A Legacy of Leadership, Teamwork, and Heart in Nursing Education
After 18 years of service to Cleveland Community College, Anne Wise, Director of Nursing Programs, will officially retire on July 1. While she may be stepping away from her title, Anne’s impact on the college, the nursing department, and generations of students will resonate for years.
A Legacy Rooted in the Classroom
A deep love for teaching and a genuine connection to students have been the heartbeat of Anne’s career at CCC. “I love being a teacher. I thoroughly enjoy standing at the front of the classroom talking to students,” she says.
Anne began her journey at CCC as a Practical Nursing (PN) instructor and became Director of Nursing Programs in 2022. At the time, the program had just 10 PN students. Under her leadership—and in close partnership with Assistant Director Anna Ledford and a dedicated team—the program grew in scope, accreditation, and impact.
When asked about the growth and accomplishments of the nursing programs, Anne is quick to credit her colleagues. “It’s the whole team,” she says. “I couldn’t do any of this alone. I just happen to be the director.”
A Teacher at Heart
Whether lecturing in class or guiding students through clinicals, Anne’s heart has always remained in the classroom. Her joy comes from seeing students grow, thrive, and walk into their careers with confidence.
“I’ve loved every minute of it,” she says. “Being with students, watching them learn, watching them succeed—that’s what I’ll miss most.”
This May, Anne participated in her final ADN pinning ceremony. But there were no tears—only pride. “It wasn’t sad for me. I was just so happy for the graduates,” she shares with a smile. “And I’m excited to begin this next chapter.”
Transforming Nursing Education at CCC
One of Anne’s most celebrated milestones was when CCC transitioned from the Foothills Consortium to launch its standalone Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program. The first graduating class walked the stage in 2024, an achievement Anne credits to a collaborative effort supported by strong college leadership and an unshakable belief in the mission.
“Getting the ADN program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) was huge,” she reflects. “It was stressful, but I had amazing people around me. We had fun, and we found joy in our students.”
Under Anne’s leadership, the programs expanded dramatically. The college can now accept 200 ADN and 60 PN students. While space limitations have capped enrollment, plans for facility renovations are underway. In the meantime, the team continues to innovate—one example is changing the uniform requirements so that students can wear the same uniform through the CNA, PN, and ADN programs. In addition, staff created what Anne calls the “little boutique,” where self-pay students can access donated uniforms and shoes.
Life After CCC
Anne isn’t planning to slow down in retirement. She currently teaches four young girls how to sew—a club that began as a way to help her granddaughters make friends after relocating from Charlotte. Together, the group has crafted blankets for animal shelters, pillowcases for children’s hospitals, and even earned first-place ribbons at the fair.
Her retirement plans include starting a Bible study group, volunteering with the Good News Club, diving into more books, playing Bridge, and traveling with friends.
Final Words of Gratitude
Anne is quick to acknowledge those who have supported her throughout her journey. “Leslie Queen made me the leader I am. She was the brains behind our ACEN journey,” Anne says. “The Lord has brought me the people who have made me look good.” Among those who have helped her along the way is Dean of Health Sciences Dr. Christina Hill, whose guidance and support have been invaluable.
As she steps into retirement, Anne Wise leaves a legacy of academic excellence, compassion, mentorship, and joy. Her career serves as a reminder that the most impactful leaders are those who lead with heart—and that the strongest programs are built on shared purpose, trust, and the power of teamwork.