Sarah E. Abalos

Dr. Sarahbeth Abalos serves as the Director of the Villa Maria School of Nursing at Gannon University, bringing experience in nursing education, leadership, and clinical practice. A dedicated educator and scholar, she is passionate about mentoring students and fostering a learning environment that prepares future nurses for excellence in patient care. With expertise in gerontology, nursing leadership, and curriculum development, Dr. Abalos is committed to ensuring that Gannon’s nursing programs continue to uphold the highest standards of education and professional practice. She is devoted to helping students develop the skills, confidence, and compassion needed to excel in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Originally from West Virginia, Dr. Abalos earned her PhD in Nursing and MSN in Nursing Education from Wilkes University. Her career spans leadership roles in nursing education, having served as a Nursing Program Director at multiple institutions before joining Gannon University. She has also worked extensively in clinical settings, including emergency and critical care nursing, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the intersection of academia and practice. Her research focuses on workforce trends, generational differences in nursing, and strategies to enhance student success and retention. She has contributed to nursing literature and secured grant funding to support nursing education initiatives, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the profession through scholarship and innovation.

Beyond her role in academia, Dr. Abalos remains actively engaged in clinical practice as a school nurse, providing direct care to students and ensuring their well-being. This ongoing hands-on experience allows her to bring real-world insights into the classroom and reinforce the importance of patient-centered care. She values creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to grow academically and professionally.

Dr. Abalos resides in Hermitage, PA, with her husband, four children, a standard poodle, and a sphynx cat. She believes in lifelong learning, collaboration, and the transformative power of nursing education, and she is honored to lead the Villa Maria School of Nursing in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals. Her dedication to education, practice, and mentorship reflects her unwavering commitment to the nursing profession and the communities she serves.