Courtney Lyder facts for kids

Courtney Harvey Lyder (born June 8, 1966) is a nurse and educator from Trinidad and Tobago and the United States. He is famous around the world for his work with older adults.

From 2008 to 2015, Lyder was the dean of the UCLA School of Nursing. This means he was in charge of the nursing school at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Early Life and Education

Courtney Lyder was born in Trinidad and Tobago. Later, he moved to the United States.

He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts, from Beloit College. Then, he went to Rush University nursing school. In his class of 200 students, only five were male. There, he earned his Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and a special degree in Naturopathic Medicine.

Lyder learned from Luther Christman, who was the first male dean of a nursing school in the U.S. Christman helped change how people viewed men and minorities who wanted to become nurses.

Career Highlights

Courtney Lyder believes that nursing is a great career for everyone. He says it pays well and lets you help society. He also states that nursing is not just for one gender.

In August 2008, Lyder became the dean of the UCLA School of Nursing. He was the first male minority to lead such a school in the United States. He finished his time as dean on July 1, 2015.

Lyder is known worldwide for his knowledge about gerontology. This is the study of aging and the problems older adults face. He has done important work on preventing pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. These can be dangerous for older patients in hospitals.

His research showed that people with long-term health problems, like diabetes or obesity, are at higher risk. If they get pressure ulcers in the hospital, they are more likely to have serious health issues. Lyder emphasizes that enough staff is key to preventing these wounds.

Lyder is a respected member of the American Academy of Nursing and the New York Academy of Medicine. In 2011, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services chose him for the National Advisory Council for Nursing Research.

Awards and Honors

Courtney Lyder has received several important awards for his work:

• He won the President's Award from the National League for Nursing in 2012.
• He received an honorary doctorate degree from Saint Xavier University. This award recognized his great contributions to nursing.

Fun Facts: Named After Him

Hotel Angeleno, Los Angeles

Because Courtney Lyder was a regular customer at many restaurants in Los Angeles, some drinks and dishes were named after him or his dog!

See also

• Estelle Massey Osborne – a famous African-American nurse and educator.