Washington, DC (May 5, 2026)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the September 2025 Policy Dialogue, “Shifting the Future: Policy and Research Updates on Suicide in the Nursing Profession,” hosted by the Academy’s Building Health Care System Excellence Expert Panel, in collaboration with the Psychiatric, Mental Health, and Substance Use and Acute & Critical Care Expert Panels. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity.

Please note: topics discussed include suicide and trauma, which may cause discomfort or distress. Reader discretion is advised. Whether facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or needing someone to talk to, resources are available. Dial 988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The Academy honors all nurses and also acknowledges the very real emotional and mental health challenges brought on by their work. Nurses are not alone in their journey, and the Academy endeavors to support policy change to address nurse well-being. Leading experts in nurse suicide prevention discussed emerging data and research, risk identification measures, and strategic initiatives for organizational and policy development. The report outlines their reflections and recommendations for nurses and systems to take actionable steps to promote policy change and mitigate nurse suicide.

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presentation, included:

• Amanda Choflet, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Dean of Nursing, Northeastern University;
• Christopher Wojnar, MSN, APNP, PMHNP-BC, Founder and CEO, Christopher M. Wojnar, LLC; Vice President, United Suicide Survivors International; and
• Allison Norful, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, FAAN, Assistant Professor, Columbia University School of Nursing; Nurse Scientist, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Support sustained funding and implementation of the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act. First enacted in 2022 and reauthorized through Fiscal Year 2030 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (P.L. 119-75), this legislation advances suicide prevention resources, training materials, and evidence-informed initiatives for clinicians and health systems. Continued federal investment and appropriations are necessary to ensure these programs are fully operationalized, scaled, and accessible across health care settings.
• Address licensing and credentialing barriers at the institutional and state level, including invasive questions about mental health diagnoses and treatment, that deter help-seeking behaviors by clinicians.
• Promote a functional impairment standard for licensure that focuses on questions about mental health only if a clinician is currently unable to practice safely.
• Integrate suicide prevention, substance use recovery, and postvention strategies as part of workforce safety.
• Increase the availability of confidential mental health resources that are easily accessible through the workplace.
• Implement increased protections for the privacy of nurses’ health information, such as mental health diagnoses, including for nurses facing disciplinary proceedings.
• Engage lived experience suicide experts to guide safe and effective policies.
• Increase funding for research that examines the scope of nurse suicide and serves to better inform tailored, effective prevention strategies.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings online. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are also available to view online.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing

The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,300 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact

Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

Committee Members will Assume Positions on June 1, 2026

Washington, DC (April 23, 2026) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) is pleased to announce the Fellows who have been appointed by the Board of Directors (Board) to support the organization’s policy impact.

“I am excited to recognize the Fellows who will assume positions on the Academy’s Policy Standing Committees,” said President Debra J. Barksdale, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, ANEF, FAAN. “As the Academy launches our new era of policy engagement, the work of these bodies will set the foundation for more strategic, nimble, collaborative, and proactive policy work as we seek to fulfill our vision of healthy lives for all people."

In October 2025, the Board announced the transition to a new policy structure that included the development of the Policy Standing Committees on Determinants of Health, Global and Public Health, Learning Health Systems, and Lifespan and Populations, which will offer expertise to ensure rapid response and drive consensus. Additional information can be found here.
 
Policy Standing Committees

The Policy Standing Committees will advise the Board and work to advance key policy initiatives in collaboration with Fellows, Expert Forums, Thought Leadership Collaboratives, and external partners. This includes providing rapid response and position statements for the Academy.  Additionally, they will work in tandem with other Policy Standing Committees to yield the most comprehensive response on policy areas of expertise within the Academy.

Policy Standing Committee on Determinants of Health:

• Barbara Polivka, PhD, RN, FAAN (Chair), Associate Dean for Research, University of Kansas School of Nursing – Inducted in 2016
• Kupiri Ackerman, PhD, MSN, RN, FADLN, ANEF, FAAN, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence, University of California Davis Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing – Inducted in 2019
• Jeanne Alhusen, PhD, CRNP, RN, FAAN, Professor and Associate Dean for Research, The University of Virginia School of Nursing – Inducted in 2018
• Chin Hwa (Gina) Dahlem, PhD, FNP-C, FAANP, FAAN, Associate Dean for Professional Practice, University of Michigan School of Nursing – Inducted in 2025
• Melissa Gomes, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Associate Dean for Strategic Wellness, University of Virginia School of Nursing – Inducted in 2021
• Carolina Huerta, EdD, RN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley – Inducted in 2012
• Simmy King, DNP, MS, MBA, NI-BC, NE-BC, CHSE, FAONL, FAAN, Director, Nursing Education and Professional Development, Children’s National Hospital – Inducted in 2022
• Joyce Knestrick, PhD, FNP, FAANP, FAAN, Professor, George Washington University School of Nursing – Inducted in 2019
• JoEllen Schimmels, PhD, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ANP-BC, CNE, FAAN, Clinical Professor, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing – Inducted in 2019
• Angela Starkweather, PhD, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN, Dean, Chief Academic Officer, and Professor, Rutgers School of Nursing – Inducted in 2014
• Melissa Wilson, PhD, APRN, CCNS, FAAN, Nurse Scientist, Mayo Clinic Rochester – Inducted in 2022

Policy Standing Committee on Global and Public Health:

• Jason Farley, PhD, MPH, ANP-BC, FAANP, FAAN (Chair), Leadership and Nursing Endowed Chair and Associate Dean of Community Programs & Initiatives, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing – Inducted in 2013
• Marife Aczon-Armstrong, PhD, RN-BC, FAAN, Associate Professor and EBP/Research Committee Chair, Chaminade University of Honolulu School of Nursing & Health Professions – Inducted in 2025
• Suha Ballout, PhD, RN, FADLN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, University of Washington School of Nursing – Inducted in 2024
• Emily Anne Barr, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC, CNM, ACRN, FACNM, FAAN, Associate Professor, University at Buffalo School of Nursing – Inducted in 2023
• Catherine Cox, PhD, RN, CEN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN, Professor, George Washington University School of Nursing – Inducted in 2020
• Jeri Milstead, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Dean and Professor Emerita, University of Toledo College of Nursing – Inducted in 2003
• Sheridan Miyamoto, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Professor, Penn State University Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing – Inducted in 2020
• Madeline Naegle, PhD, CNS-PMH-BC, FAAN, Professor Emerita, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing – Inducted in 1989, Named a Living Legend in 2023
• Jamla Rizek, DNP, MBA, RN, CEN, CPEN, NHDP-BC, NRP, FAEN, FAAN, Founder, Adventures with Nurse Jamla – Inducted in 2025
• Allison Squires, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor and Director of the Global Consortium of Nursing & Midwifery, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing – Inducted in 2015
• Alessandro Stievano, PhD, RN, FEANS, FESNO, FFNMRCSI, FSIEN, FTNSS, FAAN, Professor of Nursing, Centre of Excellence for Nursing Scholarship OPI Rome, and President, European Nurse Directors Association - Inducted in 2018

Policy Standing Committee on Learning Health Systems:

• Maureen McCausland, DNSc, RN, FAAN (Chair), Senior Advisor, McChrystal Group  – Inducted in 1991
• Steven Brockman-Weber, DNP, RN, MSHSA, NEA-BC, CENP, FACHE, FAAN, President, Ascension Seton – Inducted in 2025
• Karen Drenkard, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Acting Divisional Dean, George Mason University School of Nursing; President, Drenkard Healthcare Consulting, LLC. – Inducted in 2008
• Mary Joy Garcia-Dia, DNP, RN, FHIMSS, FAAN, Program Director Nursing Informatics, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital – Inducted in 2019
• Mattia Gilmartin, PhD, RN, FAAN, Senior Advisor, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing – Inducted in 2018
• Vicki Good, DNP, RN, CENP, CPPS, FAAN, Chief Clinical Officer, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses – Inducted in 2024
• Linda McCauley, PhD, RN, FRCN, FAAN, Former Dean, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing – Inducted in 1995
• Melissa Reider-Demer, DNP, MSN, CNP, FAAN, Chief Quality Officer, Department of Neurology, UCLA Health – Inducted in 2023
• Hussein Tahan, PhD, RN, FCM, FAAN, Chief Nursing Officer and System Vice President, MedStar Health – Inducted in 2016
• Victoria Tiase, PhD, RN, FAAN, Assistant Professor, University of Utah, School of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Informatics – Inducted in 2020
• Olga Yakusheva, PhD, MSPE, FAAN, Economist and Professor, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing – Inducted as an Honorary Fellow in 2023

Policy Standing Committee on Lifespan and Populations:

• Mona Pearl Treyball, PhD, RN, CNS, CCRN-K, FAAN (Chair), Teaching Professor and Specialty Director, University of Colorado Anschutz College of Nursing – Inducted in 2016
• Harriet Aronow, PhD, FAAN, Research Scientist and Professor of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – Inducted as an Honorary Fellow in 2021
• Kathleen Lindell, PhD, RN, ATSF, FAAN, Mary Swain Endowed Chair in Palliative Care, Medical University of South Carolina College of Nursing – Inducted in 2018
• Kelly McGlothen-Bell, PhD, RN, IBCLC, FAWHONN, FAAN, Assistant Professor, University of Texas Health - San Antonio, School of Nursing – Inducted in 2025
• Judy Goforth Parker, PhD, APRN, FACHE, FAAN, Commissioner of Health Policy, The Chickasaw Nation – Inducted in 2024
• Bro. Ignatius Perkins, OP, PhD, RN, ANEF, FNYAM, FRSM, FNCBC, FAAN, Director, St. Martin De Porres Center, Providence College – Inducted in 2004; Named a Living Legend in 2025
• S. Raquel Ramos, PhD, MSN, MBA, FNYAM, FAHA, FAAN, Associate Professor, Yale University School of Nursing – Inducted in 2024
• Marilyn Rantz, PhD, RN, FAAN, Curators Professor, University of Missouri-Columbia Sinclair School of Nursing – Inducted in 1996, Named a Living Legend in 2020
• Deborah Stamps, EdD, MBA, MS, RN, GNP, NE-BC, CDE, FADLN, FAAN, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Deborah Stamps Consulting, LLC – Inducted in 2023
• Lori Trego, PhD, CNM, FAAN, Professor, University of Colorado Anschutz College of Nursing – Inducted in 2016
• Linda Wesp, PhD, MSN, RN, FNP-C, APNP, AAHIVE, FAAN, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee School of Nursing – Inducted in 2025

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,300 Fellows, the Academy—an honorific society and policy organization—represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia. 

Contact
Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@aannet.org

Proceedings Feature Policy Recommendations and Discussion Summaries

Washington, DC (March 12, 2026)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the May 2025 Policy Dialogue, “Nurses United in Disaster Response: Advancing Public Health Nursing Leadership for Climate-Ready Communities,” hosted by the Academy’s Environmental & Public Health and Child, Adolescent, & Family Expert Panels. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity.

This timely dialogue discussed the critical role of public health nurse leaders in disaster preparedness and climate resilience. The report outlines leading experts' reflections on current public health nursing workforce challenges, legislation addressing climate disaster preparedness, and evidence supporting the unique impact of public health nurses on local health outcomes and emergency response capabilities. 

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presentation, included:

• Betty Bekemeier, PhD, MPH, RN, FAAN, Professor, University of Washington School of Nursing;
• Aisha K. Brooks, DNP, MPH, RN, FADLN, FAAN, Founder and CEO, VitalVoice Nursing, LLC;
• Tara Heagele, PhD, RN, FAAN, Assistant Professor, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, Hunter College of the City University of New York; and
• Tener Goodwin Veenema, PhD, MPH, MS, RN, FAAN, Senior Scholar & Senior Scientist, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Increase funding for the public health infrastructure, including for the public health nursing workforce and nursing workforce broadly, before, during, and after public health emergencies to develop the capacity to respond to new pandemics and disasters.
• Invest in research addressing climate change, public health systems, and the public health workforce to address recruitment and retention needs and better communicate the value of public health nurses.
• Implement a national public health leadership competency framework and strong leadership pathways, including cross-sector fellowships and training opportunities, to equip nurses to lead with innovative ideas.
• Encourage the adoption of nurse-led disaster preparedness interventions to address common barriers to community preparedness and foster education and connection to resources.
• Support passage of the Real Emergency Access for Aging and Disability Inclusion (REAADI) for Disasters Act, which would take a multifaceted approach to advance disaster preparedness efforts.
• Strengthen partnerships, for example, between community health centers, faith-based organizations, clinicians, and others, to increase beneficial connection points for information and resources.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings here. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are also available to view online.

Proceedings Feature Policy Recommendations and Policy Dialogue Discussion Summaries

Washington, DC (December 15, 2025)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the January 2025 Policy Dialogue, “Nurses Navigating Cybersecurity Across the Lifespan: Policy Challenges and Solutions,” hosted by the Academy’s Trauma & Violence and the Global Nursing & Health Expert Panels. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity.

The Academy is pleased to release the summary for this Policy Dialogue, which discussed cybersecurity challenges across the lifespan, provided practical recommendations for health care workers, and explored policy measures to protect individuals from cyber risks throughout their lives.  Participants in this dialogue heard from leading experts about the current state of cyber threats and risk-taking behaviors for patient populations across the lifespan and the implications for policy and nursing practice. Please note, topics discussed include sexual abuse and violence, which may cause discomfort. Reader discretion is advised.

Key takeaways from the dialogue include:

• All Populations are Vulnerable to Cybersecurity Threats;
• The Best Cybersecurity Practice Requires Knowledge and Caution;
• Nurses are Uniquely Positioned to Assess and Promote Cybersecurity Practices for Patients; and
• Policies Guiding Cybersecurity Development and Implementation Must Include Nursing Expertise.

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presenting, included:

• Elizabeth B. Dowdell, PhD, RN, AFN-C, FAAN, Professor and Coordinator of Undergraduate Research, Villanova University, M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing;
• Melissa O’Connor, PhD, MBA, RN, FGSA, FAAN, Associate Dean for Research and Rudin Endowed Chair, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing at Hunter College; and
• John A. “Drew” Hamilton, Jr., PhD, Professor and Director of the Texas A&M Cybersecurity Center, Texas A&M University.

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Engage nurses in the development of cybersecurity policies to ensure that they are sensitive to the specific needs of various patient populations.
• Integrate cybersecurity training and education into the professional development of nurses and other health care workers.
• Increase funding for networks and task forces such as the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task forces that protect people from cybercrimes and ensure that health care professionals, such as nurses, are included in these networks.
• Fund education, programs, and resources that inform populations of various ages and backgrounds about common cybercrimes and best practices to avoid them.
• Support policies that strengthen the cybersecurity capacity of all health care facilities, with a focus on bolstering those that may lack resources or information to combat cyberattacks.
• Ensure that regulations are responsive to the continuous evolution and adaptation of cybersecurity threats and their impact on populations vulnerable to cybercrime.
• Regularly update the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Security Rule to reflect modern standards for cybersecurity, privacy, and confidentiality of electronic personal health information and data.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings online. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are also available to view online.

Washington, DC (October 14, 2025) — The American Academy of Nursing (AAN) announced today that it has expanded its partnership with the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) by transitioning its funding of the AAN Fellowship at the NAM from a term agreement to an endowment. The AAN NAM Fellowship program provides talented scholars in nursing with the opportunity to experience and participate in evidence-based public health studies that improve the care and access to care of patients in domestic and global health care systems.

Since 2022, when AAN and the NAM established its joint Fellowship program, it has supported two outstanding nurse scholars, Paule Joseph, PhD, MS, FNP-BC, CTN-B, FAAN, who was the inaugural Fellow, and Roxana Chicas, PhD, RN, FAAN, who is currently serving as the 2024-2026 Fellow.

“A cornerstone of my presidency has been to establish and nurture key partnerships now and into the future. The AAN NAM Fellowship further amplifies nursing expertise with one of the foremost and esteemed policy-making organizations at the federal level,” said American Academy of Nursing President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Nurses' impact and influence are pivotal to transforming health during a time of rapid innovation. When a collaborative approach is taken to reform the health care system, the patient, family, and community benefit.”

The goal of the AAN NAM Fellowship is to further facilitate the dissemination of nursing knowledge and expertise in key discussions that will impact health policy at the national level. This experience over a two-year period introduces the AAN NAM Fellow to a variety of experts and perspectives, including legislators, government officials, industry leaders, executives of voluntary health organizations, scientists, and other health professionals.

“The National Academy of Medicine is delighted to deepen its partnership with the American Academy of Nursing in establishing this fellowship,” said National Academy of Medicine President Victor J. Dzau. “Nurse leaders are vital experts to collaborate with the NAM, as they provide an important perspective to address complex challenges in health and health care and further our ability to make meaningful change.”

Learn more about the Academy. More details regarding the AAN NAM Fellowship are available here. Call for nominations for the 2026 – 2028 Fellowship will open next March.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.
AAN Contact: Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

About the National Academy of Medicine
The National Academy of Medicine, established in 1970 as the Institute of Medicine, is an independent organization of eminent professionals from diverse fields including health and medicine; the natural, social, and behavioral sciences; and beyond. It serves alongside the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering as an adviser to the nation and the international community.  Through its domestic and global initiatives, the NAM works to address critical issues in health, medicine, and related policy and inspire positive action across sectors. The NAM collaborates closely with its peer academies and other divisions within the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
NAM Contact: Dana Korsen | 202-334-2138 | news@nas.edu

Washington, DC (October 2, 2025) —The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) is pleased to announce the election results for President-Elect, Treasurer, Board of Directors, Fellow Selection Committee, and Nominating Committee.

“I am excited to recognize these volunteer leaders who will assume key roles on the Academy’s Board of Directors and committees,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “As my presidency comes to an end, I reflect on the incredible dedication and commitment of our Fellows. Their continued engagement is critical to the success of our organization and advancing our mission to improve health and achieve health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science.” 

Angela Amar, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean and Erline Perkins McGriff Professor, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, will assume the role of President-Elect. Dr. Amar has dedicated her career to enhancing diversity in nursing leadership and to improving care and support for survivors of violence and trauma, particularly increasing help-seeking behavior for those experiencing dating violence. As a leading scholar in gender-based violence, Dr. Amar’s research has influenced the direction of campus policy nationally. Inducted as a Fellow in 2011, Dr. Amar formerly served as the Co-Chair of the Academy’s Trauma and Violence Expert Panel. During her two terms on the Academy’s Board of Directors from 2020 to 2024, she served as liaison to several Expert Panels, as well as the Living Legends Task Force, and the National Advisory Councils for Edge Runners and the Council on the Advancement of Nursing Science (CANS). Leveraging her expertise to help support the strategic governance of the organization, Dr. Amar also served on the Board’s ad hoc governance committee after the passage of the Academy’s revised bylaws in 2022, which developed the Board’s charter, committee charters, and other policies.

“I am honored to serve the Fellowship as President-Elect. I have a long tenure volunteering with the organization and see the potential we have to harness the powerful thought leadership of the Fellows to help advance our vision of healthy lives for all people,” said Dr. Amar. “I pride myself on being intentional, forward-thinking, and humanistic. I pledge to focus on enhancing member engagement, advancing nursing excellence, and engaging in policy advocacy and leadership to advance health equity and promote justice."

Bernice Coleman, PhD, ACNP-BC, FAHA, FADLN, FAAN, Director, Nursing Research and Quality Department, Research Scientist III, Associate Professor, Biomedical Sciences and Medicine, & Nurse Practitioner, Heart Transplantation, Mechanical Circulatory Support Programs, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, was re-elected to serve a second term as Treasurer. Dr. Coleman has paired her clinical practice with a research career focused on health disparities. Her research spans bench to bedside to community – with work on genomic transplant disparities, family caregivers, and church-based preventive blood pressure education. Inducted as a Fellow in 2012, Dr. Coleman has lent her expertise to the Academy through her former role as the organization’s representative on the National Academy of Medicine’s Roundtable on Genomics and Precision Health, as a member of the Emerging Infectious Diseases Expert Panel, and active engagement in CANS. During her first term as Treasurer, Dr. Coleman has been a steadfast steward and champion of the Academy’s resources, working tirelessly to advance the financial strength of the organization while serving as a liaison to the Audit Committee, Development Committee, and Finance Committee.

“I am honored to be re-elected to serve as Treasurer of the Academy. This incredible privilege carries a responsibility that I do not take lightly,” said Dr. Coleman. “I intend to continue our organization’s strong fiscal management, setting the Academy up to expand partnerships and participate in opportunities that will further our reach and impact while maintaining the offerings our Fellows truly want.”

Marie Ann Marino, EdD, RN, FAAN, Dean, Thomas Jefferson University College of Nursing, and Vice President, Jefferson Health, has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Dr. Marino’s major contributions center on advancing innovative, nurse-led models of care and academic–practice partnerships that support talent stream optimization and improve healthcare access and outcomes across populations. She oversees Jefferson’s Center for MATER (Maternal Addiction Treatment, Education, & Research), a nationally recognized program supporting women with substance use disorders and their families, which has been designated as an Academy Edge Runner. She has also maintained a distinguished clinical career as a pediatric nurse practitioner/forensic medical examiner, providing expert testimony in more than 300 proceedings nationally. Since her induction into the Academy in 2017, Dr. Marino has been an active member of the Fellowship, having served as Chair of the Nominating Committee and as a member of the CANS and Edge Runners National Advisory Councils, as well as serving as the former Chair and a member of the Expert Panel on Trauma & Violence.

“I plan to bring a strong policy voice, systems-level perspective, and a deep commitment to generative leadership aligned with the Academy’s mission,” said Dr. Marino. “My range of intersecting experiences—in academic leadership, board governance, research, and health policy—positions me to contribute meaningfully in service to the Academy as a Board member.”

Elda Ramirez, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, ENP-C, FAANP, FAEN, FAAN, Dean, Texas A&M International University, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Dr. Ramirez is an emergency nurse practitioner and, as an international leader in the field, has experience driving change for both staff and patients through the creation of educational programs, recognition of the Certified Emergency Nurse designation, and development of clinical practice guidelines for the specialty. In advancing the specialty, Dr. Ramirez notably contributed to legislation in her home state of Texas that utilizes funds from traffic violations to educate emergency trauma nurse practitioners to practice in rural and critical access facilities. She is also the founder of the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Ramirez, inducted as an Academy Fellow in 2017, has expertly supported the organization through leadership on multiple committees, such as the Living Legends Task Force, as well as acting as a moderator during the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference.

“In the current politically charged landscape, I am honored to have led crucial conversations on integral committees for the Academy,” said Dr. Ramirez. “As an elected member of the Board of Directors, I will humbly and respectfully advocate on behalf of our renowned Fellows to ensure the organization is fulfilling its mission while recognizing the multitude of perspectives that exist within our Fellowship.”

Billy Rosa, PhD, MBE, APRN, FAANP, FPCN, FAAN, Assistant Attending Behavioral Scientist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. A leading voice in palliative care, Dr. Rosa’s research focuses on bridging divides in palliative care and pain relief access for historically marginalized communities, locally and globally. With more than 300 publications in journals and texts, he currently serves as Co-Chair for the Lancet Respiratory Medicine Commission on Palliative Care Integration in Serious Respiratory Illness, Editor-in-Chief of Psycho-Oncology, and has been an expert panel member for numerous clinical practice guidelines and international policy reports. His streams of research focus on interventions to promote inclusive communication for LGBTQ+ identified patients and their families; understanding cancer pain disparities among underserved groups; and quantifying global palliative care disparities and need, particularly for people living in low-resource countries. Dr. Rosa became an Academy Fellow in 2018. Since induction, he has been highly engaged, acting as a moderator during the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference, serving on the Nominating Committee, and, as a member and former Chair of the Global Health & Nursing Expert Panel, Dr. Rosa led and collaborated on several key consensus papers published in the Academy’s journal, Nursing Outlook.

“The holistic and innovative care nurses uniquely provide truly shines through the Fellowship. As a Board member, I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues as we elevate the organization’s collective policy impact and bolster global health diplomacy,” said Dr. Rosa. “I aim to strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders to promote the Academy’s programming, ensure fiscal responsibility, and maintain the highest standards of leadership."

Continuing Board Members Include:

• President-Elect Debra J. Barksdale, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, ANEF, FAAN, Dean & Professor, University of North Carolina Greensboro, School of Nursing (Dr. Barksdale will become President of the Academy at the Annual Business Meeting.)
• Secretary, Ronald Hickman, PhD, RN, ACNP-BC, FNAP, FADLN, FAAN, Dean and Ruth M. Anderson Endowed Professor, Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
• Nancy DeBasio, PhD, RN, FAAN, President Emeritus, Research College of Nursing
• Susan Grant, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Chief Clinical Officer, Symplr
• Teri Murray, PhD, PHNA-BC, RN, ANEF, FADLN, FAAN, Professor, Dean Emerita, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Saint Louis University, Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing

This year’s election ballot also included positions for the Fellow Selection Committee and Nominating Committee. The following individuals will join these committees at the conclusion of the Health Policy Conference.

Newly Elected Members of the Fellow Selection Committee:

• Jeanne Alhusen, PhD, CRNP, RN, FAAN, Professor and Associate Dean for Research, The University of Virginia School of Nursing
• Natalia Cineas, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, FADLN, Senior Vice President, Chief Nurse Executive, New York City Health + Hospitals (Dr. Cineas was re-elected to serve a 2nd term)
• Susan Corbridge, PhD, ACNP, FAANP, FCCP, FNAP, FAAN, Chief Nursing Education Innovation Officer, American Association of Colleges of Nursing
• Stephan Davis, DNP, MHSA, FACHE, FNAP, FHFMA, FADLN, ANEF, FAAN, Executive Director and Associate Professor, Leadership, Policy, and DNP Education, Georgetown University Berkley School of Nursing
• Rebecca Hill, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, CNE, FAAN, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs & Professor, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill School of Nursing
• Michael L. Jones, PhD, MBA/HCM, RN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Engagement and Professional Development; Executive Director for Advancement; Clinical Associate Professor, East Carolina University, College of Nursing
• Mary Frances Oneha, PhD, APRN, FAAN, Chief Executive Officer, Waimanalo Health Center
• Sharon Pappas, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Chief Nurse Executive, Emory Healthcare (Dr. Pappas was re-elected to serve a 2nd term)
• Joachim G. Voss, PhD, RN, ACRN, FAAN, Associate Dean for Academic Programs, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing (Dr. Voss was re-elected to serve a 2nd term)
• Susan Wesmiller, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Professor and Department Chair, University of Pittsburgh, School of Nursing
• Eric J. Williams, DNP, RN, CNE, ANEF, FADLN, FAAN, Associate Dean, Health Sciences, Santa Monica College

Newly Elected Members of the Nominating Committee:

• Mattia Gilmartin, PhD, RN, FAAN, Senior Advisor, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
• Ukamaka Oruche, PhD, RN, FAAN, Gordon Keller Professor, Senior Associate Dean of Research, University of South Florida College of Nursing
• Rosanne Raso, DNP, RN, CENP, NEA-BC, FAAN, FAONL, Editor-in-Chief, Nursing Management, and Adjunct Professor, Case Western Reserve University, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
• Allison Webel, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor and Associate Dean for Research & Innovation, University of Washington School of Nursing

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact
Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

Washington, DC (September 25, 2025) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) is proud to establish the Linda Burnes Bolton Polaris Award, in honor of the late Academy President, Living Legend, Fellow, industry leader, and generous benefactor. In alignment with Dr. Burnes Bolton’s legacy, this award will recognize an individual who exemplifies dedication to fulfilling the Academy’s mission through leadership within the organization by offering their time, talents, and building a philanthropic culture. The inaugural recipient of the Linda Burnes Bolton Polaris Award is Kenneth R. White, PhD, RN, LFACHE, FADLN, FAAN, Immediate Past-President of the Academy and the organization’s first male President. Dr. White’s tenure was marked by his dedication to sustaining philanthropy within the organization and thoughtful preparation for the Academy’s 50th anniversary and its future.

Dr. Burnes Bolton, the former Vice President for Nursing, Chief Health Equity Officer, Director of Nursing Research, and Chief Nursing Officer at Cedars-Sinai, was a pioneering titan of the nursing profession. She started her Cedars-Sinai career as a staff nurse in labor and delivery in 1971 and became the first advanced practice nurse at the hospital, dramatically shifting the nursing culture. Dr. Burnes Bolton was extremely dedicated to uplifting the profession, and through her mentorship, she was committed to diversifying and elevating nurse leaders. She viewed nurses as essential in ongoing efforts to address social determinants of health and healthcare reform, advocating for better health policies. Dr. Burnes Bolton was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in 2015 and served as President of the American Academy of Nursing, the American Organization of Nurse Leaders, the National Black Nurses Association, on the Board of Trustees for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Vice-Chair of the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academy of Medicine) Committee to prepare its seminal report The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.

"Dr. Linda Burnes Bolton is an icon within the nursing profession,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Lovingly referred to as LBB, she mentored countless individuals and championed the profession in the boardroom as well as at policy tables. She embodied the mission of the Academy and, as the 21st President, worked to ensure the organization advanced nursing leadership at all levels. Above all, she always encouraged us to aim for our true north, our north star, our Polaris."

Dr. White’s selection for this special award recognizes his commitment to the Academy’s true north. Under his leadership, the Academy revitalized its stewardship, personal outreach, and relationship building to strengthen the sense of community within the Fellowship. Of significance, Dr. White’s presidency coincided with the Academy’s 50th anniversary, which included a celebration that broke record attendance numbers at the 2023 Health Policy Conference. To commemorate this occasion, Dr. White established and engaged the Academy’s 50th Anniversary Committee for their leadership to honor this milestone. In recognition of the partnerships that have propelled the organization and its mission to advance health, raise the impact of the profession, and champion health equity, the committee created the one-time Gold Award, which was awarded to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Additionally, Dr. White garnered support from the Academy’s past leadership for a special 50th anniversary matching fundraising campaign - The President's Fund for Investment in Policy. And like the namesake for which this award was created, under his presidency, Dr. White examined the Academy’s growing global footprint and international Fellowship to strengthen connections to Fellows abroad and harnessed their diverse perspectives.

"It is an honor to receive this award named for such an esteemed and celebrated legend within the profession," said Kenneth R. White, PhD, RN, LFACHE, FADLN, FAAN. "Everyone who knew Dr. Burnes Bolton understood that mission-driven leadership not only champions the association we choose to serve, but the people who are impacted by the actions our organizations take. Of all the organizations for which I have served, the Academy holds a special place. I wanted to achieve more by supporting the Academy Fellows, with my heart open wide, my hands extended for partnership, and my mind committed to thought leadership. I aimed to see nurses “Out Loud” in our actions, and Dr. Burnes Bolton was an exceptional figure who championed this every day of her life."

Dr. White, inducted in 2012, has served in numerous industry and academic roles throughout his illustrious career, including thirteen years at Mercy Health Services. Over the course of his career, he has generously lent his leadership skills to organizations such as the American College of Healthcare Executives (in which he holds Fellowship and was awarded the Gold Medal Award for Lifetime Achievement), the Association for University Programs in Health Administration, and service on numerous governing boards. He formerly served as Associate Dean for Strategic Partnerships and Innovation at the University of Virginia School of Nursing and held the UVA Health Endowed Professorship in Nursing along with joint appointments in the McIntire School of Commerce, the Darden School of Business, and the UVA School of Medicine. He has also maintained a clinical practice as a palliative care nurse practitioner. He went on to become the Dean and Associate Chief Nurse for Academic Affairs at the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston.

The Linda Burnes Bolton Polaris Award will be presented to Dr. White at the 2025 Health Policy Conference on Saturday, October 18.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact
Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

Inside the Report

• Membership and operational highlights that showcase the Academy Fellowship and our drive to uphold to the Academy’s vision of Healthy Lives for All People.
• Details of the Academy's policy impact throughout 2024, including Fellows' policy publications in our journal, Nursing Outlook.
• Highlights of the continued work of the Academy’s three signature initiatives —the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science, the Institute for Nursing Leadership, and Edge Runners.
• Recognition of the Academy's incredible donors, volunteers, Fellows, and partners who advance the mission of the organization.

View the 2024 Annual Report online here. A PDF version is also available on the website to download.

Washington, DC (July 29, 2025) —The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will recognize five dedicated changemakers with the organization’s prestigious annual awards. These accomplished leaders will be recognized during the Academy’s Health Policy Conference, Impact Through Integrity and Trust: Our Role as Navigators and Translators, which is being held in Washington, DC from October 16-18, 2025. Each awardee has shown their commitment to the organization’s vision, healthy lives for all people, throughout their careers, demonstrating the impact of research, leadership, and public service.

“The Academy is elated to honor these individuals for their lasting contributions to the health of the nation and around the globe,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “As we consider how to advance policies to improve health, it is inspiring to reflect on the change these leaders have forged in public health and health equity. I look to their courage, innovation, and curiosity for insight on evidence-informed health policy and change to promote the best care practices. It is a privilege to elevate the work of these changemakers and showcase the tremendous impact they have made on health care. Not only through their previous work, but how they will continue to lead through collaboration and mentorship into the future." 

The President's Award, the highest individual achievement award given by the Academy, which recognizes a Fellow who has made extraordinary, lifelong contributions to improving the health of individuals, families, and communities, will be presented to Patricia M. Davidson, PhD, RN, FAAN, Vice Chancellor’s Fellow and interim Co-Director of the International Centre for Future Health Systems, UNSW Sydney. Her impressive research portfolio focuses on person-centered care delivery and improving quality of life for individuals with chronic and complex conditions with a special focus on how the social determinants of health affect health outcomes. Her previous academic leadership positions include Vice Chancellor and President, University of Wollongong and Dean, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing. A prolific mentor, Dr. Davidson was the first nurse to receive the Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Outstanding Mentor of Young Researchers, the most prestigious research mentorship award in the country. She currently serves in leadership roles as Chair, New South Wales International Education Advisory Board; Chair, Her Heart; and Board Member, Research Australia. 

Sean Clarke, PhD, RN, FAAN, will be presented with the Academy’s Civitas Award. This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies extraordinary dedication to excellence in promoting quality care. Dr. Clarke is the Ursula Springer Professor in Nursing Leadership at the New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing. Throughout his illustrious 30-year career, Dr. Clarke has taught nursing and health policy at all levels in major universities across the US and Canada, held endowed chairs and leadership roles in nursing schools, and has served as a consultant to government agencies, professional societies, and regulatory bodies internationally. His impressive research focuses on topics ranging from nurses’ working conditions to quality and safety measures in hospitals. Dr. Clarke’s work expertly examines the impact of economic, social, and political factors on the profession as well as through program and policy evaluation. Extensively published, he has served as Editor-in-Chief of Nursing Outlook, the Academy’s official journal on nursing leadership, policy, and professional issues, since 2023 where he has adeptly developed the journal’s thought leadership. 

The Health Care Leader Award, which recognizes an influential national leader dedicated to improving the health of the nation through contributions to organizational excellence, will be given to Brenda Nevidjon, MSN, RN, FAAN. Ms. Nevidjon leads the Oncology Nursing Society and its affiliated corporations as the Chief Executive Officer and is Clinical Professor Emeritus at Duke University School of Nursing. Internationally recognized for her leadership in professional and non-profit organizations, innovation in health programs, and support of federal health priorities, Ms. Nevidjon was also notably the first nurse and first woman to be named Chief Operating Officer of Duke University Hospital. Through her prolific scholarship, dedication to mentorship, and unwavering leadership, Ms. Nevidjon has championed nurse excellence at every step of her five-decades-long career. Her exceptional commitment to the profession is showcased through the integration of volunteer leadership within her clinical, academic, and executive experiences across a variety of healthcare delivery systems and institutions. 

The Academy will present Ada Sue Hinshaw, PhD, RN, FAAN, with the Lifetime Legacy Award. This award recognizes extraordinary individuals who have dedicated their life to advocating for positive health system changes. Dr. Hinshaw’s legacy includes being the first permanent Director of the National Institute for Nursing Research (NINR) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she advanced research and research training in the key fields of nursing science, disease prevention, health promotion, acute and chronic illness, as well as public health from 1987 through 1994. A former President of the American Academy of Nursing, Dr. Hinshaw has had a transformative influence on improving health through her devotion to providing better care and positive outcomes for patients. Dr. Hinshaw’s storied career includes academic appointments at the University of Arizona College of Nursing, University of California at San Francisco, the University of Kansas, and service as Dean of the University of Michigan School of Nursing and Uniformed Services University Graduate School of Nursing. Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Hinshaw served as the Distinguished Nurse Scholar-in-Residence at the National Academy of Medicine from 2006-2007 and was honored as a Living Legend of the Academy in 2011. 

Kenya Beard, EdD, AGACNP-BC, ANEF, FADLN, FAAN, will be presented with the Mary Elizabeth Carnegie Leadership Award. The Mary Elizabeth Carnegie Leadership Award recognizes a Fellow whose significant and sustained contributions have advanced the organization’s core values of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in nursing and health care. Currently serving as the inaugural Dean and Chief Nursing Officer at Mercy University’s School of Nursing, Dr. Beard is a nationally recognized leader in health equity, policy, and nursing education. Rooted in her deep commitment to justice, she has spent her career building inclusive pathways to improve care outcomes and systems. A former Chair of the NY State Board of Nursing and a 2012 Macy Faculty Scholar, Dr. Beard co-produced healthcare disparity segments on WBAI-FM, reaching over 400,000 listeners. Featured in the documentary Everybody’s Work: Healing What Hurts Us All, she elevated nursing’s power to create equity-driven systems. Additionally, Dr. Beard serves on the editorial board of the American Journal of Nursing and teaches transformational leadership at the Harvard Macy Institute. She continues to transform purpose into impact through initiatives like the National Black Nurses Association’s National Academy for Diversity Leaders in Nursing and Mercy’s Health Equity Influencer Program. 

Carolyn Clancy, MD, FAAN, will be presented with the Outstanding Leadership Award. This distinction recognizes Honorary Fellows of the Academy for exemplary service and perseverance as a champion of the nursing profession. Dr. Clancy serves as the Assistant Undersecretary for Health in the Office of Discovery, Education & Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health Administration (VHA). In this capacity, she directs and oversees the coordination of facility-based educators, researchers and clinicians, and VA affiliates to facilitate knowledge transfer. Prior to her current position, Dr. Clancy served as Acting Deputy Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she oversaw the development and implementation of enterprise-wide policies, programs, and activities. As VHA Executive in Charge, with the authority to perform the functions and duties of the Undersecretary for Health, she directed a health care system which oversaw care delivery to millions of enrolled Veterans. A highly experienced and nationally recognized physician executive, Dr. Clancy has been awarded Honorary Fellowship by the American Academy of Nursing, the National Committee for Quality Assurance’s Quality Champion Award, and the Disabled American Veterans’ Outstanding Federal Executive of the Year.  

These remarkable individuals will be recognized at the American Academy of Nursing’s Health Policy Conference. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact
Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

Washington, DC (July 22, 2025) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will officially designate William “Bill” Conway Jr. and Joanne Barkett Conway (in memoriam) as well as Luci Baines Johnson as Honorary Fellows at the Academy’s Health Policy Conference, which is being held in Washington, DC on October 16 – 18, 2025. The Conways and Ms. Johnson are being honored for their extraordinary and sustained contributions to health care and the nursing profession throughout their careers, which have been marked by their notable charitable efforts over many decades.

“The Conways and Ms. Johnson are generous benefactors who have harnessed their immense influence to advance our profession.” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Supporting nurses through philanthropy is a continued lifeline that secures improved health outcomes for countless individuals impacted by nursing’s care. Their strong commitment to the betterment of society coupled with their equally impressive philanthropic spirit has helped shape the future of nursing through investments in education, leadership development, and community health initiatives. It is an honor to recognize them through induction into the Academy as major contributors to advancing health, well-being, and serving as legacy change-agents.”

The Honorary Fellow designation is bestowed to leaders who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing the nursing profession and to supporting the Academy’s mission of improving health and achieving health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science.

Bill Conway, Jr. and Joanne Barkett Conway (in memoriam), Founders of the Bedford Falls Foundation, and the Bedford Falls Foundation—DAF, a donor-advised fund advised by the foundation, have made a transformative, everlasting impact on the profession, and in turn health care, through their sizeable, dedicated philanthropic focus on nursing. Notably, Mr. Conway is known for his $1 billion plan to end the nursing shortage and has advanced this goal through generous gifts to 45 nursing schools to date at various colleges and universities such as The Catholic University of America, Villanova University, University of Maryland, University of Iowa, and Winston-Salem State University, among others. The Foundation has supported thousands of nursing students, who often graduate debt-free and choose to serve in underserved settings—public health departments, community clinics, homeless shelters, and prisons—guided by a belief that all people are worthy of compassion and care. Mrs. Conway, who passed away in 2024, although not a nurse, was the driving force behind the focus on the nursing profession after she had a memorable exchange with a waitress who was an aspiring nurse and struggling to pay for her nursing degree. Mr. Conway credits her as the architect of their vision to empower individuals with opportunities to build fulfilling careers. To help address the nursing faculty shortage, the Conways also launched the Center for Future Faculty, a collaboration between several D.C. area universities, to prepare nurse educators with necessary skills to succeed in the academic nursing field. Through their unparalleled generosity, the Conways have transformed the future of nursing, ensuring that the profession remains not only resilient but deeply humanistic.

Luci Baines Johnson, Founder, LBJ Family Wealth Advisors, Ltd, is a highly regarded philanthropist, community, and business leader whose lifelong commitment to nursing has advanced the profession. A tireless advocate, she has testified before Congress to champion funding for nursing education and research, helping protect vital resources and elevate the voice of nurses to influence national health policy. As an Honorary Chair of Nurses for a Healthier Tomorrow, a coalition of 43 nursing and health care organizations, she led efforts to address the nursing shortage through public awareness. Her philanthropy has endowed nearly 100 scholarships and graduate fellowships, particularly in gerontological nursing, at The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) and Georgetown University, where she had previously enrolled in nursing school. In addition, the Luci Baines Johnson and Ian J. Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing was established at the UT Austin School of Nursing in 2022 in honor of her and husband’s generous support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her $1 million gift to UT Austin supported students, clinical outreach, and essential services. She has served on hospital boards, including MD Anderson Cancer Center, and national leadership bodies such as the National League for Nursing’s Accreditation Board. Her visionary leadership, deep compassion, and unwavering support have left a lasting legacy—building a stronger nursing workforce and ensuring nursing science remains a national priority.

These Honorary Fellows will be recognized at the Academy’s Induction Ceremony, which will be held during the Health Policy Conference on the evening of October 18, 2025 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This event is a special tribute to celebrate the power of nursing’s impact. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact
Caroline Kane | 202-777-1170 | ckane@AANnet.org

Washington, DC (July 8, 2025) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will officially designate six extraordinary nurse leaders as Living Legends this fall. Drs. Dyanne D. Affonso, Connie W. Delaney, Judith E. Haber, Christine A. Miaskowski, Brother Ignatius T. Perkins, OP, and Phyllis Sharps will be honored at the Living Legends Ceremony held at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference, taking place on October 16 – October 18, 2025. These incredible trailblazers exemplify the resolve and ingenuity of the profession and have made significant impacts on health systems and health policy.

“It is an honor to recognize and celebrate the astonishing achievements of this year’s Living Legends,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Their commitment to advancing health and the nursing profession is evident through the decades they have dedicated in their pursuits to create healthier lives for all people. Together, these Living Legends have and continue to transform care, create policy impact, disseminate vital research, uplift leaders within the profession, and improve the health of countless individuals in their communities.”

They have generated policy change through innovative thinking, scientific pursuit, and adept leadership to ensure meaningful health care change is influenced by nursing expertise. They will be honored as 2025 Living Legends, the highest designation given by the Academy. The Academy's Board of Directors appreciates the dedication of the Living Legends Task Force, led by Chair Kenneth R. White, PhD, APRN-BC, FACHE, FAAN, the Academy's Immediate Past-President, for their work to review the increasing number of exceptional nominations for this prestigious peer-driven recognition.

Dyanne D. Affonso, PhD, RN, FAAN, Honorary President, Centre of Excellence, OPI (Ordine delle Professioni Infermieristiche di ROMA) and Professor Emerita & Former Dean, University of Toronto, is an unwavering force committed to advancing nursing science, social justice, and health care leadership around the globe. Dr. Affonso's pioneering work in maternal health, mental health, and health equity has shaped policy and education worldwide. Her groundbreaking research on postpartum depression (PPD) led to PPD’s inclusion as a women’s health priority by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Affonso’s global impact is evident through her Malama Community Health Program, which addresses disparities in maternal and child health care among Native Hawaiians and multi-ethnic women in Hawaii, which was also implemented in other culturally diverse communities, including British Columbia, Canada among First Nations peoples. Dr. Affonso’s global influence is vividly seen through her pivotal role in the co-founding and collaboratively leading Centers of Excellence for Nursing Scholarship in Italy, Ireland, and Albania where she has fostered leadership, research, and clinical innovations. Dr. Affonso’s impact is a testament to nursing’s power to advance health and humanity.

Connie W. Delaney, PhD, RN, FACMI, FNAP, FAAN, Professor & Dean, University of Minnesota School of Nursing, is an internationally renowned change agent in nursing informatics, education, and health care innovation. With a career spanning more than five decades, she has been a vanguard in shaping the integration of informatics into nursing education, research, and practice. Through innovative initiatives and global leadership, Dr. Delaney has shaped health IT policy, mentored generations of nurse informaticists, and advanced health equity through preeminent programs of nursing science. She was among the first to extract code and nursing data from electronic health records, leading to the development and implementation of the Nursing Minimum Data Set and Nursing Management Minimum Data Set, which gained international recognition and are still used today. Dr. Delaney also led the creation of the nation’s first informatics-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Minnesota, which is now ranked among the top programs nationwide. She co-founded the Alliance for Nursing Informatics, now representing over 25,000 nurse informaticists across 29 organizations. Dr. Delaney’s enduring contributions have fundamentally shaped the profession in an increasingly digital world.

Judith E. Haber, PhD, APRN, FAAN, Professor Emerita & Executive Director, Oral Health Nursing Education and Practice (OHNEP) Program, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, is a psychiatric nursing pioneer and a global thought leader in evidence-based practice and oral-systemic health. A trailblazer in psychiatric-mental health nursing policy and standards, Dr. Haber co-chaired the American Nurses Association task force that established the first Scope and Standards for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. She also played an instrumental role in the landmark 1998 Medicare policy change that authorized reimbursement for advanced practice nurses, which expanded access to mental health services. A groundbreaking champion of evidence-based practice, she co-authored the textbook Nursing Research: Methods and Critical Appraisal for Evidence-Based Practice, now in its 11th edition and translated into six languages, which is a global nursing education standard. Dr. Haber’s more recent leadership includes the founding of the OHNEP program, which integrates oral health into nursing and interprofessional education and was recognized as an Academy Edge Runner model in 2019. Dr. Haber’s transformative research, policy advocacy, and nursing education leadership have made significant contributions to improve care and redefined health integration across disciplines.

Christine A. Miaskowski, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor Emeritus, Physiological Nursing, University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, is an internationally renowned expert whose groundbreaking work in pain management and symptom science has profoundly shaped the field of oncology nursing and advanced the scientific understanding of patient experiences in chronic illness. Her early work in opioid pharmacology established foundational evidence for the field of sex-based differences in pain research. Dr. Miaskowski was among the first to define and explore symptom clusters in oncology, highlighting how multiple symptoms co-occur and interact, transforming the quality of life for countless patients. With over 50 years of experience in the nursing profession and more than three decades of continuous NIH funding totaling over $75 million, Dr. Miaskowski’s legacy is one of innovative research, extraordinary mentorship, and unwavering advocacy for improving the lives of patients worldwide.

Brother Ignatius Perkins, OP, PhD, RN, ANEF, FRSM, FNYAM, FNCBC, FAAN, Director of the St. Martin De Porres Center for Health and Human Dignity, Providence College, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, is a visionary nurse leader and ethicist whose six-decade career spans global health care, education, faith, and advocacy. His Trilogy of Health Care model, anchored in human dignity, human freedom, and human flourishing, provides an ethical framework that has influenced generations of clinicians, health care institutions, and academic leaders. He conducted a landmark study on personhood among homeless individuals with AIDS, which was the first to apply the Pellegrino Healing Relationship Model in practice. Additionally, Brother Perkins has been an influential leader for multiple academic institutions, and he was a driving force behind the National League for Nursing’s Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, which now accredits over 200 nursing schools globally. Brother Perkins’ enduring commitment to dignity, equity, and human flourishing has shaped nursing ethics, policy, and leadership.

Phyllis Sharps, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor Emerita, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, is a prominent nurse scientist, educator, and policy advocate whose revolutionary work has shaped maternal and infant health. With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Sharps’ focus has been to support the health of women of color impacted by intimate partner violence (IPV). She is best known for the development of DOVE (Domestic Violence Enhanced Home Visitation), an NIH-funded, nurse-led, community-based program that addresses IPV during pregnancy through home visits and empowers women to make informed safety decisions in collaboration with prenatal providers and domestic violence advocates. In addition to her IPV research and interventions, Dr. Sharps has also mentored hundreds of students and faculty underrepresented in nursing through various initiatives. Her visionary leadership has not only improved outcomes for women and children but has also reshaped the landscape of maternal health equity and nursing education for generations to come.

The Academy’s Living Legends Ceremony will be held during the Health Policy Conference on the evening of October 17, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This event is a special tribute to these legends’ remarkable legacy where colleagues, family, friends, Fellows, and sponsors can gather in Washington, DC to celebrate the power of nursing’s impact. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,200 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

June 26, 2025 (Washington, DC)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has selected five innovative models of care to be named as Edge Runners. Edge Runners are nurse-designed, nurse-led models of care that reduce cost, improve health care quality, advance health equity, and enhance consumer satisfaction. A signature initiative of the Academy, the Edge Runners program acknowledges innovative ideas that transform health. Each of these programs highlights nurses’ resourcefulness, leadership, determination, and collaboration in developing new models of providing exceptional care.

“The Academy is thrilled to designate these models of care as Edge Runners. This year’s models represent a range of nursing specialties, from post-care triage to sexual assault telehealth services to dementia support services, as well as the future of the profession through online residency programs and mobile simulation labs,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Research and innovation are priorities of the Academy, and each Edge Runner model demonstrates how nurses are enhancing care, improving outcomes, and addressing important health challenges.”

HIRAID® Emergency Nursing Framework
Kate Curtis, AO PhD, RN, FAAN Professor, University of Sydney

The HIRAID® (History, Infection risk, Red flags, Assessment, Interventions, Diagnostics and reassessment/communication) Emergency Nursing Framework is an evidence-based tool designed to support emergency nurses in providing consistent, high-quality care post-triage. Developed to address increasing global emergency department (ED) demand and lack of standardized post-triage care, HIRAID® improves patient safety, documentation, communication, and clinical outcomes. It is the only validated emergency nursing framework, helping nurses manage complex, high-pressure environments with structured, continuous assessment and care. One review of 2,211 patients admitted to the ED utilizing HIRAID® resulted in a significant reduction in patient deterioration events and improvement in patient experience. HIRAID® has been implemented into 132 EDs across Australia.

Integrated Memory Care
Carolyn K. Clevenger, DNP, RN, GNP-BC, AGPCNP-BC, FAANP, FGSA, FAAN, Founder and Director, Professor, Emory University

The Integrated Memory Care (IMC) model is a nurse-led, financially sustainable, outpatient dementia care program that provides comprehensive, primary care-based services to individuals with dementia and their caregivers. It integrates medical, social, and caregiver support through an interprofessional team, reducing fragmented care. IMC has served over 3,000 patients and demonstrates reduced hospitalizations and improved caregiver outcomes. With Medicare-recognized payment models and national replication underway, IMC offers scalable, cost-effective dementia care. Early results show a drop in hospital admissions from 6.7% to under 2%, saving an estimated $1.1 million annually for a 550-patient panel.

Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program
Nicole Weathers, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, Program Director, University of Iowa College of Nursing

The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program (IONRP) is the first fully online transition-to-practice program designed to support new graduate nurses (NGNs), especially in rural and underserved areas. It offers a standardized, evidence-based curriculum adaptable to diverse healthcare settings. Using a hub-and-spoke model, NGNs receive online education, peer support, and practical application guided by organizational leaders and preceptors. Since 2014, IONRP has expanded to 54 organizations across 13 states, improving retention, reducing costs, and empowering nurses. Nearly all participating organizations have experienced positive outcomes, including first year retention rate increases of close to 20% and noticeably improved clinical outcomes after NGN-led residency projects.

Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) System
Sheridan Miyamoto, PhD, RN, SANE-P, FAAN, Associate Professor, Pennsylvania State University Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing; Founder and Director, SAFE-T

The Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) System ensures equitable, trauma-informed care for sexual assault survivors, especially in rural areas lacking access to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs). SAFE-T connects local providers with expert SANEs via secure telehealth and custom forensic tools, improving evidence collection, survivor support, and legal outcomes. Rooted in sustainability and community partnership, the program prepares local nurses and boosts SANE workforce retention. With a 75% retention rate, 94% patient satisfaction, and significant cost savings, the SAFE-T model effectively addresses healthcare disparities and enhances care quality for underserved populations.

Simulation in Motion – Iowa (SIM-IA)
Cormac T. O’Sullivan, PhD, MSN, CRNA, ARNP, FAANA, Clinical Professor and Program Director, University of Iowa College of Nursing

Simulation in Motion - Iowa (SIM-IA) is a nurse-led mobile simulation-based continuing education program providing hands-on emergency training to rural and critical access healthcare providers, including emergency medical services, nurses, and community members. Using three mobile units, SIM-IA delivers standardized, evidence-based simulations tailored to local needs across Iowa’s 99 counties. In the first three years, SIM-IA has offered over 2,500 hours of free education to 11,000 personnel through 650 simulations, improving emergency care readiness throughout the state.

All Academy Edge Runner profiles are available to view here. Each of these innovative models of care will be recognized at the Academy’s Health Policy Conference, taking place October 16-18, 2025, in Washington, DC.

June 18, 2025 (Washington, DC)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) announces today that it will induct a highly accomplished cohort of nurse leaders as its 2025 Fellows. The inductees will be recognized for their substantial contributions to health and health care at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference, taking place on October 16 – October 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. This year’s conference theme is “Impact Through Integrity and Trust: Our Role as Navigators and Translators.”
 
The newest Fellows represent 42 states, the District of Columbia, and 12 countries. Their extensive expertise will enrich the thought leadership of the over 3,200 Academy Fellows who together advance the Academy's mission of improving health and achieving health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science.
 
“I cannot emphasize enough at this pivotal time in history the vital importance of recognizing this extraordinary and sizeable group of nurse leaders. With rich and varied backgrounds from practice, policy, research, entrepreneurship, and academia, they have been instrumental in using nursing’s holistic approach to improve the health of patients and communities throughout the world,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Induction into the Academy represents the highest honor in nursing. Earning the FAAN (Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing) credential is a prestigious recognition of one’s accomplishments and signifies the power of nursing to transform health and enact positive outcomes.”
 
The 2025 Class of Fellows, selected from a historically high number of applicants which resulted in a comparable overall acceptance rate as in previous years, represent the continued influence nurses have on ensuring innovative, evidence-informed solutions that champion health and well-being in their systems and communities. The Academy appreciates the dedicated work of the organization’s Fellow Selection Committee and International Subcommittee, who led the rigorous review of the record-breaking number of applications.
 
The Academy will host the Induction Ceremony and Soiree on the evening of Saturday, October 18, 2025. This event is a unique opportunity to showcase nursing leadership, science, and innovation where colleagues, friends, families, and sponsors gather together in Washington, DC to celebrate nursing’s transformational efforts to improve health. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.
 
2025 Academy Fellows*
 
Alabama
Curry Bordelon, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing
Shameka Cody, University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing
Jennifer Coleman, Samford University Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing
Linda Gibson-Young, Auburn University College of Nursing
David House, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing
Heather Nelson-Brantley, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing
D'Ann Somerall, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing
 
Arizona
Teresa Connolly, HonorHealth
Wendy Dusenbury, Banner University Medical Center and University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix
 
Arkansas
Laura Hays, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Nursing
 
Australia
Marilyn Cruickshank, University of Technology Sydney
Daniel Terry, University of Southern Queensland
 
Barbados
Wendy Sealy, University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus
 
California
Marian Altman, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
Nakia Best, University of California, Irvine Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing
Anna Dermenchyan, UCLA Health Department of Medicine
Jane Georges, University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing
Sarah Giron, Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia
Elizabeth Halifax, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing
Matthew Howard, American Association of Critical Care Nurses
Brenda Jones, Kaiser Permanente
Lina Najib Kawar, Kaiser Permanente Southern California & Hawaii
Jung In Park, Ikaria Ventures
Patricia Zrelak, Kaiser Permanente Northern California
 
Canada
Shela Hirani, University of Regina
Kimberly LeBlanc, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada
Shannon Scott, University of Alberta
 
China
Yamei Bai, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine
Fuman Cai, Wenzhou Medical University School of Nursing
Aihua Chen, Wenzhou Medical University School of Nursing
Miaoxia Chen, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University
Lili Deng, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
Xiuni Gan, Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
Xiaolin Hu, West China School of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
Li Li, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University
Hanjiao Liu, Shenzhen Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine
Minhui Liu, Ningxia Medical University School of Nursing
Lingli Peng, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University
Zi-Rong Tian, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University
Jianfei Xie, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University
Hong Xu, Hangzhou Normal University
Fen Yang, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine
Jinhua Zhang, Henan Medical University
Fang Zhou, Xuzhou Medical University, School of Nursing
Jihua Zhu, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine
 
Colorado
Sean Reed, University of Colorado College of Nursing
Laura Rosenthal, University of Colorado College of Nursing
 
Connecticut
Judith Hahn, Yale New Haven Health System
Barbara Jacobs, Hartford Hospital
Tiffany Kelley, University of Connecticut School of Nursing
Wendy Lord Mackey, Yale University School of Nursing and Connecticut Pediatric Otolaryngology
Mallory Perry-Eaddy, University of Connecticut School of Nursing and Connecticut Children’s
Lisa Sundean, Fairfield University Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies
Gee Su Yang, University of Connecticut School of Nursing
 
Delaware
Priscilla Murphy, Nylex Educational & Counseling Services, Inc.
Ju Young Shin, University of Delaware School of Nursing
 
District of Columbia
Intima Alrimawi, Georgetown University School of Nursing
Vicki Freedenberg, Children's National Hospital and George Washington University School of Medicine
Rick Garcia, Organization for Associate Degree Nursing
Debra Kosko, Georgetown University School of Nursing
Komkwuan Paruchabutr, Georgetown University School of Nursing
M. Christopher Saslo, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Teresa Shellenbarger, National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation
Angela Stanley, George Washington University School of Nursing
Sheila Cox Sullivan, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Nursing Services
Wanda Thruston, American Association of Colleges of Nursing
Colleen Walsh-Irwin, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of Nursing Services
Melody Wilkinson, Georgetown University School of Nursing
 
Florida
Mildred Fennal, International Nursing Education Consortium
Ryannon Frederick, Mayo Clinic
Juan M. Gonzalez, University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies
Rebecca Koszalinski, University of Central Florida College of Nursing
Rayna Letourneau, University of South Florida College of Nursing and Florida Center for Nursing
Joy Parchment, University of Central Florida College of Nursing
Caroline Piselli, Piselli Global Consultants, LLC
Lisiane Pruinelli, University of Florida College of Nursing
Shannon Smith, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tony Umadhay, Barry University School of Nursing
Kathleen Wilson, Florida State University College of Nursing
 
Georgia
Jennifer Adamski, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Brittany Butts, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Nancye Feistritzer, Emory Healthcare
Angela Haynes Ferere, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Kay Kennedy, uLeadership, LLC
Patricia Lawrence, Georgia State University
Heather Meissen, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Anita Rich, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Bethany Robertson, Wolters Kluwer, Health, Learning, Research and Practice Division
Trisha Sheridan, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Athena Sherman, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
Elizabeth Spiva, Wellstar Health System
Paula Tucker, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
 
Hawaii
Marife Aczon-Armstrong, Chaminade University of Honolulu School of Nursing & Health Professions
Sondra Leiggi Brandon, Queens Medical Center
Donna-Marie Palakiko, University of Hawaii at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene
 
Hong Kong
Ho Yu Cheng, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
 
Idaho
Jenny Alderden, Boise State University, School of Nursing
 
Illinois
Sarah Abboud, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Julie Carbray, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing and College of Medicine Department of Psychiatry
Carolyn Dickens, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Anne Deutsch, Shirley Ryan Abilitylab, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and RTI International
Andrew Hamilton, AllianceChicago
Brenda Knoll, Illinois Wesleyan University School of Nursing and Health Sciences and Piomi, LLC
Mary Dawn Koenig, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Carol Kostovich, Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing
Mark Lockwood, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Lynn Mohr, Rush University College of Nursing
Rebecca Singer, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
Young “John” Yauger, American Association of Nurse Anesthesia Foundation
 
Indiana
Kim Decker, Indiana University School of Nursing
Miyeon Jung, Indiana University School of Nursing
Julia Rogers, Purdue University Northwest College of Nursing
 
Iowa
Daniel Wesemann, University of Iowa College of Nursing
 
Ireland
Amanda Drury, Dublin City University
 
Italy
Annamaria Bagnasco, University of Genoa Department of Health Sciences
 
Japan
Michiko Moriyama, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences
 
Kansas
Amy Hite, Pittsburg State University School of Nursing
Jill Peltzer, University of Kansas School of Nursing
 
Kentucky
Jean Edward, University of Kentucky College of Nursing
Amanda Fallin-Bennett, University of Kentucky College of Nursing and Voices of Hope Lexington
Delanor Manson, Kentucky Nurses Association
 
Louisiana
Benita Chatmon, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans School of Nursing
Alison Davis, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans School of Nursing
Jennifer Manning, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans School of Nursing
 
Maine
Devin Carr, MaineHealth Maine Medical Center
Valerie Fuller, MaineHealth Maine Medical Center and American Association of Nurse Practitioners
 
Maryland
Veronica Amos, University of Maryland School of Nursing
Balkys Bivins, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Katie Boston-Leary, American Nurses Enterprise
Joan Carpenter, University of Maryland School of Nursing
Kami Cooper, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps
Cubby Gardner, U.S. Department of Defense, TriService Nursing Research Program
Laura Lucas, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Molly McCarthy, MMC Advisors
Michelle Mollica, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute
Jennifer Moon, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps
Shawna Mudd, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Ivy Latoja Pacis, Veterans Affairs Capitol Health Care Network
Jamla Rizek, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps
Helga Scharf-Bell, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Jennifer Shepherd, American Nurses Enterprise
Shaquita Starks, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Jacqueline Vo, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute
 
Massachusetts
Debra Burke, Massachusetts General Hospital
LaDonna Christian, Simmons University School of Nursing
Lisa Duffy, University of Massachusetts Amherst Elaine Marieb College of Nursing and the Institute for Applied Life Sciences
Alex Hoyt, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Heather O'Sullivan, Mass General Brigham
Eleonor Pusey-Reid, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Valeria Ramdin, Northeastern University School of Nursing - Bouvé College of Health Sciences
Kristen Sethares, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth College of Nursing & Health Sciences
Cathy St. Pierre, VA Bedford Healthcare System
Yiyuan Sun, Northeastern University School of Nursing - Bouvé College of Health Sciences
Jill Terrien, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing
John Welch, Partners in Health, Boston Children's Hospital, and Ohio State University College of Nursing
Yuan Zhang, University of Massachusetts Lowell Solomont School of Nursing
 
Michigan
Esther Afolabi, Calvin University
Ramona Benkert, Wayne State University College of Nursing
Chin Hwa “Gina” Dahlem, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Tammy Eaton, University of Michigan and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System
Kechinyere Iheduru-Anderson, Central Michigan University
Lenette Jones, University of Michigan School of Nursing
Julie Kruse, Oakland University School of Nursing
Dana Tschannen, University of Michigan School of Nursing
 
Minnesota
Brian Goodroad, University of Minnesota School of Nursing and Hennepin Healthcare
Melissa Horning, University of Minnesota School of Nursing
Patrick Simon Soria, Abbott Northwestern Hospital
 
Nebraska
Windy Alonso, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing
Elizabeth Beam, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing
Carli Culjat, Nebraska Methodist Hospital
Julie Manz, Creighton University College of Nursing
Therese Mathews, University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing
Blake Smith, Nebraska Medicine
 
Nevada
Rebecca Benfield, University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Nursing
 
New Hampshire
Marcy Ainslie, University of New Hampshire
 
New Jersey
Kevin Emmons, Rutgers University School of Nursing-Camden
Jamille Nagtalon-Ramos, Rutgers University School of Nursing-Camden
Tracy Vitale, Rutgers University School of Nursing
 
New York
Kafuli Agbemenu, University at Buffalo School of Nursing, SUNY
Tammy Austin-Ketch, Upstate Medical University College of Nursing, SUNY
Leon Chen, Columbia University School of Nursing
Maya Clark-Cutaia, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, CUNY
Bevin Cohen, Mount Sinai Health System
Kelly Foltz-Ramos, University at Buffalo School of Nursing, SUNY
Velda Gonzalez, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
Kevin Hook, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
Elsie Jolade, Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, CUNY
Sandra Lindsay, Northwell Health
Eileen Magri, NYU Langone Health-Long Island
Jayna Moceri-Brooks, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
Zainab Osakwe, Adelphi University
Eunhee Park, University at Buffalo School of Nursing, SUNY
Dilice Robertson, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
Cassandra Vonnes, Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE)
 
North Carolina
Janet Campbell, Duke University School of Nursing
Lorinda Coombs, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing
Hayley Estrem, University of North Carolina at Wilmington School of Nursing
Cheryl Kovar, East Carolina University College of Nursing
Giancarlo Lyle-Edrosolo, Advocate Health
Audra Rankin, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing
Karen Sheffield-Abdullah, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing
Yolanda VanRiel, North Carolina Central University
 
Norway
Espen Gade Rolland, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College
 
Ohio
Rosario Allen, University of Toledo Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute
The Honorable Rachel Baker, Ohio House of Representatives
Esther Chipps, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center & The Ohio State University College of Nursing
Earl Dalton, Health Carousel
Christine Horvat Davey, Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
Randee Masciola, The Ohio State University College of Nursing
Heather Rice, Cleveland State University School of Nursing
 
Oklahoma
Cassy Abbott Eng, University of Tulsa
Diana Sturdevant, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing
 
Oregon
Rachel Prusak, Oregon State Board of Nursing
 
Pennsylvania
Bimpe Adenusi, Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson College of Nursing
Sheila Alexander, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Amanda Bettencourt, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Brenda Elliott, Messiah University
Ying-Ling Jao, Pennsylvania State University Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
Brayden Kameg, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Jessica Lazzeri, Penn Medicine Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Young Ji Lee, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Nancy Mannion, NMB Global Leadership, LLC
Maribeth McLaughlin, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Peter Preziosi, TruMerit
Halley Ruppel, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Amy Sawyer, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Teresa Thomas, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Jane Tobias, Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson College of Nursing
Judith Zedreck, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
 
Rhode Island
Amy D'Agata, University of Rhode Island College of Nursing
Justin DiLibero, Rhode Island College
Erica Liebermann, University of Rhode Island College of Nursing
 
Saudi Arabia
Monir Almotairy, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib College for Knowledge and King Saud University
Abdulaziz Alsufyani, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
 
South Carolina
Demetrius Abshire, University of South Carolina College of Nursing
Katherine Chike-Harris, Medical University of South Carolina College of Nursing
Evangeline Dennis, Perioperative Consultants, LLC
Carolyn Harmon, University of South Carolina College of Nursing
Sheryl Mitchell, University of South Carolina College of Nursing
Malissa Mulkey, University of South Carolina College of Nursing
 
South Korea
Sanghee Kim, Keimyung University
Youn-Jung Son, Chung-Ang University Red Cross College of Nursing
Rhayun Song, Chungnam National University
Yeojin Yi, Hanyang University
 
Taiwan
HsiuLing Chou, Asia Eastern University of Science and Technology
Chiu-Yueh Hsiao, Chang Gung University
Mei Nan Liao, Chang Gung Medical Foundation
Mei-Feng Lin, National Cheng Kung University
Hsueh-Hsing Pan, National Defense Medical Center
 
Tennessee
Cynthia Borum, HCA Healthcare
Stephanie DeVane-Johnson, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Charleen McNeill, University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Nursing
Kimberly Powell, University of Missouri, Columbia Sinclair School of Nursing
Jessica Van Meter, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
 
Texas
Gloria Lamela Beriones, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Steven Brockman-Weber, Ascension
Paul Thomas Clements, Texas A&M University College of Nursing
Allison Ihle, UTHealth San Antonio School of Nursing
Higinio Fernandez-Sanchez, UT Health Houston Cizik School of Nursing
Bertha Flores, UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing and South Texas Veterans Health Care System
Shawntay Harris, Eminent Healthcare Resources Consultants, Inc.
Tracy Hicks, C-Trilogy Comprehensive Clinical Care/C-Trilogy Outreach and the University of Texas at Tyler
Linda Kim, University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing
Nicole Kroll, Texas A&M University College of Nursing
Kelly McGlothen-Bell, UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing
Jacqueline Michael, University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing
Tonychris Nnaka, University of North Texas Health Science Center College of Nursing
Roselyn Ogunkunle, Lone Star Oncology and Chamberlain College of Nursing
Bryan Sisk, Memorial Hermann Health System
Meagan Whisenant, UT Health Houston Cizik School of Nursing
 
Utah
Jia-Wen Guo, University of Utah College of Nursing
Stacie Hunsaker, Brigham Young University College of Nursing
Craig Nuttall, Brigham Young University College of Nursing
 
Vermont
Ellen Flaherty, Dartmouth Health
Betsy Hassan, University of Vermont Medical Center
 
Virginia
Jeannie Corey, James Madison University School of Nursing
Kimberly Elgin, University of Virginia Health
Ellen Harvey, Carilion Clinic
Andrea Knopp, James Madison University School of Nursing
Emma Mitchell, University of Virginia School of Nursing
Kyeung Mi Oh, George Mason University School of Nursing
Lana Sargent, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing
Linda Shepherd, Joint Commission Resources
Kathie Zimbro, Old Dominion University Ellmer School of Nursing
 
Washington
Alison Bradywood, Washington State Board of Nursing
Eeeseung Byun, University of Washington School of Nursing
Katie A. Haerling, University of Washington Tacoma School of Nursing and Healthcare Leadership
M. Rebecca O'Connor, University of Washington School of Nursing
Megan Streur, University of Washington School of Nursing
Gordon West, Pacific Lutheran University School of Nursing
Teri Moser Woo, Saint Martin's University
 
West Virginia
Lya Cartwright-Stroupe, Vandalia Health
 
Wisconsin
Peninnah Kako, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Nursing
Maichou Lor, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing
Teri Pipe, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing
Linda Wesp, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Nursing
 
*This list notes the information provided by the incoming Fellows as of June 24, 2025. Please note, these individuals will officially become an Academy Fellow and may use the FAAN credential only after they participate in the Induction Ceremony on October 18, 2025 in Washington, DC.

Proceedings Feature Policy Recommendations and Policy Dialogue Discussion Summaries

Washington, DC (June 12, 2025)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the November 2024 Policy Dialogue, “AI Transformation in Policy, Practice, and Education for Nursing and Health Care: A Foundational Dialogue,” hosted by the Academy’s Informatics & Technology Expert Panel. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity. 

The Academy’s Expert Panels are the organization’s thought leadership bodies. Through the Expert Panels, Academy Fellows, with subject matter expertise, review the current trends, research, and issues within their field to make informed and evidenced-based recommendations. By hosting Policy Dialogues, Expert Panels lead engaging discussions to further enhance awareness and develop policy proposals that work to achieve the Academy's vision of healthy lives for all people.

The Academy is pleased to release the summary for this Policy Dialogue, centered on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care and policies that address the integration of AI in clinical practice, education, and research. Participants in this dialogue heard from leading experts about the risks and benefits of AI in health care, ethical implications for AI's use, and policy considerations that must be examined as AI technology is expanded. 

Key takeaways from the dialogue include:

• AI is Rapidly Transforming Humanity and Nursing Practice;
• Nursing’s Strengths in Care and Compassion Must be Embedded into Data and Systems;
• Nursing Expertise is Critical to Patient-Centered Discovery and Innovation in AI; and
• A Forward-Focused Lens on AI is Critical.

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presenting, included:

• Connie W. Delaney, PhD, RN, FAAN, FACMI, FNAP, Professor and Dean, University of Minnesota School of Nursing;
• Richard Booth, PhD, RN, Associate Professor and Research Chair in Digitally-Enabled Health Care, Western University; and
• Rochelle Prosser, RN, CLNE, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Orchid Healthcare Solutions.

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Expand and increase federal resources for nurse-led research on AI with an eye on meaningfully capturing the patient and the nurse in data and ensuring AI works for patients and the care workforce.
• Engage the nursing profession in the development and evolution of data systems and technologies to embed values of human caring, compassion, and equity.
• Promote nursing workforce development that integrates nursing knowledge into AI health care systems for nurses to lead AI transformation and support nursing models of care that address the technosocial reality.
• Encourage cross-disciplinary approaches to address gaps in AI development, implementation, and regulation.
• Examine nurse documentation practices and areas for improvement to continue to guide AI inputs.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings online. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are also available to view online. Learn more about the Academy’s Expert Panels.

Washington, DC (December 19, 2024)—The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the September 2024 Policy Dialogue, “Addressing the Challenges and Policy Implications of Virtual Nursing,” hosted by the Academy’s Expert Panels on Building Health Care System Excellence and Informatics & Technology. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity.

The Academy’s Expert Panels are the organization’s thought leadership bodies. Through the Expert Panels, Academy Fellows, with subject matter expertise, review the current trends, research, and issues within their field to make informed and evidenced-based recommendations. By hosting Policy Dialogues, Expert Panels lead engaging discussions to further enhance awareness and develop policy proposals that work to achieve the Academy's vision of healthy lives for all people.

The Academy is pleased to release the summary for this Policy Dialogue, centered on policy issues related to the implementation of virtual nursing models of care and technology-assisted nursing into current health care practices. Participants in this dialogue were able to hear from leading experts about critical questions surrounding virtual nursing's impact on established competencies, licensure, standards of practice, regulation, evaluation, payment, and the implications for policy.

Key takeaways from the dialogue include:

• Virtual Nursing Can Meaningfully Expand Access to Care and Improve Nurse Well-Being
• Intentional Design of Safe, User-Centered Systems Must Account for Common Challenges and Risks
• Virtual Nursing Strengthens Patient Engagement and Empowerment in Care
• Policies Guiding Standards, Competencies, Licensure, and Payment Must Evolve with Virtual Care
• Quality and Safety Measures Must Be Reimagined for the Virtual Care Environment

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presenting, included:

• Jeanette Ives Erickson, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Chief Nurse Emerita and Paul M. Erickson Chair in Nursing, Massachusetts General Hospital
• Cynthia Salisbury, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CPHQ, CPPS, Executive Director of Nursing Operations, Providence
• Murielle Beene, DNP, MBA, MPH, MS, RN, NI-BC, PMP, FAMIA, FAAN, Senior Vice President and Chief Health Informatics Officer, Trinity Health
• Patricia McGaffigan, MS, RN, CPPS, Senior Advisor of Patient and Workforce Safety and President of Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety, Institute for Healthcare Improvement

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Create an operational definition for virtual nursing—developed by the profession—and update standards, as well as competencies, in alignment with the intended workflow and goals of the virtual care environment.
• Expand federal resources for designing, testing, and implementing virtual nursing care models that increase access to care, promote greater workforce well-being, and account for risks and safety.
• Advocate for nursing representatives to engage in the emerging regulatory sphere and guide the design, testing, and implementation of user-centered virtual care technology systems.
• Revisit licensing requirements to allow nurses to practice across state lines with more flexibility in a virtual nursing role.
• Ensure virtual nursing models, such as the Hospital at Home model, are available on a permanent basis rather than provisionally through waivers.
• Implement quality and safety improvement indicators and measures for virtual nursing models that capture outcomes beyond traditional indicators within and across health systems.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings online. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are available to view online. Learn more about the Academy’s Expert Panels.

Washington, DC (November 11, 2024)—This Veterans Day, the American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has released the meeting proceedings from the May 2024 Policy Dialogue, “We Serve Too: Addressing the Needs and Challenges of Military Families,” hosted by the Academy’s Military and Veterans Health Expert Panel. The Academy’s Policy Dialogues convene thought leaders to discuss a pressing topic and to propose policy recommendations that champion the organization’s policy priorities to advance health equity.

The Academy’s Expert Panels are the organization’s thought leadership bodies. Through the Expert Panels, Academy Fellows, with subject matter expertise, review the current trends, research, and issues within their field to make informed and evidenced-based recommendations. By hosting Policy Dialogues, Expert Panels lead engaging discussions to further enhance awareness and develop policy proposals that work to achieve the Academy's vision of healthy lives for all people.

The Academy is pleased to release the summary for this Policy Dialogue, centered on policy issues aimed to ease the challenges faced by military and veteran families. This event explored issues such as a lack of visibility and connectedness; disparities arising from social determinants of health; and inadequate funding for initiatives, research, and outreach. Participants in this dialogue were able to hear from leading experts about the unique health needs of this population and proposed policy solutions for improving health equity and outcomes among military families.

Key takeaways from the dialogue include:

• Military and Veteran Families Face Unique Stressors that Affect Health
• Approaches to Maintaining the Health of Military Families Must be Multi-Faceted
• Nursing Expertise is Valuable to Provide Person-Centered, Trauma-Informed Care to Military Families
• Protecting the Health of Military Children and Spouses is Essential to Promote Overall Military Family Well-Being

Speakers for the dialogue, listed in order of presenting, included:

• Gregory A. Leskin, PhD, Director, NCTSN Military and Veteran Families and Children Program, UCLA National Center for Child Traumatic Stress
• Tracey Pérez Koehlmoos, PhD, MHA, Professor & Director, Center for Health Services Research & Doctoral Programs in Public Health Department of Defense, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
• Elisa V. Borah, PhD, MSW, Director and Research Associate Professor, Institute for Military & Veteran Family Wellness, Dell Medical School Department of Health Social Work and Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin

Based on the discussion, the following policy recommendations were highlighted as key priorities for nursing to champion:

• Implement strength-based, multi-tiered programs and systems of support for military children, particularly in school settings.
• Promote military cultural awareness among providers, allowing nurses and other health care providers to recognize early signs of distress and support the needs of military children, spouses, and caregivers.
• Advance key provisions within the National Defense Authorization Act to address crucial health gaps among military families as well as compensation for nurses and providers that care for military families.
• Expand education and outreach to improve provider and family awareness of programs that support the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of military and veteran spouses and caregivers.
• Expand funding for research into the health care needs of military families.

Read the entire meeting's proceedings online. Additional Academy Meeting Proceedings are available to view online.

Washington, DC (October 10, 2024) —The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) announces its election results for Secretary, Board of Directors, Fellow Selection Committee, and Nominating Committee.

“I am thrilled to announce the latest additions to the American Academy of Nursing’s leadership on the Board of Directors and key committees,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “A record number of Fellows voted in this year’s election, demonstrating the commitment of our members in determining the future of our Academy. Each of these individuals will steadfastly support the organization’s efforts to advance our vision of healthy lives for all people.”

Ronald Hickman, PhD, RN, ACNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Ruth M. Anderson Endowed Professor and Associate Dean for Research, The Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, will assume the role of Secretary. Dr. Hickman conducts research that generates insights on supporting critically ill patients and their surrogate decision-makers facing serious health care decisions. His research has led to efficacious decision support and self-management technology and has earned him several national and international awards. Inducted into the Academy in 2015, Dr. Hickman has been highly engaged with the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science, he’s been a member of the Editorial Board of Nursing Outlook, and has participated in several Expert Panels (EPs), including as Board liaison this past year to the Child, Adolescent and Family EP, Environmental and Public Health EP, and the Nursing Theory EP. 

“I was honored to be elected to the Board of Directors last year and I look forward to expanding my service on the Academy’s Board by stepping into the Secretary role. This is a pivotal time as we embark on our new 2025 – 2028 strategic plan, which will elevate the Academy’s ability to make an impact on health policy in a continuously and rapidly changing health care landscape,” said Dr. Hickman.

Azita Emami, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean and Linda Koch Lorimer Professor of Nursing, at the Yale University School of Nursing, has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Dr. Emami is an esteemed global leader with over twenty-five years of experience in the field of nursing. She is also a prolific researcher with more than 90 publications in peer-reviewed journals, and serves as a powerful international advocate for expanding nursing’s role in primary care and for global healthcare access and equity. Dr. Emami is a trustee of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Yale New Haven Health System, a fellow of the New York Academy of Medicine, a member of the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering and the Washington State Academy of Sciences, and brings extensive experience serving on boards, including the National Clinical Scholars Program. Since her induction into the Academy in 2012, Dr. Emami has been an active member of the Global Nursing and Health Expert Panel, having served as its Chair.

“The American Academy of Nursing is uniquely positioned among other nursing organizations given its core focus on health policy,” said Dr. Emami. “As nurses, we must be powerful and empowered health care advocates on behalf of our profession, our institutions, and  most vitally our patients. Therefore, we must develop and make visible the research and knowledge supporting better care for all, and do so with a sense of urgency. The Academy is equipped to do this work and I look forward to our collective impact to improve health equity.”

Susan M. Grant, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Executive Vice President, Chief Experience Officer, Chief Nurse Executive, Wellstar Health System has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Dr. Grant has served as a chief nurse for five different U.S. health systems. In her current role, Dr. Grant sets clinical direction, drives policy and advocacy for nursing practice, and is responsible for financial, clinical quality, patient experience and nurse engagement for the system. She has led through public health crises, including Ebola and Covid-19. She currently serves on the Daisy Foundation Board of Directors, Vanderbilt University’s Dean’s Advisory Board, co-chair of the AACN/AONL Task Force on Academic Practice Partnerships, the JONA editorial board, and is Chair of the Wellstar Medical College of Georgia Health board. Dr. Grant, inducted as an Academy Fellow in 2010, is currently the Chair of the Building Health Care System Excellence Expert Panel, serves on the Academy’s Finance Committee, and recently spearheaded two of the Academy’s Policy Dialogues on the topics of optimizing the nursing workforce, exploring innovative reforms and policy implications post COVID, and nursing’s role in virtual models of care.

“I’m passionate about evolving nursing practice, improving nursing excellence and finding policy solutions to the challenges nurses face today, including workforce, wellness, and health equity issues,” said Dr. Grant. “With deep experience as a chief nursing executive and service on many volunteer boards, I bring a unique perspective to help the Academy move its mission to achieve health equity forward through relationship-building, engaging with diverse perspectives, fostering meaningful dialogue and strengthening partnerships.”

Versie Johnson-Mallard, PhD, RN, APRN-BC, FAANP, FAAN, Henderson Memorial Endowed Leadership Chair, Dean and Professor, Kent State University has been appointed by the Board of Directors per the Bylaws, Article VI, Section 6d, to serve on the Board of Directors for a one-year term to fill Dr. Hickman’s vacant position. Dr. Johnson-Mallard is an expert in women’s and reproductive health and studies behavioral change in response to culturally-appropriate nursing interventions. Dr. Johnson-Mallard serves as Secretary of the Ohio Council of Deans and Directors, is an advisor to NASEM (National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine), and a Board Member of University Hospital Portage. Dr. Johnson-Mallard was inducted into the Academy in 2014, was elected previously to serve on the Board from 2021 – 2023 where she was appointed the Board liaison to the National Academy of Medicine Distinguished Nurse Scholar in Residence Program, and as Board liaison to several Expert Panels (EP), including the Breastfeeding EP, the Child, Adolescent & Family EP, and the Maternal & Infant Health EP. Dr. Johnson-Mallard is a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner and an active member of the Women’s Health EP where she has contributed to the Academy’s work to combat the Black Maternal Health crisis.

“I bring unique background information, expertise, and knowledge to the Board having served a term previously. I will use my position on the Board of Directors to further policies that will improve the health of the patients we serve and the nurses we mentor,” said Dr. Johnson-Mallard. “And I will continue to advance the Academy’s primary pillars of leadership, innovation, and science to ensure that we are equity-minded and forward thinking in our work.”

Teri Murray, PhD, PHNA-BC, RN, ANEF, FADLN, FAAN, Professor, Dean Emerita, and Inaugural Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Saint Louis University School of Nursing has been elected to serve on the Board of Directors. Dr. Murray is a transformational leader in nursing education, practice, and research. With a gubernatorial appointment, she served nine years on the Missouri State Board of Nursing (MSBN), including three years as President, four as Secretary, and seven as chair of the Education Committee, overseeing the state’s nursing education programs. As MSBN President, Dr. Murray was the Missouri Delegate to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, contributing to practice and education policies nationally. Appointed by the US Secretary of Health, she served on the Department of Health and Human Services National Advisory Committee for Nurse Education and Practice for four years, advising Congress on nursing workforce development programs and legislative issues impacting nursing. Dr. Murray was inducted into the Academy as a Fellow in 2011, served as Chair of the Fellow Selection Committee in 2023 and is serving as the current Chair of the Health Equity Expert Panel, where she has taken an active leadership role in planning several key policy dialogues and authoring consensus papers.

“I look forward to offering visionary and strategic leadership to the Academy, inspiring others, and driving change toward the Academy’s preferred future,” said Dr. Murray. “I am excited to work with the Board to advance the Academy’s mission of creating healthy lives, improving health, and promoting health equity through policy while embracing the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, inquiry, integrity, and courage.”

Continuing Board Members Include:

• President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN, Dean and Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing
• President-Elect Debra J. Barksdale, PhD, FNP-BC, CNE, FAANP, ANEF, FAAN, Dean & Professor, University of North Carolina Greensboro
• Treasurer Bernice Coleman, PhD, ACNP-BC, FAHA, FAAN, Director, Nursing Research and Quality Improvement, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• Eun-Ok Im, PhD, MPH, CNS, FAAN, Dean, University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing
• John Lowe, PhD, RN, FAAN, Joseph Blades Centennial Memorial Professor, University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing

This year’s election ballot also included positions for the Fellow Selection Committee and the Nominating Committee. The following individuals will join these committees at the conclusion of the Health Policy Conference.

Newly Elected Members of the Fellow Selection Committee:

• Nancy Blake, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, FAONL, FAAN, Chief Nursing Officer, Los Angeles General Medical Center
• Eileen Collins, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean and Professor, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing
• Maureen “Shawn” Kennedy, MA, RN, FAAN, Editor in Chief Emerita, American Journal of Nursing; Contributing Editor, JAMA Health Forum
• Laura J. Wood, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, EVP Patient Care Operations & System Chief Nurse Executive, Boston Children's Hospital (Dr. Wood was re-elected to serve a 2nd term)

Newly Elected Members of the Nominating Committee:

• Mary Jo C. Grant, PhD, APRN, CPNP-AC, FAAN, Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner/Scientist, Primary Children’s Hospital
• Simmy King, DNP, MS, MBA, NI-BC, NE-BC, CHSE, FAAN, Chief Nursing Informatics and Education Officer, Children's National Hospital
• Patricia A. Reidy, DNP, FNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Amelia Peabody Endowed Professor, Interim Dean and Director of Community Engagement, MGH Institute of Health Professions

"I would like to thank the Academy’s Nominating Committee for their efforts to develop an incredible slate of candidates and to all Fellows who sought leadership positions in the association," said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN.

September 23, 2024 (Washington, DC) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) has selected six innovative models of care to be named Academy Edge Runners. Edge Runners are evidence-based, nurse-designed models that demonstrate significant clinical, financial, community, and policy outcomes with proven sustainability and replicability. Each of these programs highlights nurses’ ingenuity and collaboration in developing new methods to provide care and promote health equity.

“The Academy is proud to designate these solution-oriented initiatives as Edge Runners. The diverse focus of these models highlights the variety of services, vital support, and innovative team-based approaches that the nursing profession provides,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Each Edge Runner model demonstrates how nurses are pioneers in addressing important health care challenges.”

CommonSpirit Health Virtually Integrated Care (VIC) Professional Practice Model — Julie Tuel, MSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, SCRN, System Vice President Virtual Care Nursing Practice Transformation, CommonSpirit Health

The CommonSpirit Health Virtually Integrated Care (VIC) Professional Practice Model brings assistance to the bedside care team using “all in one” computer technology that can be accessed by the touch of a screen from the patient’s room. VIC allows for simple and quick access to virtual nursing and language services. In this model, the virtual nurse is a fully integrated member of the health care team, working directly with the clinical nurse at the bedside, providers, pharmacy, ancillary services, and care managers to deliver patient and family-centered care that ensures all safety measures and standards are implemented and elevated.

Hospital Acquired Pneumonia Prevention by Engaging Nurses (HAPPEN) — Shannon Munro, PhD, APRN, BC, NP, Nurse Researcher/ Implementation Scientist and Nurse Practitioner, Department of Veterans Affairs

Non-ventilator associated hospital acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP) is one of the most common hospital-acquired conditions. HAPPEN, a Veteran Health Administration (VA) team-based model, engages nurses to provide consistent oral care to reduce the risk of NV-HAP to improve the health and quality of life of Veterans. Aligned with the VA’s mission of providing the highest quality of care possible, HAPPEN has consistently delivered care targets to reduce the risk of NV-HAP thus shortening hospital stays, reducing costs, and saving lives.

Integrated Nurse-led Model of Sustainability and Innovation (INMSI) / Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic Sustainability & Innovation (NPCSI) — Julie Cowan Novak, DNSc, RN, MA, CPNP, FAANP, FAAN, University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing Adjunct Professor; Director, Neighborhood House Head Start Pre-K Health & Wellness Van

INMSI is a comprehensive nurse-led model focused on serving a diverse range of patient populations with an emphasis on building trusting relationships and health equity. A long-standing initiative, the INMSI model evolved from 12 modules (2004) to 6-modules as NP-led Clinic Sustainability & Innovation (2017). The integrated model has supported the development of 14 robust nurse-led clinics in three states. The six modules include: establishing clinics through community partnerships; promoting cultural humility and proficiency; developing a business and reimbursement plan for value-based healthcare delivery; clinic leadership and management using customized IT/EHR for data analytics; building a mosaic of support using social justice as a moral imperative, identifying local community, state, federal, foundation priorities; and securing CMS contracts, FQHC status, and private insurance, while mastering the art of successful grant funding.

Jefferson Center for Maternal Addiction Treatment, Education & Research (MATER) — Marie Ann Marino, EdD, RN, FAAN, Dean and Professor, Thomas Jefferson University, College of Nursing

The Jefferson Center for Maternal Addiction Treatment, Education, & Research (MATER) is a transdisciplinary clinical, academic, and research unit that focuses on comprehensive and holistic substance use disorder treatment for pregnant and parenting women and people (PPWP) in Philadelphia, PA. MATER provides care to approximately 250 PPWP and their families each year, trains multiple nursing and medical students, residents, and fellows annually, and maintains an impactful and continuously funded research team.

Linking to Improve Nursing Care and Knowledge (LINK) Academic-Practice Partnership — Allison A. Norful, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, FAAN, Assistant Professor, Columbia University School of Nursing; Nurse Scientist, New York-Presbyterian Hospital

The LINK Academic-Practice Partnership program addresses significant barriers that hinder nurses’ engagement in evidence-based practice and research so that the profession may optimize practice and policy, advance nursing knowledge, and improve clinical outcomes. LINK has developed programming to support a robust inquiry and scholarship culture, enhance nurse engagement in evidence-based practice and research, and promote nursing leadership. It has also established academic-practice partnerships to ensure that clinical nurses have access to educational resources and expert guidance.

THRIVE: Equity-focused Transitional Care — J. Margo Brooks Carthon, PhD, RN, FAAN, Tyson Family Endowed Term Chair for Gerontological Nursing, Professor of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

The THRIVE model is an interdisciplinary, 30-day intervention that includes intensive wrap around services, home care, virtual case management and extended engagement of hospital-based providers following hospitalization. It aims to support Medicaid-insured adults through personalized care, addressing both health and social needs, and ensuring a smooth transition from hospital to home. Nurses are integrated throughout the THRIVE clinical pathway at every stage from nurse case manager referrals during hospitalization, to nurse-led home care, and weekly case management throughout the 30-day intervention.

All of the Academy’s Edge Runner profiles are available to view here. Each of these innovative models of care will be honored at the 2024 Health Policy Conference, taking place October 31-November 2, 2024 in Washington, DC.

August 22, 2024 (Washington, DC) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will recognize Bernadette Mazurek Melnyk, Loretta Sweet Jemmott, Ramón Lavandero, Beverly Malone, Virginia Allen, Rosemarie Rizzo Parse, and Harriet Udin Aronow with the organization’s prestigious annual awards. These accomplished leaders will be recognized during the Academy’s Health Policy Conference, which is being held in Washington, DC on October 31 – November 2, 2024. Each awardee has demonstrated noteworthy dedication and made significant contributions to improve health care, advance health equity, and influence critical policy.

“The Academy is thrilled to pay tribute to these leaders and celebrate their incredible achievements,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Recognizing the immeasurable impact of our Fellows and colleagues by bestowing these awards offers an opportunity to showcase the remarkable work done to propel the profession’s influence forward. Through their innovative care philosophies, pioneering research, and dedication to nursing, immense advancements have been made to improve public health. It is an honor to highlight how profoundly they have supported the communities they serve.”

The President’s Award, the highest individual achievement award given by the Academy, which recognizes a Fellow who has made extraordinary, lifelong contributions to improving the health of individuals, families, and communities, will be presented to Bernadette Mazurek Melnyk, PhD, APRN-CNP, EBP-C, FAANP, FNAP, FAAN. Dr. Melnyk is Vice President for Health Promotion and Chief Wellness Officer at The Ohio State University and the Helene Fuld Health Trust Professor of Evidence-based Practice in the College of Nursing and Professor of Pediatrics and Psychiatry in the College of Medicine. Dr. Melnyk is recognized globally for her expertise, leadership, and innovation in evidence-based practice, child and adolescent mental health, clinician well-being, entrepreneurship, and intervention research as well as her innovative approaches to population health and well-being.

Loretta Sweet Jemmott, PhD, RN, FAAN will be presented with the Academy’s Civitas Award. This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies extraordinary dedication to excellence in promoting quality care. Dr. Jemmott is Vice President, Health and Health Equity in the Office of the President, and Professor at Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions. She is one of the nation's foremost health promotion translational researchers in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention. Dr. Jemmott’s research has changed public policy as it relates to the use of theory-driven, culturally appropriate, evidence-based HIV/STI risk reduction interventions in community and clinical settings, which has global impact. Dr. Jemmott, a community engagement specialist, focuses her work on the promotion of health and health equity and building sustainable community partnerships meeting people where they are.

The Health Care Leader Award, which recognizes an influential national leader dedicated to improving the health of the nation through contributions to organizational excellence, will be given to Ramón Lavandero, MSN, MA, FAAN, Senior Strategic Advisor and Organizational Historian for the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN Critical Care). Mr. Lavandero’s commitment to quality and safety at the organizational level is best demonstrated by his participation in developing the AACN Critical Care Standards for Establishing and Sustaining Healthy Work Environments. Not only did the standards lay the foundation for a healthier work environment for nurses, they blazed the trail for how the relationship between a healthy work environment and improved patient outcomes would be studied in the future.

The Academy will present Virginia Allen, DHL, LPN, FADLN and Rosemarie Rizzo Parse, PhD, RN, FAAN, with the Lifetime Legacy Award. This award recognizes extraordinary individuals who have dedicated their life to advocating for positive health system changes.

Ms. Allen is one of the last living “Black Angels,” a name given to a group of African American nurses who bravely cared for quarantined tuberculous (TB) patients at Sea View Hospital in Staten Island, New York during the height of the TB public health crisis. Ms. Allen is an inspiring figure, a nonagenarian who maintains her nursing license, a community leader and activist. She started her career as a nurse’s aide at 16 years old working in the children’s ward at Sea View, which had the largest TB sanitarium in the region and is where the human trails for isoniazid, the treatment for TB, were conducted by the Black nurses who risked their own health to help conduct the clinical trial. Ms. Allen’s compassionate care, especially for the children in the hospital, exemplifies the human connection and understanding that nursing offers to health care.

Dr. Parse is a world-renowned nurse theorist known for her theory on Humanbecoming and currently serves as a Visiting Scholar and Research Professor at the State University of New York at Binghamton, Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences. She is also the founder and editor of Nursing Science Quarterly. Dr. Parse’s Humanbecoming theory has shaped over 100 health policies related to patient-centered care nationally and internationally. The Humanbecoming paradigm explores the ethics and tenets of human dignity, and led to teaching-learning, mentoring, leading-following, community, family, and concept-inventing models that are used worldwide. Dr. Parse has made outstanding contributions to the nursing profession through her progressive leadership in nursing knowledge development, research, education, and practice.

Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FAAN will be presented with the Mary Elizabeth Carnegie Leadership in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) Award. The Mary Elizabeth Carnegie Leadership in EDI Award was established in 2023 during the Academy’s 50th anniversary year to recognize a Fellow whose significant and sustained contributions have advanced the organization’s core values of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in nursing and health care. Dr. Malone is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National League for Nursing (NLN). Under Dr. Malone’s leadership, NLN has advanced the science of nursing education by promoting greater collaboration among stakeholders, increasing diversity in nursing, and advancing excellence in care for patients. She is frequently called on by congressional leaders and policymakers to offer her expert perspective and public testimony on increasing support for nursing education and workforce development to address the persistent nursing shortage, which threatens health care delivery across the United States.

Harriet Udin Aronow, PhD, FAAN, will be presented with the Outstanding Leadership Award. This distinction recognizes Honorary Fellows of the Academy for exemplary service and perseverance as a champion of the nursing profession. Dr. Aronow is a Research Scientist and Professor of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, and Nursing at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Dr. Aronow’s work advances, develops, and supports the role of nursing to maximize health outcomes and well-being for all adults. For over 40 years, Dr. Aronow’s work has been interprofessional and team-based and located in inpatient, ambulatory, home, and community settings. She is also known for her work creating interventions for advanced practice nurses to use to help older adults maintain or improve their health.

These remarkable individuals will be recognized throughout the American Academy of Nursing’s Health Policy Conference. The conference theme this year focuses on Courageous Transformations Towards an Equitable Future. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,000 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact: Caroline Kane | 202-777-1173 | ckane@AANnet.org

Washington, DC (August 12, 2024) - The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) is pleased to announce the release of its 2023 Annual Report. Last year, the Academy and our Fellows celebrated the organization's 50th Anniversary and its continued impact toward meaningful change. The Academy remained steadfast in its efforts to achieve our mission of improving health and achieving health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science. 

The American Academy of Nursing’s 2023 Annual Report highlights the organization’s activities throughout the calendar year (January-December) and reflects our commitment towards a brighter, healthier future for all.

Inside the Report

• Membership and operational highlights that showcase the Academy Fellowship and our drive to uphold to the Academy values of inquiry, integrity, courage, equity, diversity, and inclusivity.
• Details of the Academy's policy impact throughout 2023, including Fellows' policy publications in our journal, Nursing Outlook.
• Highlights of the continued work of the Academy’s three signature initiatives —the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science, the Institute for Nursing Leadership, and Edge Runners.
• Recognition of the Academy's incredible donors, volunteers, Fellows, and partners who advance the mission of the organization.

You can read the 2023 Annual Report online here. Thank you for your continued support of the Academy. 

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,000 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact: Caroline Kane | 202-777-1173 | ckane@AANnet.org

Washington, DC (August 9, 2024) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will officially designate Catherine (Kate) Judge, BA, and David Vance, PhD, MGS, MS, as Honorary Fellows at the Academy’s Health Policy Conference, which is being held in Washington, DC on October 31 – November 2, 2024. Ms. Judge and Dr. Vance are being honored for their extraordinary and sustained contributions to health care and the nursing profession throughout their careers. 

“Ms. Judge and Dr. Vance are prime examples of nursing allies. Leaders in their fields of philanthropy and neuropsychology, respectively, they leveraged their immense skills and expertise to support and advance our profession.” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “Their drive to establish interprofessional partnerships to work towards a more equitable health care future is admirable and it is a privilege to welcome them as Honorary Fellows of our organization.”

The Honorary Fellow designation is reserved for leaders who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing the nursing profession and to supporting the Academy’s mission to improve health and achieve health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science.

Catherine (Kate) Judge, BA, Executive Consultant, American Nurses Foundation has tirelessly cultivated a culture of philanthropy in nursing, raising over $62 million to advance the profession, in her position leading the foundation as Executive Director for twelve years. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Judge launched the Coronavirus Response Fund for Nurses, the largest public disaster relief campaign for nurses, raising over $30 million over the course of 18 months. During her tenure at the foundation, Ms. Judge was instrumental in leading many successful projects and collaborating with partners to provide funding and programming to countless nurses, healthcare organizations, and the general public. These programs ranged from the Reimagining Nursing Initiative, a Nurse Well-Being: Building Peer and Leadership Support program, serving as executive producer on a documentary film Defining Hope highlighting nurses providing end of life care to patients, and a first of its kind study on nursing and philanthropy. Ms. Judge has raised the visibility of nursing and advanced financial support for the profession, directly benefiting health care nationwide.

David E. Vance, PhD, MGS, MS, University Professor and Director of Grant Regulatory and Review Processes, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing, is an internationally renowned scholar and leader in neuropsychology, neurocognitive aging and remediation, who has collaborated with nurses for over two decades. Serving as a mentor and research partner, Dr. Vance has a pristine record of creating lasting interdisciplinary partnerships. Dr. Vance’s unique contributions have advanced the knowledge, science of healthy aging, and treatment of individuals living with the complexities of the HIV disease, as well as other chronic conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. Dr. Vance’s work in cognitive training has contributed to developing treatment guidelines for cancer survivors with “chemo brain.” These cognitive training programs are now available at no cost in all public libraries and are provided through Medicare in over 40 states. Additionally, Dr. Vance’s research has contributed to clinical guidelines for neurocognitive screening which have been implemented in the HRSA Ryan White Program that serves 50% of the nation’s individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

The Academy’s Induction Ceremony will be held during the Health Policy Conference on the evening of November 2, 2024 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This event is a special tribute to celebrate the power of nursing’s impact and the partnerships nurses create with individuals like Ms. Judge and Dr. Vance. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.

###

About the American Academy of Nursing
The American Academy of Nursing serves the public by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis, and dissemination of nursing knowledge. Academy Fellows are inducted into the organization for their extraordinary contributions to improve health locally and globally. With more than 3,000 Fellows, the Academy represents nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia.

Contact: Caroline Kane | 202-777-1173 | ckane@AANnet.org

View PDF Version

Washington, DC (August 8, 2024) — The American Academy of Nursing (AAN) applauds the selection of Roxana C. Chicas, PhD, RN, FAAN, as the 2024–2026 AAN Fellow at the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). Dr. Chicas is the second Fellow to be selected for this prestigious AAN NAM Fellowship program, which was established in 2022. The purpose of the AAN NAM Fellowship program is to provide talented scholars in nursing with the opportunity to experience and participate in evidence-based public health studies that improve the care and access to care of patients in domestic and global health care systems.

The NAM selected Dr. Chicas from a highly competitive pool of nominees based on her professional qualifications, reputation as a scholar, accomplishments, and the relevance of her current field of expertise to the work of the NAM and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. According to NAM, “The fellows will collaborate with eminent researchers, policy experts, and clinicians from across the country during their two-year fellowship. They will also help facilitate initiatives convened by the National Academies to provide nonpartisan, scientific, and evidence-based guidance to national, state, and local policymakers, academic leaders, health care administrators, and the public.”

Dr. Chicas is currently an Assistant Professor, Tenure Track at Emory University Nell Hodgson School of Nursing. Her research focus is on occupational and environmental health disparities, investigating the physiological effects of heat exposures among farmworkers through community-engaged research, particularly their impact on kidney function. In collaboration with the Farmworker Association of Florida, she has led two intervention studies using real-time biomonitoring equipment among farm workers. Dr. Chicas’ work is shaping the future of climate and occupational health science, two pressing fields of scientific inquiry. Her methodologies are unique and effective due to direct partnership with farmworker communities, who are now bearing the brunt of life-threatening and dehumanizing extreme heat health effects which more communities will face as climate change worsens. Dr. Chicas’ research is creating solutions that are sustainable and grounded in the realities of labor. Her intervention studies are providing relief to workers, collecting critical health data, and informing prevention and intervention practices in the U.S. and globally. As a bilingual, bicultural nurse scientist, she is committed to conducting research that informs policy to advance environmental justice. Dr. Chicas earned her FAAN credential in 2023 when she was inducted into AAN and she is a member of the AAN Expert Panel on Environmental & Public Health.

“I am honored to be selected for this unique experience to serve as the AAN Fellow at NAM. This opportunity will allow me to significantly leverage my expertise and partner with interprofessional colleagues to work towards a more equitable future,” said Dr. Chicas. “It is critically important to conduct research on behalf of populations underserved by the health care system, particularly among immigrant populations who may also face language and other serious barriers, to collaborate and find interventions that improve their health.”

“Dr. Chicas is an outstanding nurse scientist whose research is pivotal and greatly needs attention given the extreme impact environmental living and working conditions have on health,” said AAN President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FADLN, FNAP, FAAN. “She is a shining example of the purpose of the AAN NAM Fellowship program, which is to disseminate nursing knowledge to inform and shape policy solutions to solve the nation’s most pressing health care challenges. Dr. Chicas’ work is instrumental in ensuring that communities and populations most at risk will have a healthier and more just future.”

As outlined by NAM, “Fellows will continue in their primary academic or research posts while engaging part time over a two-year period in the National Academies’ health and science policy work. They will also work with an expert study committee or roundtable related to their professional interests, including contributing to reports or other products. A flexible research grant will be awarded to every fellow.”

View PDF version.

July 18, 2024 (Washington, DC) — The American Academy of Nursing (Academy) will officially designate five extraordinary nurse leaders as Living Legends this fall. Drs. Suzanne Bakken, Rita Chow, Julie Fairman, Faye Gary, and Mathy Mezey will be honored at the Living Legends Ceremony held at the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference, taking place on October 31 – November 2, 2024. These incredible trailblazers exemplify the resolve and ingenuity of the profession and have made significant impacts on health systems and health policy. 

“Each year, the Academy has the privilege of selecting outstanding individuals who have made lasting change to improve health and well-being as Living Legends,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FNAP, FAAN. “I am delighted to celebrate these legendary nurses who have transformed the profession’s impact through pioneering evidence with remarkable outcomes. The commitment and passion towards advancing health equity demonstrated throughout their careers is truly outstanding. From publications to presentations, they have demonstrated that sharing nursing knowledge can improve the health of individuals around the globe.”

Drs. Bakken, Chow, Fairman, Gary, and Mezey have generated policy change through innovative thinking, scientific pursuit, and adept leadership to ensure that meaningful health care change is influenced by nursing expertise. They will be honored as 2024 Living Legends, the highest designation given by the Academy.

Suzanne Bakken, PhD, RN, FAAN, FACMI, FIAHSI, Alumni Professor of Nursing and Biomedical Informatics of Columbia University, is a leading scholar and renowned expert in the field of biomedical informatics. Dr. Bakken has made innumerable contributions in the areas of terminology and standards, quality improvement, informatics approaches to reducing health disparities, and advanced visualization throughout her career spanning over four decades. She was instrumental in drafting influential National Academies’ reports through her work as a member of the Committee on Data Standards for Patient Safety and Committee on Return of Individual-Specific Results Generated in Research Laboratories. Her research focuses on the role of informatics and data science to improve health and advance health equity. Dr. Bakken’s holistic view of data’s potential to revolutionize clinical practice has led her to consult nationally and internationally in the field of informatics, author over 300 publications, receive continuous funding for over 25 years, and receive numerous awards and honors. 

Rita K. Chow, EdD, RN, AHN-BC, FAAN, CAPT. (Ret) USPHS, Senior Volunteer Fellow at the National Council on Aging, is a remarkable leader who has demonstrated an enduring commitment to nursing and improving health care delivery throughout her storied career. A trailblazer, Dr. Chow codirected one of the first research projects utilizing closed-circuit television in the intensive care unit to record nurses’ real-time actions and responsibilities, increasing respect for the profession within the hospital setting. Dr. Chow’s dedication to health equity is demonstrated through the innovative programs she led to serve historically marginalized groups. Through her federal service and supervisory positions, Dr. Chow improved health outcomes within the Rosebud Lakota facility in South Dakota, implemented a music and movement program for patients with leprosy at the Hansen’s Disease Center in Carville, Louisiana, and worked to establish the first long-term care facility for aging male federal prisoners in Fort Worth, Texas. Dr. Chow’s lifelong dedication to improving access of quality care is truly extraordinary. 

Julie Fairman, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor of Nursing Emerita, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, is an internationally esteemed historian and nurse scholar who has been instrumental in leading and advancing the scholarship of nursing history as well as shaping its future. Her commitment to promoting health equity is evidenced through her research on nursing’s influence on human and civil rights issues, which elucidated the experiences of nurses of color and the impact of racism within nursing. Additionally, her seminal work explored the dynamics and effects of gender and professional hierarchy on the nursing discipline and was influential in the development of the Nurse Reinvestment Act of 2002. Dr. Fairman also directed the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Future of Nursing Scholars program, which helped shift the paradigm of PhD nursing programs to include a focus on health equity while supporting the PhD nursing pipeline. Her numerous contributions to recording the profession’s history and bringing injustices to light demonstrates her passion for documenting nursing’s impact and her incredible leadership in the field.

Faye Gary, EdD, MS, RN, FAAN, Distinguished University Professor, Medical Mutual of Ohio Kent W. Clapp Chair and Professor of Nursing for Vulnerable and At-Risk Persons at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University, is a champion of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Throughout her extraordinary career, Dr. Gary’s steadfast commitment to child and adolescent mental health, health disparities, and support for domestic violence victims has made her a leader in the field. In addition to her service as the executive consultant to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service’s Ethnic Minority Fellowship Program, the National Advisory Committee of the National Institute of Mental Health, and the National Institute of Minority Health Disparities, Dr. Gary has made tremendous strides to improve the status of the profession and health internationally. Dr. Gary’s incredible impact is demonstrated through her many contributions in improving health policy, promoting social justice, and advancing health equity.

Mathy Mezey, EdD, RN, FAAN, Professor Emerita, Senior Research Scientist, and Associate Director (and Founding Director) of the Hartford Institute of Geriatric Nursing at the New York University (NYU) Rory Meyers College of Nursing, has been a transformational leader in the fields of nursing ethics and geriatric nursing, spurring important policy change to ensure quality care for aging individuals. Under her leadership, landmark programs and materials, including evidence-based geriatric nursing practice protocols, a summer research institute, and other training effort flourished and continues to be utilized today, such as the Nurse Competence in Aging, a national initiative to ensure specialty nurses are prepared in geriatrics. Dr. Mezey was also a Founding Director of Nurses Improving HealthSystems to the Elderly (NICHE™), an initiative involving over 700 hospitals nationwide. Her work to improve older adult care has had a lasting impact on the health of patients nationally.

The Academy’s Living Legends Ceremony will be held during the Health Policy Conference on the evening of November 1, 2024 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This event is a special tribute to these legends’ remarkable legacy where colleagues, family, friends, Fellows, and sponsors can gather in Washington, DC to celebrate the power of nursing’s impact. Learn more about the Academy and visit the policy conference website for more details.