Martha G. Lavender (MSN 1984, PhD 1988)

Gadsden, Alabama

Martha G. Lavender, PhD, RN, FAAN is a two-time graduate of the UAB School of Nursing with Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing degrees. She is retired as President of Gadsden State Community College and serves as Visiting Professor for the UAB School of Nursing. Dr. Lavender is a national leader in nursing, higher education, and emergency preparedness. She is a former president of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nursing, and her work to develop policy for the advancement of nursing practice was recognized by receiving the organization’s highest honor, the Distinguished Professional Service Award.

Dr. Lavender has co-authored publications on pandemic influenza, emergency preparedness training, and care models for HIV patients. She also serves as an advocate for abused children, emergency services, and maternal/child health. Dr. Lavender was named a UAB School of Nursing Visionary Leader in 2010. In 2013, she was inducted into the Alabama Nursing Hall of Fame. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing.