Xavier University

McCrae Johnson (MSN ’23) has always been interested in how people age and adapt to life’s transitions. Today, Johnson supports Alzheimer’s prevention research as a research nurse coordinator in ground breakingclinical trials. Working at the intersection of scientific discovery and compassionate care, she plays a critical role in guiding participants through long‑term studies focused not just on data, but on trust, connection and dignity.
_____

I’ve always been drawn to people’s stories — the ways they age and adapt through the different seasons of life.

I have the privilege of merging nursing care with scientific research. What makes this role truly special is the time we’re allowed to spend with participants. We see them throughout the years as our study continues. We learn their stories, their hopes, their fears and they come to know and trust us. That connection is the heart of nursing, and it brings a deep sense of purpose to the research process.

Xavier’s emphasis on whole-person care resonated with me immediately. I was consistently encouraged to look beyond just a diagnosis and truly understand who my patients are.

My role in Alzheimer’s research is deeply influenced by the education and values I received through my MSN. The values I carried from Xavier — service, compassion and teamwork — shape the way I approach each participant, especially in a field as sensitive and emotional as dementia. It means so much to know that the foundation Xavier gave me now allows me to contribute to research that supports patients, families and the future of Alzheimer’s care.

If you want to work in transformative healthcare, start by becoming a skilled and compassionate nurse while maintaining your curiosity about the bigger picture. Don’t underestimate the power of small, consistent actions; advocating clearly, listening deeply and honoring patient preferences.

Most importantly, protect your sense of purpose and joy in your work. When you lead with compassion, remain open to growth and take care of yourself along the way, you become the kind of nurse who doesn’t just participate in healthcare—you help shape it for the better.

🎵You’ve got a friend in me 🎵

Happy National Best Friends Day💙

You never know who you’ll meet as a Musketeer- it could even be the pope!

This week, a group of students on the Rome study abroad program went to St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican to see Pope Leo’s Wednesday morning welcome, and he gave a thumbs up to the Xavier flag!

The Teacher of the Year award goes to a tenured faculty member and a senior teaching professor who do an excellent job incorporating Ignatian Pedagogy into their classes, advising and mentoring.

This 2026 winners are Karen Eutsler, senior teaching professor of Marketing, and Dr. Cheryl Jonson, professor of Criminal Justice.

By relating their subjects to students through contemporary context and their lived experiences, encouraging Musketeers to apply their learnings through meaningful action, incorporating reflection for their students and themselves and using professional development to enhance their teaching, Professor Eutsler and Dr. Jonson have done incredible work living the Xavier mission and educating students.

Learning at Xavier doesn’t stop in the summer.

Discover how to think critically about AI, use it ethically, guide their teams through adoption, and harness it to elevate human performance with the Xavier Leadership Center’s Leadership in the Age of AI certificate.

Made of four half-day programs, this series provides a clear, actionable path forward to professionals with any level of familiarity with AI.

All for Love and Love for All 💙

📸: