A homecoming 75 years in the making

During MSU’s Homecoming weekend, the Spartan Nurse community gathered from across the country to attend four events to celebrate student scholars, alumni accomplishments and the 75th anniversary of MSU nursing excellence. 

The festivities kicked off with the Scholarship and Awards Celebration on Oct. 9, where over 220 guests gathered to celebrate the achievements of 100 student scholarship recipients and the donors whose support has paved the way for them to become future healthcare leaders. In all, more than $720,000 was awarded. 

In addition, the three dedicated alumni were recognized for their commitment to providing transformative healthcare. Pamela Jones, BSN ’93, MSN ’07, was named the Alumni Service Award recipient. The Recent Graduate Achievement Award was received by Joshua Winowiecki, DNP ’24. Deborah Lee,  MSN ’10, PhD ’20, was honored as the Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. 

“MSU has been central to my growth, first through the Family Nurse Practitioner program and later through my doctoral studies,” said Lee, upon accepting the award. “As a Spartan Nurse, I was mentored by faculty who modeled innovation, scholarship and compassion. I carry their lessons with me every day in my teaching, leadership and research.” 

On Oct. 10, graduates from the classes of 2015, 2005, 1995, 1985, 1975 and 1965 returned to campus for the Alumni Reunion Celebration. The class of 1975 was honored with a re-pinning ceremony to commemorate their 50th anniversary of becoming Spartan Nurses.  

“I have so many great memories as we grew into adulthood learning about life, birth, death, and healing,” reflected Angie Strawn, BSN ’65, on the 60th anniversary of her graduation.  “We relied on each other as we made the journey to become nurses.” 

Friday evening,  alumni, employees, nursing students and a low-fidelity manikin from the Granger Simulation Lab joined the College of Nursing in the Homecoming Parade. Spectators shouted their appreciation for nurses along the parade route — a testament to the college’s commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. The evening culminated with the announcement that the College of Nursing’s 75th anniversary float had won the “Best Department Float” in the parade. 

Over 150 Spartans rounded out the weekend with the College of Nursing Homecoming Tailgate for a morning of fun, festivities and friendly cornhole competitions. The weekend was a homecoming 75 years in the making, celebrating the generations of College of Nursing faculty, staff, students and alumni who have played a role in advancing the health of individuals and communities since 1950. 

“We were proud to come together during the Homecoming Weekend and many associated college events to share some amazing stories and reflect on our 75-year history.  It was wonderful to honor the many achievements of our Spartan Nurse community,” said Dean Leigh Small. “The success of our alumni and students is a testament to the impact that a Spartan Nursing education can have in improving the health and wellness of Michigan communities and beyond.” 

 

Published Nov. 10, 2025.