Rita H. Clifford, RN, PhD

Associate Dean, Student Affairs

Email: rcliffor@kumc.edu
Phone: (913) 588-1619

Rita H. Clifford, who has been with the University of Kansas School of Nursing since 1964, has worn hats at every level in the School, from instructor to acting dean to her current position as associate dean for student affairs.

Her peers recognized her dedication to the nursing profession, KU, and future nurses in 1992 when she was selected to receive the Distinguished Alumni of the University of Kansas Nurses Alumni Association. In May 2001, Dr. Clifford ended a two-year term as president of that association.

Working to fulfill the School's mission to increase access to healthcare for individuals across the state, and ultimately the nation, Dr. Clifford strives to enhance and support educational opportunities for students at all levels. To this end, she has secured funding every year since 1980 through the US Department of Health and Human Services' Professional Nurse Traineeship Program to support students pursuing graduate nursing degrees at KU.

In addition to maintaining membership in Delta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, International, Dr. Clifford is also active in the American Nurse Association, National League for Nursing, District II Kansas State Nurses Association, Midwest Nursing Research Society and Midwest Bioethics. She has served as Secretary for the Midwest Alliance in Nursing Board and as Chair of the Heritage Committee of Sigma Theta Tau, International. Dr. Clifford is also a member of Phi Delta Kappa, an education honor society.