The University of Michigan School of Nursing today welcomed Allison R. Webel, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, as its 10th Dean, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for one of the nation's top nursing schools.
A nationally recognized nurse scientist, educator, and academic leader, Dean Webel joins U-M from the University of Washington School of Nursing, where she served as Associate Dean for Research & Innovation. Her distinguished career has focused on improving health outcomes and quality of life for people living with chronic conditions, advancing healthy aging, and fostering interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration to address complex health care challenges.
While her career has included roles as a researcher, educator, mentor, and academic leader, Dean Webel has always thought of herself first and foremost as a nurse.
"From an early age, I was drawn to nursing because it brings together science, service, and deep human connection," she said. "Over the years, that calling has only deepened my belief that at its best, nursing helps make people, families, and communities stronger, kinder, and more hopeful."
That perspective continues to shape her approach to leadership and her belief that meaningful change happens when people come together around a shared purpose. Throughout her career, she has championed collaboration, mentorship, and community partnerships as drivers of innovation and impact. As she begins her tenure at Michigan, Dean Webel is eager to engage with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners across the university and beyond.
"I am honored to join the University of Michigan School of Nursing and become part of a community defined by its leadership, its innovation, and enduring impact on the world," said Dean Webel. "Nursing has never been more essential to the future of health care, and I am excited to work alongside our extraordinary students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners to advance health forward in every community where U-M Nurses serve."
She brings extensive experience in research leadership, faculty development, and strategic planning. Known for her commitment to mentorship and student success, Dean Webel is particularly enthusiastic about supporting the next generation of nurse leaders.
"Our students are entering health care at a time of tremendous change and opportunity," she said. "They are innovative, compassionate, and driven to make a difference in their communities. One of our greatest responsibilities is ensuring they have the knowledge, experiences, and support they need to lead with confidence."
Dean Webel's research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health and the American Heart Association, and she has authored more than 200 scholarly publications. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and has served in leadership roles across national and international nursing organizations.
As Dean, she will lead UMSN's efforts to advance excellence in education, research, and clinical practice while strengthening partnerships that improve health outcomes across Michigan and around the world.
"The University of Michigan School of Nursing has spent more than a century preparing leaders, advancing discovery, and serving our most vulnerable communities," Dean Webel said. "What excites me is the opportunity to build on that legacy and help shape what comes next."