Abstract
ABSTRACT: The Institute of Medicine and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing advise that professional nursing education include development of a high level of cultural competency. A 10-day learning experience to Ireland for nursing students at the University of Detroit Mercy, an independent Catholic university, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Fathers), helped them develop a philosophy of Mercy care and build cultural competence. Learning focused on the life of Catherine McAuley, Irish culture, spirituality, social justice, reflective thinking, and a value-centered professional education.