Newsworthy

Baker University, a premier private university rooted in liberal arts education and academic excellence, and Stormont Vail Health, a leading regional healthcare system in Kansas, have named Dr. Ranee Seastrom as dean of the School of Nursing, removing the interim designation from the leadership role she has held since January 2026.

Seastrom brings extensive experience in nursing education, academic leadership, and clinical practice to the role. A graduate of Baker University’s School of Nursing, she previously served as assistant dean of the undergraduate program and assistant professor before being appointed interim dean.

Seastrom also has experience working as a registered nurse at the Stormont Vail Topeka hospital, where Baker University’s School of Nursing is located. Her experience on both the academic and clinical sides of nursing uniquely positions her to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Baker and Stormont Vail, helping ensure students receive the hands-on training, mentorship and real-world experience needed to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Kansas communities.

“Ranee understands Baker University from so many perspectives — as a nursing graduate, an educator, a practicing nurse and an academic leader,” said Baker University President Dr. Jody S. Fournier. Over the past several months, she has demonstrated a clear commitment to our faculty, our students and the future of nursing education at Baker. We are excited to have her continue leading the School of Nursing.”

As dean, Seastrom will provide academic and operational leadership for Baker’s undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, overseeing curriculum and program development, faculty support, student success and progression, and continued collaboration with Stormont Vail Health.

“I am honored to continue serving Baker University and the School of Nursing in this role,” Seastrom said. “Baker has played an important part in my own journey as a nurse and educator, which makes the opportunity to help prepare the next generation of nurses especially meaningful. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented faculty and staff to provide our students with an exceptional education and prepare them to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the patients and communities they will serve.”

Seastrom earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Baker University and holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Grand Canyon University, a Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Certificate from Fort Hays State University and a Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Health Administration from the University of Phoenix. She is a registered nurse and Certified Nurse Educator.

“Dr. Seastrom’s appointment reflects the strength of the relationship between Baker University and Stormont Vail and our shared commitment to developing the future nursing workforce,” said Stormont Vail Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Amy Kincade. “As both a Baker graduate and former Stormont Vail nurse, Ranee brings a unique understanding of how academic excellence and clinical experience come together to prepare compassionate, highly skilled nurses. We look forward to continuing our partnership under her leadership.”

With Seastrom’s permanent appointment as dean, Baker will begin the process of identifying the School of Nursing’s next assistant dean. Baker’s School of Nursing prepares students for professional nursing practice through undergraduate and graduate nursing education, combining academic preparation with clinical experience and a focus on student success.