MSU College of Nursing Shines at Midwest Nursing Research Society Conference

The Michigan State University College of Nursing made a strong showing at the 49^th Annual Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS) Conference, earning 11 accolades and offering more than 40 posters and presentations. 

The conference, located this year in Indianapolis, Indiana, serves as a premier event for advancing nursing science, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of healthcare.

“These distinguished Midwest Nursing Research Society awards highlight the work and passion that is a direct result of the research and scholarship of Michigan State University College of Nursing faculty and students,” said Susan Buchholz, the college’s associate dean for research, adding 49 attendees from MSU attended the event. “Their contributions are making a real difference—whether through advancing research, building strong clinical partnerships, shaping the future of nursing education, or providing leadership within MNRS. Through collaboration and innovation, our faculty and students are at the forefront of improving healthcare outcomes across the lifespan.”

As part of this year's conference, MNRS is celebrating those who helped found the organization, including University Distinguished Professor Emeritus Barbara Given.

“We are proud that our own Barbara Given is one of the founding members of MNRS,” said Dean Leigh Small. “Her involvement in forming this important organization has laid the groundwork for generations of Spartan Nurses who continue to be involved in advancing nursing science and scholarship. She has left a huge legacy on nursing research.”

Spartan Nurses Honored at MNRS Conference

The following Michigan State University College of Nursing faculty and students were recognized for their outstanding contributions to nursing research and practice:

• Kim Arcoleo, Professor
  Implementation of Translational Science RIIG: Inaugural Implementation Impact Award

• Dawn Goldstein, Assistant Professor, Director of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
  2025-2026 MNRS Nominating Committee

• Jackie Iseler, Associate Professor, Director of Clinical Nurse Specialist Program
  Research Through Academic-Clinical Partnerships RIIG: Outstanding Partnership Award

• Rebecca Lehto, Associate Professor
  Palliative Care and End-of-Life RIIG: Senior Career Award

• ChengChing “Hiya” Liu, Assistant Professor
  2025 MNRS Conference Assistance Scholarship

• Kornkanya Pengpala, PhD Student
  Distinguished Abstract Honor for MNRS 2025 Annual Research Conference

• Kathleen Poindexter, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs
  Nursing Education RIIG: Senior Career Award

• Emma Schlegel, Assistant Professor
  Qualitative Methods RIIG: Early Career Award

• Hesam Varpaei, PhD Student
  2024-2025 CANS Dissertation Grant; Elected to ESN Executive Committee (2025-2027 term) as School Liaison

• Horng-Shiuann Wu, Associate Professor
  Symptom Science RIIG: Senior Career Award
  
  Published March 27, 2025.