For 18 years, I held a dual role as a full-time staff nurse and an adjunct clinical faculty member. Each year, from May 6 to 12, I was keenly aware of Nurses Week, a time marked by messages from hospital leadership, recognition of exemplary frontline nurses, and the familiar gestures of appreciation such as a complimentary breakfast or lunch. Yet, for many years, a similar sense of celebration seemed largely absent in nursing academia.
Traditionally, Nurses Week has centered on honoring bedside nurses. Now, as a full-time nursing faculty member, I find myself somewhat removed from those familiar celebrations. Recently, however, I was struck by the timing of National Teacher Appreciation Week, which runs from May 4 to 8, overlapping with Nurses Week. The convergence invites reflection. How many nursing schools actively celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week? Evidence from a systematic review suggests that burnout among nursing faculty is at least moderate, underscoring the importance of recognition and support. The dual identity of nursing faculty, as both nurses and educators, deserves acknowledgment. After all, teaching has often been described as the profession that creates all others.
Teachers are curators learning and the ushers of scholarship of discovery and integration. They are the keen gardeners of the landscape of lifelong learner. And with the onslaught of misinformation and miseducation, thoughtful, committed teachers could be our salvation.
Over 31 years in nursing education, I have had the privilege of witnessing former students grow into nurse managers, administrators, program directors, chief nursing officers, and countless skilled frontline nurses. During this season of recognition, I reflect with gratitude on the opportunity to accompany these individuals, if only for a brief segment of their journey, as they go on to make meaningful contributions to the world.
I also acknowledge the moments when I have fallen short as an educator. These experiences have taught me the importance of humility and self-forgiveness. Success may introduce us to the world, but failure introduces us to ourselves, reminding us that there is always more to learn. This month, as Nurses Week and Teacher Appreciation Week intersect, let us take time to recognize and celebrate not only those who practice nursing, but also those who teach it.