Threads of Care: Celebrating Over 100 Years of Nursing at Illinois Wesleyan

This year marks an exciting milestone for IWU as we celebrate our 175th anniversary, and nursing has been an integral part of that history for over a century. Over the Spring 2025 semester, the “History of Nursing” class has worked on creating both a physical and digital exhibit to recognize the prominent role nursing holds on campus. Illinois Wesleyan offered nursing study in conjunction with the Brokaw School of Nursing beginning in 1923, and in 1959 established the IWU School of Nursing with a four-year baccalaureate program.

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Illinois Wesleyan is a major part of the University today with students aiming to be nurses, physicians, or are interested in healthcare majoring in kinesiology and allied health or public health. Our exhibit, “Threads of Care: Celebrating over 100 Years of Nursing at Illinois Wesleyan University,” features sections on historical milestones, nursing education evolution, notable alumni, and the program's impact on the local and global community. Please explore this exhibit and do not forget to visit the physical version on the first floor of Ames Library!