(Black PR Wire) Silver Spring, MD — The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) extends its warmest congratulations to its members who have been recognized as recipients of the 2026 American Nurses Association (ANA) National Awards, among an elite group of 15 distinguished nurses honored this year. These awards, presented annually by ANA, highlight exceptional contributions to nursing excellence, leadership, ethics, advocacy, and equity, reinforcing the essential role nurses play in advancing healthcare and community well-being across the United States.

The ANA National Awards recognize outstanding nurses and nurse champions whose commitment, innovation, and impact have elevated the nursing profession. The honorees will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on June 25, 2026, in Washington, D.C., under the theme “The Power of Nurses™.”

NBNA Members Honored with ANA National Awards

Hall of Fame Award

Recognizes nurses whose lifelong commitment to the profession has significantly influenced the health and social history of the United States.

• Debra Toney, PhD, RN, FADLN, FAAN — Nevada Nurses Association (NCEMNA)

Leadership in Ethics Award

Honors nurses who model the highest standards of ethical leadership, mentorship, and professional practice.

• Erica Mills, PhD, RN, NPD-BC — Georgia Nurses Association

Advocacy Award

Recognizes a registered nurse who embraces advocacy as a defining aspect of professional identity.

• LaDonna Thomas, DNP, ANP-C, VHA-CM, FFNMRCSI, FCN — North Carolina Nurses Association

Mary Mahoney Award

Honors nurses who have made significant contributions to integration, equity, and inclusion within the nursing profession.

• Vivienne McDaniel, DNP, MSN, RN, FADLN — Virginia Nurses Association
• Karen Rawls, PhD, MSN/Ed, RN — Georgia Nurses Association

NBNA proudly celebrates these extraordinary nurse leaders whose achievements exemplify excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to advancing health equity. Their recognition on the national stage reflects not only their individual dedication but also the collective strength, scholarship, advocacy, and leadership that define our membership.

About the American Nurses Association National Awards

The ANA National Awards Program annually honors registered nurses and nurse champions whose contributions, leadership, and impact have significantly influenced nursing practice, policy, education, ethics, and community health. This distinguished recognition reflects excellence and innovation across the profession.

This year’s awards showcase the remarkable breadth of talent and commitment within the nursing profession, underscoring the transformative role nurses play in improving care, strengthening communities, and shaping health systems nationwide.

About the National Black Nurses Association

Founded in 1971, the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) represents approximately 308,000 Black registered nurses, licensed vocational and practical nurses, and nursing students in over 100 chapters across the United States, the Eastern Caribbean, and Africa. NBNA’s mission is to serve as the voice for Black nurses and diverse populations, promoting equity in healthcare and advancing the professional and educational development of nurses worldwide. For more information, visit www.nbna.org.

Source: National Black Nurses Association (NBNA)