Pepperdine University Announces Dr. Angel Coaston as Inaugural Dean of the School of Nursing in the College of Health Science
MALIBU, Calif. – Pepperdine University Provost Jay Brewster announced the appointment of Dr. Angel Coaston as the inaugural dean of the School of Nursing in the newly established College of Health Science. Dr. Coaston will begin her appointment on July 1, 2024.
“Dr. Coaston is a transformational leader whose vast experience in clinical settings and higher education makes her an exemplary choice to lead our new School of Nursing,” said Provost Jay Brewster. “Her commitment to developing innovative programs and fostering community engagement aligns perfectly with Pepperdine’s mission to educate and serve.”
Throughout her career, Dr. Coaston has demonstrated a deep commitment to enhancing healthcare education and practice. She has served in a variety of clinical roles where she honed her skills in leadership communication, management, team building, innovation, and experience design. Her extensive background includes significant roles at Loma Linda University Medical Center, where she was the executive director of case management and transitional care management.
“I am thrilled to join an incredible team leading the development and implementation of Pepperdine’s School of Nursing,” shared Dr. Coaston. “My personal mission is to build a foundation of love, honor, and compassion, fostering transformational and innovative learning experiences that reflect our commitment to Christian values. These core principles will distinguish our nursing students, equipping them to lead lives of purpose, service, and leadership within health systems and communities locally and worldwide.”
Dr. Coaston is actively involved in community service, serving on the board of trustees at two local hospitals and on the board of directors for two local nonprofit community-based organizations. She holds a PhD in nursing from the University of California, San Francisco, and a master of science in nursing and a family nurse practitioner degree from Western University of Health Sciences.
The School of Nursing is slated to begin its first classes in August 2025 and will offer bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and entry-level master’s in nursing (ELM) programs. Dr. Coaston’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Pepperdine’s College of Health Science, and her expertise and dedication are expected to greatly enhance the educational experience for nursing students at Pepperdine.
About Pepperdine University
Founded in 1937, Pepperdine University is an independent, Christian university located
30 miles west of Downtown Los Angeles in scenic Malibu, California. The University
enrolls approximately 10,300 students across its flagship liberal arts school, Seaver College; the Caruso School of Law; the Graziadio Business School; the Graduate School of Education and Psychology; and the School of Public Policy. Pepperdine is committed to the highest standards of academic excellence and Christian
values, where students are strengthened for lives of purpose, service, and leadership.
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