Amy Spurlock, a professor in the School of Nursing, received the JoAnna “Jody” DeMeyer Endowed Chair for Nursing.
Spurlock first taught at Boise State as a nursing instructor in the late 1990’s before rejoining the School of Nursing in 2021. She served as the associate divisional dean and chief nursing administrator from 2021 to 2024. In addition to her duties as associate divisional dean, she published 10 new articles and is quick to admit that research is her “happy place.” Over the last decade, Spurlock has continued her research in using blended whole foods for children and adults with feeding tubes.
As the Joanna “Jody” DeMeyer Endowed Chair in Nursing, Spurlock will collaborate with faculty, students and healthcare partners to expand resources to improve health outcomes for Idahoans.
Spurlock recognizes the following individuals who contributed to her success: “Professionally, I’ve been blessed with many mentors but I’d like to single out the late Dr. Vida Huber, the late Dr. Barbara Graham, Dr. Carolyn Williams, Dr. Ellen Hahn and my research partner Dr. Teresa Johnson for shaping and polishing me into the nurse educator and scholar that I am. My husband, Jeff Spurlock, and children Stephanie, Jeb, Bobby and Sam for their enduring support and encouragement in my research and career growth.”
“Finally, to my late daughter Sarah for providing the inspiration and drive for my research in the area of blended tube feeding,” she added. “This is for you.”
About endowed positions
For centuries, endowed positions have been regarded as the hallmark of an institution’s long-term commitment to academic advancement and an important recognition of faculty excellence. They are uniquely distinct in the way that they provide valuable support for the work of faculty members of the highest distinction.
At Boise State, endowed positions enable faculty to contribute to strategic initiatives, enhance efforts for faculty recruitment and retention, provide exceptional experience to students and bestow prestige on programs and the university at large.
Endowed positions are typically funded by the generosity of donors and often carry a donor’s or special honoree’s name, with the funds given sustaining the gift for years to come. In each case, an endowed position supports the awardee’s teaching, research and service to the profession and institution.