AONL Fellow Designation - FAONL

The application period for the 2026 cohort is now open! 

Submit a Nomination Now!   

 The application period closes September 5, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. CT. 

Mentors from previous FAONL cohorts are available to help guide you through the application process. 

Mentors can review your narrative, providing advice on how to best present your experience and qualifications, and answer any other questions you may have regarding your application. If you would like to be matched with a mentor, please email us at AONLdesignation@aha.org.

Recognizing exemplary nurse leaders

The AONL Fellow Designation recognizes exemplary nurse leaders who have made significant and sustained contributions to the specialty of nursing leadership and to AONL. Nurse leaders who attain this prestigious honor are committed to shaping the future of nursing leadership through expert leadership practice, mentoring developing leaders and contributing to AONL at the regional and national levels.

Gain recognition from your peers as a recipient of the FAONL, an elite group of AONL members working to advance the field of nursing leadership. AONL members at all levels of leadership and in the wide variety of settings members represent are encouraged to apply. The FAONL is attainable regardless of position title or elected office, through achievement of the designation criteria.

“Achieving FAONL designation has been a catalyst in my leadership journey. I have been afforded greater recognition and credibility, allowing me to take on more influential roles and responsibilities.”   
— Carrie Peluso, 2025 FAONL Inductee 

Benefits of the FAONL Designation

If you have questions about the AONL Fellow Designation, please contact AONLdesignation@aha.org.

Deadlines & Dates