Vandalia Health celebrates National Certified Nurses Day and supports professional development through Signing Day initiative

Vandalia Health is proud to recognize its nationally certified nurses and those pursuing professional development as part of National Certified Nurses Day, observed annually on March 19.

Certified Nurses Day is a global celebration of nursing professionalism and excellence. Board certification is the highest professional credential a nurse can achieve, validating specialty knowledge, clinical expertise and a commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient care.

Across Vandalia Health’s northern region, nurses are being celebrated for their dedication to advancing their expertise and improving patient outcomes. National certification requires nurses to demonstrate advanced knowledge through rigorous examination by accredited organizations.

To honor these accomplishments and encourage continued growth, Vandalia Health is recognizing nurses in two meaningful ways. Nurses who hold national certifications — such as CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse), RN-BC (Registered Nurse–Board Certified in a specialty area) and ONC (Orthopedic Nurse Certified) — are being acknowledged for their advanced clinical expertise and dedication to excellence. Additionally, nurses who have completed specialty courses and earned certificates are being recognized for their commitment to ongoing education and professional development.

As part of the celebration, Vandalia Health also hosted a “Signing Day” initiative, highlighting nurses who are taking the next step in their professional journey. During Signing Day events, nurses formally commit to pursuing national certification or additional specialty training, reinforcing a culture of lifelong learning across the organization.

“National certification is a powerful demonstration of a nurse’s commitment to their profession and to delivering exceptional patient care,” said Krystal Atkinson, DNP, RN, CNOR, Chief Administrative Officer of Mon Medical Center and Chief Nursing Executive of Vandalia Health-Northern Region. “We are proud to support our nurses at every stage of their professional journey and to celebrate both their achievements and their aspirations.”

“Investing in our nurses’ professional development strengthens not only individual careers, but also the quality and consistency of care we provide across Vandalia Health. Initiatives like Signing Day help create a culture where lifelong learning and clinical excellence are both encouraged and supported,” said Lya M. Cartwright-Stroupe, DNP, NEA-BC, FAAN, Senior Director of Nursing – Strategy & Professional Development.

Research from organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Board of Nursing Specialties (ABNS) shows that board certification helps ensure high standards of care for patients and their families while also contributing to nurse satisfaction and professional success. Vandalia Health continues to encourage and support certification across a wide range of specialties, including emergency, critical care, oncology medical-surgical and more.

“The strength of our nursing teams is reflected not only in the compassionate care they provide every day but in their professional development and clinical expertise,” said Christine Daniels, MBA, MSN, RN, NE-BC Chief Nursing Officer, Vandalia Health Mon Medical Center. “We have built a positive practice environment and have a commitment to supporting nurses on their nursing specialty certification journey.

In addition to recognition efforts, Vandalia Health is providing resources and incentives to support nurses pursuing certification. Through these initiatives, Vandalia Health continues to invest in its nursing workforce, fostering professional growth while enhancing patient care across the region.