Sharon Ridgeway ’81 has dedicated her life to advancing the field of nursing through clinical practice, education, research, and regulations that continue to impact patients and providers across Minnesota and beyond.
A nontraditional student, Sharon enrolled at the College of Saint Benedict to pursue her Bachelor of Science with a major in nursing while raising four young children. Her determination and commitment to learning defined her experience, and she credits Saint Ben’s faculty for meeting her where she was—tailoring her education to build on her prior nursing experience while supporting her growth. It was here that she was introduced more deeply to person-centered nursing, an approach that would guide her entire career.
After earning her degree, Sharon continued her education at the University of Minnesota, completing both her master’s in nursing education and her Ph.D. in nursing. She went on to spend approximately 20 years teaching at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing, where she played a key role in the psychomotor skills (simulation) lab. There, she trained future nurses in both technical skills and the human side of care—emphasizing the philosophy that “when you touch a person, you’re touching a soul.”
Sharon’s commitment to excellence in nursing education extended into research and innovation. She co-authored and published work exploring whether compassion and caring can be taught in clinical training environments, helping to shape how nursing programs approach both skill development and patient relationships. Her work reinforced the importance of preparing nurses not only to perform procedures, but to care for the whole person.
Later in her career, Sharon was the Assistant Director for Education at the Minnesota Board of Nursing where she worked with Board Members on program approval and accreditation. As a previous academic, she brought a critical new perspective. One of her most significant contributions was advocating for accreditation requirements for nursing programs—a change that faced resistance but ultimately strengthened the quality of nursing education and improved patient care statewide.
Sharon also contributed to the broader growth of nursing education in Minnesota by developing the needs assessment submitted to Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MNSCU). Based on this needs assessment, MNSCU approved the development of a nursing program at St. Cloud State University. Her thoughtful leadership ensured that decisions were grounded in both need and long-term impact.
Even in retirement, Sharon remains deeply engaged in the field. She has volunteered at COVID-19 vaccination clinics, contributed to documenting the history of the University of Minnesota’s School of Nursing, and supported efforts that align with evolving national standards in nursing education.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sharon has been a dedicated community member—actively involved with the League of Women Voters and other civic initiatives. She has also mentored countless students, colleagues, and emerging leaders throughout her career, always emphasizing thoughtful, research-based practice and compassionate care.
Sharon’s journey reflects the enduring values of a Saint Ben’s education: a commitment to lifelong learning, respect for every individual, and the belief that meaningful change often comes through steady, purposeful work. Her legacy lives on in the nurses she has taught, the systems she has strengthened, and the countless lives touched by her influence.