In this edition of “Conversations with NEOMED,” the University’s Chief Marketing Officer Tonya Strong-Charles interviews the inaugural dean of students. In her role, Nicole Kent-Strollo, Ed.D., M.S.N., APRN, WHNP-BC, oversees Academic Affairs and Student Services. She helps ensure a student-centered environment at the University and leads strategic initiatives to enhance the student experience.
Welcome to NEOMED! What attracted you to this opportunity to become the University’s first dean of students?
Nicole Kent-Strollo, Ed.D., M.S.N., APRN, WHNP-BC
So – there are a couple of reasons:
I was formerly a faculty member at Youngstown State University in our nurse practitioner program, and what introduced me to NEOMED is that I had the opportunity to work with the Wasson Center. We brought our [YSU] students here several times a semester. I was able to witness the professional growth of many young people, and the institution itself. What an amazing place! I’m proud to say that I’ve had several Youngstown State students who chose to come to NEOMED to pursue a career as a doctor or pharmacist.
Now that you’re here, what is your vision for the role of dean of students?
The vision is really to make sure that every one of our students understands that we care about them. They bring their gifts and talents to NEOMED—and they should feel that we are here to help them reach their goals. We also know that each student brings a unique situation: While some have just completed their undergraduate education, others may have already had years of experience in another career. Several students are married with children. Some are single parents, and still others are the primary support for their families. Any or all of that can be stressful, so I want them to know that that we're here to support them along that journey.
Your role, in particular, gives you a glimpse into the challenges students are facing outside of the classroom. Tell me why this work is rewarding for you.
I think the first thing that comes to mind is: it's a privilege. If we think about it any other way, it can be completely overwhelming. So, if I am sitting here and I'm exhausted, as many of us are at the end of the day, and a student walks in and needs help with something, I think of how I would want someone in my role to respond to my son or daughter—or any of my family members. This is how I’ve always thought about how I connect with others—since the time I was a nurse practitioner. When someone chooses to come to you for support, it is a privilege to serve them. The Dean of Students office should always be welcoming.
Would you say that you’ve come full circle when you consider your background in healthcare?
Every day I get to have the opportunity to work with students who will make a difference in people’s lives. I've worked in a lot of great places, but the people here at NEOMED are, quite frankly, some of the nicest people I've ever met!
