SMU Names Dr. Alexa Colgrove Curtis Dean of the College of Nursing
Samuel Merritt University (SMU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Alexa Colgrove Curtis, PhD, MPH, APRN, FAANP, FAAN, as the new Dean of the College of Nursing.
Dr. Curtis is a distinguished nurse leader, educator, and clinician with more than three decades of experience in academic leadership, clinical practice, and research. She joins SMU from the University of Nevada, Reno, where she serves as Associate Dean for Research & Innovation and Endowed Professor at the Orvis School of Nursing.
In her new role, Dr. Curtis will lead one of California’s most established nursing programs, advancing academic excellence, research, and innovation while preparing the next generation of nurses to meet the evolving needs of healthcare systems and communities.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Curtis to Samuel Merritt University. She has demonstrated a deep commitment to academic and program excellence and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in nursing education, research, and practice to our institution. I am excited to collaborate with Dean Curtis as we navigate the changing landscape of health science education and heathcare practice,” said Provost Brian Clocksin.
Dr. Curtis brings a strong record of leadership across public and private institutions. Her previous roles include Associate Dean for Academic Affairs & Faculty Development and Associate Dean for Graduate Nursing at the University of San Francisco, as well as faculty and leadership appointments at California State University, Sacramento and University of Phoenix.
A board-certified Family and Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Curtis maintains active clinical practice and has extensive experience in primary care, behavioral health, and community-based settings.
Her work reflects a deep commitment to improving access to care, particularly for rural and underserved populations. As a nurse scientist and educator, she has secured and led more than $4 million in grant-funded initiatives focused on workforce development, behavioral health, and innovative models of care delivery.
Dr. Curtis is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Nursing and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, recognizing her national leadership and contributions to the profession.
“I am deeply honored to join a university with such a distinguished legacy of commitment to the community and a forward-looking vision for innovation and growth. I am eager to partner with the SMU team to continue to build a healthcare workforce that truly works for the community,” said Dr. Curtis.
Dr. Curtis will begin her role as Dean of the College of Nursing on June 1, 2026.
