Delaware State University honors nursing student trailblazer

DOVER, Del. – History was made, Thursday, after the community came together to honor a very influential trailblazer from Delaware State University.

Described as a poised woman and a leader who persevered, Hattie Dabney Mishoe set the standard for nursing education at Delaware State University. Her daughter, Dr. Wilma Mishoe, said the recognition is well-deserved, even if her mom isn’t around to see it.

“I call her a quiet storm, because she really was a mover and a shaker in her private way. She didn’t let anything get past her,” Dr. Wilma Mishoe said. “I’m excited that we are able to honor my mother. I’m even more excited for Delaware State University, and for all of those students who are yet to come.”

Mishoe helped start the nursing program at DSU, which saw its graduating class grow five times in size this last year. Mishoe’s daughter hopes her mother’s legacy will leave a lasting impact on all the students who will study in the building that bears her name.

“I want them to know her story, and I want them to be able to connect and relate to that story,” Dr. Wilma Mishoe said. “I want them to have hope and perseverance that they too, one day, can do something great.”

University historian, Carlos Holmes, said showcasing representation at the institution is an important way to encourage nursing students.

“Delaware State University has a rich 132-year history, but Delaware State University has not always excelled at teaching our students that history,” Holmes said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for us to show the nursing students their roots.”