Johns Hopkins Nursing Celebrates 13 Honorees, Including Living Legend

UPDATE: Thirteen distinguished faculty and alumni from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (JHSON) have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to nursing and public health by the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). This recognition includes 11 new Fellows, a prestigious Living Legend, and the coveted President’s Award.

The announcement was made during the AAN’s Health Policy Conference held in Washington, D.C. on October 18, 2025. These honors underscore the significant impact JHSON faculty and alumni have on global health and nursing education, making this a momentous occasion for the institution.

Laura Lucas, Shawna Mudd, and Shaquita Starks are among the 2025 JHSON Faculty Inductees recognized for their excellence in nursing. Notable 2025 JHSON Alumni Inductees include Ivy Latoja Pacis and Balkys Bivins, showcasing a diverse group of professionals committed to advancing healthcare.

In a groundbreaking recognition, Phyllis Sharps, PhD, RN, FAAN, has been named a Living Legend by the AAN. Her pioneering research on intimate partner violence (IPV) has transformed public health practices, particularly through her Domestic Violence Enhanced Home Visitation (DOVE) intervention, influencing how health professionals identify and address IPV among pregnant women.

“Dr. Sharps has dedicated her career to advancing health equity and supporting women affected by violence,” said Sarah L. Szanton, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean of JHSON. “Her mentorship and research have changed countless lives.”

Meanwhile, Patricia Davidson, PhD, MEd, RN, FAAN, former Dean of JHSON, received the President’s Award for her lifelong dedication to improving community health. Currently serving as the Vice Chancellor’s Fellow at the University of New South Wales, her efforts have had a profound impact on health systems worldwide.

JHSON, located in Baltimore, is consistently recognized as a leader in nursing education. The school ranks as the No. 1 DNP program in the United States and is ranked No. 3 globally by QS World University. Their commitment to excellence is further highlighted by multiple awards for diversity and inclusion in the nursing profession.

These recent honors not only spotlight individual achievements but also reflect the collective excellence within the Hopkins Nursing community. As healthcare challenges continue to evolve, the contributions of these professionals will be crucial in shaping the future of nursing and global health.

This recognition serves as an urgent reminder of the critical role nursing plays in health systems and the ongoing need for innovation, compassion, and leadership in the field.

Stay tuned for more developments on how these awardees will continue to impact nursing and healthcare in the coming years.