Luther Christman

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Luther Christman photo from 1980

Luther Christman (February 26, 1915 – June 7, 2011) was a pioneering American nurse and educator who made significant contributions to the field of nursing. He is best known for his advocacy for the inclusion of men in the nursing profession and for his efforts to advance nursing education and practice.

Early Life and Education

Luther Christman was born on February 26, 1915, in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. He initially pursued a career in engineering but later shifted his focus to nursing. Christman earned his nursing diploma from the Pennsylvania Hospital School of Nursing for Men in 1939. He went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Temple University and a Master of Science degree in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania. He later earned a Ph.D. in sociology and anthropology from Michigan State University.

Career

Christman began his career as a staff nurse and quickly moved into leadership roles. He served as the Director of Nursing at the University of Michigan and later at Vanderbilt University. In 1967, he became the Dean of the Rush University College of Nursing, where he implemented innovative educational programs and promoted the integration of nursing practice and research.

Contributions to Nursing

Luther Christman was a strong advocate for the inclusion of men in the nursing profession. He founded the American Assembly for Men in Nursing (AAMN) in 1971 to support and promote the interests of male nurses. Christman also played a key role in the development of the Rush Model of Nursing, which emphasized the importance of clinical practice, research, and education in nursing.

Christman was a proponent of advanced nursing education and was instrumental in the establishment of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. He believed that nurses should be prepared at the highest level to meet the complex healthcare needs of patients.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Luther Christman received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to nursing. He was inducted into the American Nurses Association's Hall of Fame and received the Living Legend award from the American Academy of Nursing. In recognition of his efforts to promote diversity in nursing, the Luther Christman Award was established by the AAMN to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the inclusion of men in nursing.

Legacy

Luther Christman's legacy continues to influence the nursing profession. His advocacy for gender diversity, advanced education, and the integration of practice and research has left a lasting impact on nursing. The Rush University College of Nursing remains a testament to his vision and leadership.

See Also

• American Assembly for Men in Nursing
• Rush University College of Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• American Nurses Association
• Living Legend (American Academy of Nursing)

External Links

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