Annually, Houston Woman Magazine recognizes Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women, and the publication’s latest “50 Women” list for 2023 includes UST-Houston’s Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing Executive Dean Dr. Claudine Dufrene.

In a press release, Publisher Beverly Denver said, “Those selected as Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women of 2023 have earned an enviable reputation for their expertise in a particular field or arena. They are knowledgeable and trustworthy. The thoughts and actions of these women influence the thoughts and actions of others. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce these remarkable women to our readers and to others in our community.”

A Remarkable Achiever in Nursing

“Remarkable” is an apt descriptor for Dr. Dufrene. Among her exceptional achievements and honors, this wife, mother, and grandmother holds the esteemed Sr. Mary Martina Casey Endowed Chair in Nursing at the University of St. Thomas-Houston. She is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a medical/surgical nurse and a gerontological nurse practitioner, as well as a certified nurse educator by the National League for Nursing. Before coming to UST in 2013, Dr. Dufrene amassed extensive teaching experience in baccalaureate nursing programs at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She also presents at regional, national and international conferences and serves on boards of nursing organizations.

Moreover, her leadership has been instrumental in expanding UST’s accelerated BSN program from one Houston area location to three.

Fulfilling a Vision and Mission

“My vision is to provide holistic care practitioners to the community and expand our offerings in nursing education to reach across Texas and the nation,” she said.

Her vision and drive resonate with the Peavy School of Nursing mission.

“Our mission to “educate nurses intellectually, morally, and spiritually in the art and science of nursing as a compassionate healing ministry” is at the heart of all that we do and is our greatest strength,” Dr. Dufrene said. “We frequently hear stories about the uniqueness of our graduates and the positive impact they have on patients and families.”

Dr. Dufrene’s most recent honor is well-deserved for the impact of her work on the nursing community and beyond. A celebration dinner was held for all honorees and guests on March 21 at the Junior League of Houston ballroom with more than 350 in attendance.