Alumni Spotlight
The nursing education Christi Rose Glesmann ‘04, ‘06, ‘08, ‘14 received at College of Saint Mary (CSM) equipped her with the skills necessary to be a confident and competent nurse and nurse educator, but her college experience also gave her a sense of purpose and resilience that continues to guide her.
“CSM provided me with invaluable opportunities to gain experience, build confidence and lay the foundation for leadership. These experiences not only shaped my professional trajectory but also instilled in me a sense of purpose and resilience that continues to guide me in my endeavors,” Glesmann said.
For as long as she can remember, Glesmann had a strong calling to care for others and teach. She was torn between pursuing a career in healthcare and education.
“When I began my career in nursing, I discovered the incredible opportunity to serve in both capacities. Becoming a preceptor opened my eyes to the powerful intersection of nursing and teaching, and it sparked a deep passion for educating future nurses,” she said. “Being a nurse educator allows me to combine my love for patient care with the joy of mentoring and empowering the next generation of nurses. It’s a role that continuously inspires me and gives profound purpose to my work.”
Glesmann received an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education (EdD) from CSM.
“College of Saint Mary quickly became more than just a place to earn a degree—it became home. During my undergraduate years, I experienced the kind of personal and professional growth that only comes from navigating both challenges and triumphs in a deeply supportive environment. I found confidence in myself, lifelong friendships and a network of faculty and staff who genuinely believed in my potential,” Glesmann said. “What made CSM truly special was how the faculty set high expectations—always pushing me to rise to the occasion—while simultaneously providing the mentorship, encouragement and grace I needed to succeed. That unique blend of challenge and support inspired me to return for each of my advanced degrees.”
During her career, Glesmann has received CSM’s Outstanding Leadership award and Outstanding Service award, the Nebraska Action Coalition’s Honoring Nurse Leaders 40 Under 40 award, Alegent Health’s Pride award and the Distinguished Nurse award and CSM’s Alumnae Achievement award.
“My achievements, such as becoming a board-certified pediatric nurse and certified nurse educator (CNE), are a testament to the rigorous academic training and mentorship I received at CSM. The university instilled a pursuit of lifelong learning,” Glesmann said.
She worked as a registered nurse (RN) in pediatrics from 2004-2011 and a CSM nursing faculty member from 2006-2013. Between 2013-2023, Glesmann served as CSM’s nursing program director. In 2024, she became assistant dean of undergraduate health sciences.
“College of Saint Mary played such a formative role in shaping who I am—both personally and professionally—and I felt a deep desire to return and contribute to the same supportive community that once believed in me,” she said. “Working at CSM allows me the opportunity to be that person for others and support faculty in being that person for our students—the one who sees potential in a student even when they may not yet see it in themselves.”
During her career, Glesmann has presented at conferences on student retention, post-graduation transition to practice coaching and diversity, inclusivity and belonging initiatives. She also helped secure $4.5 million in grant funding at CSM for skills and simulation equipment, student success programming and scholarships.
During the coronavirus pandemic, Glesmann collaborated with statewide organizations to assist with alleviating the nursing shortage. In 2023, she worked with them to build a workforce recruitment and appreciation campaign. She is currently helping to build a consistent onboarding process for healthcare facilities across the state.
