The University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing has once again been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for the 2024–2027 program term. Schools apply and are selected for this distinction by Apple based on their commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.

The School of Nursing was first recognized as an Apple Distinguished School in 2021. The redesignation is partly due to the nursing school's iLead (Innovative Learning Environment Accelerating Discovery) program, which emphasizes innovation in learning, teaching, and leadership through the use of technology in the classroom.

“The UTMB School of Nursing is honored and proud to be designated an Apple Distinguished School in Higher Education for the second time for 2024-2027,” said Dr. Patricia Richard, chair for Undergraduate Studies. “This honor speaks to the ongoing leadership, innovation, and enthusiasm of our leaders, faculty, students, and staff for learning and creating new ways of doing things through our iLead program.”

Apple Distinguished Schools are recognized as some of the most innovative schools in the world. These schools use Apple technology to connect students to the world, fuel creativity, deepen collaboration, and make learning personal.

In the iLead program, Bachelor of Science in Nursing students receive an iPad and Apple Pencil during orientation. Faculty, many of whom are Apple Certified Teachers, use Apple technology to facilitate student engagement through project collaborations, presentations, course assignments, simulation labs, and research activities within the BSN Traditional curriculum.

“This initiative has inspired us to think, teach and work in creative and innovative ways; helped us imagine new potentials; and has impacted the way we teach, learn and discover,” Richard said. “The impact of our Apple Distinguished School is appreciated now and recognizes our legacy of innovation for the future.”