August 13 , 2004

MGH Nursing receives historic donation

The MGH has cause for celebration. The Department of Nursing recently received a generous donation from Norman Knight – a local businessman, community leader and philanthropist – who graciously donated $1 million to help build a formal nursing center for learning and professional development.

The gift, the largest in the Department of Nursing's history, will support the conversion of Founders 3 into a state-of-the-art educational, training and renewal facility for MGH nurses and support staff. The new Knight Nursing Center for Clinical and Professional Development will feature a simulation lab, computer learning stations, high-tech clinical equipment, videoconference and telemedicine equipment, classrooms, conference rooms and a lounge. Office and meeting facilities for faculty and staff also are included in the plans.

This is not the first time the MGH has benefited from Knight's generosity. Last year, he helped establish the Norman Knight Preceptor of Distinction Award, which recognizes clinical staff nurses who consistently demonstrate excellence in educating, precepting, mentoring and coaching other nurses. In addition, this fall the Department of Nursing will launch the Knight Visiting Professor Program, which he has committed to funding for the next 10 years.

"The Knight Nursing Center will provide the space for the Department of Nursing to continue to advance its agenda of excellence in clinical care, education and training, and will facilitate national and international consultation to nursing colleagues concerning best practices," says Jeanette Ives Erickson, RN, MS, senior vice president for Patient Care Services and chief nurse.