Debbie Holly (79)

Debbie Holly headshot

Debbie Holly’s connection to Point Loma Nazarene University spans five decades and three generations. Following in the footsteps of her parents and uncle, Debbie came to PLNU in 1974 to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her father, Keith Holly ('56) and mother, Sheila Holly ('59) both later became PLNU faculty members and her family relocated to San Diego. Over the years, PLNU has become a cherished family tradition, with three siblings, two cousins, and now four members of the third generation proudly earning degrees from the university.

After graduation, Debbie began her nursing career at Sharp Memorial Hospital in the surgical-oncology unit and later earned a Master’s in Family Health Nursing from the University of San Diego. Her professional journey spanned 44 years with Sharp HealthCare, where she served as an educator, manager, and director across multiple sites. A strong advocate for the next generation of nurses, Debbie has supported PLNU nursing students through placement opportunities, mentorship, and even hiring many into her teams. She also played an active role on PLNU’s Community Advisory Committee for the School of Nursing.

Debbie has also experienced the incredible impact of the PLNU nursing community in her personal life. When her mother required in-home care, PLNU nursing students stepped in with compassion and professionalism, enabling Debbie to continue her career while ensuring her mother was well cared for. Today, she remains deeply connected to the university as an active member of San Diego First Church of the Nazarene and a dedicated PLNU Alumni Board members. For Debbie, Point Loma Nazarene University is not just a place—it is a profound and enduring part of the Holly family story.