Dr. Kim Schafer-Astroth

Kim Schafer Astroth ’77 accepted an appointment to serve as interim assistant dean for the undergraduate programs at Illinois State University’s Mennonite College of Nursing.

Kim accepted an appointment to serve as interim assistant dean for the undergraduate programs at Illinois State’s Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN), beginning January 2016. Kim worked with Dianne Clemens last fall as part of her transition to the new role. Clemens retired in December after 17 years of service at MCN.

Kim began working at Mennonite College of Nursing in 1992. Her research interests include chronic kidney disease, symptom management and chronic disease, physical activity, decision-making associated with activation of a rapid response team, civility, and QSEN.

She earned her Ph.D. in nursing from the University of Missouri at St. Louis, M.S. from the University of Illinois, Chicago, and B.S.N. from Illinois Wesleyan University. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Indiana University in Indianapolis.

“I am pleased Dr. Schafer Astroth will be serving in this position,” said H. Catherine Miller, interim dean at MCN. “She has a great deal of experience with teaching in the undergraduate programs, and is dedicated to MCN’s mission to develop exceptionally well prepared nurses.”

Kim has taught at all levels of nursing education at MCN and has served on many committees within the college. She is a longstanding member of the McLean County Heart Board, primarily assisting with the Heart Walk activities. She also serves on the OSF SJMC Nursing Research Council.