Nebraska Methodist College names Mindy Barna as new dean of nursing

Mindy Barna is the new dean of the Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) Division of Nursing. 

Barna, who was serving as the director of nursing operations at NMC, assumed her new role March 4.

“In welcoming our new dean, Dr. Mindy Barna, we celebrate not only her understanding of the skill set required for nursing but also her recognition of the profound importance of the mindset and heart set,” said Deb Carlson, president and CEO of NMC.

“With this holistic approach, she ensures our next generation of nurses are not just equipped with technical prowess, but have empathy, resilience and passion needed to heal both bodies and spirits. We have exceptional faculty, who deserve an exceptional leader and I believe we found it in Dr. Barna.”

Barna has worked in higher education since 2006, serving in various administrative roles, each increasing in complexity and leadership responsibilities. 

She most recently served as the associate dean of health professions at the College of Saint Mary, where her primary focus was guiding emerging graduate-level health professionals toward securing their initial accreditation.

Barna has a passion for research, focusing on nursing student retention and advocating for the advancement of diversity, equity and inclusion within the higher education landscape.

"As a seasoned leader, Dr. Barna's vision and dedication will further enhance our commitment to excellence in nursing education and research. We are confident that under her leadership, NMC's nursing programs will continue to thrive and make significant contributions to healthcare innovation and practice. Mindy's appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to attracting top talent and fostering a culture of excellence at NMC,” said Amy Clark, provost and vice president of academic affairs.

Barna earned her Doctor of Education in Healthcare Leadership from the College of Saint Mary, her Master of Science in Nursing from NMC and her Bachelor and Associate of Science in Nursing from the College of Saint Mary. She has a certification in College Student Well-being, Trauma and Resilience from Florida State University.

“As an alumna of the MSN program, I've always held NMC in high regard, but my experience as director of nursing operations over the last six months has surpassed all expectations. From the moment I stepped back onto campus, I felt a profound sense of belonging. Working with our passionate nursing faculty has been an honor and a privilege. I am deeply humbled to be chosen as the next dean of the Division of Nursing and eagerly anticipate continuing our journey of excellence, preparing for growth and embracing new opportunities with one another,” said Barna.

Nursing education is at the heart of NMC. Established in 1891, NMC has more than 130 years of successful nursing graduates. NMC’s top accredited Division of Nursing offers certificates, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees for those seeking careers as nurses.