Racial and Ethnic Diversity of nursing schools has increased dramatically, creating a rich cultural environment for learning. The rapid growth in information technology has already had a radical impact on healthcare delivery and the education of nurses. Nurses of the 21st century need to be skilled in the use of computer technology. Nursing research and education become more focused internationally to disseminate information and benefit from the multicultural experience. Gene mapping will drive rapid advances in the development of new drugs and the treatment and prevention of disease. Nursing education programs must prepare students at all levels for roles in case management and employment in the managed care & medical home environment. Nursing schools, executives, scholars, and professional nursing organizations will need to more actively contribute to the development of health policy and regulation.