The University of South Carolina Upstate is proud to announce that Shirleatha Dunlap, Ph.D., RN, CNE, dean and professor for the Mary Black College of Nursing, has been elected to serve as chief nurse administrator on the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) Board of Commissioners.
Officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, CCNE is an autonomous accrediting agency dedicated to ensuring the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and nurse residency/fellowship programs while advancing excellence through accreditation and continuous quality improvement.
Dunlap was elected during CCNE’s 2026 national election, in which accredited nursing education and nurse residency/fellowship programs from across the country voted to fill positions on the Board of Commissioners and the CCNE Nominating Committee.
As a member of the Board of Commissioners, Dunlap will help guide the accreditation standards and policies that shape nursing education nationwide, ensuring programs continue to prepare highly qualified nurses to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.
“I am deeply honored to be elected to serve on the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Board of Commissioners,” Dunlap said. “This role provides an opportunity to continue contributing to the nursing profession on a national level by helping uphold the quality and high standards of programs that prepare the next generation of nurses. I look forward to working alongside colleagues from across the country to advance excellence in nursing education, promote continuous quality improvement and help ensure nursing programs continue to meet the needs of a health care system that is constantly changing and evolving.”
Dunlap’s appointment also strengthens USC Upstate’s role in the national conversations shaping the future of nursing education. Through her service on the board, the university will gain valuable insight into emerging trends, evolving accreditation standards and best practices that can help strengthen the Mary Black College of Nursing’s academic programs and prepare graduates to meet the changing needs of the health care workforce.
“This national appointment reflects Dr. Dunlap’s exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing nursing education,” said USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris. “Her election to the CCNE Board of Commissioners not only recognizes her expertise but also elevates USC Upstate’s voice in shaping the future of nursing education across the country. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved honor.”
“Dr. Dunlap’s election to the CCNE Board of Commissioners is a testament to her outstanding leadership, scholarship and dedication to excellence in nursing education,” said Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Pamela Steinke, Ph.D. “Her expertise will help shape the future of nursing education at the national level while further enhancing the reputation of the Mary Black College of Nursing and USC Upstate.”
The Mary Black College of Nursing prepares future nursing professionals through innovative academic programs, hands-on clinical experiences and a commitment to improving the health and well-being of communities throughout South Carolina and beyond. Dunlap’s election further underscores USC Upstate’s growing national reputation for excellence in nursing education, leadership and student success.