Holly Goodling Bell, CRNP, a distinguished 1974 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, and her husband Gordon M. Bell, DDS, an accomplished cosmetic dentist, have taken a powerful step towards enhancing education, innovation, and excellence in healthcare through a commitment that will establish the Holly Goodling Bell, CRNP and Gordon M. Bell, DDS Endowed Chair in Health, and Community Systems at the School of Nursing.
The endowed chair results from a $2 million planned gift from the Bells, to be fulfilled through their estate. This endowment is designed specifically for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and is set to become a pivotal asset in recruiting and retaining outstanding faculty members, driving innovation and progress within the field, and enriching the educational experience for nursing students.
Holly Goodling Bell, CRNP, brings with her a wealth of experience, having recently retired from a fulfilling career at McCormick & Co., where she played a pivotal role in their occupational health program. Her 1997 appointment as the occupational health manager began a journey devoted to providing emergency and urgent care to employees. She handled various responsibilities, including addressing injuries and illnesses, workers' compensation reporting, health education, vaccine clinics, hearing screenings, and referrals.
Gordon M. Bell, DDS, is a proud alumnus of the University of Maryland, having graduated in 1985 and 1989. He has established himself as a prominent cosmetic dentist at the Center for Dental Excellence.
“Endowed faculty chairs play a vital role in furnishing the essential resources recognition needed to attract and retain exceptional scholars and educators,” said Pitt Nursing Dean Christine E. Kasper, PhD, RN, FAAN, FASCM. “The creation of the Holly Goodling Bell, CRNP and Gordon M. Bell, DDS Endowed Chair is poised to become an esteemed and sought-after position, attracting faculty who are trailblazers in their respective fields. These distinguished educators will bring their wealth of knowledge, experience, and research to the Health and Community Systems Department and will be inspiring to many. The Holly Goodling Bell, CRNP and Gordon M. Bell, DDS Endowed Chair in Health and Community Systems stands as a testament to their commitment to advancing healthcare and nursing education.”