The UNMC College of Nursing’s Lynn Buchanan, PhD, associate professor, and Breanna Hetland, PhD, Gail and Jim Anderson Professor in Nursing and associate professor, will be inducted as Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing in October.
The fellowship program represents “nursing’s most accomplished leaders in policy, research, administration, practice, and academia,” according to the AAN website. Drs. Buchanan and Hetland join a cohort that represents 39 states and 17 countries. To qualify, fellows must apply and be sponsored by two current fellows.
Dr. Buchanan said being selected as a fellow provides both affirmation for her career thus far as well as motivation to continue to serve as an example.
“Being named a fellow is a reminder of the responsibility we have as nurses to continue advancing our profession and improving health for all people. Looking back across my career fills me with gratitude,” she said. “Looking ahead, I feel committed to the profession that has given me so much. I am humbled to join the distinguished community of Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing.”
As fellows, Drs. Buchanan and Hetland will share their expertise to help shape policy recommendations. They will also serve on committees and national advisory councils, take on elected leadership roles, support the organization through philanthropy, and participate in events such as the Health Policy Conference, policy discussions, and webinars.
Dr. Hetland said becoming a fellow isn’t just a designation; it’s an opportunity to promote the betterment of nursing in a unique way.
“Becoming a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing is something I will carry with me for the rest of my career,” she said. “It is an honor measured not in the credentials it adds, but in the extraordinary community of leaders and change agents that I get to join.”