New Nurse Living Legends Announced
2025 New Nurse Living Legends Announced
The American Academy of Nursing is committed to revolutionizing healthcare systems. With a membership of 2,800 Fellows and a leadership board, their mission is focused on improving healthcare quality, minimizing health disparities, fostering healthy practices and environments, and reinforcing the nursing and healthcare delivery infrastructure. Annually, the Academy recognizes a select few who have significantly contributed to society and nursing by naming them Living Legends, honored at the annual Health Policy Conference each October.
This year, six nurse leaders have been awarded the 2025 Living Legend title. These honorees are celebrated for their resilience, foresight in nursing's role in systemic change, and their lasting impacts in policy and public health.
The 2025 honorees are:
- Dr. Linda Aiken, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor Emerita at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, and Editor for the American Journal of Nursing. Known for her work in improving quality and evidence-based practices, she has held leadership roles at prominent hospitals focused on nursing research, including at Penn Medicine.
- Dr. Perry Halkitis, PhD, RN, FAAN, Distinguished Professor and former Dean at Columbia University School of Nursing, is recognized for transforming HIV/AIDS care and research globally, addressing stigma and health disparities. He holds editorial and honorary positions internationally, including contributions to the Journal of the International AIDS Society.
- Dr. Susan B. Hassmiller, DNP, RN, FAAN, interim CEO and President of Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Chief Nurse Emerita at Massachusetts General Hospital, is celebrated for her leadership in health outcomes and mentoring. She also pioneered innovations in care environments during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on improving patient care through nursing leadership.
- Dr. M. Esther O'Keefe, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor Emeritus at the University of Texas Health Science Center, founded organizations supporting education for women and Hispanic nurses, creating impactful mentoring programs that empower the next generation of nursing leaders.
- Dr. Lourdes Santiago, EdD, APRN-BC, FAAN, a professor at Florida International University, pioneered outcomes for patients of color and influenced culturally-appropriate care standards. Her work is instrumental in bridging healthcare gaps for underserved populations.
- Dr. Mary Wakefield, EdD, RN, FAAN, FFNMRCSI, serving on the United Nations NGO Board, and as President of National League for Nursing, has significantly advanced nursing education and global collaboration.
These outstanding professionals exemplify nursing’s highest standards, deeply impacting society, patient care, research, and education. Their work has set a benchmark in the field, and they continue to inspire future generations of nurses.
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