Abstract
Abstract: Academic nursing leaders faced unprecedented decision-making during the recent global pandemic. Although some universities had emergency response plans, many did not, and those that did have plans did not address the specific needs of nursing education programs. This descriptive survey study sought to describe the decision-making and response of nursing education leaders during the pandemic and provide recommendations for the future. Themes identified in the study include preparedness, emergency response, uncertainty, leadership and policy, and communication. Results of the study provide nursing program administrators with insights for preparing to lead in future emergencies.