Fall 2019 Outstanding Graduate - Matt Eckles, "The Pole Vaulting Nurse"

Matt Eckles’s story couldn’t have happened anywhere else. The Division 1 Athlete was able to make his dream of pursuing a nursing degree while still competing in pole vaulting a reality thanks to ASU’s willingness to think differently.
Full story: bit.ly/2P5MITn
In 1957, Arizona State University launched the School of Nursing with 58 students enrolled. Today, the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation provides a first-class education for over 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Students completing their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from the Edson College have an NCLEX first-time pass rate of 92%, compared to the national average of 82%. Both our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees are ranked by U.S. News and World Report as two of the best programs in the nation.
A recent $25 million gift from the Edson family will help the Edson College continue its leadership and research capabilities in the areas of cognitive development, dementia and family caregiving. The gift also provides scholarship funds that will enable students to pursue a dual PhD/DNP degree that will prepare them as nurse scientists who have both practice and research expertise. Additionally, funding will be available for post-doctoral students in Dementia Research and Family Caregiving.
ASU's Edson College is deeply involved in the region and the community, having long-established partnerships with Mayo Clinic, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Dignity Health, the World Health Organization and many more.

[@nsudam]

Thank you.