Nurses of Influence Awards

Honoring nurses and nursing advocates

The UW School of Nursing is proud to honor our community’s outstanding nurses and nursing leaders. These awards affirm the strong bonds between the UW School of Nursing and our community partners and acknowledges the many ways the profession of nursing improves health and touches lives.

View our 2023 Nurses of Influence here, or view all past awardees here.

Nurses of Influence Award Categories

Distinguished Alumni Award

Recognizes a UW School of Nursing alum whose career in nursing exemplifies excellence in clinical practice, leadership in professional organizations, outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the community. Only UW School of Nursing graduates are eligible for the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Distinguished Researcher Award

Recognizes an individual whose research, professional achievements and cumulative contributions have brought personal distinction, enhanced the profession, improved the welfare of the general public and brought honor and prestige to his or her field.

Distinguished Practitioner Award

Recognizes a nurse who demonstrates excellence in nursing care, serves as an advocate for patients, families, and/or communities, makes a recognizable difference through his or her practice and embodies the essence of the nursing profession.

Distinguished Diversity Advocate Award

Recognizes a nurse who advocates for the needs of underrepresented populations and communities; encourages dialogue and reflection regarding societal power imbalances; and demonstrates leadership in promoting diversity in nursing.

Distinguished Advocate, Administrator, Leader

Recognizes an individual who demonstrates excellence in nursing advocacy, patient advocacy, administration and leadership; serves as a champion for the nursing profession, actively seeks to improve nursing management, administration and goes above and beyond across the nursing practice continuum.