For Immediate Release
September 2025 — Deerfield Beach, FL:
The Watson Caring Science Institute (WCSI) and the Santo Tomás University School of Nursing (UST) Santiago, Chile are proud to announce a historic academic affiliation, marking the first time a nursing school in Latin America has achieved this distinction. This milestone positions UST as a regional leader in nursing education, committed to integrating caring science theory with modern science and technical skills.
The affiliation ceremony, held virtually with Dr Jean Watson Founder, Director WCSI, celebrated a new era for nursing students at UST, who will now have access to international-standard education, including specialized courses, content, and resources from WCSI, a global leader in Unitary Caring Science.
“This collaboration clearly highlights our priority as educators: to integrate the science of care as a fundamental aspect of the identity and practices of future nurses from the Universidad Santo Tomás,” said Andrea Solís, Dean of the Faculty of Health at UST.
This partnership will empower UST nursing students to participate in international projects, research, and events, significantly enhancing the prestige and visibility of the School of Nursing. By fostering the development of social-emotional skills such as empathy, active listening, and effective communication, the program aims to train professionals who can provide holistic care that addresses the body, mind, and spirit of each individual.
"We want every nurse trained at Santo Tomás to possess not only outstanding technical knowledge but also the ability to observe, listen, and support each individual with respect, dignity, and compassion," emphasized Claudia Ibarra, National Director of the UST School of Nursing.
The partnership also aligns with Dr. Jean Watson's vision of co-creating "Global Caritas-Communitas networks" that unite nurses across time and space, fostering a new level of compassionate consciousness.
By becoming the first educational institution in Latin America to join WCSI, UST reaffirms its commitment to preparing professionals who are not only ready to tackle current health challenges but are also equipped to lead with human caring and compassion in the future of healthcare.
ENDS
Further information:
About Watson Caring Science Institute (WCSI): The 
Watson Caring Science Institute (WCSI) is an international non-profit organization that advances the philosophies, theories, and practices of Human Caring Science theory developed, by Founder/Director Jean Watson, Ph.D., RN, AHN-BC, FAAN, LL (AAN). Focusing on research, education, praxis, leadership, and legacy, the institute aims to widen the development and understanding of Watson’s Caring Science to inform our notion of quality care and healing environments through various educational programs, nurse scientific research, partnerships, events and affiliations. For more information, please visit www.watsoncaringscience.org.
About Universidad Santo Tomás (UST) Universidad Santo Tomás is a leading academic institution in Chile, recognized for its commitment to excellence in education and professional training. The School of Nursing within its Faculty of Health is dedicated to shaping future healthcare professionals who integrate ethical, spiritual, and caregiving dimensions into their practice. For more information please visit: Website
Share this Page