Distance Learning Presents: Nursing Program & Faculty Spotlight

Dr. Virginia Peterson-Graziose, Chair of the Department of Nursing

Department: Nursing 
Title: Nursing Department Chairperson 
Years at Farmingdale State College: 17 

With nearly two decades at Farmingdale State College, Virginia Peterson-Graziose has helped shape the evolution of nursing education on campus. As Department Chairperson, she has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for working professionals through fully online degree programs that meet the changing needs of today’s healthcare environment.

Expanding Access Through Online Nursing Programs

Farmingdale State College currently offers two fully online nursing degree programs designed to support working nurses: the RN–BS program and the MS in Nursing Administration program, which launched in Fall 2025.

“Farmingdale State College offers two fully online nursing degree programs designed to support working nurses: the RN–BS program and the MS in Nursing Administration program, which launched in Fall 2025. Both programs emphasize flexibility, academic rigor, and alignment with current professional standards.”

As Chair of the Nursing Department, Peterson-Graziose was instrumental in bringing both programs to life and continues to guide their growth and direction. 
“As Chair of the Nursing Department, I played a key role in developing both programs and continue to provide leadership and oversight while also teaching in the MS in Nursing Administration program, contributing directly to curriculum delivery, mentorship, and student success.”

Her leadership ensures that the programs not only maintain high academic standards but also remain responsive to the real-world demands nurses face every day.

A Path to Academia

Peterson-Graziose’s journey into higher education was not part of an original master plan. In fact, it began with encouragement from a mentor.

“I came to academia somewhat unexpectedly. While I was in my master’s program, preparing to become a nurse practitioner, a faculty mentor encouraged me to teach as an adjunct. At the time, I saw myself primarily as a clinician, but teaching part-time alongside full-time NP practice, while raising two children as a single parent, opened the door to a new passion.”

What began as a part-time opportunity gradually evolved into a full-time calling.

“Eventually, I accepted a full-time faculty position, which provided a better balance for my personal life while allowing me to remain clinically active part-time.”

For Peterson-Graziose, the most meaningful moments happen in the clinical setting.

“My favorite part of being a professor is teaching in the clinical setting and watching students master new skills, gain confidence, and grow into competent, compassionate nurses.”

After 17 years at Farmingdale, her dedication continues to shape not only academic programs, but the next generation of nursing professionals.