Investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen our communities. On July 22, Sinan Kanatsiz hosted an exclusive International Executive Council visit to the UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, welcoming 20 business and community leaders for an evening exploring the future of nursing education, healthcare innovation, and workforce development.
Hosted alongside Dean Mark Lazenby, the evening began with networking before attendees participated in a moderated conversation covering Dean Lazenby’s journey to UCI, the connection between nursing and philosophy, the critical role nurses play in today’s healthcare system, and how the School is helping address California’s growing nursing shortage. The discussion reinforced the importance of preparing highly skilled healthcare professionals to meet the state’s evolving needs.
Guests then toured the School’s state-of-the-art simulation facilities with Dean Lazenby and Jocelyn Ludlow, experiencing firsthand one of the nation’s premier nursing education environments. From advanced simulation labs and innovative research to a curriculum designed to prepare future healthcare leaders, the visit highlighted why UCI has become a national leader in nursing education. Attendees also learned that while the School receives an extraordinary number of highly qualified applicants each year, only a small percentage can be admitted—underscoring both the exceptional caliber of the program and the increasing demand for expanded educational opportunities.
The evening concluded with additional networking and one-on-one conversations with Dean Lazenby, providing attendees the opportunity to further discuss the future of healthcare education and collaboration across industries.
Special thanks to Dean Mark Lazenby, Jocelyn Ludlow, and the entire UCI Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing team for hosting such an insightful experience. Events like these exemplify the International Executive Council’s mission of connecting Southern California’s leaders with the institutions, ideas, and partnerships shaping the future of our region.