Three accomplished nurse leaders have joined the Indiana University School of Nursing, bringing experience from leading nursing and health professions institutions and fresh perspectives that will help shape the school’s next chapter.
Melissa D. Pinto, PhD, RN, FAAN; Hossein Khalili, PhD, RN, FNAP; and Michele L. Polfuss, PhD, RN, FAAN, have accepted key leadership positions with the school. Together, they will help strengthen academic programs, support faculty and students, deepen healthcare partnerships, and position IU School of Nursing to respond to the evolving needs of nursing education, practice, and research.
“These three exceptional leaders bring tremendous experience, innovative thinking, and a shared commitment to advancing nursing education and improving health,” said Dean Janet S. Carpenter, PhD, RN, FAAN. “Each will lead an area that is critical to our mission and our future. Together with our faculty, staff, students, and partners, they will help us build on IU School of Nursing’s strengths and create new opportunities to make an impact in Indiana and beyond.”
Melissa D. Pinto
Pinto joined the school June 1 as a tenured full professor and associate dean for the Indianapolis campus. As the campus’ chief operational leader, she oversees faculty success, academic operations, budget administration, partnerships and new initiatives. A nationally recognized nurse scientist and academic leader, Pinto brings extensive experience in research, innovation, and leadership within academic health systems.
Hossein Khalili
Khalili began his role as a tenured full professor and executive associate dean of clinical academic programs on July 1. As the school’s strategic curricular leader and chief academic officer for clinically focused programs, he leads initiatives that advance academic excellence, educational innovation, and teaching quality. Khalili is an internationally recognized scholar and leader in interprofessional education and collaborative practice.
Michele L. Polfuss
Polfuss will begin her role as executive associate dean of academic-practice partnerships on September 21, leading efforts to strengthen relationships with healthcare systems, advance workforce development, and expand opportunities for research and evidence-based practice. She brings extensive leadership and research experience focused on improving health outcomes for children and families.
As Pinto, Khalili, and Polfuss step into their new roles, their work will touch many facets of the school—from the student experience and academic programs to healthcare collaborations across the state—helping chart the course for IU School of Nursing in the years ahead.