Westcliff Welcomes Dr. Andrew Nydegger to Lead the College of Nursing
Westcliff University has named Dr. Andrew Nydegger dean of the College of Nursing, appointing a healthcare leader whose path from patient to practitioner continues to shape his vision for nursing education.
Dr. Nydegger brings broad experience in nursing practice, healthcare leadership and higher education. His connection to the field was shaped by firsthand experiences as a patient, including life-changing care that showed him the impact nurses can have beyond the bedside. A military veteran and longtime healthcare professional, he brings that perspective to the College of Nursing with a focus on preparing students to enter the profession with confidence, compassion and clinical skill.
“Dr. Nydegger didn’t just study nursing, he was saved by it,” said Dr. Anthony Lee, president and CEO of Westcliff University. “That perspective changes how you teach, how you lead and how your students show up for patients. His depth of perspective, paired with his academic leadership and passion for student success, makes him the ideal dean to lead our College of Nursing forward.”
As dean, Dr. Nydegger will focus on preparing future nurses for a healthcare field facing significant workforce demands. His vision centers on stronger hands-on learning and student support, helping graduates enter the profession with the confidence, clinical judgment and compassion to serve their communities.
“Nursing is both a science and a calling,” said Dr. Nydegger. “The clinical knowledge matters, but so does the capacity for compassion, adaptability and an unshakable commitment to the patient in front of you. Our job is to graduate nurses who embody both.”