Executive Director’s Report
Honoring Delaware’s Nursing Workforce and the
Delaware Nurses Association’s Leadership
Nurse’s Week 2026 offers Delaware a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the extraordinary power of nurses — professionals whose expertise, compassion, and leadership sustain the health of every community in the state. This year, the Delaware Nurses Association (DNA) elevated the celebration with a robust slate of activities that highlighted the profession’s impact, strengthened the nursing workforce, and brought visibility to the essential role nurses play across all care settings.
At the heart of the week are statewide proclamations from the Governor’s Office and Delaware General Assembly recognizing the indispensable contributions of Delaware’s nurses. DNA’s advocacy ensures that these proclamations are not symbolic gestures but public affirmations of the profession’s value. By securing recognition from state leaders, DNA reinforces the message that nursing is central to Delaware’s health system, economy, and future workforce stability.
Complementing these proclamations is DNA’s signature “Nurse’s Day at Legislative Hall,” where nurses from across the state gather to engage directly with policymakers. This year’s event focused on workforce development and modernizing nursing education pathways—issues that shape the daily realities of Delaware’s nurses. Nurse’s Day at Legislative Hall empowers nurses to use their voices, share their expertise, and influence decisions that affect patient care and professional practice. It also underscores DNA’s role as the unified voice for all Delaware nurses at both the state and national levels. This year, we had a special guest, Robyn Peacher from the American Nurses Association. Robyn serves as Director of State Government Affairs and provided Delaware nurses with federal updates and key strategies for successfully engaging with legislators.
Professional growth remains a cornerstone of DNA’s mission, and Nurse’s Week 2026 featured free continuing education opportunities designed to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. These sessions offered evidence‑based insights, emerging best practices, and leadership development content that nurses can immediately apply in their roles. By removing financial barriers, DNA ensures that every nurse—regardless of setting, specialty, or career stage—can access high‑quality learning.
Connection and community are equally essential to a thriving profession. DNA’s networking events throughout the week bring nurses together to build relationships, share experiences, and strengthen the statewide nursing community. These gatherings foster mentorship, collaboration, and a sense of belonging that sustains nurses through the challenges of modern healthcare. Special thank you to Christopher Malmstrom of Point to Point Wealth Planning for sponsoring this year’s happy hours in each county!
A highlight of the week is the celebration of Delaware Today’s Top Nurses, an annual recognition program that honors excellence across specialties. DNA proudly supports and amplifies this recognition, showcasing the nurses whose leadership, innovation, and dedication exemplify the best of the profession. These honorees represent the diversity and depth of nursing practice in Delaware—from bedside clinicians to educators, administrators, and community health leaders.
Nurse’s Week 2026 is more than a celebration; it is a testament to the power of collective action, professional pride, and the unwavering commitment of Delaware’s nurses. Through advocacy, education, recognition, and community-building, the Delaware Nurses Association continues to champion the profession and ensure that nurses have the support, visibility, and resources they deserve.
