Candidate Page: Tanisha Rufus

Tanisha Rufus

2026 OADN Elections

Candidate for Nominating Committee Member

Tanisha Rufus

DNP, RN

Associate Dean of Nursing

City Colleges of Chicago's School of Nursing at Malcolm X College

Chicago, Illinois

Candidate Statement

I am honored to seek nomination for the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) Nominating Committee Member position. As Associate Dean of Nursing at City Colleges of Chicago’s School of Nursing at Malcolm X College, I bring over 15 years of experience in nursing education and leadership, including roles as department chair and associate professor. My work has focused on advancing our basic nursing assistant, practical nursing, and associate degree nursing programs.

I am committed to strengthening pathways into nursing and improving student retention and completion. I have led faculty development efforts, supported program evaluation and continuous quality improvement, and collaborated across departments to enhance nursing education outcomes. My service as Faculty Council Vice President and my ongoing participation in professional development reflect my commitment to shared governance and leadership.

I have attended recent OADN annual conferences and value the organization’s role in advocating for associate degree nursing education and leadership development. I also completed the OADN Leadership Institute in December 2026. I am eager to contribute at the national level by helping identify and elevate diverse, qualified leaders who will shape the future of our profession.

I bring a collaborative leadership style, strong organizational insight, and a passion for mentoring others. I am driven by a commitment to equity and creating opportunities for both students and emerging nurse educators to thrive. Serving on the OADN Nominating Committee would allow me to contribute to OADN’s mission by supporting leadership development and advancing excellence in nursing education.