June 8, 2007

MGH dedicates Norman Knight Nursing Center

Under a packed Bulfinch Tent June 5, the MGH Department of Nursing marked a significant milestone with the dedication of The Norman Knight Nursing Center for Clinical and Professional Development. The new Founders 3 home for the center was made possible through the generosity and vision of local philanthropist and businessman Norman Knight, broadcasting legend and founder of Knight Quality Stations.

Just prior to the formal dedication, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the center for Knight's family and friends. Peter L. Slavin, MD, MGH president, thanked Knight for his leadership in establishing the center. He added that the center, as a valuable resource for MGH nurses and clinicians, would support the professional development of generations of nurses for years to come.

Jeanette Ives Erickson, RN, MS, senior vice president for Patient Care and chief nurse, said, "The Norman Knight Nursing Center provides our nursing and support staff with invaluable opportunities for lifelong learning. Given the rapidly changing health care environment and increasing use of new technologies, support for professional development of our staff is critical. We are very grateful to Mr. Knight for his generosity."

"Over the years, as my relationship and friendship with the MGH has grown, I have come to truly admire the nursing profession and its unsung heroes," said Knight. "MGH nurses inspire us with their care and make us proud with their dedication."

At the ceremony, Knight joined Slavin, Ives Erickson and Jack Connors Jr., chairman of the Board of Trustees for Partners HealthCare, in offering remarks about the new center, the importance of the nursing profession and the value of nurses. The Norman Knight Nursing Center is considered one of the top hospital-based nursing education programs in the United States, featuring innovative orientation and training programs as well as partnerships with academic institutions, continuing education programs designed to promote clinical excellence and ongoing professional development.

From left, Ives Erickson, Knight and Slavin