Empowering Nurses for a Healthier Future
Welcome to the Nursing Excellence Foundation, where we are committed to enhancing the nursing profession and improving healthcare outcomes for North Carolina’s citizens. Since our establishment by the North Carolina Board of Nursing in 2002, we have worked diligently to elevate nursing practices through leadership development, research initiatives, and innovative demonstration projects. Our goal is to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the ever-evolving healthcare landscape and deliver the highest level of care.
Strengthening Nursing Education and Leadership
Our foundation has played a pivotal role in advancing nursing education and leadership in North Carolina. One of our key initiatives, the Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nurses (RIBN) program, offers a unique educational pathway that allows students to seamlessly transition from an associate degree to a baccalaureate degree in nursing. This groundbreaking program, launched in 2008, now includes partnerships with nine universities and over 30 community colleges across the state. By making advanced education more accessible, we’re helping to prepare the next generation of nurses for leadership roles in healthcare.
Recognizing the importance of supporting newly licensed nurses, we have also developed programs like the Nursing Preceptor Success Program. This initiative, introduced in 2006, provides preceptors with online learning modules and simulated training to help guide new nurses as they enter the workforce. These resources, available through the NC Area Health Education Virtual Library, ensure that nurses receive the mentorship and training necessary to become confident, skilled care providers.
Driving Innovation in Patient Safety and Access to Care
Our dedication to patient safety is reflected in the programs and initiatives we have spearheaded over the years. In 2005, we hosted the first Patient Safety Symposium in North Carolina, bringing healthcare leaders together to explore ways to improve patient care and safety across the state. This symposium set the stage for ongoing collaborations that focus on enhancing healthcare practices and promoting higher standards of safety in medical settings.
We are also deeply committed to expanding healthcare access, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Our foundation launched an initiative aimed at supporting nurse practitioners as they transition into primary care roles, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to succeed in these vital positions. By helping new practitioners navigate the challenges of primary care, we are working to address healthcare disparities and improve access to quality care for all North Carolinians.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Nursing Excellence
Our mission is to be a driving force for innovation in nursing and healthcare, providing opportunities for new ideas and approaches to be developed and implemented. The Nursing Excellence Foundation has been fortunate to receive support from a wide range of partners, including healthcare systems, educational institutions, and philanthropic organizations. Grants from organizations such as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina Foundation, and The Duke Endowment have allowed us to expand our impact and continue supporting the professional development of nurses across the state.
By contributing to our foundation, you are helping to empower nurses, improve patient outcomes, and build a healthier North Carolina. Together, we can create a future where nurses are equipped with the tools and training they need to lead, innovate, and provide exceptional care.
Join us in our mission to inspire nursing excellence and transform healthcare in North Carolina. Your support will make a lasting difference in the lives of both nurses and the patients they care for.