2025 Nurses Week Message from NCNA President Trish Richardson

Welcome to National Nurses Week 2025! The American Nurses Association has declared the theme for this year as “The Power of Nurses.” I stand with them in recognizing the vital role nurses play in the lives of our patients, neighbors, and communities across all 100 counties of our great state. This week, I invite us all to pause and reflect on the transformative and powerful presence of North Carolina’s more than 162,000 registered nurses. Our presence is powerful — a force we bring to every setting to serve others.

National Nurses Week is a time to honor the nurses who have made a meaningful impact on our lives. From those working tirelessly at the bedside to the nurses leading the charge for safe, equitable, and affordable healthcare at the North Carolina General Assembly — each of us plays a vital role. Together, we advocate for safer care and equitable health outcomes for all North Carolinians. United in purpose, we raise our voices to move Nursing Forward® — for our profession and everyone we serve.

As nurses, person-centered servant leadership is at the core of who we are. We stand alongside loved ones mourning the loss of a father. We are present at the very beginning, witnessing a new life emerging from the womb, taking their first breath in this earthly world, and experiencing the joy on parents' faces as they hear their child's first cry. We also support families during difficult times, such as when a patient learns that their cancer is terminal and that treatments are no longer effective. This week I encourage you to think back to when the presence of your nurse, just them being there with you at that moment, made you feel seen. You knew you were not alone.

If you have a nurse in your life — whether family or friend — take a moment to thank them for their unwavering dedication to serving others. Your words might change their entire day in ways you’ll never fully realize… but they’ll never forget them. Recently, I found myself reading old notes and letters from patients and families who took the time to share what my care meant to them. I often think, this is just what we do — it’s who we are. But to those whom God placed in my path, they saw something more: someone going the extra mile without hesitation. All these years later, their words still move me. So, trust me — a simple “thank you” can mean everything.

We amplify the Power of Nurses when we come together to advocate for ourselves and our profession. As changemakers, innovators, and leaders, nurses are uniquely positioned to reimagine what’s possible in healthcare and lead the way toward a more just, compassionate, and empowered future.

To my fellow nurses, nursing students, and future nurse leaders: on behalf of the North Carolina Nurses Association, thank you for the incredible difference you make in the lives of North Carolinians. From the bottom of my heart, I see you, and I celebrate your unwavering dedication to serving others and your steadfast commitment to upholding and advancing the standards of our profession.

As always, it is with a grace-filled heart that I believe and know and have faith that together, WE will advance Nursing Forward®.

Trish Richardson, MSN, BSBA, RN, NE-BC, CMSRN
President
North Carolina Nurses Association

MEDIA CONTACT
Chris Cowperthwaite, CAE, APR
Director of Communications & Outreach
(919) 821-4250 or chriscowperthwaite@ncnurses.org

ABOUT NCNA
As the leading professional organization for North Carolina’s registered nurses, we equip nurses at all stages to thrive in an ever-changing healthcare environment. NCNA helps keep North Carolina nurses on the cutting edge of nursing practice, policy, education, and more. Join us as we work to advance nursing and ensure high-quality healthcare for everyone.

Established in 1902, NCNA provides continuing education, networking and legislative advocacy for registered nurses throughout North Carolina. For more information, please visit www.ncnurses.org.

MISSION STATEMENT
The North Carolina Nurses Association serves the changing needs of its members, addresses nursing issues, and advocates for the health and well-being of all people.