After 13 years of dedicated service to the USF Health College of Nursing, exceptional nursing researchers and educators Dr. Pon Athilingam and Dr. Connie Visovsky are retiring. They leave a legacy of impact, each contributing over four decades of dedicated service to the nursing field, shaping its future through their expertise, research, and leadership.
A Legacy of Global Impact
Dr. Pon Athilingam’s journey in nursing began in 1972 as she worked as a registered nurse at Catherine Booth Hospital in Tamil Nadu, India. She later became a registered midwife and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in 1982. She pursued a Master of Community Health at the University of Liverpool in 1988, followed by a Master of Science and PhD from the University of Rochester in 2004 and 2008, respectively.
In 2011, Dr. Athilingam joined the USF Health College of Nursing as an assistant professor. Her career achievements have earned her the prestigious designation of Professor Emeritus at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Dr. Athilingam is also a Fulbright Research Scholar, a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, and a Daisy Award Nominee. Her contributions to nursing and healthcare have profoundly impacted education, research, and practice.
Advancing Nursing Science and Leadership
Dr. Connie Visovsky began her nursing career in 1977, earning an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing from Kingsborough Community College. She completed her BSN at the University of Rochester, earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in 1995, and received her PhD from Case Western Reserve University in 2002.
In 2011, Dr. Visovsky joined the USF Health College of Nursing as an associate professor. Over her 13 years at the college, she has advanced nursing science through her research, teaching, and mentorship. She is a Fulbright Global Research Scholar, has secured over $3.1 million in research funding, and was inducted into the Sigma International Research Hall of Fame in 2024. Her many accolades also include being a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and robust recognition for her scholarly contributions to nursing.
Dr. Athilingam and Dr. Visovsky share an unyielding passion that has set a standard
of excellence at the USF Health College of Nursing. As they transition to their roles
as Emeritus Professors, their lasting legacies will continue to inspire the next generation
of Bull Nurse leaders.