Dean of the MU Sinclair

School of Nursing

Floored by Latest Honor

Contact: Pam Roe
S218 School of Nursing
(573) 884-2690

Written by Jenette Hough and Pam Roe

April 3 , 2006

COLUMBIA , Mo. – Rose Porter, Dean of the MU Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri-Columbia, was humbled to learn the second floor of the University's newest residence hall would be named the “Porter House.” This floor of distinction is located in the Excellence Residence Hall, which is one of the University's newest dormitories located on Virginia Ave.

“I must tell you, this honor brought tears to my eyes,” Porter said. “I am so honored that students want to recognize me for my leadership. I am truly humbled by this whole experience.”

Porter is known at the University system and MU campus level for her reversed organizational chart. She has flipped the traditional pyramid structure upside down so the students are on top and the University of Missouri president is on the bottom. The naming honor is due to Porter's contributions to the field of nursing and the University of Missouri-Columbia as a whole.

Leadership residential community students in Excellence Hall nominated Porter for the honor because she personified the seven abilities of an effective leader. After weeks of voting, she was chosen and the floor named Porter House. Nominees were judged against their personification of these leadership abilities – communications with a diverse audience, collaboration, good decision making, problem solving, articulation of vision and their personal leadership philosophy.

“The name selected must be consistent with MU's mission and values, and if applicable, relevant to the theme of the sponsored learning community,” said J. Heim, the Excellence Hall Coordinator. “Each community voted, and where at least 75 percent of all residents voted, 66 percent had to agree on one name.”

“I can't imagine anything more exciting than to have students voting for me to receive this honor for my academic leadership. This is truly the best of the best,” said Porter upon hearing of her nomination.

The dedication ceremony, where all honoree names will be announced, is from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 8 at Plaza 900, the dining facility for the complex.

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