American Nurses Association Announces 2026 ANA President’s Award Recipients

Four national leaders recognized for advancing nursing’s influence, visibility, and impact on public health

SILVER SPRING, MD – The American Nurses Association (ANA) today announced the recipients of the 2026 ANA President’s Awards. The awards will be presented on June 25 during the ANA National Awards Ceremony.

Established as a distinct honor separate from the ANA Committee on Honorary Awards Program, the ANA President’s Award enables the ANA President, with Board approval, to recognize individuals or groups whose public leadership and influence have advanced the nursing profession in measurable and enduring ways.

Recipients are selected based on demonstrated public prominence; meaningful contributions that advance ANA’s strategic priorities; influence on public perception of nursing; and alignment with ANA’s mission, including professionalism, equity, leadership, workforce advancement, and public health.

The 2026 ANA President’s Award recipients are:

• Linda Aiken, PhD, RN, FAAN: A pioneering outcomes scientist, Dr. Aiken’s research has fundamentally reshaped nurse staffing policy, global workforce standards, and public understanding of nursing’s role in patient safety and health system performance.
• Gina Friel, DNP, RN, CRNP-PC: An international leader at the intersection of climate, public health, and nursing education, Dr. Friel has equipped nurses worldwide to lead climate-responsive and resilient health systems.
• Jen Hamilton, BSN, RN, CEN, RNC-OB: A nationally recognized labor and delivery and emergency nurse, Hamilton has reshaped public understanding of nursing through trusted, accessible, and high-impact digital advocacy that reaches millions and elevates clinical expertise, transparency, and equity.
• Rachel Robinson, MS, RN: A pioneering psychiatric nurse, educator, and civil rights leader, Robinson’s career integrates nursing with public health, education, and community empowerment, expanding the profession’s role in advancing equity and social progress.

“The ANA President’s Award honors leaders whose work has changed what is possible for nurses and for the people they serve,” said Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, President of the American Nurses Association. “This year’s recipients represent the very best of nursing’s influence on science, public health, advocacy, equity, and the public’s understanding of our profession. Their leadership has not only advanced nursing, but has strengthened health systems, informed policy, and elevated the role of nurses in society.”

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About the American Nurses Association
As the oldest organization representing more than 5 million registered nurses, the American Nurses Association stands at the forefront of advancing nursing excellence. The association harnesses The Power of Nurses™ to champion the profession and drive transformation in healthcare. Through legislative and political advocacy, comprehensive educational services, and the profession’s leading Code of Ethics and Scope and Standards, the association empowers nurses across every specialty and practice setting. The association is committed to ensuring healthy work environments, shaping pioneering policies, and cultivating partnerships that enhance both the nursing profession and the broader healthcare experience.

MEDIA CONTACT: newsroom@ana.org