KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 6, 2026

Kennesaw State University has named accomplished nursing educator and healthcare leader Tracy Fasolino, Ph.D., as associate dean and director of the Wellstar School of Nursing (WSON) and professor of nursing, effective Aug. 1.

Fasolino joins Kennesaw State from Clemson University, where she most recently served as professor of nursing in the School of Nursing, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences. At KSU, she will oversee a nursing program that has seen tremendous growth in recent years, boasting an enrollment of 1,200 undergraduate and graduate students.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Fasolino to Kennesaw State University,” said Laurie Tis, interim dean of the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services and professor of sports medicine and exercise science. “I look forward to her leadership bringing fresh, innovative ideas and further strengthening the Wellstar School of Nursing's impact on our students, the nursing profession, and the communities we serve.”

While at Clemson, Fasolino worked with students at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels and maintained an active nursing practice at Bon Secours St. Francis Health System in Greenville, S.C.

“Dr. Fasolino brings an exceptional blend of expertise in nursing practice, health policy, faculty development, and community engagement that aligns closely with the missions of the Wellstar School of Nursing, the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services, and Kennesaw State University,” Tis said. “She has a distinguished record of academic leadership, commitment to advancing nursing education, and a clear vision for the future of nursing, research, and healthcare. I look forward to partnering with Dr. Fasolino as we continue to expand the WSON's impact through innovation, collaboration, and meaningful engagement with the healthcare organizations and communities our college serves."

Fasolino earned a Ph.D. in Nursing Research from the University of South Carolina; a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas-Health Science Center, graduating as a Family Nurse Practitioner with emphasis on Emergency Medicine; and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Clemson University. Her research interests center on symptom management for patients with chronic non-cancer illnesses, focusing primarily on pulmonary conditions. KSU’s reputation for excellence in nursing coupled with the program’s growth attracted her to the position.

“I was intrigued by the opportunity because it offers the chance to lead an exceptional nursing program and collaborate with excellent faculty and staff to continue advancing a student-centered environment for next generation nursing professionals,” Fasolino said. “I look forward to fostering meaningful partnerships, strengthening collaboration and teamwork across the school and community, and advancing a culture of innovation that supports excellence in nursing education, scholarship, and practice.”

– Story by Dave Shelles

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.