This year marks the retirement of Dr. Shellye Vardaman, a cherished figure in the School of Nursing at Troy University. After dedicating 24 years to educating and inspiring TROY nursing students, Dr. Vardaman leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to shape the future of healthcare.
A Career of Dedication
Dr. Vardaman’s journey at Troy University began over two decades ago, during which she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the nursing profession and her students. Over the years, she has taught across multiple levels of nursing education, from the Associate in Nursing (ASN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs.
“As a small child I knew I wanted work in healthcare, and with my parents as educators, education was always important to me,” Dr. Vardaman recalled. “Then when my husband joined Troy University, I was able to join as a Lab Coordinator, work towards my master’s degree and ultimately was able to tie both of my worlds together, nursing and education.”
Her tenure at Troy was defined not only by her dedication to teaching but also by her commitment to her students.
Kristen Williams says she was fortunate to have Dr. Vardaman as an instructor for both her BSN and DNP programs.
“As a BSN instructor, she gave me the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality nursing care to patients,” Williams said. “As a DNP instructor, she served on my project committee and strengthened my evidence-based research skills so that I can utilize best-practice techniques to treat patients in our community.”
Students who have walked the halls of the School of Nursing often describe Vardaman as a mentor who inspired confidence and encouraged critical thinking, key qualities for any successful nurse.
Shaping the Next Generation of Nurses
As a professor for the School of Nursing at Troy University, Dr. Vardaman played a critical role in preparing graduate students for advanced nursing roles. Whether in a classroom setting or guiding students through clinical practice, her impact on her students’ professional development is immeasurable.
“Simulation has been one of the biggest changes in nursing education,” she said. “I wasn’t even taught with a simulator, and when I joined TROY I was able to run the lab that had the first simulator for the university. That advancement alone has improved the quality of education for the students.”
Through her work with DNP students, Dr. Vardaman contributed to the preparation of nursing leaders ready to tackle the complexities of modern healthcare. Her guidance has helped students implement evidence-based practices and improve healthcare delivery in communities near and far.
“Outside the classroom, I had the opportunity to be her colleague as an RN at a local hospital,” Williams said. “Our relationship has now come full circle as I am in my third year as an Assistant Professor in the BSN program, which is where she first taught me.” Williams raves. “She helped shape me into the registered nurse, advanced practice nurse, and nursing instructor I am today.”
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond her academic achievements, Dr. Vardaman has been a cornerstone of the Troy nursing community, fostering a culture of support, collaboration, and excellence. She has inspired not only her students but also her colleagues, leaving a profound imprint on the School of Nursing.
“TROY has its build-your-own philosophy,” she said. “They really work to build their faculty, and I have had a hand in the education of countless faculty here.”
Her departure marks the end of an era, but her influence will continue to resonate through the many lives she has touched. From students who have gone on to save lives as practicing nurses to those who now educate the next generation themselves, the ripple effects of her work are far-reaching.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Vardaman transitions into retirement from TROY, she looks forward to her new role as Founding Director for Faulkner University’s School of Nursing. While she will no longer be a daily presence at Troy, her contributions will remain part of the university’s DNA.
Dr. Wade Forehand, Director of the School of Nursing at TROY, spoke at Dr. Vardaman’s retirement reception and emphasized how The ripple effects of her work extend far beyond the walls of Troy.
“She has contributed nationally to the quality of nursing education through her work at the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing,” he said.
“Shellye recently was one of the foundational members of the National Consortium of Academic Nurse Educators. She presently serves as the vice president of the group. The knowledge shared, the care demonstrated, and the lives touched are a legacy that will endure for years to come.”
The School of Nursing and the entire Troy University community wish Dr. Vardaman the very best in her retirement. Her 24 years of service have left an indelible mark on the institution and the field of nursing.
Thank you, Dr. Shellye Vardaman, for your unparalleled dedication, leadership, and inspiration. Your legacy will continue to shape the future of healthcare for generations to come.
