The Faculty of Nursing is proud to celebrate Dr. Donna Moralejo, who was named Professor Emerita at Memorial University in December 2024 in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to nursing education, research, and global health.

This prestigious honour reflects her dedication to excellence throughout her distinguished career.

Dr. Moralejo retired from Memorial in May 2024 at the rank of Full Professor.

The title of Professor Emeritus or Emerita honours retired professors who have served as full-time faculty members for a minimum of 10 years. Candidates must have held the rank of Professor upon retirement and demonstrated exceptional contributions as scholars, educators, or leaders. Upon the recommendation of the Committee on Honorary Degrees and Ceremonial, nominations are reviewed and approved by Memorial University’s Senate and Board of Regents, with the distinction formally conferred during Convocation.

A Legacy of Global Impact

Dr. Moralejo’s expertise in infection prevention and control (IPAC), epidemiology, and global health has had a profound impact locally and internationally. She was part of the expert working groups that developed the current national guidelines on IPAC practices and hand hygiene and served on the boards of directors of IPAC Canada and the International Federation of Infection Control. Locally, Dr. Moralejo has worked with the provincial infection control (PIC-NL) group, focusing on programs related to surveillance, infection control guidelines (including COVID), and education.

Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Moralejo shared:

 “I am honoured by being named Professor Emerita, which I feel is a recognition of my accomplishments and contributions during my career. My activities in education, research, global health, and infection prevention and control have all been interconnected and I am still actively engaged in several projects. I appreciate all the opportunities I had while at Memorial and all the support I received from various organizations and individuals.”

Dr. Moralejo’s work with organizations like the World Health Organization and different national public health associations has strengthened disease surveillance systems and immunization programs in under-resourced countries such as Haiti, Ethiopia, and Burkina Faso. Her ability to foster resilience and build capacity among healthcare workers has made a lasting difference in communities around the world. In 2015, she was awarded IPAC-Canada’s Moira Walker Memorial Award for International Service, recognizing her leadership in global health initiatives.

Leadership in Graduate Nursing Education and Research

As Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) for nine years, Dr. Moralejo led the implementation of the PhD in Nursing program and major revisions to the master’s programs. She has supervised three PhD students and 38 master’s students and has mentored faculty members in teaching at all levels and in graduate student supervision.

What advice she would give to students or individuals interested in pursuing nursing or following a career path similar to hers?

“There are so many opportunities in nursing, including specialty areas, advanced roles, and research, that can contribute to an interesting and rewarding career. I would advise individuals to explore options, develop the relevant expertise, through practice or additional education or skills development, for example, and then enjoy applying that expertise, whether it’s in new endeavors or in a familiar environment.”

Dr. Moralejo holds a BSc in Microbiology and Immunology, a BA in History, and an MSc(A) in Nursing from McGill University, as well as a PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Calgary. Among her many accolades, she has been awarded the Council of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador (CRNNL) Award for Excellence in both Nursing Education and Nursing Research.

Congratulations, Dr. Moralejo – your inspiring contributions to nursing, education, and the world continue to leave a lasting impact!