Robin Kanarek Learning
Resource Center Celebration

The mood was festive, as the School of Nursing welcomed friends and the press to celebrate the dedication of the Fairfield University School of Nursing Robin Kanarek '96 Learning Resource Center.

"Today, we honor the results of three years of focused effort by our nursing Board of Advisors as well as our nursing faculty," said University President Jeffrey von Arx. "These Advisory Board members worked closely with Dr. Jeanne Novotny, dean of the School of Nursing, and her faculty as the strategic vision for the School was defined, vetted, and funded. Together, they have created classrooms and laboratories equipped with an integrated system of technology."

Dr. Jeanne Novotny, RN, FAAN, dean of the School of Nursing, said that she is grateful to Kanarek, the Board, and the numerous contributors who have helped make the Learning Resource Center a reality. "The result is that we have a cutting edge classroom and lab spaces that are fully equipped with sophisticated teaching tools and technology that are helping to educate our students, so they are prepared to provide the best in patient care."

Robin Kanarek graduated from the School's RN to BSN program in 1996, graduating summa cum laude. In 2004, she and her husband, Joe, founded the Kanarek Family Foundation to honor the memory of their son, David, who had recently died of cancer. The Foundation has supported numerous projects, most relating to palliative care or pediatric care.

"Joining the Board (the SON Board of Advisors) was probably one of the better decisions of my nursing career," Kanarek said. "When I went to school in the 70s, our practice setting was the hospital... It takes time to develop inner confidence, and I believe the new center will accelerate the process by allowing students to practice their skills in a safe environment."