We are thrilled to announce that ANNA’s 2024-2025 National President, Nancy Colobong Smith, MN, ARNP, ANP-BC, CNN, FANNA, has been selected as a recipient of the American Association of Kidney Patients’ (AAKP) Medal of Excellence award in the nursing category. This prestigious honor recognizes healthcare professionals who have made significant contributions to advancing kidney care and patient empowerment.
The AAKP Medal of Excellence is one of the association’s highest awards, celebrating leaders who are at the forefront of advocacy, research, technology, and quality-driven treatments. It highlights those who are dedicated to improving and extending the lives of individuals living with kidney disease while ensuring patient dignity and aligning care with patient aspirations. The award recognizes professionals across the kidney care spectrum, including nephrologists, transplant surgeons, nurses, social workers, dietitians, and dialysis technicians.
Nancy will be formally presented with the award at ANNA’s 2025 National Symposium in Portland, Oregon, on May 1-4. The award will be presented by Edward Hickey, a kidney patient, U.S. Marine veteran, and the President of the AAKP as well as Chair of AAKP’s Veterans Health Initiative (VHI).
Nancy’s career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to nephrology nursing, patient advocacy, and advancing education for both nurses and patients. As ANNA’s National President, she continues to lead efforts to strengthen the nephrology nursing profession and ensure high-quality care for individuals affected by kidney disease.
We congratulate Nancy on this well-deserved honor and celebrate her dedication to empowering both her colleagues and the patients they serve.
Join us at the ANNA National Symposium to celebrate Nancy’s achievements and connect with fellow nephrology professionals!
