Washington Adventist University Nursing Graduates Celebrate 100% Initial Board Passage Rate
Takoma Park, Md. — Washington Adventist University (WAU) proudly announces that its May 2025 nursing graduates have achieved a 100% first-time board passage rate, reaffirming the university’s reputation for producing highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals.
This achievement highlights WAU’s proactive role in addressing the nation’s nursing shortage, which is projected to exceed 1 million registered nurses by 2030. The shortage, driven by the retirement of veteran nurses, rising chronic disease rates, and an aging population, continues to impact patient care access nationwide.
Through VISION 2030, WAU remains committed to “distinctive excellence in nursing education and care.” Recent results demonstrate this commitment:
- 100% first-time board passage rate for May 2024 and May 2025 graduates
- 87% for December 2024 graduates
- 92% overall rate for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, as reported by the Maryland Board of Nursing
- Full accreditation of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs through 2030 by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
“Not only as Provost, but also personally as a registered nurse, I am thrilled to daily be entrusted with the privilege of working with a dedicated and credentialed Nursing Director, as well as Faculty and Staff who are not only committed to benchmark teaching and content mastery as essential for safe practice, but individuals who are committed to ensure that our diverse complement of learners are also compassionate care givers who not only bring healing, but enriching esteem to those who are hurting” said Dr Cheryl Harris Kisunzu, WAU Provost.
“At Washington Adventist University, our nursing program continues to reflect a calling to excellence, resilience, and purpose. The NCLEX-RN pass rate is an outcome that speaks to the dedication and the steadfast commitment of our faculty and staff.” said Dr. Tijuana Griffin, Director of Nursing at WAU “This milestone affirms our mission to prepare compassionate, competent nurse leaders who serve with integrity and faith. I’m inspired by the transformative work unfolding in our classrooms, clinical sites, and communities. Together, for God’s glory, we are shaping the future of healthcare—one graduate at a time.” she continued.
Founded in 1904 as Washington Missionary College, WAU has a long-standing legacy of service and leadership in nursing education. The university continues to welcome high school graduates, transfer students, RN-to-BSN candidates, and graduate students into its programs in Nursing Education and Nursing Business Leadership.
Washington Adventist University is a private university with a liberal arts tradition, offering a dynamic blend of professional and liberal arts undergraduate and graduate programs. Founded in scenic Takoma Park in 1904, it is owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and offers a Christian education to students of differing faiths from around the world. Its vision is to produce graduates who bring competence and moral leadership to their communities. Student Success is the highest priority.
To apply or learn more, visit www.wau.edu.