About

Ruth K. Palmer Research Symposium

Each year, health care professionals gather to share the latest information in research at the Ruth K. Palmer Symposium. For decades, this event has addressed matters seminal to nursing research, education, administration, policy, and clinical practice. While this occasion draws a respected panel of speakers and presenters, few are aware that the symposium began with just two sisters: one, a pioneer in nursing education, the other, a philanthropic force among Chicago’s elite. The symposium started as a small gathering, but the legacy of these sisters has endured and woven itself into the fabric of Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing (MNSON). Since its inception, countless numbers of nursing professionals and students have benefited from the symposium endowment, which was established by the late MNSON dean Gladys Kiniery in memory of her beloved sister Ruth K. Palmer, heir to the Potter Palmer family fortune.

In March 2025, Promoting Inclusivity and Health Equity through Nursing Research–the 38th Ruth K. Palmer Research Symposium–will explore innovative research to address disparities in healthcare through interdisciplinary collaboration. Bringing together experts from nursing, public health, and medicine, the event will feature discussions on promoting inclusivity and advancing health equity. This day-long symposium aims to inspire actionable research and foster partnerships to create more equitable health for all.

2025 Ruth K. Palmer Research Symposium Planning Committee
Matt Gallagher, MA
Lindsey Garfield, PhD, RN, WHNP
Thao Griffith, PhD, RN
Audrey Klopp, PhD, RN, NHA
Alexandra Nowak, PhD, JD, RN
Karen Saban, PhD, RN, APRN, CNRN, FAHA, FAAN (co-chair)
Ginger Schroers, PhD, RNC, CNE (co-chair)
Maeve Sheehan
Ashley Ford Barker, BSN, RN

2025 Ruth K. Palmer Research Symposium Sponsors
Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing
Loyola University Medical Center