University of Cincinnati names College of Nursing dean

Alicia Ribar, PhD, has been selected to serve as dean of the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Nursing, effective July 1, pending approval of the UC Board of Trustees. She currently serves as professor and executive associate dean for academics and accreditation at the University of South Carolina (USC).

Ribar joined USC in 2016 serving as interim director of Master of Science in Nursing/Doctor of Nursing Practice programs, assistant dean for graduate studies and was named associate dean for academic affairs in 2020. She is the chief academic officer, providing leadership in the strategic development and implementation of curricula and budgets for the on-line, hybrid and face-to-face academic programs. Ribar also oversees USC’s Center for Simulation and Experiential Learning, Office of Clinical Education, Office of Distributed Learning, Office of Student Affairs and Global Nursing Education programs.

“Alicia Ribar is a distinguished scholar and proven leader who can conceptualize and articulate a vision to increase academic outcomes,” says Valerio Ferme, PhD, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost at UC. “She is student-focused and prioritizes the well-being of others. I look forward to Alicia’s collaborative work to advance the College of Nursing.”

Prior to USC, Ribar served as director of nurse practitioner programs and the associate degree in nursing to Master of Science in Nursing programs at Otterbein University. She began her 30-year nursing career in 1991 serving as a registered nurse, then triage coordinator and nurse practitioner. Her clinical practice specialties include education and management of diabetes and hypertension, pediatric and adolescent well care and women’s health.

“I am excited and honored to be part of such a prestigious institution and college with a long-standing commitment to excellence in nursing education,” says Ribar. “I look forward to contributing to the university’s vibrant academic community and working alongside dedicated faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to further advance the field of nursing and impact healthcare in the region.”

Ribar is a certified nurse educator and family nurse practitioner. She is a published author and has received numerous grants focusing on pedagogical approaches in nursing educational delivery, design and training, specifically impacting rural and underserved populations. Ribar earned a doctorate degree in philosophy from Duquesne University, a Master of Science (Family Nurse Practitioner) from Wright State University and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Toledo.