In 1902, a courageous group of nurses came together to speak with one unified voice—and changed the course of nursing history. Their advocacy led to the creation of the Nursing Practice Act, making North Carolina the first state in the nation to legalize the registration of nurses.
That pioneering spirit lives on in the North Carolina Nurses Association. For over a century, NCNA has championed the evolving needs of Registered Nurses, advocating for meaningful policy change, quality patient care, and the professional recognition nurses deserve.
Today, NCNA continues to be the trusted voice of nursing in North Carolina—inspiring, informing, connecting, and supporting RNs across all stages of their careers. Through education, leadership development, and a statewide community of peers, NCNA empowers nurses to lead change and move Nursing Forward® every day.
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.
Our members represent the breadth and depth of registered nurses in North Carolina, and all Registered Nurses are welcome and encouraged to join.
“We have such a strong and proud history in North Carolina. Every nurse I have come in contact with in NCNA is a voice for nursing, and together as a group, our communal voice resonates across the nation. I am proud to be a Tar Heel Nurse!”
– Lauren Kearns, Member since 2003
Members of NCNA continue to be recognized nationally for having a significant impact on the profession, and for advancing quality care in a variety of practice settings. If you are a member – thank you! If you are considering if NCNA is right for you – please join today!
Together, we move Nursing Forward®!