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Welcome from the Dean In a recent team development day, Father Mariusz presented on the topic ‘Pastoral Care in the University Context’, a thought provoking seminar particularly in the context of this unprecedented year. Father Mariusz summarises pastoral care as: “guiding, at other times directing; sometimes leading, sometimes protecting; sometimes supporting people when they fail or make poor decisions; and, at other times going after those who have ‘lost’ their way”. As I reflect on this message, I recall the heartfelt examples of generosity, support, guidance, protection and care extended by our staff to their peers, colleagues and students. 2020 has seen us transform the way we work, the way we deliver education, the way we do research, the way we live. This year showcased the incredible work of our nursing and midwifery colleagues in the frontline, highlighting the challenging conditions they face. Their courage and resilience is remarkable and shown in their work in leading multidisciplinary teams in times of crisis, creating innovations in practice and research, providing unrelentless round-the-clock care to patients in hospitals, communities and at home, and for those that are at their most vulnerable. As we come to the end of 2020, I would like to thank all staff and students involved in the planning and organisation of the events this year in celebration of the Schools’ 20th birthday. The monthly events showcase the wonderful work of students and staff, some of which are presented in this newsletter edition. Finally, I am also delighted to announce that in December 2020 we will launch the School of Nursing and Midwifery history book: celebrating 20 years, written by Dr Carol Piercey. To quote Mother Teresa, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across waters to create many ripples”. It is a privilege to lead a team of dedicated professionals who have all contributed in their own way to achieve our goals. Professor Karen Clark-Burg Dean, School of Nursing & Midwifery 20th Anniversary Edition Newsletter 14 | December 2020 Notre Dame School of Nursing & Midwifery In this edition Nursing news Broome Campus Nursing Society Photo Competition On the Pulse The team would like to say farewell and wish the following staff all the very best for the future. Thank you for all your contribution to the School and the University: Janet Sammons, Darren Falconer, Julie Dally (L-R in the front row), Alison O Meara and Joanna Krummenacher (not pictured).