President Choi's Blog

World War II cadet nurse (and Mizzou alum) visits campus

Oct. 10, 2022


A photo of Dick and Donna Otto, Edith Harrington, President Choi and Roger Marsh.
(Left to right) Dick and Donna Otto, Edith Harrington, President Choi and Roger Marsh.

Edith Harrington, BSN ’46, recently spoke to more than 130 pre-nursing students in our Sinclair School of Nursing building. I had a chance to visit with her, and many others stayed afterwards to learn further details about her incredible life.

In 1943 – while studying at Mizzou – Edith served in the Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II. She shared her experiences as a cadet nurse, nursing student and a practicing nurse in Missouri.

Edith is part of the Greatest Generation and will turn 100 next April. She remains active in the community. Last year, Gov. Mike Parson selected her to serve as Missouri’s 2021 Bicentennial Inaugural Parade grand marshal.

A photo of Interim Dean Lori Popejoy and Sinclair School of Nursing students with Edith Harrington.
Interim Dean Lori Popejoy (right) and students with Edith Harrington.

I’m thankful the next generation of Mizzou nurses could meet Edith and learn from her example of service. This Friday, we’ll gather again to dedicate our new Sinclair School of Nursing facility.

— Mun