Dean Winston-Salem State University, School of Health Sciences | Winston-Salem, North Carolina Winston-Salem State University has named Dr. Cheryl Thaxton as Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Chief Nursing Administrator, effective August 3, 2026. Dr. Thaxton joins Winston-Salem State University with more than 30 years of experience in practice, education, research, and academic leadership. Most recently, she served as Founding Associate Dean, Professor, and Chair of Graduate Nursing at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, where she led the development and launch of innovative graduate programs designed to address healthcare workforce needs and strengthen clinical care delivery. Dr. Thaxton is nationally recognized for her expertise in pediatric and adult hospice and palliative care. She established Duke Children's Hospital's pediatric palliative care program, creating partnerships that expanded access to specialized services and enhanced quality of life for children with serious illnesses and their families. Her work has also included the development of national and international educational initiatives that have prepared thousands of healthcare professionals. Dr. Thaxton is a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. Her honors include the Texas Nurse Practitioners Visionary Award, the Estelle Osborne Legacy Award, the National Nessa Coyle Palliative Leadership Award, and the DFW Great 100 Nurses Award. Amy Segal led this search with Miguel Santiago, Ryan Smilie, and Amanda Leslie.
