GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College nursing students recently attended the 2025 UPMC Hamot Nursing Symposium in Erie, Pa., on September 18. The annual program brings together nurses, advanced practice providers, allied health professionals, nursing faculty, and nursing students to engage with nationally recognized leaders and local experts in health care.
This year’s symposium, themed “Inspire. Innovate. Rally Together,” featured keynote speaker Richard Bluni, a nationally recognized nursing advocate and author of four books, including “Inspired Nurse” and “Inspired Nurse Too.” With more than 31 years of nursing experience, Bluni has worked in pediatric intensive care, trauma, flight and transport nursing, and leadership roles such as emergency room clinical manager and director of risk management and patient safety. He currently works with Huron Consulting Group and has spoken to health care organizations across the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Bluni’s presentation encouraged attendees to reconnect with the passion and purpose that drew them to the profession and to practice techniques that sustain inspiration in daily care.
Thiel College’s nursing program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, emphasizes both academic rigor and experiential opportunities. By attending professional development events such as the UPMC Hamot Nursing Symposium, Thiel students gain valuable insights into current practices, innovative care approaches, and the importance of leadership in nursing.
In addition to engaging with professional leaders, Ethan Law ’27, a nursing major from Hermitage, Pa., won a Litman Stethoscope as part of the conference participant awards.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.