AONL Fellow Designation - FAONL
Submissions for the 2027 cohort are now open!
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.
“Being named an FAONL Fellow has been a defining moment in my leadership journey, reinforcing that leadership in nursing is both a privilege and a responsibility to the profession. The designation deepened my commitment to stewarding AONL’s values and influenced my leadership style to be more intentional and reflective.”
— Monica Tucker-Schwartz, 2026 FAONL Inductee
Benefits of the FAONL Designation
Inclusion in the FAONL Directory.
Use of the AONL Fellow credential - FAONL.
New AONL Fellows are invited to an induction ceremony.
Recognition as a top-tier nurse leader in the AONL community.
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.
Deadlines & Dates
May 4 Submissions Open
Aug. 27 Submissions Close
December 2026 Notifications Sent
April 12-15, 2027 Induction Ceremony at AONL 2027 in Phoenix
If you have questions about the AONL Fellow Designation, please contact us.
Learn from current FAONL nurse leaders as they review the application and eligibility process for the FAONL credential.