Thoughts About Recognizing Excellence in Nursing

The purpose of this essay is to outline two strategies that can be used to increase recognition of nursing excellence-in research, education, and practice. The first strategy is to gain recognition for excellence in nursing in and beyond universities, to collaborate with members of other disciplines, and to publicize what we study and what we teach. The second strategy is to gain recognition for excellence in nursing in and beyond clinical agencies, to publicize what we do when interacting with people who seek our services, and to implement the standards of the Pathway to Excellence Program (R) and/or the Magnet Recognition Program (R).