University introduced the RN-to-BSN program in 1992, followed by the launch of a traditional four-year BSN program in 2014. These initiatives led to a steady increase in enrollment, with the number of nursing students rising from 70 to over 350 today.
Continuing this legacy of growth, Lincoln University will launch the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in 2025 — the only MSN program offered at an HBCU in Missouri. This flexible online program is designed for working registered nurses, allowing them to complete the degree in as few as 12 months. Graduates will have the opportunity to specialize in Nurse Educator or Nurse Leadership, with the potential for national certification.
With the MSN program, Lincoln University continues to honor Monroe’s vision by offering advanced education opportunities and preparing future leaders in nursing.