NCSBN CEO Philip Dickison to Conclude Tenure

CHICAGO - NCSBN CEO Philip Dickison, PhD, RN, has announced that he will conclude his tenure at the end of September 2027. After many years of service to NCSBN and the advancement of nursing regulation, Dickison has decided to retire and devote more time to his wife, Linda, and their family.

Dickison has served NCSBN since 2010, first as chief officer of examinations, then as chief operating officer and, since October 2023, as chief executive officer. Across these roles, his leadership has advanced NCSBN's examinations, operations, strategic direction, global relationships and organizational influence.

"Phil is an extraordinary leader whose intellect, conviction and energy have elevated NCSBN and inspired everyone fortunate enough to work with him," said NCSBN President Lori Scheidt, MBA-HCM. "He has a rare ability to bring people together around an ambitious goal and give them the confidence to achieve it. His decision reflects the same qualities that have defined his leadership: faith, integrity, courage and an unwavering devotion to the people who matter most. We are profoundly grateful for his service and for the legacy he has created."

A registered nurse, military veteran and internationally recognized authority in psychometrics, Dickison has brought a distinctive combination of clinical experience, scientific rigor and organizational leadership to NCSBN.

A prolific researcher with a PhD in quantitative research, evaluation and measurement, Dickison led the development and launch of the groundbreaking Next Generation NCLEX, an evolution of the exam designed to improve the measurement of clinical judgment. The initiative involved extensive research, a revised measurement model, the creation of new item types, and sustained engagement with educators, regulators and other stakeholders.

As chief operating officer and later CEO, Dickison helped position NCSBN for its next era of service and innovation. He worked with healthcare regulators around the world to identify solutions while championing evidence-based approaches. His leadership consistently centered NCSBN's mission on the moment between a nurse and a patient, and on the responsibility to protect the public and the trust in nursing.

Dickison's approach combined a willingness to question established assumptions with a disciplined reliance on evidence. He focused the organization on strategic leadership, listening to members and employees, and building internal expertise while fostering a culture of innovation, leadership and continuous improvement.

"Phil shows people that meaningful change is possible and then challenges them to do the hard work required to make it a reality," said NCSBN COO Jen Gallagher. "His enthusiasm is contagious and his commitment to public protection is absolute. He inspires you to take on something bigger than you thought possible. NCSBN has never been stronger, and the organization will benefit from his leadership for decades to come."

The NCSBN Board of Directors, led by President Scheidt, is beginning a global search for Dickison's successor. The Board is committed to a deliberate process focused on identifying a leader who will uphold NCSBN's standards, sustain its momentum and work closely with its members, staff and stakeholders.

Dickison will continue to serve as CEO through the end of September 2027 and will work with the Board and NCSBN leadership to support a thoughtful transition.

About NCSBN
Empowering and supporting nursing regulators across the world in their mandate to protect the public, NCSBN is an independent, not-for-profit organization. As a global leader in regulatory excellence, NCSBN champions regulatory solutions to borderless health care delivery, agile regulatory systems and nurses practicing to the full scope of their education, experience and expertise. A world leader in test development and administration, NCSBN's NCLEX Exams are internationally recognized as preeminent nursing examinations.

NCSBN's membership is comprised of the nursing regulatory bodies (NRBs) in the 50 states, the District of Columbia and four U.S. territories. There are nine exam user members and 21 associate members that are either NRBs or empowered regulatory authorities from other countries or territories.

The statements and opinions expressed are those of NCSBN and not individual members.