The first of four candidates for the dean of the College of Nursing and Health Innovation presented his vision Tuesday to various faculty and staff members.
Hassan Aziz is the current dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He holds a doctorate in science education and has over 20 years of experience in administrative work. In his presentation, he focused on integrating artificial intelligence in nursing, promoting interdepartmental collaboration and improving sports medicine education.
His direction for the college relies on three core values: excellence, efficiency and accountability. Aziz said he wants to use these values to build CONHI’s foundation to welcome growth.
He spoke in support of embracing and evolving education by implementing AI in practice and curricula. In the span of one year, he said his campus went from banning AI to embracing it.
When asked how he plans on integrating AI innovation, he said he wants to do more with AI than just what’s already being done in radiology. He wants to take it past reading X-rays and bring AI not just in classrooms, but in clinical practice itself.
“I really don’t want to enforce the technology just because it's out there,” Aziz said. “If it’s something that will improve patient outcomes, it will improve patient care, I think that would be really a good thing to look at.”
He highlighted how interdepartmental collaboration is essential to set the college apart. Aziz said he wants to build bridges between the different disciplines and give nursing students the opportunity to participate in dual degree programs.
When asked about his plan for intercollegiate collaboration he suggested looking into implementing an academic program that works as a simple course for students or a certificate or degree they can receive.
Aziz said he wants to emphasize sports science education since Arlington is a sports hub with the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers next door. This will combine multiple practices, including exercise sciences, sports management, broadcasting and communications, which also ties into his goal of intercollegiate collaboration.
The three additional candidates will come to campus in March and present their visions and goals for CONHI. The next presentation will be held 11 a.m. March 6.
