FLORENCE – The University of North Alabama has named its bachelor of science in nursing program for Florence Helen Nethery Duncan.

The ceremony  program, a foundational major within the Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions, is celebrating its 50th year.

“My sisters and I are very proud of our Nethery family history in nursing that started with our grandmother, Thelma, who began her college education on the UNA campus over 100 years ago,” said Jenny Duncan McKinney, the family spokeswoman. “Our mother is connected to Florence and this university, having spent most of her nursing career working in Florence, particularly in geriatric nursing.

“The people she served and cared for were right here in this community, and that’s what makes this gift so special.”

The gift is equally significant to the Anderson College, and its growing numbers of students,
faculty, and staff, the university said.

“It is an honor to name the college’s oldest program after Ms. Florence Helen Nethery Duncan,” said Dr. Tera Kirkman, dean of Anderson College. “Ms. Duncan exemplifies the qualities of a caring nurse and leader. She is a role model to current and future nurses and has served the profession faithfully.

“This generous gift will make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students for many years to come.”