University of Phoenix’s Raelene Brooks Receives 2026 PNAAZ Excellence Award in Nursing Education

Celebrating Excellence in Nursing Education

Introduction

The University of Phoenix is proud to announce that Dr. Raelene Brooks, PhD, RN, the Dean of the College of Nursing, has received the prestigious 2026 PNAAZ Excellence Award in Nursing Education. This accolade, awarded by the Philippine Nurses Association of Arizona, Inc. (PNAAZ), acknowledges her significant impact on nursing education, notably in curriculum development, academic leadership, and student preparation in healthcare.

Honoring Distinguished Work

Dr. Brooks was recognized during the Nurses' Week Celebration held on May 16, 2026, at St. Paul's O'Carroll Hall in Phoenix. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Brooks expressed her honor at being acknowledged alongside esteemed nurses and educators committed to advancing the nursing profession. She emphasized that the recognition underscores the value of effective leadership in shaping nursing education and nurturing the next generation of nurses.

Contributions to Nursing Education

The PNAAZ Excellence Award recognizes nurse educators who have shown sustained commitment to teaching, curriculum development, and program evaluation. Dr. Brooks' achievements exemplify these criteria, as she has been instrumental in orienting new nurses and faculty, introducing innovative courses, and engaging in the assessment of educational outcomes that benefit both students and the nursing profession.

According to Nelly Peterson MNE, RN, a member of the PNAAZ Advisory Board, Dr. Brooks was selected for this award due to her enduring contributions to nursing education, particularly her leadership in curriculum development and program evaluation. Peterson praised Brooks for her dedication to furthering nursing education and acting as a role model for both new and experienced nurses.

Leadership and Program Development

As the Dean of the College of Nursing, Dr. Brooks holds overall responsibility for the nursing curriculum and other academic components, including faculty oversight, student satisfaction, retention, academic policy, and program evaluation. Before her role as Dean, she served as Associate Dean for the Undergraduate and Graduate Nursing Programs at the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Brooks is also noted for her research on long-term outcomes for patients undergoing bariatric surgery, contributing valuable insights to critical care and nursing education literature. With over 25 years of nursing experience, she has worked extensively in intensive care and trauma within the UC Healthcare System.

Her journey in nursing education began with a master's degree in nursing education in 2000, followed by a doctorate in Nursing Science from the University of San Diego in 2018. Dr. Brooks is a recognized leader, having been named for three consecutive years to AZ Business magazine's "Who's Who in Healthcare Industry Leaders," which honors outstanding healthcare leaders throughout Arizona.

Conclusion

The University of Phoenix’s College of Nursing continues to thrive under the leadership of Dr. Raelene Brooks. Her commitment to academic excellence and the advancement of nursing education will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future educators and nurses to uphold the standards of care and professionalism in the healthcare industry. For those interested in learning more about the College of Nursing and its programs, additional information is available on the University of Phoenix’s official website.